12/19/2023
It appears a group of thieves who like to watch houses that back up to open spaces and break-in when people leave are targeting homes in the Eagle/West Ada County area.
Our agency is investigating at least three reports of thieves breaking glass windows and/or glass doors in the backs of homes and stealing items like jewelry, money, and cash. The break-ins all occurred in the early evening hours.
The break-ins occurred between Dec. 6 and 8. Our detectives suspect the same crew are behind the break-ins – and may be linked to a series of similar thefts around the same time last year.
The first one occurred Dec. 6 in the neighborhood just south of Eagle Island State Park. The next one happened Dec. 8 in the Lake Hazel/Maple Grove roads neighborhood. The third happened Dec. 9 in the Beacon Light/Edgewood roads neighborhood in Eagle.
In all three cases, it appears the thieves watched the homes from open fields or other greenspace behind them for people to leave. They break-in, steal stuff, and get out quick.
If you have a home that backs up to green space or an open field, you may want to consider getting some bright outside lights and/or some security cameras to help prevent burglaries.
If you have a security system, it’s helpful to have broken glass alarms. The thieves seem to be breaking into homes that don’t send out an alarm from broken glass.
There is also evidence the thieves avoid homes with barking dogs that have the run of the house.
These break-ins appear to be part of a nationwide crime trend. It is unclear if the groups are organized with each other or are just doing the same types of crimes.
We also ask that if you do see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, or are the victim of a property crime, or have video evidence of people acting strangely by your house, to please let us know.
You can report any suspected criminal behavior to Ada County dispatch at (208) 377-6790. They are available 24/7 and will connect you directly with the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction where you live.
Anyone with specific info about the latest break-ins can send an email to [email protected]