Uptick In Stolen Cars, Burglaries Prompt Warren Police To Issue Warning

WARREN, NJ — An uptick in stolen vehicles and vehicle burglaries has prompted Warren Police Chief William Keane to issue a warning on Thursday.

The most recent theft occurred on March 26 when a Springhouse Road resident reported that sometime overnight someone stole their car from the driveway. The car was unlocked with the keys and fob inside, said police.

In 2022 so far, Warren Police have reported 5 stolen vehicles, 4 vehicle burglaries and one attempted burglary.

In 2021, the township reported a 50 percent increase over 2020 in stolen cars, a 10.7 percent decrease in motor vehicle(MV) burglaries and a 566 percent increase in attempted MV burglaries. Read More: Car Thefts Went Up 50 Percent In 2021 In Warren Township

Keane offered some simple tips on Thursday to hopefully prevent residents from becoming victims:

• Always LOCK YOUR VEHICLE whether it's parked on your street, in your driveway, or in your garage.
• DO NOT leave any type of spare keys/fobs or anything of value, such as purses/wallets, credit cards, cash, or cell phones, in your vehicle.
• Be aware, these criminals will access your garage door opener in an unlocked vehicle, and THEY WILL ENTER your garage and home to commit additional crimes.
• Make sure your residence is LOCKED and well-lit during the evening and overnight hours. Criminals typically look for darker areas to commit these crimes for less visibility by passing motorists, neighbors, surveillance cameras, and police.

Residents are asked to continue to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity, day or night, to the Warren Township Police Department via 911 or 908-753-1000.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

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