Car Windows Smashed, Items Stolen at Monmouth County Parks

Monmouth County, NJ - The Monmouth County Park System wants visitors to be alert: They've had a rash of car break-ins in the past several weeks, where people are smashing in car windows, grabbing valuables and then fleeing.

The thefts have happened in the parking lots of various Monmouth County parks, with the most recent just this past Sunday in Shark River Park, parks department spokeswoman Karen Livingstone told Patch in this exclusive story. There have been at least seven break-ins total, if not more, and in all the incidents, someone smashes in a car window, grabs items of value and then runs. August is a time of year when Monmouth officials encourage people to visit county parks.

"They move fast: They break the windows very fast, grab the item and then move on," said Livingstone. "We are recommending our visitors not leave any valuables in the car. Lock items in the trunk, or bring them into the park with you. Do not leave them visible in the backseat."

Items stolen include purses, a wallet, a diaper bag and a book bag, she said. Windows have been smashed on three cars in the parking lot of Thompson Park in Lincroft; two cars in Dorbrook Recreation Area in Colts Neck and on two cars in Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. The most recent incident occurred at Shark River Park in Neptune on Sunday, and before that there was a theft last Tuesday, July 26, at Dorbrook. Sunnyside Recreation Area in Lincroft has been hit as well, she said.

All the break-ins happen in the late afternoon, Livingston said. She said park officers are not sure if it's the same group targeting cars. The parks dept. is working with local police and many areas are now under surveillance at this time. If you see anything suspicious in parking lots, report it to a park ranger or call 732-577-8700.

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