Asian Homeowners Targeted By Burglars In New Providence: Police

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — Four New Providence homeowners of Asian descent were targeted by burglars within the past year, police say. This may be part of a trend of burglaries targeting Asians as other similar burglaries have been reported across New Jersey.

The four New Providence home burglaries occurred over the past year that police believe are linked to the celebration of Chinese New Year.

The burglaries took place on Ryder Way and Midvale Drive on Feb. 2, 2019, Mountain Avenue in November 2018 and Springfield Avenue in March of 2018. In all instances, there was forced entry into the homes and the homes were unoccupied at the time, New Providence Lt. Daniel Henn said.

"In our recent case both residents were out celebrating Chinese New Year and in the other two incidents, we have not definitely tied together any specific event other that their Asian heritage," Henn said.

In all of the home burglaries either cash, rare coins, jewelry, handbags and luggage were taken.

A homeowner in one of the burglaries was able to provide images from inside the home of a man police believe to be a suspect.

New Providence Police is asking the public for help in identifying the suspects.

If you recognize these suspects or have any information regarding these burglaries, contact the New Providence Police Department at 908-665-1111 and ask to speak to any member of the Detective Bureau.

This case is similar to other Asian-targeted burglaries that have also been reported in South Brunswick and Morris County.

In South Brunswick, a burglar broke into a Chinese restaurant owner's Jennifer Way home on Feb. 10 by using a ladder to gain access to a second-floor window, police said. The suspect ransacked the home, taking jewelry and some money. (See Related: Burglary At Chinese Restaurant Owner's SB Home Part Of A Trend)

Morris County officials also warned of a string of burglaries in January that targeted the owners of Asian business and restaurants at their homes over the past several months. (See Related: Asian Business Owners Targeted By Burglars In Morris Co.: Police)

(Images via New Providence Police Department)

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