Galloway Township police arrested two teens after staking out an area where there had been a rash of motor vehicle burglaries and thefts.
The spike in the township's Smithville and Club sections led to officers in an unmarked vehicle attempting to catch the suspects, police said.
At about 10:15 p.m. Wednesday, the officers saw two males in all black clothing walking north on Wrangleboro Road, according to the report.
They then saw the men put on masks and gloves as they entered Mourning Dove Way in the Moss Mill Hollow development, police said. The two then started pulling at vehicle door handles.
The undercover officers then coordinated with uniformed patrol to set up a perimeter in the area.
When the officers approached the suspects, the two fled, according to the report. They were captured after a short chase.
Items stolen from a vehicle on Shawnee Place were found in the suspects' possession when they were arrested. They are suspected in other thefts as well.
The 15- and 16-year-olds were charged with motor vehicle burglary, theft, resisting arrest by flight, obstruction, receiving stolen property, possession of burglary tools and curfew violations.
The boys were released to the custody of their guardians.
Police said the department "remains dedicated to the service and protection of all of our residents as well as their property. We will remain vigilant in our response to crimes such as these and our efforts to deter future incidents."
They also remind residents that “If you see something, say something” and notify the police of any suspicious activity.
Police remind residents that the best deterrent to motor vehicle burglaries and thefts is to keep vehicles locked at all times, and remove any valuables from plain sight.
