Police: Burglarized Homes Were 'Crimes of Opportunity'

say it appears that burglars carefully chose the  between during the past week.

"Given that these appeared to be crimes of opportunity in general, other homes were more than likely probed for occupants or weak security," Patrolman Earl Kinsey said.

The thefts, which occurred between Friday and Tuesday in two neighborhoods—Lake Hiawatha and an area bordering Tabor Road near Morris Plains—happened in homes that were empty and had easy to break locks or unlocked windows and doors, he said.

A high number of successive "targeted'' burglaries like these aren't common in the township,but there have been a few in the past two or three years, Kinsey said.

He said Morris County Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of those responsible. They can be reached at 973-COP-CALL or 1-800-Sheriff. Callers can remain anonymous.

Kinsey gave tips for preventing  similar crimes:

• Lock doors and windows.
• Don't keep valuables in your bedroom. The master bedroom is the first destination of a thief. 
• Know your neighbors. Know their comings and goings as well as their vehicles. You can't spot a suspicious vehicle or person if you don't  know what is normal in your neighborhood. 
• Use lighting to help your neighbors see your property.