El Cajon Police E-Alert NEW HOT PROWLS-Important

November 21, 2009

El Cajon Police E-Alert. Important Information- MORE HOT PROWL BURGLARIES!

During fall of 2008 and winter of 2009, the southeast area of the City of El Cajon had over 15 hot prowl burglaries. A hot prowl burglary is one that occurs when the occupants of a residence are home at the time of the burglary. These crimes often occur at night while the residents are asleep.

This morning, November 21, 2009 we had two hot prowl burglaries and three attempted burglaries in the southeast area of El Cajon specifically near the Granite Hills Drive area. There were similarities between these cases and the previous series of burglaries. Police believe that the same suspect may be responsible for the most recent incidents. In the previous cases, the suspect would commit several burglaries in the same area over a few days, then not strike again for some time. For this reason, investigators believed that the suspect may have been someone who visited the area on a regular basis, and was familiar with the area. The suspect commonly took small items such as wallets and purses, and entered homes through unlocked doors and windows.

The police department would like to remind members of the community to be vigilant and aware of what is happening in their neighborhoods. During previous incidents, victims reported hearing suspicious noises during the night, but failed to call the police department. Members of the community should call the police to report any suspicious activity. People are reminded to lock their doors and windows, especially at night. Burglars know windows and doors may be left open during hot weather, and will take advantage of this opportunity.

Anyone with information on potential suspects in these cases should contact Det. Robert Wining at (619) 441-1590. If you see someone in your house CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait to call the police. Waiting to call the police lessens the chance of catching the suspect.