Computer, jewelry taken in burglaries

EAST BRUNSWICK — Police are investigating two burglaries that took place on Patton Drive on Aug. 15.

In both cases, the suspect broke a window to gain entry into the house and took items including jewelry.

Police first responded to a burglar alarm at a residence, where officers discovered a broken side window near the rear of the house. They observed blood on the glass and on the ground below the window. Police decided to set up a perimeter around the house because a black bag was found lying on the ground, and officers believed the suspect might still be inside the house.

After gaining access to the home, officers determined that the suspect had fled prior to the arrival of police. The homeowner, who had arrived after police, said numerous articles of jewelry had been taken, according to a police report.

A police check of several area residences revealed that a burglary had also taken place in a nearby home. Entry to the second home had also been gained by breaking and then unlocking a window. A laptop computer and assorted jewelry items had been taken from the second home.

In their investigation, police received a report that a suspicious person was observed in the area prior to the burglaries. He was described as being a black male, about 6 feet and in his 20s with a thin build. He was wearing a red shirt.

Police reported his description to area hospitals in case someone meeting the man’s description sought medical attention.