Unlocked Cars Targeted in Series of Thefts in Somers, Yorktown and Putnam Valley

The Yorktown Police Department, the State Police and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a series of larcenies from parked motor vehicles occurring in Somers, Yorktown and Putnam Valley.

The Putnam County investigation stems from calls received by the Sheriff’s Office in the early morning hours of Nov. 25 reporting suspicious activity on Cindy Lane in Putnam Valley. This probe resulted in the recovery of GPS systems, credit cards, cellular telephones, laptop computers and other items which police believe are stolen.

A variety of items have been reported stolen. In one case thieves stole several pairs of pajamas which were purchased at local department stores. These pajamas were collected to be donated to the 1 Million Good Nights Pajama Program, a nationwide charity that provides pajamas to needy children.

Find more information about the charity at www.pajamaprogram.org or email the local chapter at pvpajamas@gmail.com.

“Cases such as these are very disturbing, especially when thieves take donated clothing that has been collected to keep underprivileged children warm during the winter months,” said Putnam County Sheriff Donald Smith. “The apparel, in this case, was exclusively collected to benefit the ever-growing number of babies and young children in need during the difficult economic conditions that many American families face.”

Investigator Thomas Corless of the Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation noted that those responsible are apparently targeting unlocked parked motor vehicles.

Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying recovered property. Anyone who has been victimized is asked to call their local police, the state police or the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. Investigator Corless may be reached by calling (845) 225-8060.

All calls will be kept confidential.

The three law enforcement agencies are continuing to work together in this investigation.