
The Stratford Police Department, in partnership with other Camden County police departments, is warning residents about a recent surge in vehicle thefts targeting unlocked cars.
The crime wave has been occurring between midnight and 3 a.m., with suspects employing a coordinated approach to carry out their activities.
Police describe the method as organized and efficient.
Teams of suspects—believed to be between the ages of 15 and 21—work in groups.
One or more individuals, referred to as “runners,” scout neighborhoods for unlocked vehicles while being followed by getaway drivers.
These drivers often use freshly stolen cars, which complicates police efforts to track them.
In one instance, suspects fled law enforcement at dangerously high speeds, further highlighting the risks posed by these crimes.
Law enforcement officials have reason to believe that the suspects frequently switch between different stolen getaway vehicles to avoid detection and capture.
This tactic, combined with the group’s focus on unlocked vehicles, underscores the importance of basic preventative measures.
Police urge residents to be vigilant and take proactive steps to secure their property.
They stress the importance of locking car doors and ensuring that keys and valuables are not left inside vehicles.
According to the Stratford Police Department, none of the recent thefts involved locked cars, suggesting that simple precautions can effectively deter these crimes.
In addition to securing vehicles, residents are encouraged to report any unusual or suspicious activity in their neighborhoods immediately.
Police advise calling 911 if something appears out of the ordinary.
They also urge homeowners with security cameras to review footage when the thefts are most likely to occur—between 12:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.—and submit any relevant clips to assist in the investigation.
The Stratford Police Department has established a dedicated email address, [email protected], for residents to share any potentially useful security footage.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to curb the thefts and hold the suspects accountable.
The recent uptick in vehicle thefts is not isolated to Stratford but has been observed throughout Camden County.
Authorities are collaborating across jurisdictions to address the issue and raise awareness among local communities.
As police work to contain the problem, they remind residents that small actions, such as locking car doors and staying alert to suspicious behavior, can make a significant difference.
By working together and remaining vigilant, the community can help reduce the likelihood of further thefts.
For non-urgent concerns or additional information, residents can contact the Stratford Police Department at 856-783-8621. Immediate threats or emergencies should be reported by calling 911.