Would-Be Burglar Sought By New Haven Police

NEW HAVEN, CT — Police are reminding residents to secure their homes after a would-be burglar tried to break-in to two residences recently. There is no uptick in burglaries.

A woman who lives on Avon Street told police that a stranger was peering through her glass door before 2:30 a.m. Feb. 21. He left after she went to investigate sounds coming from her back deck.

Less than an hour later a burglary tried to crawl through a rear window on Mitchell Drive, said Officer David Hartman, police spokesman. The resident heard noise and the burglar ran away toward Orange Street.

The suspect was wearing dark clothing and a green knit cap.

Police offer the following tips to help prevent burglars:

• Report suspicious people and vehicles to Police and your neighbors
• Keep doors & windows secured with good quality locks
• Add window casement locks or locking pin to keep windows ‘cracked’ a bit
• Secure window air conditioners to the sash and sill
• Set your burglar alarm – even when you’re at home
• Keep porch lights on all night
• Use motion sensors lights for driveways and back yards
• Trim back trees & shrubbery
• Never let strangers into your home
• Demand and verify identification of utility co. associates, poll takers & sales people.
• Make your home look occupied. Time lights, radios & televisions
• Avoid hiding keys outside. Give a spare to a trusted friend
• Never attach personal information to your key ring
• Arrange for mail pick up if away for more than a few days
• Maintain a clearly visible house number so emergency personnel can find you
• Keep valuables in a hidden secure spot or bank safety deposit box
• Get to know your neighbors
• Report nonworking street lights and tree canopies that are below the lights
• Engrave property with your phone number. Record serial numbers
• Don’t ignore audible alarms. Call the Police
• Keep all firearms out of sight and locked up
• Don’t leave ladders outside your home

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