Burglaries Drive 2011 Crime Rate Up in Warren

Warren Township's crime rate edged up in 2011, according to the State Police Uniform Crime Report, thanks to two strings of burglaries in the year.

According to the report, Warren's almost-non-existent violent crime fell from a total of five incidents in 2010 to just two in 2011. The category includes murders, rapes, robbery (one reported in 2011) and aggravated assault (one reported in 2011).

The township's violent crime was the lowest in the county, except for Bedminster, Rocky Hill, Far Hills and Millstone—primarily much smaller communities. Bernardsville, South Bound Brook and Peapack-Gladstone also reported only two violent crimes that year.

In the categories for non-violent crime—larceny, burglary and motor vehicle theft—the picture was different, with burglaries jumping from 16 reported in 2010 to 36 in 2011. The , with multiple counts of burglary. 

A string of burglaries to vehicles also contributed to the spike. Police charged a Bridgewater man in connection with the break-ins.

The township's non-violent crime rose from 2010's 4.9 to 5.6 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2011. In non-violent crime, only Bernards and Peapack-Gladstone reported lower figures in 2011, however.

Warren Police attribute the low crime figures for not only department efforts, but also residents' help.

"I contribute the low crime rate to our department being very pro-active when it comes to preventing crime," Capt. Robert Glen said. "Our officers are highly visible in the community which greatly contributes to a reduction in crime. 

"I also want to recognize our township residents, who have a keen sense of awareness and are very vigilant in reporting suspicious activity in a timely manner," he added.

The complete UCR can be found on the New Jersey State Police website.