Queens man arrested in string of Nassau County burglaries; Police issue warning

BELLEROSE (WABC) -- Police arrested a Queens man in Bellerose over the weekend in connection with multiple break-ins in Nassau County, then issued a warning about seasonal burglaries.

Authorities say 34-year-old Kasheem Hill, of Ozone Park, was wanted in connection with three burglaries that occurred in January, February and May.

Police suspect Hill entered homes in New Hyde Park and Garden City Park, stealing cash, jewelry and personal papers.

A police officer spotted Hill entering his vehicle on Jericho Turnpike in Bellerose Saturday. The officer was able to place him in custody without incident.

During the arrest, the officer found Hill to be in possession of a loaded .45 caliber handgun, a gravity knife and heroin.

Hill is charged with three counts of second-degree burglary, four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Police say incidents like this happen every year, with bands of burglars cruising the suburbs, distracting homeowners like good magicians before stealing whatever they can find.

The burglars are after anything that's left out in the open, be it cash, a watch, a wallet. Sometimes people don't even know they've been burglarized until after the thieves are long gone.

Police encourage homeowners to ask the right questions, including for ID, as a way to discourage a would-be thief.