Residents of the Willowbrook Farms neighborhood in Harrison Township are on alert after a series of vehicle thefts that began in July.
According to township Police Chief Ronald Cundey, there have been three thefts. The most recent took place on Swan Lane just after midnight on Sept. 6, when resident Jim Shank reported the theft of his 2018 Infiniti Q50.
The crimes are under investigation by the police department and patrols have been increased in the area. No arrests have been made, and it is not known if the thefts are related.
“Our detectives are following up and working with state and federal agencies,” said Cundey. “Additionally, we have additional patrols and ask that if residents see anything suspicious, to please call dispatch.”
The board of directors of Willowbrook Farms’ Homeowner’s Association reached out to residents on the morning of Sept. 9 to inform them that the thefts are also affecting neighboring towns.
“I spoke with an officer with the HTPD (Harrison Township Police Department) …” said a statement from the directors provided by Willowbrook resident Ed Miller. “He was not able to provide specifics on the ongoing investigations, but did tell me they (police) are working with other agencies … The thefts are not localized events.
“All neighborhoods are patroled regularly, the statement added. ” … In most neighborhoods, the residents turn their outside lights off at night, and then the neighborhoods are darker. So, it can be very easy for a person to hide in the shadows or crawl under a car to not be able to be seen.”
In light of thefts, police are urging residents to lock their car doors, double check their vehicles before going to bed for the evening and remove any and all valuables. It is also suggested they leave their exterior lights on overnight to provide better visibility for patrols and help identify suspects.
Anyone who sees anything suspicious should contact police dispatch at (856) 589-0911.
