Residents of Hanover and the surrounding Eastern Massachusetts locales have been gripped by a series of vehicle break-ins attributed to members of a group known as the "Felony Lane Gang." Hanover Police Department took to social media, reporting a slew of smashed vehicle windows and thefts of personal items around Merchants Row Mall last Tuesday, having to remind the community to maintain caution and secure their belongings.
This spree of crimes led to the collaborative efforts between Hanover Police Detectives and the Mass State Police Vehicle Crimes and Auto Theft Unit. It was during a follow-up that the state police were found to be already tracking the suspected individuals. Last Tuesday morning, two suspects were taken into custody, following an immediate investigation which confirmed connection to these incidents and beyond—to a wider rash of car break-ins across various towns.
According to the social media post by Hanover Police, the apprehended individuals seem to be linked with a pattern of burglarizing vehicles specifically at locations where bags or wallets are frequently left unattended, such as gyms, daycares, and beaches. This gang has an M.O. of swiftly smashing vehicle windows and snatching valuable items in sight, hence their handle due to their modus operandi of favoring the outside lane—deemed the 'felony lane'—at bank drive-thrus to cash stolen checks using disguises.
Aside from physical theft, the gang's aftermath includes the use of pilfered credit cards to unlawfully acquire high-end electronics and gift cards. This latest arrest has pulled back the curtain on an organized network of criminals brazenly targeting unsuspecting citizens. Hanover Police Department has issued a cautionary statement, urging folk "to not leave wallets, purses or other valuables in an unattended vehicle," and to perpetually "remain vigilant and to immediately report suspicious activity by dialing 911."
