Crime & Safety

This Week's Police News

Burglaries linked to same suspect and theft of tractor trailer in Terminal Road area

Police in both Franconia and West Springfield Districts confirm that dozens of burglaries throughout Fairfax County have been linked to the same suspect. So far, no thefts have occurred in Lorton that relate to this case, but officials believe it is simply a matter of time before the suspects attempts to strike Lorton.

Two handguns are among the items stolen from vehicles so residents should be extremely cautious.

They are also offering some reminders to basic safety tips:

Find out what's happening in Lortonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Do not leave items of value or garage door openers inside unattended vehicles and ensure your vehicle is locked.
  • When returning home, try not to leave purses, cash or keys near an entryway.
  • Promote safety by using the exterior lights on your home as well. If you notice suspicious persons or activity, call the non-emergency police number (703-691-2131) and report it.

Police also stress that the suspect makes entry through unlocked doors and windows so locking up may be the best deterrent.

Authorities are offering a $1,000 award for information that will lead to the arrest and conviction.

Find out what's happening in Lortonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Also, Franconia District Police District announced the results of a study during September on the Ghost Cruiser that was deployed on Pohick road over I-95. The presence of the Ghost Cruiser (an unmanned police car) reduced the average speed by 9% and the total number of vehicles exceeding the speed limit by 15 MPH was cut by half.

The cruiser has tinted windows, which prevents motorists from seeing if the car is occupied by an officer or not. The Ghost Cruiser will continue to be used throughout Franconia District in conjunction with police officers who will be patrolling the highways and enforcing the speed limit as per usual.

According to Captain Shawn Bennett, Commander of the Franconia District Station, "The ghost cruiser initiative is an effective way to slow motorists with minimal impact to the department's budget.  While attending community events, I have been told by numerous citizens they have seen the ghost cruiser while driving and have slowed their speed.  My goal is to reduce crashes and improve overall motorist safety without always having to write a ticket."

In other news – The following thefts were reported last week in Lorton:

8700 Block of LaGrange Street – Tools were stolen from a truck.

8900 Block of Waldren Way – An air bag was stolen from a vehicle.

9100 Block of Sheffield Hunt Court – A Honda motorcycle was stolen.

Finally, a 48-foot tractor trailer was stolen in the 8300 block of Terminal Road. Lorton Patch is investigating for further details.


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