Malverne (population 8,934), like any small town in the U.S, is not immune to an incident of home invasion.  This time it happened to a Malverne resident in his 60’s.  Police say, after discovering a man in his garage, the homeowner struggled with him and tried to escape by going back into his house.  There was no lock on the door inside the garage leading to the home so the suspect easily busted in, tied up the homeowner, and beat him.  The victim was hospitalized with a puncture wound on his rib cage, a cut to the arm, and multiple bruises.    

          Nassau County Lt. Kevin Smith tells Security World News that they may have a couple of leads.  A security camera set up in a house across the street may have captured someone walking in the streets prior to the incident.  In addition, a bag of clothes was found in the neighborhood which may belong to the suspect.  Smith says that the victim’s home was under construction, including the garage.  That might be why the homeowner, or construction crew, left the garage door open.  Lt. Smith advices never to leave your garage door, or any entrance, open .  “Most reputable construction firms, or a responsible person that you hire to do work on your house, will secure the site once the work is done for the day.  In this case that did not happen.”

          After word of the home invasion spread throughout town, Malverne Village Mayor Patricia McDonald said, “Even though we have our own police department and it is a very safe community, everyone should make sure that their doors are locked.  You don’t want to give anyone the opportunity to do something like this.”

          Lt. Smith says the number one cause of home invasion that he has seen has been when a homeowner leaves a door or window open.  “Homeowners need to use common sense in home security.  Lock doors and windows, set your alarm, and if there is a knock at the door be cautious.”  Lt. Smith says if you don’t see a truck or the person has no identification then don’t open the door.  If you do become a victim then do what you are told and be a good witness.  Remembering details about the suspect will help the police catch him.

          Security World News has other tips to help keep you and your house secure, specifically securing your garage.  Never leave the garage door open, even if you are away for just a few minutes.  Obviously, burglars can simply walk in and close the garage door behind them.  This way no one is watching and they can take their time getting into the main house.  Burglars know to look inside your car for keys and other valuables so keep it locked, even when the car is parked inside your garage.  Once the job is finished, the burglar can take their time leaving as well.  To help avoid entry by a door in the garage that leads to the house, you should make the access door as secure as the front door.  One way to do this is to put a deadbolt lock on the access door and keep it locked at all times.

           The suspect in the Malverne case did not take anything from the home, but police think his intention was indeed to commit burglary.  Meanwhile, the victim is expected to be okay.  Don’t let something like this happen to you.  Use your common sense and secure your garage and your home.