Recently there has been an increase in the number of residential burglaries in the City.  Just over fifty percent have occurred during the day, mostly between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. There are no specific days of the week that are more active than others but nearly 75% of these residential burglaries have occurred south of Interstate 8.  Targeted streets have included Stanford Avenue, Normandie Place, Harbinson Avenue, Eastridge Drive, Valley View Circle, Black Mountain Road, Rockledge Road, Shirlene Place, Spring Street, 4^th Street, Palm Avenue, and Chevy Chase Drive.

Suspects have used various tools to pry or break open doors or windows.  Common items stolen include televisions, computers, jewelry, and cash.

In two recent cases from targeted streets in the area of 70^th Street, the suspects were described as a pair of Hispanic males in their 30’s, in one case associated with a white truck and in the other case possibly associated with a maroon, 90’s era Volvo sedan.

If you see any suspicious or unusual activity, please call the La Mesa Police Department, at (619) 667-1400.  If you believe a burglary is in progress, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Residential Security Tips:

• Make sure all of your locks are in good working order.
• Close and lock all doors and windows and set your alarm when you are away from home, even if only briefly.
• Never leave valuables in plain view.
• Restrict access to your backyard.
• Get to know your neighbors and watch out for each other.  By knowing who belongs in your neighborhood, it is easier to spot subjects who do not live in the area and may be a burglar casing your neighborhood.
• Start or join a Neighborhood Watch Group.

For more information on home security or to start a Neighborhood Watch Group, please call the La Mesa Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at (619) 667-7545 or visit www.cityoflamesa.com.