The Abington Township Police Department announced today that a residential burglary occurred on Monday, July 7 while the home was occupied.

According to the report, the resident interrupted the crime and the suspects fled the scene. An investigation determined that the home was targeted “because the residents are Asian and own or operate businesses in the area”, police said.

“This incident reflects a deeply concerning and growing nationwide trend. Organized criminal groups are targeting the homes of Asian business owners based on the harmful stereotype that these individuals keep high-value items in their residences,” police said. “These groups are known to conduct surveillance on Asian-owned businesses to observe owners’ routines, follow them home, and identify their residential addresses.”

Abington police are collaborating with neighboring law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and investigate similar break-ins in the region. If you observe any suspicious behavior or activity in your neighborhood, you are asked to call 9-1-1 immediately.

The department asks residents to consider the following precautionary measures:

• Be alert to unfamiliar vehicles in your neighborhood.
• Be mindful of anyone who may be following you home from work or elsewhere.
• Take steps to securely store valuables in your home.
• Install motion-sensor lighting at the front and rear of your residence.
• Use surveillance cameras at both your home and place of business.
• Consider installing a monitored alarm system for added protection.
• Regularly check your vehicle for Apple AirTags or other potential tracking devices.
• Inspect your property for unauthorized trail cameras, surveillance equipment, or signal jammers.

For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.