SOUTH COUNTY : Homes Near Slopes Hit by Burglaries

Sheriff’s authorities have issued a warning to South County residents about a string of nighttime thefts in homes that border canyons and hilly slopes.

Since January, 1991, possibly more than one group of burglars have stolen jewelry, guns and cash from about 70 homes, sheriff’s officials said.

Investigators think the burglaries are related because they take place between sunset and midnight, usually on Friday or Saturday, and the targeted homes sit atop sloping hills, said Sgt. Wayne Carlander Sr.

Carlander, who has been investigating the thefts, said the burglars are usually in the homes for about five minutes and make their getaway by fleeing down the dark slopes.

“It’s pretty dark in those areas where they go down the slopes,” he said.

The thieves have forced their way through locked windows and doors and also have climbed through unlocked windows, investigators said.

Carlander said that there have been no injuries reported in connection with the thefts and that the burglars appear to target homes that are dark and do not appear to have anyone inside.

The burglaries have been reported in San Juan Capistrano, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest and Dana Point, where the latest burglary was reported about two weeks ago, Carlander said.

Carlander suggested that residents can help protect their homes by turning on a light when they are away for extended periods. He also suggested that residents alert a neighbor if they plan to be away from home.

“If you see a stranger (hanging around the area) or a vehicle that does not belong, do not hesitate to call us,” Carlander said.