Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Gary Fournier

Western Kent County, DE – Over the past few weeks, the Delaware State Police has seen an increase in residential burglaries in western Kent County, to include West Dover, Clayton, and Smyrna.

State Police learned that an undetermined number of suspects forcefully entered at least five different residences removing various handguns from the owners. The suspects also stole items ranging from jewelry, electronic devices, and cash.  These break-ins occurred primarily during the daylight hours when the occupants were away from home.

The Delaware State Police urge people to utilize the following tips:

• Make your home look occupied, and make it difficult to break in.
• Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed. Even if it is for a short time, lock your doors.
• Leave lights on when you go out. If you are going to be away for a length of time, connect some lamps to automatic timers to turn them on in the evening and off during the day.
• Keep your garage door closed and locked.
• Don’t allow daily deliveries of mail, newspapers or flyers build up while you are away. Arrange with the Post Office to hold your mail, or arrange for a friend or neighbor to take them regularly.
• Arrange for your lawn to be mowed if you are going away for an extended time.
• Check your locks on doors and windows and replace them with secure devices as necessary.
• Pushbutton locks on doorknobs are easy for burglars to open. Install deadbolt locks on all your outside doors.
• Sliding glass doors are vulnerable. Special locks are available for better security.
• Other windows may need better locks. Check with a locksmith or hardware store for alternatives.
• Trim trees and shrubs so that they cannot be used as hiding places for intruders.
• Make sure your door hinges are on the inside.
• Report any suspicious activity to 9-1-1 immediately

If anyone has any information on these incidents, they are asked to contact Detective J. Dear at 302-698-8540. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword “DSP.”

Released: 092816 0850

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