SAN FERNANDO VALLEY : Suspected Cat Burglar Sighted in Bakersfield
A cat burglar who is believed to have crept into 200 San Fernando Valley houses this year while their occupants slept has been seen in Bakersfield, perhaps on his way to hide in the Sierra Nevada, police said.
Eric Ross Baer allegedly feeds homeowners’ dogs, pampering them into silence. Sometimes he raids the refrigerator. Usually, he makes off with wallets, purses and other small items, Los Angeles police said.
Detective Sandra Palmer said investigators believe the 30-year-old Baer, an avid outdoorsman, may be headed to the Sierra, where he previously has gone hiking and backpacking. An informant told police that Baer was treated this week at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield for a hand injury.
Arrest warrants totaling $150,000 were issued this week, accusing Baer of burglarizing numerous occupied dwellings in the Valley.
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