Crime & Safety

Chester Police Seeking 'Forced Entry' Burglars

One home and a pair of businesses were hit since May 13, Chester Township Police said.

The Chester Township Police Department is investigating a residential burglary and two commercial burglaries that occurred during the week of May 13, Lt. Thomas Williver said.

All three burglaries involved forced entry through more than one entry point, Williver said.

The two businesses hit were located on Route 24, while the home that was struck was on Spring Lake Drive, Williver said. Forced entry was gained at all three burglaries through various entry points.

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The investigation is ongoing and Williver urged that anyone with information regarding these burglaries should contact Cpl. Anthony DaCunza and Det. Brian Gill at (908) 879-5514 Ext. 833/832.

The Chester Township Police Department urged residents and businesses owners to always secure their property and to immediately report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. Williver also shared some tips to reduce the likelihood of being victimized. 

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  • While away from home, lock all doors and windows. Do not leave any keys hiding near the residence. The best deterrent is to have motion activated lighting, an alarm system and if possible, a camera system installed on the premises.
  • Do not announce on social media sites that you are going on vacation or intend to be away.
  • Keep your valuables somewhere other than in the Master bedroom. Many burglaries involve the quick ransacking of just the Master bedroom due to the fact that most people keep their valuables there. A heavy safe located somewhere other than in the Master bedroom is a good option.
  • Lock up your vehicles while parked at the residence, both outdoors as well as in the garage. Do not leave keys in or near the parked vehicles. Be sure to remove all personal belongings and electronics (phones, purses, laptops, garage door openers, etc.) from parked vehicles.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you suspect that you are being followed, go to the nearest police station or to a brightly lit/ populated area and call 911.
  • Be observant of any suspicious activity in your neighborhood including vehicles or people that you are unfamiliar with. A good physical description of the suspicious person(s) and or a license plate for a vehicle is very helpful.


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