Police Ask For Public's Help in Preventing Burglaries

Township police are asking for the public's help in stemming a tide of recent burglaries in the municipality.

At a township committee meeting Thursday, township Police Detective Maureen Kazaba said home invasions and thefts have become more common in the past two months. Since Dec. 1, she said, there have been six burglaries.

She blamed a poor economy and an uptick in gold prices for the increase. But she said people can help ensure that the thefts do not continue.

"What we're asking people to do is be very alert," Kazaba said.

People can do so in a variety of ways. Kazaba said burglars are often scared away if it appears that someone is at home.

Using lights on timers, playing music inside during the day and having a trusted neighbor move your car while you're away are some ways that people can maintain that appearance.

"If they hear music and see lights, they may just pass by that house," she said.

Much of the jewelry that is stolen can be resold very quickly, so Kazaba urged those with any information on burglaries to report it quickly to police. That gives police a better chance of locating the goods before they are pawned.

She also urged anyone with large amounts of jewelry to make sure it is insured.

"It is still a very safe community," Kazaba said. "We are faring better than other communities in the area."

Mayor Nicole Hagner said police would give similar presentations at Chatham schools to ensure students are aware of such matters.