Feb 2, 2015 By Suzanne Elliott 2 min read

Peters Township police are investigating a dozen reports from residents of the Stratford Manor section of the township who have found footprints in the snow leading to their backyard storage sheds, but to date, nothing has been reported taken.

These reports have led Peters police to suspect there is a homeless person in the area, or someone might be looking for something to steal, said Captain Michael Yanchak, who noted the area is within easy walking distance of the Arrowhead Trail, which runs from Route 19 to Brush Run Road, and is part of the Montour Trail.

The incidents, which have occurred during the last two weeks have not involved of reports of sightings until Feb. 1 when a resident of Sheffield Lane spotted a person standing in the backyard at 6 a.m. When police came to investigate, the person was gone, Yanchak said. Footprints leading to backyard sheds have been spotted on Oakwood Road, and Hemlock Drive, he said.

The Stratford Manor Homeowners Association have been alerted by police about the suspicious activity, Yanchak said. Residents are being urged to make sure their homes, storage sheds and cars are locked and to make sure they carry identification if stopped by police.

Yanchak said police have questioned a couple of individuals about these incidents. He did not identify the people, but said the investigation is ongoing.