Organized Group Likely Behind Recent Rash of Burglaries, Wyckoff Police Say

The Wyckoff Police Department has issued a warning – a rash of recent nearby burglaries has hit the area, and residents should be on the lookout for suspicious behavior in their neighborhoods.

“The Wyckoff Police Department wishes to advise residents that burglaries have increased in numbers throughout the Bergen County area,” Police Chief Benjamin Fox announced in a release from the township this week.

“Organized burglary groups are believed to be responsible, and the police department is seeking the assistance of the public as an additional ‘watchdog against crime.’”

Fox called the warning an “urgent message,” and asked residents to be on the lookout for suspicious behavior around the township, and report any that they see to police.

Police warned residents of “more sophisticated” burglary techniques to look out for. Burglars often drive fast, expensive cars, are well dressed, and, “appear to fit into the neighborhoods they are casing,” Fox said.

Burglars will often knock on the door to see if anyone is home, police said. If someone is home, they will pretend to ask for help finding a nonexistent neighbor or street, authorities said.

A township home was broken into using this method last week.

Burglars may also pose as utility workers or delivery personnel, and Fox warned against trusting any unscheduled visits from such companies.

Anyone who notices any suspicious behavior is being asked to report it to the police at 201-891-2121. Residents should try to gather as much information as possible about the potential suspect, including a description of the person, vehicle description, license plate number, and direction of travel.