Police warn about rash of home, garage burglaries in the metro

(KMSP) - Police agencies across the metro are alerting residents about a trend of burglaries from garages and homes.

In a warning to residents of several communities, including Eden Prairie, Maple Grove and Bloomington, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office said their analysis showed thieves were gaining access to homes from attached garages.

Meanwhile, officers in the St. Paul Police Department’s Western District, warned of 15 burglaries from August 5th through August 11th.

“I feel it’s just a horrible thing that they’re out here doing this,” said Jomesha Williams, who reported a burglary from her car to St. Paul Police. “All it takes is a second.”

St. Paul Police have added patrols in the diverse set of neighborhoods west of downtown hit by the burglars.

Officers say neighbors can do their part as well, by being alert to suspicious sights or sounds on their blocks.

Police have made arrests in a few of the case, but others remain unsolved. They stress the importance of locking homes, garages and windows, even if residents are just going to be away for a short time.