HAMILTON: Police warn residents about burglars

   Hamilton police have issued a warning to residents to be aware of burglars who use distraction and deception to gain access to a house in order to rob the residents.
   According to the Hamilton Police Division press release, “distraction burglary is gaining entrance to a residence through false pretense, deception, or leading a resident outside of their residence; rather than through forced entry.”
   Police said that often a number of people will work together to gain access. The first individual attempts to gain entry to the residence through seemingly legitimate means. Once the suspect has the resident distracted by luring them outside or to another room in the house such as a kitchen or bathroom, the second suspect quietly enters the residence and steals items from another part of the house, according to police.
   Police said there are commonly used tricks to gain entrance. These include burglars pretending to be utility workers or service personnel coming to fix or check an appliance.
   The burglars will look for any valuables, but the most common scenario is looking through the bedroom of the residence for cash or jewelry, police said. Because of this, the theft may go unnoticed until long after the suspects have left the residence.
   Police recommend not letting anyone into a house who is claiming to be a professional of any type without first asking to see identification. Often this simple request is all that is needed for the suspect to stop their attempt, police said. If someone comes to a house asking to come inside for aid or assistance; tell them to remain on the porch while you call the police for help.
   Police remind residents that a utility such as PSE&G provides photo ID cards to all employees.
   Also, Hamilton Township issues a green ID card to all licensed solicitors.
   Anyone that is unsure of someone at their door can call the Hamilton police at 609-581-4000 or dial 911 for emergencies.