Bernardsville Residents Warned Following Attempted Burglary

BERNARDSVILLE, NJ — Following two attempted car burglaries in the borough, Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine is offering prevention measures residents can take to protect themselves and their property from crime.

On Saturday during the predawn morning hours, it was reported that two people trespassed on private property and tried to get into two vehicles parked in the driveway of a home in the area of Chapin Road, Valentine said.

The vehicles were locked and the suspects fled after being unable to get inside. No one was injured and nothing was reported stolen, according to police.

"This incident has understandably caused concern and has attracted a significant amount of attention on social media and in the community," Valentine said.

Valentine noted that despite Bernardsville being known as a safe area, "I must stress the fact that our community it not insulated from criminals who want to come here and commit crime."

"Like any other community crime can occur at any place, any time and can unfortunately victimize just about any person," Valentine continued.

As a result, Valentine is offering tips for residents to avoid becoming the victim of a crime.

• Taking simple steps such as leaving some exterior lights on at night, locking the doors and windows on your home and vehicles, letting trusted neighbors know when you are away, reporting suspicious activity to the police and installing an alarm system and video surveillance cameras at your residence are some things you can do that can be effective in preventing crime.
• The Bernardsville Police Department has several programs in place to help prevent crime in the Borough. One of these programs "Eyes on Bernardsville" allows residents and business owners to register their private security systems with the Police Department. Police can then have access to surveillance footage to assist in investigations if needed.
• Another program is the Neighborhood Watch Program. Neighbors looking out for neighbors and reporting suspicious activity to the police is an effective Crime Prevention tool. Information about both programs can be found on the Bernardsville Police Department website at www.bernardsvillepd.org.

"We continue to encourage residents to report all suspicious activity to the police when it is observed," Valentine said. "Do not delay calling the police. If you see something, say something."

Reports of suspicious activity can be reported directly to members of the Bernardsville Police Department by calling 908-766-0037.

To remain anonymous, report them to the Somerset County Crime Stoppers by calling 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org/tips.aspx. Crime Stoppers also offers cash rewards for information leading to arrests. Residents can also use the new Somerset County Prosecutor's Office STOP!t app for making convenient reports about crime tips using your Apple or Droid phone.

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