Rash Of Car Thefts Hit Long Valley, 2 Stolen Overnight: PD

LONG VALLEY, NJ — A rash of car thefts have hit Long Valley, and police are warning residents to be careful.

Two cars were stolen in the past two nights, between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m.: one on Squire Hill on Wednesday, and another on Ridgeline Drive early Thursday. The first car was recovered in Newark.

Police alerted residents to the thefts on Wednesday, with Mayor Matt Murello echoing their concerns on Thursday. In all of the reported cases, the cars were left unlocked with the keys inside.

"PLEASE lock your cars at night and do not leave your valuables inside them," Murello wrote. Police also reminded residents to always lock their homes.

No cars were opened and pilfered through, just the two were stolen, police said.

"The actors will often come into town, and then go out on foot attempting to find cars that are unlocked with keys in them to take. They then will drive them back east where they are used to commit other crimes or just for joy riding before being abandoned," police said.

Police ask that all suspicious activity be reported by calling 908-876-3232 and press "0". Residents are asked to take note of cars or people that seem out of place.