SOPD Offers Free Home Security Assessment and Issues PSA to Help and Advise Residents

by the Community Police Collaborative and SOPD

South Orange Police Chief Ernesto Morillo has announced that SOPD officers who are certified in home security assessment will conduct a security survey of residents’ homes, free of charge. Additionally, the SOPD has issued a PSA and statement that asks residents to take steps to secure their home and property. Residents can email pdsecuritysurvey@southorange.org to request a home security survey, free of charge.

Chief Morillo has also issued the following statement:

“We share the community’s concern about the increase in residential burglaries in New Jersey, where motor vehicle theft is often the objective. We also want to reassure the community that, overall, South Orange is very safe. Over the last 10 years our crime statistics have had a significant downward trajectory,” stated Morillo. Residents are encouraged to visit the South Orange website, blotter tab, to read more details on local Part 1 crime statistics.

“That said, South Orange had experienced a slight increase in burglary and motor vehicle thefts and the South Orange Police Department (SOPD) stands ready to assist homeowners with home and property safety strategies,” Morillo continued.

It is important to note that almost all vehicle thefts in the area have been committed with the key fob inside the vehicle. Therefore, to help avoid accidentally leaving a fob behind, it is recommended that residents develop a routine that keeps their fob on their person or in personal belongings carried with them.

To ensure the safety and security of all residents, the department recommends some basic home security practices such as locking doors, windows, and vehicles. In addition to these practices, residents are encouraged to consider additional measures which have been proven effective, such as home alarm systems, exterior illumination/motion-activated lighting, doorbell or security cameras, anti-theft devices, and tracking devices.

By working together, the community can ensure a safer and more secure environment for everyone that is less attractive to would-be actors.