A string of nine dinnertime burglaries targeting luxury homes has hit Arapahoe County between February 2, and October 18, the local sheriff's office reports. These break-ins have been executed with a level of precision that suggests a disturbing pattern, following homes that are adjacent to less surveilled areas like green belts, canals, and heavy tree coverage. In a coordinated effort to further investigate, the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office has teamed up with the Cherry Hills Village Police Department, the Columbine Valley Police Department, and the Littleton Police Department.
The burglars have appeared to carefully select their timing, often striking between 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., particularly on Fridays when residents are more likely to be away. The suspects, typically working in groups of two to four and donning masks and hoodies, have been observed to forcefully enter homes by smashing exterior glass doors. According to the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office, once inside, they rummage swiftly through personal belongings to take valuables such as jewelry, designer purses, and cash. The estimated loss from these burglaries is nearing $1 million in stolen property.
These incidents mirror a broader national issue with similar crimes having taken place in regions like Scottsdale, Arizona, and the San Fernando Valley in Southern California. In those cases, surveillance practices and the use of jammers to disable alarm systems have been noted, though it remains unclear if the Colorado burglaries involve the same tactics. Law enforcement urges vigilance among residents and provides a set of safety recommendations including locking doors, setting alarms, using automatic light timers, installing motion sensor lights, and being wary of suspicious activities around their properties.
The ongoing investigations have yet to produce vehicle photos or descriptions, leading to the belief that the perpetrators are dropped off and picked up away from the crime scenes. Community members are encouraged to take proactive measures, such as installing cameras and considering shatter-proof window treatments, to deter potential break-ins. Anyone who might witness a crime in progress or suspicious behavior is strongly encouraged to contact law enforcement via 911 or by using the non-emergency number 303-795-4711. Anonymous tips can also be reported to Crimestoppers at 720-913-STOP.
