BRYN MAWR, Pa. (WPVI) — A series of break-ins in a Main Line neighborhood are under investigation.
According to police, the series of burglaries occurred on Saturday evening and the thieves used the same tactics to break into each home.
“This area is really quiet,” Reco Jefferson said. “It’s kind of scary because I have kids.”
Bryn Mawr residents like Reco Jefferson remain on high alert after burglars attacked his neighbor's home in the 800 block of Roscommon Road.
According to police, there were three break-ins within a week. The suspects climb onto patio furniture to break into second-story homes and look for jewelry.
“We're doing everything we can to protect ourselves, but this is one of those neighborhoods where I think people see that we have nice things,” Jefferson said.
Jefferson said he heard his neighbor's alarm and immediately called 911 when he saw the suspects across the street.
“They were really professional — hoodies, gloves, masks,” Jefferson said. “It was dark, so you couldn’t see much other than walking down the driveway.”
Jefferson said Lower Merion police arrived within minutes, but the suspects left empty-handed in a dark-colored SUV.
However, police said the thieves used the same tactics that night at a home in the 800 block of Gatemore Road. They stacked patio furniture, broke a second-story window and stole jewelry.
On Dec. 15, another incident occurred just minutes away in the 600 block of Black Rock Road, but the home was vacant.
All incidents occurred between 5 and 7 p.m
“The biggest concern is that it's the holiday season, people are traveling, people are so busy and they're taking advantage of this community,” Lower Merion Commissioner Scott Zelov said.
Zelov advises residents to take advantage of the police department's vacant home program so officers can check their homes.
“Be smart. Let your neighbors know when you're gone. Alert the second floor. Alert the back of your house. Hide your jewelry,” Zelov said. He said dogs also helped deter suspects.
Zelov said residents can expect more patrols.
“The police are doing everything they can and I really appreciate it,” Jefferson said.
“They are very determined to make arrests,” Zelov said. “You need help. They need residents to call.”
Zelov said police have already made arrests in Lower Merion, Abington and Connecticut for previous home burglaries.
They are urging residents to call police if there is anything suspicious or a video that could help with recent investigations.
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