Novi, Michigan is dealing with a series of home invasions believed to be the work of South American gangs, as local police investigate the incidents that have affected Oakland County homes. According to CBS News Detroit, four separate instances of break-ins occurring between Oct. 31 and Nov. 15 have been reported, with the Novi Police pointing toward the transnational gang link due to similarities in methods and the items stolen. The homes, selected for their secluded locations bordering woodlands or fields, were targeted when suspects, after confirming no one was home.
As noted by FOX 2 Detroit, the tactics employed are sophisticated, with criminals using Wi-Fi jammers to interfere with home security systems, and preferring to carry away items easily transported such as money, jewelry, and small safes. In response, police have urged homeowners to fortify their dwellings with hard-wired security devices immune to the jamming devices used by the thieves and have also put forth a "Home Watch" application to enlist police support in patrolling unoccupied residences.
Meanwhile, ClickOnDetroit relayed unsettling details from homeowners and law enforcement observations, revealing a pattern of the suspects scoping out potential targets to learn the routines of residents, the gangs, who operate in small teams, have used advanced surveillance equipment to perfect their illicit craft, with the Oakland County Sheriff, Michael Bouchard, adding to the narrative by describing the varied modus operandi of the different national groups involved. "The Chileans [are methodical], while the Colombians and Venezuelans can be more opportunistic and willing to resort to violence," Bouchard said.
Police are urging neighbors to promptly report any suspicious activity or vehicles and are asking anyone who might hold information to step forward and call the Novi Police at 248-348-7100.
