Investigation Update: 20 Vehicle Break-ins Reported in New Canaan

New Canaan Police are urging residents to be extra vigilant after 20 thefts were reported last week.

Police believe that a number of individuals possibly from Waterbury came into town and worked together to rummage through unlocked vehicles between July 7 and July 8.

Police received 18 reports of vehicle larcenies that occurred in the overnight hours between July 7 and 8. All the vehicles were unlocked.

About $7,500 in valuables were taken during the crime spree. Items stolen include phones, wallets, and an engagement ring.

The thefts occurred on River Street, Brinckerhoff Avenue, Mortimer Street, New Norwalk Road and other streets in town.

A vehicle was also stolen on Ponus Ridge Road and was later recovered in Waterbury by Waterbury Police. Kenneth Hofler, 19, of Waterbury was arrested on larceny charges. So far he remains uncooperative, police said.

Police took DNA and other evidence from more than half a dozen vehicles. The evidence is being sent to the state forensic lab.

Two other thefts were reported from vehicles on Carter Street and Canoe Hill between July 8 and July 9. The vehicle windows were smashed in and a purse and wallet were taken from each vehicle, police said.

Police don’t believe those break-ins are connected to the other 18.

Police urge residents to call them if they see anything suspicious or out of the ordinary.