Hole-in-the-Wall Burglaries: Is Norwalk Next?

The released the following statement on Tuesday regarding a recent string of unusual residential burglaries (we've added the subheadline). For background, visit:

The Darien Police Department is alerting residents to the fact that there have been five recent residential burglaries where entry to the residences have been gained via the unusual method of cutting holes in second floor exterior walls. Similar crimes have also occurred in Fairfield, Westport, and Stamford. It is believed that the reason this second floor method of entry is being used is to avoid burglar alarm activations.

To date, all of the burglaries have occurred at locations in close proximity to the Merritt Parkway, and typically the residences are in relatively secluded areas being set back from the roadway. 

The perpetrator(s) is/are targeting residences while they are unoccupied, and the burglaries are occurring on weekends during the overnight hours. Property taken consists primarily of jewelry, televisions, and cameras.

Ladders are being used to access the second floor, and the ladders are being brought to the targeted residences by the perpetrator(s). 

Let not your house be troubled

The Darien Police Department recommends that residents take the following precautions:

• If your home is equipped with an alarm system, make certain it is activated.
• If you plan on going away, advise your neighbors and ask that they call the police immediately in the event they observe any unusual or suspicious activity.
• Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries, or have someone take possession of these items for you on a daily basis.
• Leave exterior and interior lights on—preferably timer activated.
• Make certain that any ladders on your property are stored away and secured.
• Should you observe any unusual or suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to immediately call 911.

Editor's note: originally was published by Darien Patch.