Police Warn Residents of Recent String of Car Burglaries, Thefts

The South Orange Police Department is offering crime prevention tips after several cars were stolen while idling unattended.

“As a reminder, during the cold weather season residents should NEVER leave their vehicles unattended while warming them up unless certain safety measures have been installed in their vehicles to prevent unauthorized access and operability,” police said.

“Additionally, valuables including holiday gifts at all times should NEVER be left inside your vehicle however, if they must you should make every effort to lock them inside the trunk area and out of view this includes any GPS unit that may be viewable to a potential criminal,” they added.

“Alarms, Locks and Lights (ALL) will benefit residents in securing their vehicles as well as their homes. Keep in mind that potential criminals often seek darkness to aid their attempt in going undetected so the use of any lights will always assist a resident in crime prevention,” police said. “Remember, any suspicious activity detected or observed should IMMEDIATELY be relayed to the Police Department. Have a safe, secure and wonderful holiday season.”

The following incidents were reported by the South Orange Police Department:

• Dec. 17, 7:15 a.m. A Mews Lane resident stated she had left her vehicle (2007 Mercedes) running in her apartment complex adjacent to West Third St. when an unknown person had entered and fled the scene.

• Dec. 14. A Hoskier Rd. resident stated she had left her vehicle (2012 Mercedes) running in her driveway when an unknown person stole it.

• Dec. 11, 8:17 a.m., A Milton Place resident reported that someone stole her vehicle (2011 Lincoln) while it was parked in her driveway with the engine running.

• Dec. 5, A Seton Place resident reported between that sometime between 9:30 p.m. Tuesday,Dec. 3 and 7:00 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, someone entered her vehicle (2002 Mitsubishi) and ransacked the contents inside.  The vehicle was parked in the driveway at the time and was not damaged from the incident.

• Dec. 4, A Seton Pl. resident stated that sometime during the evening or overnight hours of Tuesday, Dec. 3, someone had entered his vehicle (2007 Toyota) which was parked in his driveway and ransacked the interior removing change from same. There were no signs of forced entry into the vehicle.