Novi Residents on Alert Following Series of Connected Home Invasions

Novi Residents on Alert Following String of Home Invasions

Novi has seen a troubling uptick in neighborhood crime, particularly with a series of home invasions that have left residents feeling uneasy. Since October 31, there have been four such incidents that local authorities believe are connected to transnational gangs with roots in South America. The Novi Police Department is actively investigating these crimes, and residents are encouraged to stay vigilant.

Common Threads in the Invasions

What makes these invasions particularly alarming is that they share several similar characteristics. Each of the incidents took place during the evening hours, specifically between 5:45 p.m. and 9 p.m. To add to the concern, all the homes targeted were entered from the rear, suggesting that the suspects are using nearby wooded areas or fields to approach unseen.

Novi Police Cmdr. Jason Meier explained that these methods of entry, along with the types of items stolen, have strong ties to previous burglaries in Oakland County. He noted that the modus operandi includes the use of Wi-Fi jamming technology to disable home security systems, a tactic associated with previous crimes linked to organized crime in the area.

Timeline of the Incidents

The first incident occurred on the night of Halloween, October 31. Thieves broke a rear window of a home on Revello Court, located near Beck and Eight Mile roads. Fortunately, the residents were away, allowing the intruders to steal valuable items without interruption. Police suspect that the criminals accessed the property via the adjacent woods.

Just two days later, on November 2, another home on Vento Drive, also near Garfield and Eight Mile roads, was targeted. Similar to the previous break-in, the criminals gained entry by breaking a back window while the homeowners were out. This residence, too, backs onto a large field, providing cover for the intruders.

Things took a more alarming turn on November 15, when two additional invasions took place on the same day. The first was reported at 5:46 p.m. on Pomino Drive, where burglars smashed a second-story bathroom window. Again, the residents were conveniently away, and items were stolen. Shortly after, at 6:58 p.m., another break-in was reported on Turnberry Boulevard, featuring the same pattern of approach from the woods and targets being unoccupied at the time.

Valuables Under Siege

According to Cmdr. Meier, these thieves have a penchant for high-value items, particularly jewelry and luxury purses. As of now, all four home invasions remain under investigation, and police are working diligently to track down those responsible for this crime spree.

Staying Safe: What You Can Do

In light of these ominous events, Cmdr. Meier is urging all homeowners to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their properties. He suggests keeping the exterior of homes well lit and being mindful if security systems lose their Wi-Fi connection. “Be vigilant for your neighbors. Report any suspicious people or vehicles,” he advised.

It is clear that the residents of Novi need to be more alert than ever. The tight-knit community must come together, looking out for one another and sharing information about any suspicious activity. Safety is a shared responsibility, and collective awareness can go a long way in reclaiming a sense of security in our neighborhoods.

As authorities continue their investigation into these home invasions, keeping an eye on each other and maintaining open lines of communication among neighbors can help ensure that everyone stays safe. Let’s keep Novi a wonderful place to live and protect our homes!