Rash of Laguna Burglaries Sparks Warning

Laguna Beach police are warning residents to lock their homes in the wake of a rash of residential burglaries.

There has a “noticeable increase” in residential burglaries from March to May this year, Sgt. Ray Lardie said. He said 44% were reported in the central part of the city and 28% in recently annexed South Laguna.

While it does not appear that there is a single suspect, Lardie said most of the burglaries occurred between Thursdays and Sundays, during the daytime. Most homes were entered through unlocked doors and windows, although a “significant number” of burglaries were committed with forced entry.

In many cases, screens were cut and windows and doors thenpried open, Lardie said.

Jewelry, cash and electronic entertainment equipment, such as videocassette recorders, have been taken.

“This information is being provided to heighten the awareness of the citizens of Laguna Beach as to the necessity of securing their residences when away from home,” Lardie said.