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GLENDALE (CNS) - Glendale police are warning of a wave of residential burglaries in recent months, with criminals utilizing WiFi blockers to evade detection from home security alarms and cameras.
Sgt. Victor Jackson of Glendale Police Department said home burglaries have skyrocketed in the past several months, prompting the department to step up efforts from its Residential Burglary Taskforce.
The task force -- composed of patrol and motor officers, special enforcement detail personnel, detectives, and undercover officers -- has been responsible for a significant decrease in the burglaries and several arrests, he said.
"Signal-blocking devices allow individuals to unlawfully enter homes undetected," Jackson said in a statement. "This technology disrupts the signals emitted by home WiFi systems, cutting the feed of traditional home security systems and cameras, and rendering them ineffective in alerting homeowners or law enforcement to the presence of intruders."
Police issued the following safety tips to Glendale residents:
-- hardwiring alarm system cameras to ensure home security prevents susceptibility to signal interference and minimize vulnerability to signal blockers;
-- installing secure gates and enhanced exterior lighting;
-- having backup batteries for security cameras to ensure continuous operation during power outages or disruptions;
-- securing second-story windows and balconies;
-- establishing connections with trusted neighbors who can keep an eye on your home while you're away.
Anyone with information regarding the residential burglaries was urged to contact the Glendale Police Department at 818-548-4911. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.