By Phil Corso
Homes in Bayside and Auburndale have been victimized by a recent string of burglaries, according to the 111th Precinct.
A spokesman for the 111th Precinct, said the rash of burglaries showed some similarities, with most incidents occurring Friday evenings between 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. in empty homes. In the burglaries, suspects gained access to homes through rear or side doors and windows and usually stole cash or jewelry, a spokesman said.
According to the most recent crime statistics from the 111th Precinct, burglaries had increased from 11 in 2011 to 32 this year in the 28-day period ending Oct. 28. To date burglaries and grand larcenies were tied for the most frequently reported crimes out of the seven major categories, the precinct said.
For the year to date the 111th Precinct reported 178 burglaries, which tops out as the second most-reported crime after the 320 grand larcenies reported to date.
In 2011, burglaries were reported as the second most-frequent crime in the 111th Precinct at 160, according to crime statistics, second only to 312 incidents of grand larcenies.
To prevent such burglaries, a spokesman for the 111th Precinct said residents in the region, which also includes areas Douglaston and Little Neck, should secure all their windows and doors on all floors, including upper and basement stories. The precinct also said residents should make sure the rear and side entrance points of their homes are well-lit at night and that all ladders, patio furniture and outdoor tools are not easily accessible.
In addition, potential entry points to homes should not have their views obstructed by tall hedges, fencing or shrubbery, the precinct said. If there are any suspicious individuals sighted throughout the precinct, the 111th encouraged all residents to call 911 to seek assistance.
Reach reporter Phil Corso by e-mail at pcorso@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4573.
