A rare rash of crime seems to have struck our peaceful little town in the Quiet Corner this month. State Police have verified that valuables, ranging from pocket change to tools, have been stolen from seven vehicles parked in private driveways on East Old Route 6 and Cedar Swamp Road. In possibly an unrelated activity, several catalytic converters have also recently been stolen. All thefts are under investigation.

Chaplin Resident State Trooper Manbeck reports that, “Sometime overnight on January 16 and 17, two males went through approximately a half dozen vehicles throughout Hampton. They took a purse from one of the vehicles containing credit cards and a check book. The two male suspects then attempted to use that credit card at the North Windham Walmart to purchase a PS4 gaming system. After the card was declined they left in a dark colored Chevy extended cab pickup.”

Police are advising everyone to lock their cars and to leave outside lights on if possible. They will be patrolling Hampton at various hours, and urge anyone with information to contact them, or to report suspicious activity.

Earlier in January, a resident was arrested in connection with vandalism at the transfer station after he drove through a gate and left behind a piece of his vehicle identifying the make and model. The suspect, who had several outstanding warrants, was apprehended by a K-9 Officer after fleeing his residence where a vehicle, with damage that matched the evidence left at the transfer station, was parked. Weapons, including one that was stolen, were discovered in the vehicle. The man was charged with illegal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of firearms, sixth-degree larceny, possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell, resisting and interfering with an officer, and three motor vehicle violations.

In another disturbing incident, a pack of coyotes, killed and skinned for their pelts, was left on the side of Eleventh Section Road and discovered by two residents who were enjoying an otherwise peaceful walk. An unpleasant, to say the least, experience, but one that would have been particularly horrific if small children had stumbled across this scene.

In all instances, let’s hope vigilance prevails.

Juan Arriola