With regard to the Palisades burglaries, fast work by witnesses and the Orangetown and Bergan County Police Departments resulted in the capture of all three members, who are currently serving time in prison. When they first crossed over the border into our area and were successful, they regarded our area as “burglar heaven.” Until they were caught.

Detective Frawley of the Orangetown Police Department shared a few tips. One tactic was that the perpetrators would drive around when it started to get dark, find a house without lights, knock on the front door to see if anyone was home and if no one answered, they would go around and kick in the back door. He noted that prime burglary season is October through March. This is because it starts to get dark early and houses may be dark until people return from work or shuttling children. The recommendation: Keep your lights on a timer as soon as the season changes.

The best deterrent is neighborhood watch. If you see something suspicious, call 911. If you will be on an extended vacation, register at the Orangetown Police Department for a "Vacation Watch." Before you go away, tell your neighbors. When away, cancel newspaper delivery and have the post office hold your mail. Keep your doors locked. When out at night, leave lights on. Share information.

After contacting 911, e-mail PCC@PalisadesNY.com. We will make every effort to send out an e-blast so people can keep their eyes open or remember any unusual behavior.