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In the serene neighborhood of Ladera Heights, an unsettling trend has emerged, causing concern among residents—a wave of burglaries that has prompted a reevaluation of home security measures.
Recent surveillance footage reveals individuals, some seemingly posing as professionals, engaging in suspicious activities such as knocking on doors. Neighbors report two apparent motives: assessing whether a house is unoccupied for potential break-ins or attempting to gain entry through invitations.
These intruders employ deceptive tactics, often presenting themselves as salespersons offering products like solar panels or water systems. However, these encounters serve as a covert means to survey homes, enabling the perpetrators to return later with criminal intent.
A Ladera Heights homeowner shared a disconcerting experience, stating, "They first started out selling solar panels, and then about a month later, it was the water systems of some kind." Unfortunately, this homeowner, like others, fell victim to a break-in, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this growing concern.
The LA County Sheriff's Department is actively investigating multiple cases, including incidents where sentimental items, such as expensive jewelry passed down through generations, were stolen. These personal losses amplify the distress experienced by those affected.
Desobry Bowens, president of the Ladera Heights Civic Association, voiced concerns about the rise in local crime. With the sheriff's department facing staffing challenges and covering a vast area from Marina Del Rey to almost Crenshaw, residents feel a heightened sense of vulnerability.
While overall burglary rates had decreased during the pandemic, recent statistics from LASD indicate a concerning resurgence in the Ladera Heights area. The absence of a dedicated city force adds complexity, leaving residents reliant on the stretched resources of the LA County Sheriff's Department.
In response to these challenges, residents are urged to proactively enhance home security measures. Investing in robust systems, including panic rooms, provides an additional layer of protection during these uncertain times.
The residents of Ladera Heights are unified, hopeful for a swift resolution to these incidents. Though no arrests have been made, the community remains resilient, supporting one another and collaboratively working to fortify their homes against potential threats. Source: ABC 7