Thieves Again Steal, Burglarize Vehicles In New Canaan: Police

NEW CANAAN, CT — Seven unlocked vehicles reportedly were broken into on Autumn Lane, Brooks Road, Millport Avenue and Olmstead Court in New Canaan on Nov. 21, according to New Canaan Police Chief Leon Krolikowski.

The break-ins are the latest in an ongoing spree of vehicle crimes that have plagued Fairfield County communities over the past couple of years.

"Stolen from these vehicles were the following items: petty cash, change, a cell phone and a wallet," Krolikowski said in a statement.

"In addition, during this crime spree, a black 2010 Toyota Highlander, which was unlocked and had its keys in it, was stolen from Autumn Lane. In the past, vehicles stolen from our Town were used in other crimes throughout Connecticut."

The latest break-ins and the stolen vehicle in New Canaan occurred during the overnight hours between November 20 and 21.

"In 2019, we have investigated twenty-six larcenies from vehicles (in some of these incidents vehicles were entered, but nothing was stolen) and ten stolen vehicles," Krolikowski continued.

"It is probable that these crimes are being committed by gang members. Many towns in Fairfield County are experiencing similar crimes."

The Chief offered the following the tips to help residents avoid falling victim to such crimes:

1. KEYS: When unattended NEVER leave the key to your home or key/key fob to your car inside a vehicle or in a place where a thief can find them. Do not leave the valet key, key fob or garage door opener inside of your vehicle.

2. LIGHT UP YOUR HOME: At night, keep the perimeter of your home & driveway well lit. Low energy lighting switched on and off by photoelectric sensors (low light switches) is a cost-effective way to discourage criminals.

3. LOCK-UP: ALWAYS lock all doors, garage doors and windows of your car and home whenever you leave, day or night, even for a short time. If you have a garage, put your car in it and lock/alarm both the car and the garage. All of the thefts from vehicles and vehicle thefts that occur in our Town involve unlocked vehicles.

4. SECURE VALUABLES: NEVER leave valuables in your vehicle. Often, identity theft occurs when drivers’ licenses and credit cards are stolen.

5. USE YOUR ALARM SYSTEM: ALWAYS activate your home and car alarm systems. Many successful crimes that occur in our Town involve houses or cars that have alarm systems that were not activated.

6. SECURITY-VIDEO CAMERAS: Consider installing a security/video camera that covers the interior/exterior of your residence and the street near it. The price point of good quality camera systems has dropped recently making this a wise investment.

From Krolikowski's announcement:

Be better informed, connected, and send anonymous tips to our Department by downloading the “MYPD” application in the iPhone or Android marketplace. After downloading the application search for “New Canaan” and get connected.

Follow us on Twitter@newcanaanpolice for crime alerts.

Never hesitate to contact NCPD at 203-594-3500 for assistance.

Information about the suspects involved in these crimes should contact Sergeant Peter Condos, 203-594-3522.