What Residents Should Be Aware Of When It Comes To Burglaries

The Berlin Police Department is asking residents for assistance in combating recent residential burglaries. Residents are asked to be vigilant for anything in their neighborhood that seems to be unusual and call the police immediately.

"We would much rather respond and find nothing than have a burglary occur," said Berlin Deputy Chief John Klett. 

Many thieves employ a common tactic when they have targeted a home for a burglary. They will choose a house that appears to be vacant, walk up to the front door, and knock or ring the doorbell. If no one answers the door, they will force their way into the house either through that door, or another door or window that is less visible to neighbors or passers-by. 

If the resident of the house does answer the door, the would-be thief will not flee, but will tell the resident that he or she is lost and ask directions, or make up some other excuse for being there. 

Residents experiencing this type of situation are urged to observe and note as much about the individual and his or her vehicle as possible, and to contact the police department immediately.

Vacant houses and those for sale have been targets recently. Some have been broken into and had copper piping removed causing thousands of dollars in damage. Anyone observing unusual activity in or around a vacant house should call the police immediately.