It is time to lock your doors, Warwick'
Police investigate four burglaries in two weeks Warwick Four burglaries in less than two weeks in various areas of the town may be giving residents a different view of small town life here in Warwick. According to police, a home along Route 94 South was burglarized on Aug. 15. A week later, two burglaries were reported, one on Horizon Farms Drive and another on Stonehenge Road. On Aug. 27, a home on Iron Mountain Road was the target. “We are following several leads,” said Sgt. Chris Cockburn of the Warwick Police Department. “There are some similarities to other burglaries in western Orange County, Sullivan Count, and New Jersey. We are working with other police departments to solve these.” Cockburn said mostly jewelry and electronics were stolen from the homes, which were unoccupied at the time of the burglaries. Most of the homes hit were in remote locations, at the end of the road, according to Cockburn. He said that some of the homes had alarm systems but that they were not in use. “Lock your doors,” Cockburn insisted. “Yes, we live in a beautiful, safe area, but you should lock your doors.” And, he said, an alarm system can only help. “The most effective thing is to have an alarm system and to use it,” he said. “Burglars have a tendency to move along when they see an alarm.” One retired New York City cop recommended a trip to the animal shelter. “Get a dog,” he said. “It’s the best alarm system you can get.” Just hearing the bark of a dog, any size dog, may deter a criminal, he added. Other ways to help keep your home safe from a burglar: Lock all doors and windows. Adequately light all entrances to your home. Keep shrubs trimmed so as not to give criminals a hiding place. Keep ladders locked in sheds or basements. Leaving a ladder outside can invite criminals to your second floor. Replace doors that are not solid wood or metal. Use a dead bolt lock on all entry doors. Be kind to your neighborsthey will look out for you and your property. Finally, if you see something, call the police. If you notice any suspicious behavior in your neighborhood, it is better to be safe than sorry. “The more eyes we have out there, the better it is,” said Cockburn. The Warwick police will keep all calls confidential. Their number is 986-3423.