Same Burglary Suspects May Have Hit 2 Nutley Homes: Police

NUTLEY, NJ — Nutley police are warning residents to take precautions after a recent home burglary and an attempted burglary happened within walking distance of each other – possibly involving the same suspects.

According to the Nutley Police Department, officers responded to an attempted burglary on Whitford Avenue around 3 a.m. on Monday.

A resident told officers that he heard people trying to gain entry to his home, but when he activated his vehicle’s alarm system, they fled the scene.

A short time later, the same people allegedly entered an unlocked home on Grant Avenue and stole a pocketbook from the premises, police said.

At least three suspects were involved in the two incidents, which happened within walking distance of each other, authorities said.

“It appears the [suspects] were attempting to steal keys to high valued vehicles parked in the driveway of both locations,” police stated in a news release. “No vehicles were stolen and police are following all leads.”

Authorities said that anyone with information or surveillance footage of the crimes can contact Nutley Police at 973-284-4940.

Nutley Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo said that local police continue to run enhanced patrols and undercover operations in the township. However, there are several steps that Nutley residents can take to help reduce crime, authorities added.

They include:

• Lock all vehicle doors
• Home windows and doors should be locked and secured
• Surveillance systems are great to have but do little to prevent the crime
• Alarm systems should be installed or activated when not home or sleeping.
• Exterior lighting is a deterrent, thieves operate in dark unlit areas.
• Inexpensive remote doorbell, and motion detector systems are useful
• Make certain your vehicle’s GPS is up to date and activated.
• Do not leave your vehicles keys in the open
• Inexpensive Air Tags can be placed inside your vehicle or on your personal belongings
• Faraday bags can be purchased to store electronic devices that protect the signal
• Vigilant Neighbor alert, is always key, you know your neighborhood best, notify police of suspicious activity
• Take the plate of slow-moving vehicles that may be canvasing your neighborhood
• Notify Police Immediately and Never Confront Actors.

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