Unlocked Cars Invite Thieves in Township Driveways

Bernards Township Police are investigating a series of motor vehicle burglaries they say occurred in 14 vehicles left unlocked in township driveways between Wednesday, May 4, and about 6 a.m. last Thursday.

The overnight burglaries reportedly occurred at nine residences, and some homes had more than one vehicle broken into, according to township police. Police said cash, loose change and iPods, of an undetermined value, had been taken from the vehicles.

Police said the vehicles reportedly were broken into between 11 p.m. on Wednesday and early Thursday morning. All were parked in driveways of homes on the west side of the Mount Airy Road corridor between Lyons Road and Route 287, they said.

Police reported that the vehicles at homes on the following streets were targeted: Kensington Road, Old Coach Road, Squire Court,  Carriage Way, Granville Way, and Fairview Drive South.

There are no suspects at this time, police said.

The burglarized vehicles were processed for forensic evidence, according to police. An investigation is underway and is being coordinated with other agencies within Somerset County which may have experienced similar criminal activity.

Anyone who may have information that may assist in the investigation is asked to contact either Detective Tim King or Detective Mike Sweeney at the Bernards Township police department, 908-766-1122.We have no suspects at this time.

Police said criminals commonly target vehicles and residences that are left unlocked. "Please make sure to lock car doors and residences overnight or whenever a vehicle or residence is going to be left unattended," advised Lt. Detective Ted Reese.