Vehicle Thefts, Burglaries Continue To Plague New Canaan: PD

NEW CANAAN, CT — Between 2019 and 2020, the number of vehicles reported stolen in New Canaan rose from 10 to 27, or an astounding 170 percent, according to data released this week by Police Chief Leon Krolikowski.

During the same period, the number of reported thefts of items from vehicles in New Canaan also rose significantly from 32 in 2019 to 48 in 2020, or an increase of 50 percent. See the maps above.

"Many towns in Fairfield County are experiencing similar crimes," Krolikowski said, adding that the common denominator for most of these crimes is that virtually all the vehicles had been left unlocked at the time. "It is probable that the crimes are being committed by the same suspects."

In recent days, three more unlocked vehicles reportedly were burglarized in New Canaan and valuables were stolen, according to Krolikowski.

In the first instance, two vehicles reportedly were broken into at the same home on White Oak Shade Lane on March 18.

"The following items were stolen out of one of the vehicles: A purse which was later found in Bridgeport containing several credit cards, a bank debit card, health insurance cards and a driver’s license," Krolikowski said. "In addition, a make-up bag with make-up items, and sunglasses were also stolen out of the unlocked vehicle."

In the second case also on the 18th, an unlocked vehicle reportedly was broken into on Charter Oak Drive.

"A wallet along with $500 cash, credit cards, and a driver’s license were stolen," Krolikowski said. "It was determined that one of the credit cards was used at a gas station in New Haven."

To avoid such crimes, Krolikowski urges residents to always lock their vehicles, and never leave valuables inside them.

"Often, identity theft occurs when drivers’ licenses and credit cards are stolen," he said.