Two Abington Township homes were hit last Thursday in what police say appear to be professional-style burglaries, with intruders slipping in through rear sliding glass doors. Detectives say the method matches tactics used by organized crews, and officers have boosted patrols in the surrounding neighborhoods while urging residents to call in anything that feels off, as per 6abc.
What police say
Deputy Chief Ed Quinn told reporters the first incident unfolded around dinnertime inside a gated community in Huntingdon Valley, where suspects tried to force open a back sliding door while the homeowners were inside. Once they realized someone was home, they took off. Just minutes later, two to three burglars entered an unoccupied house about a mile away in Meadowbrook, again through a sliding glass door, and stole jewelry, designer handbags and cash. Police say the timing and method of entry line up with techniques seen in professional burglary groups, as reported by 6abc.
Earlier Rydal break-ins not believed linked
Detectives note this is already the second set of burglaries in the township this year. In January, burglars got into two homes in Rydal through basement windows. Investigators say those earlier cases do not appear to be connected to last Thursday’s back-door jobs. Police have been advising residents to keep homes well lit and to consider alarms or cameras, as reported by CBS Philadelphia.
Police warn of 'crime-tourist' tactics and offer safety tips
A community alert from the Abington Township Police Department describes organized crews, sometimes dubbed "crime tourists," who scope out neighborhoods, use tricks like fake deliveries and often head straight for rear windows and doors. The alert also warns that illegal jamming devices have been used in past incidents. The department says it is running extra patrols and proactive surveillance in affected sections of the township and urges residents to call 911 if they see anything suspicious, according to the department’s notice. The full alert is posted by the Abington Township Police Department.
"Very shocked because this area is pretty much like a quiet area," Elkins Park resident Omega Bullock told reporters, echoing the unease many neighbors are feeling after the latest break-ins. Coverage of the incidents notes that the crimes have rattled residents and pushed some to rethink how and where they store valuables at home, as reported by 6abc.
Police are asking anyone with information to call 911 or contact the Abington Township Police non-emergency line at 267-536-1100. Officers are again recommending that residents keep properties well lit, use timers when they are away and stash high-value items in less obvious spots. For a full list of safety tips and updates on stepped-up patrols, visit the Abington Township Police Department.
