Police Dispute Melville Crime Claims

Suffolk County Police are challenging some online statements about crimes reported in the Melville area.

On Monday, several social media sites began reporting that push-in burglaries had occurred that day. Many of the site users began emailing the postings, contacting Patch and other organizations, and asking for further information.

But police said no such crimes occurred. "Homeowners in the Melville area did contact the police department regarding suspicious solicitors and officers did respond to investigate, but no burglaries were committed and no arrests were made," the department said Tuesday afternoon.

One posting read, "To everyone but especially those in the triangle area. Please be very careful! There are men walking around knocking on doors asking if you want a home improvement quote. They are actually pushing their way in and robbing the houses. They have been targeting women home alone with young kids. This is not the first time and they rang my bell 3 times today. The last time my husband and Doberman chased them off my driveway. The police are driving around. Please be careful and if they ring your bell call the police."

Police are inviting residents to attend a community meeting Wednesday morning at the South Huntington Public Library. The previously scheduled meeting will start at 10 a.m. Questions are welcome.