Rash of burglaries reported in Branford

BRANFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Burglary is often a crime of opportunity and police in Branford say someone has been taking advantage of that opportunity over and over again, gaining entry to homes through unlocked window and doors.     

"It's frustrating, as a homeowner, and scary," said Courtney Barnikow.

Police are investigating a rash of burglaries in the area of Windmill Hill and Meadow Circle Roads in Branford.

"Last week there was one across the street, and then the same house across the street was hit yesterday, or two days ago, and then yesterday four more houses on the street were hit," Becky Chamberlain said.

"Taken items such as televisions, jewelry, home electronic devices," said Cpt. Geoffrey Morgan.

It's happening in a residential community, where neighbors are scratching their heads, asking, "Why them?"

"You know, I wonder that all the time," Barnikow said. "I mean, I don't think there's anything so fantastic about this neighborhood. You know, we're middle class."

But neighbors have an idea why this is happening.

"Probably drugs. I mean, I can't imagine it's anything else," said Sloane Maymon. "I mean, why else would you do this? This isn't a professional, this is someone who needs quick money, and he's not too smart."

"We will catch him, and then we'll find out what his motive is, but predominantly, these types of theft are fueled by some sort of drug or alcohol dependency," Cpt. Morgan explained.

No named suspects so far, but police say a man was seen along a section of Meadow Circle Road Wednesday about noontime. The white male with a thin build was wearing a dark tank top.

"Our community is one of the only ones in the state of Connecticut that does local DNA, so it's only a matter of time," Cpt. Morgan said.

And, in the meantime, do what several victims hadn't done.

"Please secure your home," Cpt. Morgan advised. "Lock your windows, lock your doors, and use proper lighting."

"Hopefully it ends soon," Barnikow said. "Hopefully, yesterday was the last of it."