Rumors have been spreading around town about a rash of burglaries this summer, but a police official says the story has been overblown and caused unnecessary panic.
Capt. Craig Huntley said Wednesday there have been eight burglaries in Suffield since July 1, but explained not all crimes classified as burglaries are housebreaks.
"A car break-in is classified as a burglary for us," Huntley said, adding that even a break-in that occurs by simply opening an unlocked car door is considered burglary.
"We had three or four in July," Huntley said. "We had some suspects, but nothing panned out."
Huntley said residents should not fear an "epidemic" of burglaries, but also urges them to follow "common sense safety" guidelines.
"Be sure you have outside lighting, lock your car doors, and tell neighbors if you're going away for any length of time," Huntley said.
Anyone seeing any suspicious activity is asked to call the at 860-668-3870.
