Community members in Carlsbad have expressed concern about a recent uptick in residential burglaries, which appear to be part of an organized ring targeting high value items that are easy to turnaround and sell.

Unlike much of the property crime in Carlsbad, which is opportunistic (doors and windows left unlocked, open garage doors and valuables left in plain sight in cars), these recent thefts are targeting homes where people are on vacation or out for the night, with thieves often gaining access by breaking a window.

The Carlsbad Police Department has an active investigation underway, and here is how members of the public can help:

• Report all suspicious activity to our non-emergency police line, 442-339-2197, or 9-1-1 to report a potential crime in progress.
• Install visible video cameras and lights around your home.
• Talk to your neighbors if you are going to be away from home and ask them to help keep an eye on your property.
• Lock away valuables within your home.

Here is a link to more information about how you can protect your home and belongings.