Novi Police Investigating Break-ins

NOVI, MI — A rash of daytime home invasions has the Novi Police Department asking the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Since January, nine home invasions have occurred all across the city, said Novi Detective Sgt. Scott Baetens. Cash and jewelry have been the most common targets in the break-ins, he said.

“We’ve been averaging two to three per month,” Baetens said. “From what we can determine, they’re quick and specifically targeting bedrooms and closets.”

The home invasions are happening while many people are away at work, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Baetens said each of the incidents has involved forced entry through a front door or window. Police believe some of the cases are related and think more than one suspect is involved.

Baetens described the home invasions as crimes of opportunity. “We have no indication that they are casing these homes,” he said. The department is asking residents to immediately report suspicious people and activity by calling 911.

Novi investigators are also comparing notes with the Northville Township and Farmington Hills police departments. Baetens said similar home invasions have occurred in those communities, too. No confrontations or injuries have been reported in any of the incidents, he said, but homes are being damaged as door jams are smashed to gain entry.

Besides 911, residents can contact the Novi Police Department at 248-348-7100 or 1-800-SpeakUp.

Photo by Scott Daniel (Patch Staff)