Security systems not stopping thieves in Bath Township; phone lines cut during break-ins

BATH TOWNSHIP, Ohio - Three homes on the southern end of Bath Township have been broken into. One car, electronics and jewelry have been stolen -- amounting to thousands of dollars worth of merchandise.

All of the home break-ins had one thing in common -- they all had security systems.

"The suspects are cutting the phone lines, which disables the burglar alarm. They then force entry into the home," said Michael McNeely, Bath Township chief of police.

All of the thefts occurred in the last several weeks. Similar break-ins have happened in parts of Medina County.

Residents like Glenn Kirkwood are concerned. Glenn is a construction worker and can't afford to have any tools stolen.

"I work here in Bath so I'm going to take a little bit better care and make sure everything is locked and secure," said Kirkwood.

Chief McNeely recommends a cellular backup to any hard-lined security system. If the wires are cut outside of the home, the system will still work.

Anyone who spots suspicious activity is asked to contact Bath Township police at 330-666-3736.