Police have nabbed a handful of individuals who were charged with robbery, burglary and theft, but how are departments remaining proactive with continuous crime?
Authorities in Salem County have kept busy investigating robberies and burglaries over the past week.
Police have nabbed a handful of individuals who were charged with robbery, burglary and theft, but how are departments remaining proactive with continuous crime?
"I want to give my officers the proper tools to do their work in their investigations and patrols. We work as a team in here, that comes with the prosecutor's office and investigation unit," Carneys Point Chief Gerald Krivda said.
Carneys Point Police have been active fighting numerous robberies and burglaries, including a recent robbery at Fulton Bank.
Police successfully made an arrest in the incident Tuesday night, with the help of tips and old-fashioned police work, according to Krivda.
After obtaining a photo from surveillance footage at Fulton Bank, authorities were able to go to various locations and simply ask if anyone recognized the man in the photo.
Reginald D. Liles Jr., of Mullica Hill, was charged with robbery, terroristic threats, and theft, within 24 hours of the robbery.
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"We need the help from the community too and for people to start speaking up," Krivda added.
The Carneys Point department is also investigating other burglaries that were recently reported, including one at a North Golfwood Avenue home, another at the Roman Pantry.
"We are just trying to limit what goes on here. We are going to have crimes but we need to be prepared and on the offensive. Sitting on the sideline isn't going to help and crime will fester," the chief said.
"We want to show criminals who come in here that we mean business. If you come here and perpetrate a crime, we are going to be relentless," Krivda continued.
By using technology and social media to connect with the community, police are able to delve deeper into investigations with tips posted and shared online, authorities said.
Woodstown Police Department used Facebook to broadcast an investigation of a burglary from a borough church.
John T. Burton was arrested within two weeks of the robbery and charged on the theft.
Pennsville Police Department also utilizes Facebook and a 411 Tip Line to solve cases.
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Authorities recently arrested a man who broke into a woman's home and stole some items. He was spotted hiding in her closet before he fled the area.
Shaun A. Bauer, 31, of Pennsville, was arrested 48 hours later.
"Make sure your doors and cars are locked. If someone comes into your house, the best thing to do is lock yourself in a room and call 9-1-1," Pennsville Police Chief Allen J. Cummings advised.
Cummings is also reminding residents that if they see something, they can anonymous use the tip line or contact authorities.
"On our end, we've stepped up residential patrols and we are checking people who are walking around in the middle of the night, checking suspicious vehicles, and conducting interviews," the Pennsville chief said.
Authorities in departments throughout Salem County are reminding residents of the importance of speaking up.
Sometimes, it is the final piece that can direct authorities in the right direction to make an arrest, according to Krivda.
Brittany Wehner may be reached at bwehner@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @brittanymwehner. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.
