Township warned to lock doors and windows.
By: Lea Kahn
Police patrols have been stepped up throughout Lawrence Township as police officers are on the lookout for a stealthy burglar who has sneaked into residents’ homes while they are asleep and has stolen cash and electronic items.
Police believe the so-called cat burglar is responsible for five burglaries and an attempted burglary scattered throughout the township including a burglary that occurred on Wayside Lane between 1 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. Saturday.
Since Nov. 26, police believe the burglar has entered homes on Lannigan Drive, Twin Oaks Drive, Alyce Court, Millbrook Lane and Wayside Lane, Chief of Police Daniel Posluszny said. The burglar tried unsuccessfully to enter a Fairfield Avenue home.
In every instance, the burglar has sneaked into homes through an unlocked rear window or unlocked rear door and that’s why police are urging residents to keep their doors and windows locked at all times, Chief Posluszny said. Back porch lights also should be turned on at night.
Police also received reports that two homes in the Rosedale Acres subdivision, off Rosedale Road opposite the Educational Testing Service, had been entered Friday, but they do not believe the incidents are related to the other six incidents, Chief Posluszny said. In the Rosedale Acres burglaries, a door or window was smashed to gain entry.
Residents who hear a dog barking or other strange noises, or who observe motion sensors being triggered should call the Police Department immediately, Chief Posluszny said. Strange cars in the neighborhood also should be reported to police.
Chief Pozluszny warned residents not to go downstairs or outside to investigate strange noises, because they could be putting themselves in harm’s way. The best response is to call the Lawrence Township Police Department, he added.

