Two weeks ago, there was a string of burglaries and attempted burglaries, as well as car thefts in Haddonfield.
Haddonfield police detectives announced on Tuesday, Nov. 24 the arrest of a suspect in the recent burglaries occurring on Nov. 19. Detectives were able to develop forensic evidence linking an 18-year-old of Camden to the burglaries.
“We’re ready to announce a suspect has been arrested, processed and he will be spending his Thanksgiving in the Camden County Jail. Great work by our detectives … Our detectives have been doing a great job at solving these cases, and it is nice because there are a lot of towns that have done away with their detective bureaus due to budgetary reasons, and the fact that we have ours and that they’re so productive just says a lot about our police department,” Commissioner Neal Rochford said at the commissioners’ meeting on Nov. 24.
“The detective bureau has been working nonstop since this was a burglary of occupied residences, so it was our top priority. Through great detective work, they were able to make the arrest … so we’re very happy,” Lt. Jason Cutler said.
On Nov. 19, police were investigating four overnight burglaries to residences that were left unsecured and two attempted burglaries to residences that were secured. All of the residences were occupied at the time of the incidents.
The incidents occurred in the 200 and 300 blocks of Rhoads Avenue, the 200 block of Hawthorne Avenue, the 600 block of Maple Avenue and the 400 block of Beechwood Avenue.
Reports said the intruder gained access to homes through open doors and windows. The attempted burglaries found screen windows open. One report on Beechwood Avenue found the intruder in the complainant’s family room. According to the report, the male intruder ran out the back door and the complainant chased the man for several yards.
Additionally, several unlocked vehicles were burglarized that night as well as in the southeast section of town earlier that week. Most of the vehicles were left unlocked. However, in the southeast section of town, the window of a locked vehicle was broken out and a purse was stolen from the front seat.
Through the description given, as well as other tips and forensic evidence, the Haddonfield Police Department was able to find the suspect of the burglaries. The man was charged with two counts of burglary and one count of attempted burglary and conspiracy. He will be remanded to the Camden County Correctional Facility without bail as a violation of probation.
For the holiday season, an uptick in crime isn’t unexpected.
“It is that time of year where people get desperate and try to provide presents for their families, people who don’t have the means any other way to provide holiday cheer for their own families … I don’t think they think of the consequences they have for the victims of those crimes,” Cutler said.
Police wanted to remind residents to lock their windows, doors and vehicles, even if you’re home. All of the residents were home at the time of the home burglaries.
“Be vigilant about the surroundings of your house. Make sure all of the doors and windows are always locked, even when home. I think that is the biggest thing. People tend to get a false sense of security when they are home and think nobody would try to enter their house when they’re home, so they are lax when making sure everything is locked. I always say, when you’re home make sure everything is locked up tight,” Cutler said.
If a burglary happens at your home, while you are in the home, Cutler said to not attempt to confront the intruder. He recommended running outside of the residence or hiding and locking the door, getting to a safe place and calling 911. When not home, make sure to lock all windows and doors. If you come home to find a broken window or door ajar, call 911 immediately and don’t attempt to go in the house; just wait outside until the police come.
For those who are finding it hard to come up with some needs for the holiday season, Cutler recommended looking into various social services, as there are many willing to help anyone in need. The Haddonfield Police Department is accepting donations for Toys for Tots in its office at Borough Hall.
“There are social services out there who are willing to help out just about anybody with their needs. There is Toys for Tots. They provide toys for those who can’t afford it, and there are companies that give away free coats. Also, religious venues are always looking around the holidays to lend a helping hand,” Cutler said.
Residents are reminded not to hesitate to contact the police to report anything suspicious that they may observe or hear. If the matter is urgent, call 911. If the matter is routine, call (856) 429–3000.
“If you see something, say something. Give us a call. It is better for us to check things out. Don’t feel like you’re bothering us. That is our job,” Cutler
