Suspects In Canton Car Break-In Spree Were Juveniles: Chief: UPDATE

CANTON, CT — October is off to a rocky start for the Canton Police Department's war on car crimes, but progress has been made in recent days.

The Canton Police Department said Tuesday morning that, with the help of an eagle-eyed resident, local police caught two suspects breaking into vehicles Monday.

Canton Police Chief Christopher Arciero said Wednesday the suspects were identified as out-of-town juveniles and their identities could not be released.

He said the investigation is ongoing and more arrests are likely.

"This resulted in the arrest of two suspects, the recovery of a stolen vehicle, the recovery of several stolen items, and the seizure of burglary tools and an illegal handgun," police wrote in a social media post.

Police said they've been investigating a series of so-called "smash-and-grab" vehicle break-ins, especially in the area of Route 44 and Route 179.

The CPD did not identify the suspects and they didn't say where the two arrests took place in town.

They did say, however, that officers are conducting patrol checks throughout the evening and overnight hours.

The department, though, admitted that public assistance, such as what happened Monday, is a big help.

"We are asking the public for their assistance in reporting any suspicious vehicles and/or suspicious behavior in their neighborhoods," wrote police.

"The more details you can provide, the more helpful your information will be in assisting law enforcement. Always remember that your safety comes first."

As a result, witnesses should never confront, pursue or interfere with anyone acting suspiciously, police said.

Anyone who sees suspicious or illegal activity in progress should dial 9-1-1 immediately or call Canton Dispatch at 860-693-0221.