Guilford police warn of rash of home break-ins

By Rachael Scarborough King, Register Staff
Feb. 22, 2008

GUILFORD — The Police Department is investigating a string of break-ins that occurred in the past two weeks at five homes in town.

Police believe the five burglaries, which occurred at different homes across town, are related because of similarities in the style of forced entry and the kinds of items taken, Police Chief Thomas Terribile said.

In each case, the suspect or suspects broke into the residences through a rear door or basement window, he said.

The first incident was reported Feb. 13 on Little Meadow Road, Terribile said. Another break-in occurred Feb. 15 on Old Miller Road, and three break-ins were reported Tuesday at homes on Goose Lane, Wilburs Lane and East River Road.

Investigators have located one witness, a woman who called police when she saw someone entering a neighbor’s house through a rear sliding door. The witness described the suspect as a white male between 25 and 35 years old, who drove away in an older red sedan with stripes.

The burglaries occurred at different times of the day, according to police. The stolen items included jewelry and cash.

Police do not think the burglaries are related to another series of break-ins reported earlier this year. Terribile said detectives believe they have identified the individual responsible for those burglaries.

The department is asking Guilford residents to be alert and phone police if they notice any suspicious activities.

“They know who belongs at their neighbors’ houses,” Terribile said. “If they see a strange car in the neighborhood, certainly don’t hesitate to call us. The quicker we can get the call, the better chance we have of catching the person.”

Police are asking anyone who sees a suspicious person or activity to call the department at 453-8061.