200+ recent burglaries in New Bedford

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) - New Bedford Police are investigating about two hundred burglaries in the last six weeks.  Now the local chapter of the Guardian Angels is taking action.

Police tell us they've seen clusters of break-ins in various neighborhoods across the city, including the Briarwood Drive and Brooklawn Park sections of the North End, as well as Cove and Fair Streets in the South End of New Bedford.

"This is out of control," says Gerald Pinto of the crime fighting citizens group, the Guardian Angels.

"We're going to put a group of our Angels together to start patrolling [the Briarwood Drive] area of the city at certain times during the day, to help out the New Bedford Police Department and residents of the area."

Police say most of the break-ins have happened during the day.  The crooks are focusing on easily-pawned items, such as TVs, video games, and jewelry. 

Now Pinto tells us he hopes the Guardian Angels hope their presence will scare the burglars away.

"If we see somebody that we feel doesn't fit in this area, we're going to get a description of them, if they're driving a vehicle that has TVs, etc, we'll make the 911 call and let the authorities handle it."

The Guardian Angels are also urging homeowners to be extra vigilant.

"The nosy neighbor is the best neighbor to have."

New Bedford Police are asking residents to report any suspicious activity immediately.  They also recommend people keep their windows and doors locked, and consider installing alarm systems in their homes.