Flood-Damaged Homes Broken Into
By: Andy Mehalshick
Updated: January 12, 2012
West Pittston, Luzerne County -- People who live in West Pittston have dealt with a lot in recent months because of flooding. Police now say they are dealing with another problem - burglars.
In one night alone this week four homes were broken into and the owners lost personal items they had salvaged from the flood waters. Police Chief Paul Pirfirio said, "We are an easy target because there are so many homes still vacant or not being lived in at all. These thugs know that and are preying on the flood victims. We urged people with homes in these areas to have friends and family keep an eye on their places. We know most of these crimes will end once people are back in their homes."
Kelly Sumner works for R. J. Contracting, which is renovating a home on Susquehanna Avenue. He said, "It really angers me to think that there are people out there taking advantage of the flood victims who area already hurting."
Chief Perfirio urges anyone with any information to call 9-1-1. "Do not call the local police number since that number may not be checked in a timely fashion," he added.
In one night alone this week four homes were broken into and the owners lost personal items they had salvaged from the flood waters. Police Chief Paul Pirfirio said, "We are an easy target because there are so many homes still vacant or not being lived in at all. These thugs know that and are preying on the flood victims. We urged people with homes in these areas to have friends and family keep an eye on their places. We know most of these crimes will end once people are back in their homes."
Kelly Sumner works for R. J. Contracting, which is renovating a home on Susquehanna Avenue. He said, "It really angers me to think that there are people out there taking advantage of the flood victims who area already hurting."
Chief Perfirio urges anyone with any information to call 9-1-1. "Do not call the local police number since that number may not be checked in a timely fashion," he added.
