First Selectman Orders Increased Police Patrols After Thefts

Residents will see more lights in their neighborhoods this holiday season: not Christmas lights, police lights. 

That's because officials have decided to boost police cruiser patrols as the Oxford Resident Trooper’s Office investigates a third reported burglary in as many weeks.

Police recently took a complaint that someone stole several vehicle batteries from trucks parked at a construction site at 66 North Larkey Road. The incident occurred sometime between Nov. 25 and Dec. 21, police said.

: one from a garage on Ancient Highway where a radio controlled car valued at $500 and a BMX bike valued at $2,300 were stolen, according to reports. And a resident of Newgate Road said two of his STIHL chainsaws – valued at $380 and $360, respectively – were stolen form a shed, the report states. Both were unlocked, police said.

In response to the incidents, said he's ordered more police patrols in neighborhoods. He said Wednesday night at the Board of Selectmen meeting that he's also ordered the increased patrols because of home break-ins in neighboring towns, including Seymour, which has seen at least 10 home burglaries in three months.

Police in Seymour announced Thursday they believe they have solved those burglaries, the Valley Independent Sentinel reports.

Oxford Resident Trooper Sgt. Dan Semosky said he’s not sure the cases in the two towns are related. He said police are investigating all leads and hope to solve the three thefts in Oxford.

In the meantime, he said, residents can protect themselves by making sure their doors are locked on their cars, homes and any other buildings on their properties. And, he said, people should report any suspicious activity to the Oxford Resident Trooper's Office at 203.888.4353.