Residential Burglary

Tips to help prevent a burglary

  • Do not leave your garage door open. This exposes your belongings and may give thieves an opportunity to return later.
  • Keep valuables out of sight. Avoid placing televisions, computers or gaming systems where they can be seen from windows.
  • Dispose of packaging carefully. Break down boxes from expensive purchases and place them fully inside your trash containers.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings. Watch for unfamiliar people or unusual activity in your neighborhood.

Common burglary tactics

Knocking to check if anyone is home: Burglars may knock on front doors and, if no one answers, enter the rear yard to break in. They may also knock on nearby homes to check for witnesses.

Door-to-door solicitations: Some burglars pose as solicitors to gather information about when homes are unoccupied.

  • Fake sales pitches: Someone may claim to be raising money for a school or trip and offer to return later. Sharing that you will not be home can make your house a target.
  • Alarm company impersonators: Someone may claim they need to check your alarm system. Legitimate companies only respond to service requests and do not conduct unsolicited visits.

Note: Schools may hold fundraisers, but they typically discourage door-to-door sales.

Anyone selling products in Lakewood must have a valid solicitor’s permit. Ask to see it.

Vacation checks can help

If you plan to be away, you can request a vacation check from the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station. Provide your travel dates, a contact number and information about anyone authorized to be at your home.

Volunteers on Patrol will periodically check your home and report any suspicious activity to deputies.

Call the Crime Prevention Office at 562-866-9771, ext. 2114 to:

  • Inquire about crime prevention programs.
  • Obtain informational materials.
  • Schedule Neighborhood Watch meetings.
  • Discuss public safety concerns.

Call the Public Information line at 562-866-9771, ext. 2140 to:

  • Report graffiti and public nuisance issues.
  • Request patrol presence in your neighborhood.
  • Report speeding vehicles and request enforcement.
  • Submit a request for service.

Call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-623-3500 to:

  • Report crimes that have already occurred.
  • Report suspicious activity, including door-to-door solicitors or individuals looking into vehicles.
  • Schedule vacation checks or enroll in the Auto Watch program.

Call 9-1-1 to report any crime in progress.

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