Franklin police warn of recent rash of home break-ins, burglaries
FRANKLIN, New Jersey (WABC) -- Police in Franklin Township want to get the word out to residents to stay vigilant after several home invasions and burglaries.
Police have assigned a task force to combat the problem and they are working with surrounding towns that have had similar incidents.
Authorities say in some cases electronics were taken from homes, but it is believed that the intended target is key fobs to high-end vehicles parked on or near the homes.
Neighbors are on high alert after it appears that the suspects don't seem to care if residents are home.
Police pointed to four concerning incidents that led to the calls for vigilance.
Back on December 12, on Boudinot Lane, two men tried to get into a home through a window at 5:49 a.m. They were unsuccessful.
One week later on December 19, also at 5:49 a.m. on the same street, a resident reported seeing a flashlight shining into their foyer.
On January 11, on Woodfield Court at 4:48 a.m., a resident said they saw three suspects try to get into their first-floor window. The three took off once they spotted the homeowner.
A few days later at 8:10 p.m. on January 16 on Canvas Court, officers responded to a burglary in progress. Officers said when they arrived, they found the sliding glass door to the home shattered. Fortunately, the homeowner was not injured and the suspects ran off.
First and foremost, authorities say if you see something, say something immediately.
They say, that even if you think it might not be significant, it's better to report it to police, rather than posting it on social media or a community page.
To help stay safe, they say that you should keep your front, back, and side exterior lights on at night and report any street light outages.
If you are planning on being away, have someone check on your home or they say, you can even let officers know that you will be out of town.
"Community policing aids the investigative process and plays a crucial role in solving these cases," said Public Safety Director Quovella Maeweather. "We are asking our residents to be observant and immediately share anything that might help our police officers and detectives. Our officers are working tirelessly and your information, Ring Video Doorbell, or any other evidence may give them a lead. Please help us, help you."
Anyone with information on these break-ins can contact Detective Sammy Hernandez at Sammy.hernandez@franklinnj.gov or at 732-873-5533, ext. 3154.
If you prefer to leave an anonymous tip, you can call 732, 873-5533, ext. 7277, or email at anonymousFTPD@franklinnj.gov.
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