LOS ANGELES, CA – A recent burglary in the upscale neighborhood of Cheviot Hills has left residents on edge, as masked thieves were caught on camera stealing a large safe in broad daylight. The incident, which occurred on the morning of June 10, is part of a troubling trend of home invasions in some of Los Angeles County’s most affluent areas, including Encino and Pacific Palisades.
According to a neighbor who witnessed the crime, the burglars brazenly ignored his presence as he recorded their actions from just a few feet away. The footage shows the thieves struggling to fit the heavy safe into the backseat of their vehicle before speeding off. Despite the neighbor’s efforts to document the incident, he was unable to capture the license plate number.
The witness, who wishes to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, described the scene as terrifying. “I heard the commotion and came out with my dog. I decided to film it to ensure there was evidence,” he said. “They never acknowledged me, and I felt somewhat secure with my German Shepherd by my side.”
The homeowner, who also chose not to speak publicly, is worried about their family’s safety. It remains unclear what valuables were inside the stolen safe. This incident has raised alarms among local residents, who are increasingly concerned about the rise in crime.
While the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) crime map does not indicate Cheviot Hills as a hotspot for burglaries, there has been a noticeable uptick in such incidents across the valley. This surge has led to increased LAPD patrols and multi-jurisdictional investigations. The authorities have advised homeowners to install security cameras and maintain well-lit exteriors to deter potential burglars.
The LAPD has noted that these burglaries do not follow a specific pattern, making it difficult to predict and prevent future incidents. “It’s kind of terrifying when you think about it; it doesn’t seem like you’re safe anywhere,” one resident commented.
As investigations continue, the community remains vigilant, hoping that increased security measures and police presence will help curb the wave of burglaries affecting their neighborhoods.