Full Notification

Recently, the Middlesex and Monmouth County areas have seen an increase in motor vehicle thefts and residential burglaries related to these motor vehicle thefts.
 
Typically, multiple suspects drive to a neighborhood in what is usually a stolen motor vehicle from another town. The suspects exit the vehicle, split up, and begin checking for unlocked vehicles. Upon locating an unlocked vehicle, the suspects enter it in search of the vehicle’s keys which, if found in the vehicle, are then utilized to steal the vehicle quickly and easily.
 
In some cases, the suspects utilized garage door openers found in the unlocked vehicles to open garage doors and enter the residences. Once inside, the suspects ransack the residence and steal numerous items of value before fleeing the house and the neighborhood, sometimes after a confrontation with the homeowner inside the residence.
 
In some instances, the above crimes have occurred simultaneously to multiple vehicles and residences in the targeted neighborhood.
 
Additionally, there has been a recent increase in thefts of unattended motor vehicles which were left running. In these cases, suspects quickly enter and steal a motor vehicle which was left running by the owner, typically in front of their residence while the vehicle is left to warm up or outside of a business while the owner briefly enters the business.
 
Residents are requested to report any suspicious activity and/or persons to us by calling 732-238-1000 (non-emergency) or 9-1-1 (emergency).
 
To help protect yourself and your property, please take the time to review and implement the following tips:
 
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park
 
• Never leave keys or valuables in your vehicle
 
• Do not leave garage door openers in your vehicle
 
• Lock doors that access your residence from the garage
 
• Consider installing motion activated lights on your residence
 
• Never leave your vehicle unattended while it's running
 
• Park in well-lit areas