By Mary O’KEEFE

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Dept.–Crescenta Valley Station are investigating a residential burglary that occurred in the 1200 block of El Vago Drive in La Cañada Flintridge on May 2 at about 7:20 p.m.

The resident reported that suspects sprayed her dog with bear spray then entered her house, ransacked it and stole several items. According to reports, security cameras showed three masked suspects force their way into the house. They were later seen exiting the house with pillowcases stuffed with personal items, including jewelry. 
On May 8, a similar burglary occurred when a crew broke into a home in Studio City. A resident realized his neighbor’s house was being burglarized and when he confronted the suspects as they left the house they used bear spray on him. 

Both the Studio City and La Cañada Flintridge burglary crews entered a white Kia when they left the locations. 

Detectives are looking at connections between the two burglaries as well as others. 

The La Cañada Flintridge resident had reported she thought the suspects used a signal jamming device, which affected interior security cameras in her house. 

Sgt. John Gilbert said that another tactic used by burglary crews is the use of cameras. Although it is not known if they were used in the La Cañada or Studio City cases, in the past LASD investigators found well hidden cameras placed near a house prior to a burglary. The cameras are a way to surveil residents’ movements. 

The sheriff’s department reminds residents of the following burglary prevention tips: Lock all doors and windows, even when at home. Keep exterior lights on during nighttime hours. Utilize alarm systems and surveillance cameras if available. Avoid leaving valuables visible from outside the house. Collect mail and packages promptly. Report suspicious persons or vehicles immediately that are seen in the neighborhood. 

In addition, Gilbert suggested being aware of any cameras hidden in nearby bushes outside houses and around neighbors’ houses.