Local Police Form Task Force To Combat Bensonhurst Burglaries

Deputy Inspector James Rooney, the commanding officer of the 62nd Precinct, announced that the command has formed a special task force to combat a recent spate of burglaries.

Rooney announced the new initiative at last night’s Community Board 11 meeting, where he noted that burglaries have jumped 31 percent in the community compared to last year.

Rooney explained that at least one outside crew is coming into the community and burglarizing Bensonhurst homes. Suspects are breaking into private houses through open windows, particularly basement windows left unlocked and through fire escapes.

The current area of concern? Private homes located between 17th Avenue and 21st Avenue, from 65th Street to Bay Ridge Parkway.

One known group of burglars has already been busted; officers found masks, gloves, and stolen jewelry among other items in the three suspects’ vehicle.

But, Rooney said that an extra burglary task force has been appointed, with additional unmarked police vehicles on the scene. Locals are encouraged to keep safe and call authorities immediately if they see any suspicious activity.