Neighborhood on Alert After String of El Cajon 'Hot Prowl' Burglaries

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Burglars struck several El Cajon homes early Monday while the residents were inside, which prompted police to advise residents to lock doors and windows at night and to be aware of what happens in their neighborhoods.

Burglars used unlocked garage doors or removed window screens to gain entry to the homes in the vicinity of North Mollison and Bradley avenues between 3 and 5 a.m., according to El Cajon police Lt. Tim Henton.

The "hot prowl" burglaries occurred while residents were home, often asleep, Henton said. The suspects allegedly got away with small items that were easy to carry, Henton said.

Residents should be vigilant and aware of what was happening in their communities. Victims sometimes report hearing suspicious noises at night, but do not call police, Henton said.

Police said suspicious activity should be immediately reported so officers can move into the area and there would be a greater chance of apprehending a suspect.

Police asked anyone with information on potential suspects in the string of residential burglaries to call them at (619) 579-3311 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

-City News Service

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