BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The increasing number of home and car burglaries in Basking Ridge has caused concern among residents prompting Township officials and police to take action.
“I am mindful of the concerns from residents regarding the burglaries, break-ins, and thefts that have occurred in our town. These incidents are disturbing but are not unique to our town,” said Mayor Jennifer Asay at the Tuesday night Committee meeting. “This is a statewide and region-wide issue. And based on my research has been attributed as a consequence of criminal justice reform measures implemented in recent years, however well-meaning they may have been.”
The township has been experiencing car thefts and now with criminals becoming more brazen, they are entering homes in Basking Ridge to steal car keys. Read More: Burglars Enter Homes As Basking Ridge Residents Slept, Stole Cars: PD
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“Resident safety is our highest concern and an expectation of our community. This will not and has not waivered,” said Asay. “While this is an issue, affecting many towns and flows from policy changes made at higher levels of government over which Bernards has no control, let me assure you that our town has taken immediate action to protect our residents.”
The township has taken multiple immediate steps as of Tuesday night including increasing police patrols at times and locations when they tend to occur the most.
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Home Security Checklist
The Bernards Township Police Department shared a Home Security Checklist for residents that was created by Sgt. Tracey Baldassare.
“Some of our residents are already doing these safety tips but if more of our residents implement these tips this can secure our community and make it less desirable for criminals,” said Committeewoman Janice Fields, who is a police liaison.
To see the list click here or see below:
BTPD Home Security Checklist by Alexis Tarrazi on Scribd
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CityProtect Resident Portal
Following a suggestion from resident Todd Edelstein, Asay said the Bernards Township Police Department has launched a CityProtect resident portal.
CityProtect will allow citizens and businesses to voluntarily register their private surveillance cameras, submit anonymous tips, and upload photos or videos which may be helpful to investigations.
Members of the public can also send non-emergent communications to the police department, request to file new police reports and obtain copies of existing police reports.
“The Bernards Township Police are always one phone call, and now one click away. Building a foundation of active community engagement is an important part of the agency’s collaborative relationship with the public, and CityProtect strengthens that relationship,” said Police Chief Jon Burger.
Visit the BTPD CityProtect resident portal at https://cityprotect.com/agency/bernardspdnj.
Senator Jon Bramnick Zoom Meeting
On Thursday, Jan. 25, Senator Jon Bramnick will participate in a Zoom meeting call with Bernards residents to discuss criminal matters from a state perspective at 7:30 p.m. For more information on the Zoom meeting click here.
Bernards Township Police Town Hall
Bernards Township Police will also be hosting a Town Hall on Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Understanding Bernards series where they will again be addressing these issues. For more information on the Town Hall click here.
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“I’ve had many conversations with residents, colleagues on this committee, members of the police department, and officials outside of the town about these issues. I take them seriously,” said Asay. “And you can be confident that our town has and will continue to take concrete steps to meet these challenges head-on.”
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