The key to stopping a recent string of burglaries in Ardmore that has victimized 11 homes in the past month, according to Lower Merion Police, could be tips from the neighborhoods themselves.

Superintendent of Lower Merion Police Michael McGrath said reports of suspicious activity have been instrumental in solving similar stretches of burglaries in other parts of the township. "It's the same message we have been reiterating all year," McGrath said, "we need residents' assistance in reporting suspicious activity."

Local police officers made one arrest in Ardmore on Nov. 22. Edgar Alvardo, age 24 from Rittenhouse Place in Ardmore, was apprehended after observed trying to enter a home on the 100 block of Simpson Avenue, according to police.

Tips from local residents helped police make at least two other arrests of suspected burglars in the township.

On Oct. 22, a tip from a Merion resident who observed someone entering a neighbor's house led to the arrest of Michael McMonigle, thought to be responsible for multiple burglaries in Lower Merion and the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, according to the police. 

On Sept. 16, suspected burglar Jorge Cruz was arrested in Gladwyne as a result of a suspicious activity report. Cruz is believed to have been responsible for four burglaries in the township.

"No one knows the neighborhood better than the residents," McGrath said. "They know what is suspicious and what doesn't belong." The superintendent of police said that if residents hear any noise that doesn't sound familiar, see any vehicles that are not usually around in the neighborhood or any people on neighbors' properties that look unfamiliar, the safe bet is to report it to the police, who can investigate further.

All suspicious activity can be reported by calling the local police station's non-emergency number (610) 649-1000 or by calling 9-1-1 and telling the operator that you would like to report suspicious activity to the Lower Merion Police Department. Residents can also call the local police department's emergency number at (610) 642-4200. As previously reported on Patch, residents could consider saving the local police numbers into their phone contact information, because 9-1-1 calls can be delayed depending on where the cell tower is that picks up the call.

McGrath also said that Ardmore residents should be wary of unannounced visitors, who may be canvassing the area to see when residents are home. "People have been knocking on doors and giving an excuse for being there," McGrath said. "They are casing the properties to see who is home before they enter it."

Local police continue to urge residents to make sure all windows and doors are locked, and any valuable items are removed from cars. Most of the reported burglaries in Ardmore have been on unsecured homes, and thefts from vehicles continue to be a problem throughout the township.