Home Invasion, Attempted Car Theft Overnight In Madison, Police Say

MADISON, NJ — Members of the Madison Borough Police Department issued a public safety alert following two attempted theft incidents in the borough Thursday night.

According to Chief Miscia of the Madison Police Department, a resident alerted the police that two males entered his house from an unlocked door at approximately 4:30 a.m.

The house was armed with a burglar alarm, which ultimately scared the suspects, police said. The suspects left in a dark-colored SUV prior to Madison Patrol units arriving on the scene.

"Had there not been an alarm and/or the pet dog, which alerted the residents, the suspects likely would have searched the interior of the home creating a highly dangerous situation for the residents," Miscia said. "This was one of two attempted vehicle thefts that occurred in Madison last night, which further developed into a home invasion/residential burglary situation."

According to police, another incident occurred on Thursday just over the town line in Chatham Borough.

"These incidents are a clear indication that criminals are becoming more and more brazen as our stolen vehicles are also being utilized in violent crimes in other areas of the state. These are very dangerous, weapon-wielding criminals, with no regard for the value of human life," Miscia said.

Police are urging residents to remain vigilant in the fight against motor vehicle theft by locking their car doors, removing key fobs and garage door openers from their vehicles and locking their house doors.

Sens. Richard Codey (D-27) and Anthony Bucco (D-25) held a news conference earlier this month to crack down on ringleaders, citing an alarming increase in stolen vehicles carried out by auto theft rings that recruit children and teenagers to help pull off their heists.

"We're not trying to 'victim shame', but 99% of victims leave their door unlocked. No criminal today knows how to hot wire a car," Chatham Township Sgt. Muta Blanford said.