Lower Merion officials warn of increased theft activity

LOWER MERION — Lower Merion police say the area has been hit with a new spate of burglaries by South American burglary groups.

A recent incident occurred at 6:28 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22, at a residence in the 600 block of Winsford Road in Bryn Mawr.

The police gave the following account:

A neighbor who came to the house at that time noticed the suspicious black Dodge Durango parked on the street.

He then noticed three or four men in a neighbor’s driveway. The men were whispering in Spanish and quickly fled to Durango.

The neighbor was not home at the time, but it appears they were nearby. The victim came home to report that several expensive handbags were missing.

Entry was gained by scaling a downspout and breaking a second-floor window. There is a Ring system at home and the county police department is reviewing the videos. Regional notices were sent out for agencies to monitor Durango.

Another burglary occurred at 5:21 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at a home in the 1300 block of Waverly Road in Gladwyne.

The back entry door was shattered and at least two criminals entered the home. The homeowners left the house about an hour ago and activated the security alarm.

The homeowners initially ignored the initial security alarm notification because they had a problem with the sensor on one of the back doors. Citizens who saw the criminals leaving while reviewing the camera notifications immediately informed the police. This residence was burglarized in a similar manner in July 2023.

Commissioner Scott Zelov said in an email to residents that police will detail additional officers to the area.

He also recommended residents use security alarms if they have them and have any problems repaired if they are not working properly. Residents should also be careful when reporting suspicious activity.

“With extra police officers, the difference between whether criminals are caught or not can be seconds,” Zelov wrote.

Lower Merion police wrote in a social media post: “If you see something, say so. Thieves do not fit one description and it is easy to change clothes or tools.

“You know the way of life in your neighborhoods. If you notice any activity that catches your eye and seems out of place, let us know.

“Trust your instincts. If you have home alarms or cameras, make sure they are activated and in good working order. Don’t ignore activations while you’re away, even if you know the activation point is “problem” for you.

“Consider adding second-floor window sensors or motion sensors in second-floor hallways, especially where second-floor windows are accessible from the lower roof, wall, porch, or garage.

“Make sure your home looks like it is used regularly. Avoid leaving packages on your porch, newspapers in the driveway, or mail visible through your mailbox.

“Keep timers on for indoor and outdoor lights to come on before dark.

“Thefts generally increase during the winter season. Early evening onset and cold weather can cause residents to be less alert to their surroundings. Pay attention to activity in the afternoon and early evening that catches your attention or looks suspicious.”

“If you have concerns about a person, vehicle or activity in the home, call 911.”

“If you will be away this holiday season, sign up for the Empty Home Program at: www.lowermerion.org/departments/police-department/services.”