Swansea Police Investigate Multiple Car Thefts and Break-Ins, Urge Vigilance

SWANSEA — Chief Mark Foley reports that the Swansea Police Department, working with its mutual aid partners in multiple jurisdictions, is actively investigating a recent rash of car thefts and motor vehicle break-ins.

Between July 3-10, seven auto thefts were reported in the Town of Swansea, from residences spread across town.

Swansea Police are urging vigilance; residents should not approach possible thieves.

“I’m asking the residents of Swansea to be extremely vigilant while we work with our partners from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to catch these car thieves,” said Chief Foley. “While we need residents to be extremely vigilant, they also need to exercise extreme caution. Do not approach potential suspects. Call 911 immediately and remain in your home if you witness a possible vehicle break-in.”

Stolen vehicle makes include Kia, Ford, Nissan and Land Rover. Six of the vehicles have been recovered since they were reported stolen.

Roughly 25 residents have also reported car break-ins.

Most of the thefts and break-in incidents have occurred in the late night/early morning hours between 3:30 and 6:30 a.m.

Nearby cities and towns have recently reported a similar increase in these sorts of crimes.

Swansea Police are urging Town residents to remain vigilant and take extra precautions, especially overnight and during the early morning hours.

As these crimes are investigated, Swansea Police are asking residents to take a few simple steps to better protect themselves and their property:

• Park in well-lit areas.
• If you have home surveillance, park your vehicle within view of the cameras.
• If you have a garage, use it.
• Leave exterior lights on overnight.
• Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle.
• Lock your vehicle doors.
• Enable your vehicle alarm, if you have one.
• If you hear a car alarm, don’t ignore it.
• Enable GPS functions to help with recovery, if your vehicle is stolen.
• Record important information from your vehicle, including VIN, registration and insurance numbers. This may help aid in the recovery of a vehicle if it is stolen.

If you see a stranger approach your property or vehicle overnight or early in the morning, do not approach them. Turn on exterior lights and call 911.

The Swansea Police Detective Bureau is working with local, state and federal law enforcement partners. The Swansea Police Department is taking a proactive approach and will be heavily monitoring neighborhoods across the Town.

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