Burglary crew targets Churchill neighborhood homes for safes, cash and jewelry

EUGENE, Ore. — A break-in reported in Eugene’s Churchill neighborhood area on April 16 is believed to be part of a broader pattern of residential burglaries targeting homes where thieves think they can find cash, jewelry, high-end handbags and safes.

Eugene Police said residents called at 12:33 p.m. today, April 16, to report the burglary. Police believe burglary crews are selecting victims based on the likelihood they keep valuables at home, rather than focusing on a specific neighborhood or area.

In past cases, police said the crews have targeted Asian business owners and other professionals. The burglars have stolen safes and appear to have screened or surveilled potential victims, blocked or jammed surveillance devices, and then broken into homes while residents are at work, police said.

Police are urging residents to take precautions, including avoiding keeping large amounts of cash and valuables at home. They recommend placing large cash stores at a financial institution, which can also offer safety deposit boxes for heirlooms and jewelry. Police also said hardwired video surveillance and home security systems are more difficult for burglars to defeat, and residents should consider insuring expensive items.

EPD Community Engagement Team offers these additional prevention tips:

• Lock all windows and doors. Use deadbolts on doors that have them
• Install surveillance cameras that will notify you in real time of criminal activity. Hardwired video surveillance and home security systems are more difficult for the burglars to defeat.
• Use timers on TVs and lights while away
• Close blinds when away from home and leave exterior lights on at night
• Make the home appear occupied when away or arrange to have someone stay at your house while gone
• Arrange mutual aid with your neighbors, keeping an eye on each other’s properties while you are gone
• Also, schedule vacation house checks while gone.
• Don’t store large amounts of cash at home. Some criminals have been known to work together and steal large safes. If you have a safe, ensure it is mounted properly and securely
• Be aware of suspicious persons or vehicles around your neighborhood or at your place of business
• Schedule a free Home Vacation Check while away
• Schedule a Home Safety Assessment with the Eugene Police Department’s Community Engagement Team – Use the Eugene Police Community Engagement Team webpage, type in your address in the widget tool to find your specialist.