Method Of Operation (M.O.) Outlined by Burglar
Gahanna residences experienced a rash of Burglaries during the spring and summer months of 2013. DNA was collected from one of the residences and entered into the national database where it sat until matching DNA was entered this year, matching that of Derek Zealer. Upon being interviewed, Zealer revealed information about his crimes and why certain homes were targets.
The following is information provided by Zealer:
- Two of the three burglaries he committed were near parks (Gahanna Woods & Academy Park) and in both, the getaway vehicle was parked at the parks. He also mentioned watching police respond both in marked and unmarked vehicles before leaving the area.
- Houses that backed up to wooded areas were selected for concealment.
- The M.O. was to watch people leave for the day and attempt contact within 5 minutes of them leaving by knocking on the door. If no answer, they would go around back and make entry.
- If it appeared as though the residents of a house were gone for the day, they would “Google” the address, find the phone number and call to see if anyone answers. If not, knock on the door and go around back.
- In regards to items stolen, they would only take items that could be concealed on their person or in a backpack. Items included jewelry, small electronics and handguns