Peninsula hit by rash of residential burglaries

(KRON) — Three residential burglaries were committed in the past two days in Emerald Hills and Portola Valley, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office warns.

The first burglary was committed on July 17 around 9:30 p.m. on the 300 block of Golden Oak Avenue in Portola Valley.

“Video surveillance captured the suspects forcing entry into the unoccupied home,” SMCSO said. “… The total loss is still being determined.”

A second attempted burglary happened on July 18 around 10:30 p.m. on the 200 block of Scenic Drive in Emerald Hills. 

“The victim, who was home during the attempted break-in, reported that the suspects forced entry through the rear of the residence,” SMCSO said. “The suspects fled the scene prior to the arrival of deputies. No items are believed to have been taken.”

About an hour after the second reported break-in, deputies responded to a residential burglary on the 3800 block of Woodland Way in Emerald Hills. 

“The suspects forced entry into the home and stole valuables,” SMCSO said. “The suspects fled the scene prior to the arrival of deputies. The total loss is still being determined.”

Authorities are still investigating if the burglaries are connected. The sheriff’s office is asking residents in the area to check security cameras and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

The sheriff’s office said that it has increased its neighborhood patrols in an effort to prevent more burglaries. The Sheriff’s Office shared the following safety tips:

• Ensure your home is well-lit. Consider utilizing motion sensor lights.
• If you have a security system, be sure to utilize it.
• Don’t give hideouts. Trim bushes and trees near windows to eliminate potential hiding spots.
• Out of town? Hold your mail and deliveries or ask a neighbor to pick them up.
• Don’t advertise your absence or post your plans on social media.
• Report suspicious activity. Call the Sheriff’s Office at 650-363-4911 or dial 911 in an emergency.