SUNBURY -- Burglars will steal anything, even a washer and dryer.
A Union County resident has reported to Milton state police that someone entered his home and made off with the laundry devices.
"I can honestly say that I have never seen that happen before," said Matt Burrows, a state trooper at the Milton station. "That is a first."
And after nearly 20 years on the job.
Andrew Fisher, 41, Lewisburg, told troopers that someone ripped off the items sometime last month.
While Milton troopers are investigating the burglary, Burrows said a key to possibly recovering stolen items is to keep good records.
"You can register items you purchase online and that is helpful to us," Burrows said. "But keep personal records of model numbers and serial numbers as well."
While Burrows couldn't say whether burglaries in the Valley are increasing or decreasing, one stands out in his mind.
"I saw a kitchen sink," he said. "Someone had their kitchen sink stolen. That was another first for me to see."
Troopers try to return items to owners, if recovered, Burrows said.
"The best advice I have for people is to record all makes and models and numbers," he said. "That is very helpful to us."
Gregory Peoples, 28, Lewisburg, told state police last week that someone entered his home through an unlocked door and removed a 32-inch flat-screen TV.
According to various websites, the most common items stolen from a home burglary are cash, tools, small home electronics and jewelry.
"A locked door can make the difference," Burrows said.
Milton state police also reported a White Deer Township man had 11 firearms stolen from his home. Gun experts say the chances of recovering them are slim to none.
Police reported that Lash Koch, 58, New Columbia, said he had 11 firearms valued at more than $3,500 stolen from his gun cabinet.
Shotguns and rifles are hard to keep track of, even if serial numbers are recorded, said John Margel, owner of High Velocity Firearms, Selinsgrove.
"It is very hard to catch those people," he said.
It's those serial numbers that help, Burrows said.
"Any little bit of information we can get is a huge help," he added.
Security systems are a great deterrent, Burrows said.
"It would make a person think twice before entering a home knowing the system would go off."
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