East Brunswick Sees Uptick In Robberies, Police Share Prevention Tips

During September and October, East Brunswick has seen an uptick in residential burglaries. In response, police officers have been assigned specifically to burglary patrols, allowing them to watch a would-be burglar in September.

The East Brunswick Police Department is urging residents to report any suspicious happenings in their neighborhood, and reminds residents calls can stay anonymous.

EBPD has these tips for all residents on how to make their community safer and prevent burglaries:

• Report any suspicious vehicles parked in your neighborhood.
• Learn your neighbor’s schedule so you can recognize unusual activity such as open doors, windows or persons walking on or through the property who are unfamiliar to you. If you observe suspicious activity report it to the police.
• In the event someone rings your bell claiming to be a solicitor, all solicitors must be permitted by the township. If they can’t provide proof or refuse to display their permit (close and lock your door immediately), call the police.
• If someone rings your door bell whom you are not familiar with. In many cases, burglars will ring your door bell to determine if someone is home. If someone answers, they will make an excuse why they rang the bell. They may ask for directions or to use your phone. Close the door and contact the police immediately, note a physical description, what kind of vehicle they were driving and direction of travel, if possible.
• Do not allow anyone into your residence claiming to be from any water department, tax office, electric department or any public or private utility. Criminals often will pose as utility workers in an attempt to create a distraction and steal your valuables once you let them inside. Keep your doors closed and locked and contact the police. Officers will respond to determine if the person(s) are from a legitimate service.
• Please do not attempt to intervene and approach anyone you believe to be suspicious, be the best witness from a distance and contact the police immediately.
• Lock your doors and make your home appear occupied at all times, if you observe anything suspicious contact the police immediately.

Image via Shutterstock