A group of unidentified burglars have been breaking into homes in the Eugene area, often seeking out the residences of business owners and other professionals who they suspect might have valuables such as jewelry and cash in the house.
According to the Eugene Police Department, the burglars seemingly screen and monitor their possible victims. They entered the homes while those victims were at work.
“There was an uptick of burglaries of affluent homes by a multi-state burglary ring that targets homes where the suspects believe the homeowners store large amounts of cash and have valuables,” Melinda McLaughlin, EPD public information director, said. “So far, investigators believe around seven Eugene burglaries are the work of this organized group.”
Breanna Baker, a Eugene resident, had valuables stolen from their home.
“The burglary left me feeling violated and powerless, knowing that someone invaded my home and took things I worked hard to earn,” Baker said. “It’s incredibly disheartening to realize that, even after reporting the crime, the police were unable to do anything to bring the culprit to justice or restore a sense of security in my own home.”
Some tips that the EPD gave to avoid possible break-ins include making sure windows, doors and blinds are closed and locked, making sure one’s home looks occupied while away and talking with neighbors or friends to keep an eye on one’s house.
The EPD offers scheduled house checks if individuals are gone on vacation and they advise to schedule a Home Safety Assessment with the EPD’s Community Engagement Team to make sure homes are as secure as possible.
McLaughlin and EPD advise to “please take care to not keep large amounts of cash and valuables at home. Consider placing any large cash stores at a financial institution, which can also offer safety deposit boxes for heirlooms and jewelry. Also consider insuring expensive items.”
