DSP News Release: Detectives Investigating Series of Residential Burglaries

Location: Western Sussex County, DE to the Maryland state line (including the areas west of SR 404, west of Laurel, and west of Seaford)

Date of Occurrence:  

• Tuesday, September 6, 2011 through Monday, November 19, 2011

Resume: 

Georgetown, DE- Delaware State Police Property Crimes Detectives are currently investigating a string of residential burglaries that have occurred in the western portion of Sussex County, DE since September.

In early September of 2011 state police detectives began noticing an increase in residential burglaries that had been occurring in the area west of SR 404 to the Maryland state line in Sussex County. Since that time, detectives have investigated an estimated 25 burglaries that have occurred. In each case, the suspects who have committed these crimes have entered an unoccupied residence either through a door or window and once inside, have removed electronics, jewelry, and other personal items. The suspects were then able to flee from the homes undetected.

At this time Delaware State Police detectives, along with detectives from Dorchester and Caroline County in Maryland, who have also had an increase in residential burglaries, are actively investigating these incidents both in Delaware and Maryland. No arrests have been made at this time.

The Delaware State Police would like to take this time to offer a few quick tips in how to prevent being a victim of a burglary.

• Lock all doors and windows when you are at home or away.
• Invest in a residential security system and place an alarm company sign or “beware of dog” sign in your front yard.
• Engrave and photograph all of your valuables.
• Do not allow mail or newspapers to accumulate.
• Always give the appearance that someone is home.
• Be a nosey neighbor. Look out for suspicious activity. If you notice something that just does not feel right, call 9-1-1 immediately.

The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to these incidents to contact Detective John McColgan at 302-856-5858 ext. 211 or Detective Scott Gray at 302-856-5850 ext. 216. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).  Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.

Released Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at 11:25 a.m.