SYRACUSE -- Syracuse Police are investigating a rash of burglaries on the Northside of the city. There have been 29 in the past two weeks, which is 43% of the break-ins reported city-wide in the last 14 days.
Overall, burglaries are down about 25% city-wide compared to last year but police say the northside crime spree is a concern right now.
On their Facebook page, police say there has been "an alarming increase" recently. Police say the burglaries are happening in a wedge of the city that is north of James Street and east of I-81 up to Grant Boulevard. Sgt. Tom Connellan says investigators do have some leads, and are looking into whether a group of juveniles who were just released from jail are responsible for the break ins.
The thieves appear to be stealing mainly televisions and electronics. Sgt. Connellan says it's a crime of opportunity, but you can take steps to ward off the burglars and reduce the chance of getting robbed. Police advise you to keep your doors and windows closed and locked. Doors should have deadbolt locks. Also make sure to secure sliding glass doors and always lock the door to an attached garage.
Police also suggest using timers on lights, radios and TV's to make it look like you're home even when you're not. Keep the perimeter of your home well lit by installing outdoor lighting. Police also want you to keep your shrubs trimmed away from entrances and walkways.
If you head out of town, have a neighbor collect your mail and newspapers so they don't accumulate while you're away. Also ask your neighbor to park in your driveway while you're gone.
Never leave a message on your answering machine telling people you're away from home or post the information on your Facebook page.
You can also register your valuables with the Syracuse Police Department on the website by clicking here. If those belongings are ever stolen and police track them down, they can be returned to you. That information can also help police catch the criminals.
