Bronx Man Accused of Stealing $12K in Westport Golf Gear

Police in Westport have arrested a Bronx man accused of stealing more than $12,000 in golf equipment from a popular local course.

Authorities say the suspect, already tied to similar crimes in New York, burglarized the Longshore Golf Club last fall and got away with multiple golf bags and clubs.

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The investigation dragged on for almost a year before he finally surrendered and appeared in Stamford court.

Westport Golf Club Burglary: How It Happened

Investigators say the burglary went down in the early morning hours of September 7, 2024 at the Longshore Golf Club on Compo Road South in Westport.

Police allege that 41-year-old Matthew Berman forced open a side door, causing a fair bit of damage.

Once inside, Berman allegedly grabbed several premium golf clubs and bags worth about $12,498.70.

Employees didn’t discover the theft until later that morning, when they showed up for work and saw clear signs of a break-in.

Evidence Linking the Suspect

At first, detectives struggled to find solid leads.

But weeks later, Berman got arrested in New York for a string of similar golf pro shop burglaries.

Westport police worked with New York detectives to compare case evidence.

They say items and forensic details tied Berman directly to the Longshore Golf Club break-in.

A judge issued an arrest warrant earlier this summer, after the investigation crossed state lines.

The Arrest and Court Appearance

On August 21, 2025, Berman turned himself in at Westport Police headquarters.

He couldn’t post his $100,000 bond, so police took him to Stamford Superior Court for arraignment that same day.

Third-degree burglary
Second-degree criminal mischief
Second-degree larceny

Potential Legal Consequences

Connecticut law treats these charges seriously, especially for repeat offenders.

The burglary and larceny counts are felonies because of the high value of the stolen equipment.

Berman’s history with similar crimes could affect sentencing if he’s convicted.

Impact on Connecticut Golfing Communities

Westport isn’t the only Connecticut town dealing with sporting goods thefts lately.

Police in places like Fairfield, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and New Haven have all reported stolen athletic equipment from shops and clubs.

These crimes hit golf shops in the wallet, but they also mess with operations during busy stretches.

For folks in golf-loving spots like Milford, Danbury, and Greenwich, it’s a bit unsettling—these thefts can strike anywhere, even at long-standing local favorites.

Security Measures for Local Sports Facilities

This case really highlights why better security matters at golf courses and pro shops.

Lots of Connecticut facilities have started upgrading cameras, reinforcing doors, and training staff to spot trouble before it happens.

In Westport, Longshore Golf Club is still a community staple, but staff say they’ve revisited their safety protocols since the break-in.

Police urge all property owners, especially those with pricey merchandise, to consider stronger security.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Awareness

Berman’s case is now winding its way through the judicial process. Police in Connecticut are still keeping an eye out for other theft patterns that might link back to him or anyone in his circle.

Public awareness really matters here. Law enforcement across the state keeps urging people to report anything odd—maybe near a golf course in Bridgeport, or at a sports store in New Haven.

The arrest highlights the importance of staying alert. With golf season in full swing much of the year, keeping expensive equipment secure can mean the difference between a great season and a big headache.

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Here is the source article for this story: Police: Bronx man burglarized more than $12K of golf clubs, bags from Westport pro shop

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