The Trumbull Police have had an alarming increase in a series of several different types of crimes recently especially during the holiday season, and are actively working to track down those who are responsible. Residents are being warned to be aware of these increasing crimes as we approach the holidays, since it is a time when criminals take advantage of opportunities to commit these crimes.

Police in recent weeks have received increasing complaints related to four (4) major categories of crimes, where thieves are targeting residents for thefts, including:

-Residential Burglaries. Over the past two (2) months, twelve (12) burglaries have been reported throughout the town. Police believe the houses were specifically targeted during or near early evening hours, always when the houses were vacant in each case.

-Mail Theft. Many residents have had outgoing mail stolen from their curbside mailbox, likely targeted when the flag is raised to indicate that there are letters inside. Here we send a reminder to avoid using your curbside mailbox and drop outgoing mail inside a nearby US Post Office, which offers protection for deposited mail.

-Package Theft. With the holidays approaching and the increase in online shopping, thefts of packages from houses have already been occurring throughout the town. Residents should use basic precautions to safeguard deliveries, such as prominent doorbell cameras and delivery notification alerts, in order to limit the time that packages remain unattended outside of a house.

-Thefts from Cars and Car Thefts. Every day, cars are stolen when owners leave the keys inside of their parked cars, or leave the car idling while unattended to warm-up in the cold weather. Also, valuables are often stolen from parked cars whenever the items are visible from outside the vehicle. Whenever a car is left parked and unattended, hide all valuables inside, lock the doors, and take the keys with you.

These specific crimes are not new, but have been increasing significantly in recent weeks and months, both in Trumbull and throughout the region. Although the holidays should be an enjoyable time for you and your family, it is important to remain vigilant and be aware of people and circumstances that appear to be unusual or out-of-place. Report all suspicious activity to police by calling 911, and do your part as the “good neighbor.” The Trumbull Police Department would like everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season!