Eastbluff burglaries on the rise, police warn

Deepa Bharath

NEWPORT BEACH -- Police are warning residents about an increase in

thefts and home burglaries in the Eastbluff area.

Most of the break-ins have occurred in homes next to greenbelt areas,

Sgt. Steve Shulman said.

He said the burglars usually pry or break open a portion of the window

to get in and that most burglaries occur during the early evening or late

afternoon hours.

The burglaries have been reported on various days of the week,

including weekends, Shulman said. The burglars mostly like to steal

jewelry and flatware, he said. But, in one instance, a handgun was taken.

Police have not received any descriptions of the burglars. Shulman

said residents should pay attention to suspicious people coming or going

in and out of homes located near parks.

Neighbors can also request a home security inspection that will be

performed by the Police Department’s Crime Prevention Specialist. These

inspections will educate residents about how they can better protect

themselves against such crimes and how they can prevent them.

Appointments for inspections may be made by calling (949) 644-3699.

Residents may also call the same number to get information about their

Neighborhood Watch Program.

To report any suspicious activity, residents are asked to call the

Police Department’s business line at (949) 644-3717. To report a crime in

progress, they should call 911.