A resident’s fast actions led Springfield police to four suspects accused of breaking into a neighborhood home.
According to authorities, on yesterday at approximately 4 pm, the Springfield Police Department responded to a report of a possible burglary in progress.
Officials say a resident contacted the police after being alerted by his housekeeper that a group of unknown males had walked through his yard toward a neighboring property, which was vacant. The resident observed the group exiting the neighboring home and fleeing the area in a vehicle, which he described to the police.
Officer Michael Wlazlo immediately responded to the scene, and through his preliminary investigation determined that forced entry had been made to the vacant home. While en route to assist, Officer Matthew Schmidt spotted the suspects' vehicle traveling on Mountain Avenue and initiated a motor vehicle stop.
According to authorities, the four people in the vehicle were positively identified as the burglary suspects and were placed under arrest by Officer Schmidt and Officer Anthony Kassis with the assistance of Mountainside Police.
Police charged all four suspects with burglary, criminal mischief, and drug possession.
Chief John Cook credits the vigilance of the resident and the quick actions of the officers for this successful apprehension.
"Our community relies on a close working relationship between the police and the public. This is another instance where an observant homeowner and excellent police work by our officers keep criminals off the streets."