Burglars Entering Through Unlocked Doors: Westfield Mayor

WESTFIELD, NJ - Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle is urging residents to lock their cars and homes as a spate of burglaries have been committed in town without any sign of forced entry.

"There were three burglaries reported on Sylvania Place and Elm Street this past Saturday night where criminals entered the homes through either unlocked doors, or locked doors using keys that were discovered in the garage," Brindle said. "There was no forced entry. The criminals took cash, credit cards, and cell phones that were visible on counters, and also stole a car which has since been recovered."

According to Brindle two cars were stolen in the area and only one was recovered.

"Please stay vigilant about locking the doors to your cars and homes, consider installing an alarm system," Brindle said. "And be vigilant about your surroundings."

Although no arrests have been made, Brindle said Westfield was taking steps to increase safety.

"The perpetrators have not been identified but I can sure you the police are actively investigating," Brindle said. "I have asked them to step up their patrols in the neighborhood, and we are discussing hosting neighborhood forums where neighbors can ask questions about criminal activity and hear prevention tips from our officers."

Brindle said she would keep the public informed as more details become available.

(Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Thanks for reading! Have a news tip you'd like to share? Or maybe you have a press release you would like to submit or a correction you'd like to request? Send an email to russ.crespolini@patch.com