Burglars Hit Area Homes

Two homeowners in Warren's new Bellewood Drive subdivision, on Hillcrest Road, returned from Fourth of July Celebrations to discover their homes had been buglarized—one reported more than $6,000 in jewelry stolen.

In all, three Warren residences and one in Basking Ridge were struck during the holiday, but Watchung Police Lt. Joseph Cina said borough homeowners were spared despite the proximity.

He added that burglars are "opportunists," so a few simple steps can be most effective at preventing burglaries.

"The biggest one is very simple: lock your doors and windows," Lt. Cina said. "Especially on the first floor."

While that may seem a no-brainer, he said many burglaries occur when the thieves simply try a door to see if it's open—and walking in if it is.

It's especially important to be mindul when leaving your house for a vacation or day trip—last week's burglaries all occurred when the homeowners were out of the house for the day. If your trip will last longer than a day, Lt. Cina said to be sure to have someone collect your mail and newspapers, and set light timers to give the appearance of someone being home.

And if you have an alarm system, be sure to turn it on.

"We've had situations where people have alarm systems, but for whatever reason, they weren't turned on," Lt. Cina said.

His other message is for the people who regularly walk dogs or stroll their neighborhoods, people who would likely notice something amiss.

"If they happen to see anything unusual, they should call us immediately," he said. 

He said far too often people comment after a crime has occurred that they noticed something but didn't want to "bother police." "Please—bother us," Lt. Cina said. "Time is of the essence in these situations."

Police can also schedule occasional checks on properties when the homeowners are away, or meet with neighborhood groups or community clubs to discuss safety tips—contact the department at 908-756-3663 to request either service.