'Crime Tourists' From Overseas Behind Rash Of Abington Home Burglaries: Police

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA — Police in Abington say that "crime tourists" from overseas are behind an increase in burglaries from homes within the township and around Montgomery County.

Numerous cases have shared very similar traits, including occurring within the first two hours of darkness, when no one is home, and by smashing a window or door in the rear of the home.

"Intelligence suggests that this increase is due in no small part to the national trend of ‘crime tourists’ from South America and/or Eastern Europe," Abington police said in a statement. "These criminal groups target high-end homes."

Specifically, several homes in the Meadowbrook and Rydal areas have been recently targeted, police said, with numerous items stolen.

Burglars target homes that are empty, and have fled the scene on multiple ocassions if they see a homeowner, police said. Groups typically involve two to four suspects who are dropped off by a rental car, often with a New York or Florida plate, which will circle back when the burglary is complete.

Authorities did not elaborate on how they know the suspects are from overseas.

Additional patrols by police in Abington are planned, as well as "proactive surveillance activities."

No arrests have yet been made.

Police issued the following tips:

• Be alert for suspicious persons and vehicles in your neighborhood
• Keep your property well-lit and utilize timers to automatically activate lights
• Set your alarm
• Most surveillance camera systems will notify you if motion is detected on your property when you are not home
• Park a car visible in your driveway when you are not home.
• Burglars will normally target the master bedroom. Secure valuables in other areas of the home.