Police have stepped up patrols and are asking residents to report anything suspicious after an increase in burglaries over Rosh Hashanah and other religious holidays, Chief Robert Wilson said Thursday.

The break-ins have been centered in the township's western section, Wilson said. Houses were mostly hit during the early evening hours when residents were not home. 

Four burglaries were reported from Sunday to Tuesday, Wilson said. 

While patrols have been increased and detectives are following leads, the chief urged the public to immediately call police if they spot anything suspicious. 

"If you are not sure, please err on the side of caution and call us at 911," he said. 

One sharp-eyed neighbor has already provided useful information to investigators. Police could not say what was reported, citing the active investigation. Some of the cases shared similarities, but details were not immediately released. 

"Residents should take various steps to help secure their homes and property," Wilson said. "These include letting neighbors know when they will be away from their homes and notifying the Teaneck Police Department of extended absences."  

Residents who later remember seeing something suspicious can also phone in tips to the department 24-hours a day at 201-837-2600 or CrimeStoppers at 201-833-4222.

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