Thieves targeting families of deceased

TAUNTON, Mass. (WPRI) - Taunton Police are warning residents about a recent increase in housebreaks.

Many of the break-ins are interrelated to funerals. Police believe the suspects are reading newspaper obituaries, then using the Internet to locate the houses of family members of the deceased.

The suspects break into the house during the day while the victims are attending the funeral.

There's also been an increase in car break-ins in sub-divisions. The cars being targeted are typically unlocked.

Residents are reminded to lock their cars and secure all valuables inside.

Residents are urged to call police at (508) 674-8464 if they see suspicious cars of people lingering in their neighborhoods. Also, Taunton police are taking advantage of social media to alert the public of home and car break-ins. To receive these types of updates, visit their Facebook page.