Westfield Police Request Vigilance Despite Juvenile Arrest

WESTFIELD, NJ - Despite the fact that the person the Westfield Police believe is responsible for numerous reported residential burglaries and motor vehicle thefts is safely ensconced in the Union County Juvenile Detention Center, authorities are asking residents remain vigilant.

"We would like to remind everyone to remain vigilant and continue to secure their homes and vehicles," the Westfield Police said. "Do not become complacent."

Acting Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro said a 16-year-old Westfield resident was charged with eight counts of burglary and four counts of theft, which resulted from numerous reported residential burglaries and motor vehicle thefts occurring on the north side of Westfield during the overnight hours between Wednesday, Oct. 3 and Wednesday, Oct. 17.

Battiloro credited the Westfield Police Department's Detective Bureau with conducting a well-coordinated, thorough, and complete investigation, which resulted in the approval of criminal complaints by the Union County Prosecutor's Office and led to the juvenile's arrest.

"All of our Detectives deserve credit for a job well done," Battiloro said.

Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle echoed the praise after the arrest.

Very proud of our Police Department and all of the work they did behind the scenes to make this arrest," Brindle said.

The caution appears to be well-warranted as a Kimball Circle home was reported broken into three days after the juvenile arrest. (Removed)

"We encourage everyone to follow our #9PMRoutine reminders on our Facebook page," Westfield Police said.

The spike in theft due to unlocked homes and cars prompted the Westfield Police to get on the #9PMRoutine bandwagon, a campaign being done by law enforcement agencies across the country. This initiative is to remind residents to make sure their doors and cars are locked every night to prevent theft.

Battiloro said most importantly to report any suspicious activity to 908-789-4000 x0 or 911 if there is a crime in progress.

(Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

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Editor's Note: A detail in the story was removed at the request of a victim.