New York Ave. Home Burglarized

Jewelry was stolen from a New York Avenue house last week, police said.

A relative of the homeowners was bringing their children home from school on the afternoon of Dec. 1 when he discovered the house had been burglarized, police said. The house had reportedly been vacant from 8 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. that day.

Police said the burglar forced open the front door to gain access to the home.

Lt. David Murphy, Sgt. Kenneth Brown and Patrolman William Plisich investigated the burglary.

Police Chief Benjamin C. Fox advises residents that there has been an increase in home burglaries around the county within the past two weeks. Homes are frequently a target during the holiday season, he said, as homes are frequently unoccupied as people "take care of the chores of the season." Potential thieves also know that many homes may have cash or gifts inside. The chief urges all residents to make their homes look occupied by leaving lights on, and he asks that police be notified of any suspicious cars or persons they observe in their neighborhood.