Peters Township police issue warning over string of home burglaries
PETERS TOWNSHIP, Pa. (KDKA) - A warning has been issued by Peters Township police about a string of home burglaries.
The Peters Township police chief said the latest burglary happened at a house on Springdale Road Friday.
He added people need to remain vigilant at all times, but especially between noon and 9 p.m. when the break-ins have occurred.
"No matter where you move to, it's going to happen," said Vincent DeSimone. "Crime is moving everywhere."
DeSimone has lived on Springdale Road for four years. He said they never had this issue before, and he is concerned about his family and neighbors.
"I hope they catch them," said DeSimone. "If not, I hope I catch them."
Peters Township Police Chief Douglas Grimes believes a South American theft group is involved in the burglaries.
Grimes said there have been three incidents within two months, on Springdale Road, Springbrooke Drive, and Abbey Brook Lane.
He mentioned these crimes are similar to other burglaries back in August that led to several arrests.
There are things you can do to prevent your home from being targeted.
- Invest in an alarm system and assure you're turning it on when leaving the house
- Install security cameras for both interior and exterior of your property
- Secure all valuables (jewelry, cash, silver, and gold) in a safe
- Keep an eye out for your neighbor's home or property
- Request a "Vacation Check" before going away (Form on Police Website)
- Call 911 and report suspicious vehicles, especially vehicles with out-of-state registration
- Call 911 and report suspicious persons. All solicitors are required to register with the township and display their permit
- Do not assume alarms are false
- Do not advertise vacation plans on social media
- Do not include interior pictures of your residence on social media
- Do not post pictures of expensive items on social media
"I haven't been on vacation in 48 years, so I'm home. I watch the house. I watch my property. I look out for my neighbors. Just keep your eyes open," DeSimone said.
Grimes said if you see anything suspicious or vehicles with out-of-state license plates, call the police.