TLS has learned that at least two home burglaries that occurred in Lakewood over the past couple weeks were at homes where the homeowners were home, but their vehicles were parked on the street and not in the driveway.

This apparently gave burglars the impression that nobody was home, leading to a forced-entry burglary.

“If you’re home, park your vehicles in your driveway,” says Police Chief Greg Meyer. “And if you’re going away for Shabbos or Yom Tov, ask a neighbor to park a car in your driveway too – they may even thank you for the offer so their guests have where to park.”

Additionally, the Chief reminds you that if leaving for Shabbos or Yom Tov, make sure to check all windows and doors before leaving, set the alarm if you have one, leave lights on both inside and outside the home, and ask a neighbor to periodically check up on your home for you.

“We have seen many preventable burglaries over the past few weeks,” says the Chief. “Easy steps can be taken to drastically reduce the chances of being hit.”

LPD’s Detective Bureau along with the OCSD are investigating these rash of burglaries. Anyone with video surveillance that may be helpful, should please contact 732.363.0200.