Eugene Police Alert Residents to Professional Burglary Ring Conducting Surveillance
EUGENE, Ore. — A spate of burglaries at properties where large amounts of cash, jewelry, and other expensive items are likely to be found is believed to be the work of a professional burglary ring operating in the Eugene area.
The Eugene Police Department (EPD) has issued a warning to residents following another burglary in the Churchill Neighborhood yesterday.
Burglars Conduct Surveillance of Potential Victims
EPD states in a press release that Asian business owners and other professionals have been targeted in recent weeks. The burglars appear to conduct surveillance and to screen potential victims before robbing the premises.
The burglars have stolen safes from business premises after working hours and broken into homes while the occupants are at work. They use devices to jam surveillance cameras.
EPD appeals to residents not to keep large amounts of cash at home and to use bank safety deposit boxes to store expensive jewelry.
Residents Can Schedule a Home Safety Assessment With the EPD
Eugene residents can schedule a Home Safety Assessment with the EPD’s Community Engagement Team. Visit this page:
Precautionary measures suggested by EPD include:
- Ensuring that all windows and doors are locked
- Installing surveillance cameras that notify of all activity in real time
- Use timers to activate and deactivate TVs and lights when the premises are unoccupied
- Leave exterior lights burning at night
- Make use of a house-sitter when going away
- Arrange a neighborhood watch
- Schedule house checks while on vacation.
Be on the lookout for any suspicious activity and contact the EPD at 541-682-5111.