September 12, 2018 – The Newark Police are investigating a rash of vehicles being tampered with, thefts from vehicles and the theft of a vehicle over the last week in the area of East Delaware Avenue and the University Courtyard Apartments, according to Sgt. Gerald Bryda.
Bryda said on Sunday, September 9, 2018, at approximately 3:45 a.m. the Newark Police responded to the area of the 400 building of Scholar Drive for a report that several males were looking into and tampering with vehicle handles. The reporting person was able to set off a vehicle alarm and the subjects, described as 8-9 males, were then seen running from the area and fleeing in vehicles. It was later learned that a 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan was stolen from the parking lot, after the key fob had been left inside the vehicle.
On Monday, September 10th at approximately 12:34 a.m. a Newark Police officer was on patrol in the parking lot of the University Courtyard Apartments, near the 500 building. The officer observed two males inside of a white Honda. As the officer began to drive towards the vehicle, the two males fled on foot, said Bryda. Several officers responded to the area but were unsuccessful in locating the suspects. The suspects are both described as juvenile aged, black males. The first suspect was dressed in all black with a black rain style jacket and a black hood up over his head. The second suspect was described as wearing dark colored pants and shirt. Upon inspection, the Honda’s glove box and center console were open, and items were strewn about, with several items located on the ground near the vehicle. Five other vehicles in the area were located which were tampered with. Stolen items included a pair of sunglasses, an expired credit card, and financial paperwork. It appears as if all vehicles were left unsecured.
On Tuesday, September 11th the Newark Police responded to the 100 block of East Delaware Avenue for a report that two vehicles, both unsecured, had been entered. One vehicle was rummaged through, with nothing missing. The second vehicle had cash and a set of keys stolen from the center console.
There are currently no surveillance images available. The Newark Police are continuing their investigation into these cases.
Bryda said that the Newark Police would like to remind the public to always lock their cars, take valuables inside and never leave keys or key fobs in the vehicle. Newer vehicles with keyless starting features can be started with the push of the button while the fob is inside the car.
Anyone with additional information about any of these cases is asked to contact Newark Police at 302-366-7111.