City Council Concerned with Numerous Burglaries

Danbury had about 90 homes burgled so far this year, and the City Council learned Tuesday that last year the city had about the same number.

That wasn't particularly reassuring, because last year theorized a gang might be targeting Danbury's Indian population to steal gold jewelry. That led to a meeting of 65 people from the Indian community with Danbury police at police headquarters.

That theory arose after five homes belonging to Indian families were burgled in quick succession. The theory held that the high price of gold made daytime burglaries more attractive to people looking to steal and sell gold.

 "We have no more pressing concern than to maintain our safety," said Danbury Resident Chris Setaro, who raised the burglary question early in the Tuesday meeting.

As the meeting drew to a close, City Council President Joe Cavo asked Danbury Police Chief Al Baker for his take on the situation.

Baker said the burglaries are not aimed at one neighborhood or one population. He said his theory is that each house seems to be a target of opportunity. If the burglar thinks the house is easy pickings, the burlgar will stop in. They'll take jewelry, laptops, guns or cash.

Baker said his own personal opinion is two reasons for the busy April and May numbers is that the weather was warm and the economy is bad.

"It isn't really anything different that what happened last year," Baker said. He said there are reports that people are driving motor scooters to the victim's house. City Council Member Jack Knapp asked if neighborhood meetings were called for, like the one in March 2011 to help the city's Indian community.

Baker said no. All neighborhoods appear vulnerable. He said the best defense is to know your neighborhood and alert the police if anything is out of place, such as suspicious person or vehicle.