Full Notification

It is common practice for police officers of different police agencies, specifically detectives, to share information in regards to crimes and crime patterns. This is especially useful when tracking criminals who operate in multi-city and multi-county regions. Many times, burglary suspects will commit a series of crimes in a large geographical area, targeting specific homes for varying reasons.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with a colleague who had interviewed a burglary suspect who had committed a series of these crimes in the Lehigh County area. I found what he had to say to be extremely important for those of us who focus on crime prevention. I also believe that it is vital that this information be shared with residents so that they may prepare themselves and their homes properly to avoid becoming a victim of a burglary.

Please note that the information listed below was relayed directly to me by a Lehigh County detective who interviewed the suspect. The suspect’s name, the detective’s department, and the location of the crimes is being withheld due to the fact that the investigation is not complete.

(Suspect’s name) is a seasoned criminal with a history of drug abuse and property crimes. (Suspect) advised me and Detective (name removed) during our interview that he selected his targets by canvassing the street in search of homes that appeared to be empty. All were during the day. (Suspect) looked for homes with no cars, lights off, and no animals. (Suspect) also looked for houses with entrances that were discrete and hidden. In addition, he looked for homes that did not display emblems on the windows advertising that the home was protected by an alarm system. If those criteria were met, (suspect) would then knock to see if anyone was home. When no one responded, he would knock on the rear doors and then, using a tool and force, he would enter the building taking predominately jewelry and some expensive electronic such as laptops and Ipods. He would also enter homes of elderly people if he saw them just leaving. (Suspect) would pull over and/or stop walking and wait until they were out of the area and then enter.

A couple important things to note…Remember, this is one burglary suspect. Not all use the same methods. However, many burglaries in the BLRPD jurisdiction have occurred during the daytime with forced rear entry. This is extremely common.

Please share this information with friends, neighbors, and family. In addition, please remember that you should always report suspicious people and activity to your police department.

As always, be safe.


Respectfully,
Investigator Peter Nickischer