NUTLEY, NJ – A recent burglary on Raymond Ave has prompted Nutley officials, including Commissioner Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo, to issue an advisory to residents. A local woman reported her purse was stolen from her residence around 10:00 AM on Monday while she was taking a shower. She had heard loud knocks on her front door shortly before finding her rear door open and her purse missing.
Chief Strumolo highlighted that there has been a spike in burglaries across the state. Thieves are primarily targeting homes to find key fobs to steal luxury vehicles parked in driveways. The audacity of these criminals is alarming, with incidents occurring in the early morning hours, even when residents are home.
To combat this rising menace, the Nutley police have increased patrols, collaborated with nearby law enforcement agencies, and set up undercover operations. Their efforts have yielded results, with at least five individuals being arrested in the past weeks for charges related to burglaries and vehicle thefts.
Commissioner Petracco acknowledged the growing trend of car thefts but stressed the unsettling nature of burglars entering occupied homes. He emphasized the police department’s commitment to pursuing all leads, resulting in several arrests. He urged the community to remain alert, ensure their homes and vehicles are locked, and report any suspicious activities.