Brick Police Working Diligently To Solve Burglaries, Mayor Says

BRICK, NJ — In the wake of a string of burglaries and vehicle thefts all over Brick Township in the last few weeks that has rattled residents, Mayor Lisa Crate issued a statement Thursday to urge residents to know the police department is working hard to solve the crimes.

"I want to be very clear that my number one goal as Mayor of Brick Township is the safety and well-being of our residents. I share that goal with our Chief of Police," Crate said.

"Chief (David) Forrester and I met to ensure that the Brick Township Police Departments has everything they need — whether it be manpower, equipment, or support — to do what they do best, which is keeping people safe, investigating crimes and arresting people who break the law," she said.

"I think it’s important to understand that what’s happening here is not isolated to Brick Township – the Chief is working diligently with law enforcement partners across the spectrum to ensure safety in our town," Crate said.

"In terms of recent events, please know that the Police Department is working on these cases 24/7, but the details of their work are not something we can share publicly," she said. "They are the professionals and the experts in their field. Disclosing investigative strategies could easily backfire and impede their work, so I am asking you to trust the men and women sworn to keep us safe."

"This Council has an established track record of supporting the men and women of the Brick Township Police Department. In the past 10 years, we have invested millions of dollars in police equipment, tools and training," Crate said. "We have also invested in manpower, with the roster growing from 128 to 146. We are sending a strong message to criminals, commit a crime in Brick and you will be caught."

"We are counting on all of you to be our partners in your neighborhoods," Crate said. "Be diligent, look out for your neighbors. And if you see something out of the ordinary, say something — call the Brick Police. Join your Neighborhood Watch, or start one if you don’t have one in your community. Welcome our Community Policing officers to come and talk with you to share tips and strategies on ways to be safe and stay safe," she said. "Together, we can make a difference."