Chief Friel: Two cars burglarized
HAMMONTON—According to Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel, two cars were burglarized at 6:53 p.m. on June 25 on the 100 block of Berwyn Avenue. According to sources, including Friel, social media posts and published reports, the burglarized cars were parked at the Hammonton Swim Club.
“We had two vehicles that were burglarized by breaking windows,” Friel said.
One vehicle had a passenger-side window of a Ford Edge broken by a screwdriver and a purse was taken from within the vehicle and the other vehicle, a Hyundai, had a passenger-side rear window broken by a screwdriver and a purse was taken from that vehicle as well, Friel said.
In an exclusive update during an interview with The Gazette on July 4, Friel said the investigation into the local break-ins had become part of a larger investigation into similar break-ins in other communities.
“In reference to the vehicle break-ins, the individuals were also suspects in other area incidents, and we are further investigating with other agencies to identify and locate the accused,” Friel said.
The investigating officer is Officer Dalton Scola, Friel said.
“It appears on the video that it was a Black male in a dark in color pickup truck. Anyone with any information should contact the Hammonton Police Department at (609) 561-4000. We remind people not to leave items of value in plain view in their vehicles unattended, whether they are locked or unlocked. And your vehicles should always be locked when unattended,” Friel said.
On June 26, following the break-ins, the Hammonton Swim Club posted the following on Facebook (the post was later updated on June 27):
“Update: The same group hit Gloucester Twp park at 1:50pm on 6/25. They target parks and gyms. Don’t leave anything visible in the car. Take your wallet/bag in the gym with you!
“… They have brazenly broken into multiple cars on June 25th at 5:59pm in broad daylight, stealing valuables from innocent people …
“The perpetrators went to West Berlin Walmart and attempted to use the stolen credit cards. Please share with your friends in the Berlin/Winslow/Hammonton/Atco area. Thank you!” the Hammonton Swim Club post read.
This report is comprised of arrests and investigations made by the men and women of local enforcement. All suspects and arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.