'Smash & Grab' Car Burglaries Have Hit Parks In Wall, Howell: Police

WALL, NJ — Cars and other vehicles parked at recreation areas and parks seem to be the new target of "smash and grab" burglaries, Wall police say.

Wall police put out a notice to residents that the department and police in other area towns are investigating these types of vehicle burglaries.

Capt. Chad Clark of Wall said Howell has gotten hit as has the area of Allaire State Park in Wall.

Police say motorists who park their cars to enjoy some time at a park should still lock all the doors.

Another piece of advice is to keep your car neat inside, police say. Don't leave valuable items in your car that could attract a potential thief.

In addition to these precautions, police advise stashing any valuables before you park so thieves can't see that you're hiding them.

Police offered residents some other tips:

• Don't leave things like purses, backpacks, laptops, tablets, briefcases and cellphones in your car.
• Park in well-lit areas close to the nearest building.
• Install anti-theft alarms systems. While not all systems can prevent this type of car break-in, they can at least put up a "bump in the road," police say.

Police asked that anyone seeing a break-in in progress to report it by calling the 911 dispatcher and providing as much information as possible, such as:

• Location: Provide an address, block number or specific location in the parking lot.
• Description of the the suspect: Provide as much information as you can, i.e. sex, race, age, weight, hair color and length, colors and style of clothing and identifying marks such as tattoos and piercings.
• Direction: If the suspect flees, give the direction of travel. If they flee on a bicycle or in a vehicle, describe the color, make, model and license plate number.