Residents in Los Angeles County, California, are being warned about a disturbing new trend involving hidden cameras being used by South American burglars to stake out homes for potential break-ins.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office recently released images of a hidden camera and battery pack that was found in a local resident’s flower bed. The surveillance equipment was believed to have been placed there by members of South American Theft Groups (SATG), comprised of Chilean or Colombian nationals on limited tourist visas.
These criminal organizations are described as highly organized and travel from state to state, committing burglaries and thefts. Their latest tactic involves concealing hidden cameras in shrubs and gardens to monitor homeowner activities and movement patterns.
The cameras are strategically placed in yards and can be accessed remotely, allowing the burglars to conduct real-time surveillance. The perpetrators scout out optimal locations with minimal visibility and quickly deploy the cameras to avoid detection.
To combat this threat, the sheriff’s office is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or objects in their yards. They recommend regular property inspections, installing motion-activated lights, perimeter fencing, or surveillance systems, and reporting any findings to local law enforcement immediately.
Residents in LA County can call 800-222-TIPS or visit lacrimestoppers.org to report any suspicious activity. Stay alert and stay safe.
