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Bridgeport police report two vehicle thefts, recover one in Camden; urge residents to report evidence
Summary
Bridgeport Police told council Jan. 14 about two motor vehicle thefts overnight, one of which was recovered in Camden, N.J. Police described the incidents as part of a regional trend, asked residents to report potential evidence, and noted officers' participation in leadership training and a forthcoming holiday lighting awards announcement.
Bridgeport’s police chief reported Jan. 14 that the borough experienced two motor vehicle thefts early that morning and that officers recovered one vehicle and tracked it to Camden, N.J.
“Critical evidence that you might have left behind on a piece of paper or a piece of plastic or whatever else inside that car could be what helps us solve the bigger crime,” said Chief Freda of the Bridgeport Police Department, urging residents who suspect their vehicles were targeted to file reports and share video or other evidence with investigators.
The chief said the stolen vehicles were reported from the 800 block of Hurst Street and the 200 block of Prospect, and that the department linked the incidents to a broader regional pattern of auto thefts and attempted thefts. He said neighboring jurisdictions experienced similar incidents and that recovered vehicles have in the past been found in Camden or Philadelphia.
The chief also reported recent retail thefts at a Wawa, a trespass and arrest related to a vacant residence in the 500 block of Bush Street, and thanked officers participating in leadership and supervisory training: Sergeants Murphy and Flora are enrolled in a Command and Leadership Academy through West Point, and officers Bailey Seber and Still Wagoner are attending a police supervisory class.
The department plans to post video evidence on its website for anyone who believes their vehicle was targeted; the chief urged residents to file reports because seemingly small items of evidence can be crucial to solving crimes. He said the department will present holiday-lighting award winners at a future meeting.
No formal council action was taken on the report.
