Palos Verdes Residents Warned About Hidden Cameras Used By Burglars

PALOS VERDES, CA — Residents on the Palos Verdes Peninsula were warned about cameras hidden by South American Theft Groups that are used to commit residential burglaries.

According to the Lomita Sheriff's Station, the cameras are disguised and hidden amongst natural surroundings such as leaves, bushes and brush. There have been no reports of any cameras hidden within the Sheriff's Station jurisdiction, authorities said.

"The SATG employs covert tactics and strategically places these cameras in residential front/back yards in order to monitor homeowner's activities and patterns of movement," the Sheriff's Station said in a statement.

Before the cameras are placed, the burglary groups conduct extensive scouting to identify the best locations to hide the cameras, according to authorities. The groups focus on areas with minimal visibility and deploy the cameras quickly to avoid detection.

The Lomita Sheriff's Station suggested the following tips to avoid being victimized by the theft groups:

• Remain observant of any suspicious activity in residential areas.
• Regularly inspect your property, including thorough checks of outdoor areas for any signs of tampering or unusual objects.
• Enhance home security measures, such as installing motion-activated lights, perimeter fencing and surveillance systems.
• Report any suspicious findings, such as hidden cameras or unfamiliar individuals, to the Lomita Sheriff Station.