By Greg Ellison, Staff Writer

 (Oct. 26, 2017) With home invasions reportedly spiking in Pocomoke, Police Chief William Harden held a special meeting highlighting crime-prevention strategies and providing details about a recently arrested burglary suspect, last Thursday at the Pocomoke Volunteer Fire Company Community Center.

“I’m going to ask you to help us and be our eyes and ears with this ongoing investigation,” he said.

Harden said 26 burglaries were reported in Pocomoke this year, compared to 19 at this point last year and 11 in 2015.

Recently, he said observant residents told police a burglar was using a beach cruiser bicycle to flee the scene. Harden said a suspect matching the description was subsequently located and arrested on an outstanding warrant.

“The cops stopped him and he tried to run,” he said. “In his bike [was] a ski mask, a flashlight and gloves.”

Although burglary charges are still pending, Harden said the suspect has an extensive criminal history involving theft. He also expressed confidence DNA evidence would link the man to multiple home-invasions.

“When that DNA comes back there is no doubt in my mind that we’ll probably be able to connect this guy to at least five-to-eight burglaries in Pocomoke,” he said. “I’m pretty sure charges are imminent.”

Crime prevention tips were also reviewed during the meeting, with Harden noting thieves generally target homes while residents are away.

Although thieves may operate alone, in pairs or as part or an organized group, Harden said the common thread is the pursuit of quick cash.

“They tend to target property that is portable, valuable and can easily be converted into cash or readily exchanged for drugs,” he said.

Electronics, such as cell phones, laptops, tablets and gaming consoles are frequently taken, Harden said.

“Most of these items can be easily transported from the home in backpacks,” he said.

To avoid being victimized, Harden recommended bolting window-unit air conditioners to the wall, stowing away outdoor items like grills and bicycles, using deadbolt locks that extend at least one inch, writing down serial numbers for electronics and firearms, trimming foliage that blocks windows and doors, and not hiding extra keys outside of homes.

Harden also cautioned against announcing vacation or travel plans on social media.

“They know who you are and in some cases they know where you live,” he said. “You told every burglar in the area you’re out of your house.”

If you witness a burglary in progress, Harden said to call 911 and never enter the residence.

“When you confront someone like that in the middle of a crime … they may get violent,” he said. “Unless you’re like me and you pack a gun, call the police.”

Harden said anyone concerned about home invasions could contact his department for free advice.

“We have a community-policing officer … [who] is prepared to give free home-security surveys,” he said.

Harden said his department has 15 officers to protect more than 4,000 residents and encouraged the community to keep a sharp eye for criminal activity.

“The key to your security is summed up in one word: vigilance,” he said. “If you have any kind of information we can use, let us know.”

Harden said if residents see suspicious people or activities, they should contact his department at 410-957-1600 or call 911.

“You know where you live and you know what normal is for your community,” he said. “If you see something, say something.”