Thieves Use Distraction To Rob Drivers: East Brunswick Police

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ - The East Brunswick Police Department has notified residents of a “crew of thieves are operating in the local area.”

According to the police, they watch unsuspecting shoppers or people withdrawing money from ATMs, then covertly slash a tire on their vehicle. Once the vehicle is disabled, they pretend to help, only to distract the person while a member of the crew enters the vehicle and steals valuables, police said.

Police have asked residents to pull off the roadway into a safe area and call for help. They’ve asked people to stay in their vehicles with the doors locked while waiting for assistance.

“If outside your vehicle, keep your eyes on your belongings at all times and lock the car if you walk away for any reason,” police said in a public statement.

Motorists are encouraged to keep roadside assistance phone numbers readily available.

For non-emergency Police assistance in East Brunswick, call 732-390-6901. In case of emergency, dial 911.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.