Residents of Los Angeles County, California, are being warned about a growing trend of South Americans in the United States on limited visas hiding cameras in bushes and gardens to watch for the next break-in.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office has released images of cameras and battery packs turned in by local residents after they discovered hidden cameras in flower beds.
Alleged South American theft ring, according to Sheriff’s Office [SATG] Typically consists of Chilean or Colombian nationals in the United States on a limited tourist visa.
“Well-organized criminal groups” traveled from state to state carrying out burglaries.
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The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be aware of cameras hidden in the bushes that burglars use to spy on homes. (Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office)
Officials said their tactics include hiding surveillance equipment such as hidden cameras in natural settings such as bushes and foliage.
These devices are strategically placed in the front or back yard of a home to allow criminals to monitor the homeowner’s activities as well as movement patterns.
The Sheriff’s Office noted that the group uses technology that allows them to access cameras from remote locations, allowing for real-time surveillance.
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The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be aware of cameras hidden in the bushes that burglars use to spy on homes. (Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office)
Even before a device is hidden, criminal organizations seek out the best locations with the least visibility.
The perpetrator then quickly deployed cameras within minutes to minimize the possibility of being seen by homeowners or law enforcement, the Sheriff’s Office added.
The Sheriff’s Office urges residents to remain vigilant and watch for any suspicious activity or unusual objects in their yards or shrubbery.
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The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to be aware of hidden cameras while gardening outdoors, as criminals embed the technology in shrubs and gardens to conduct surveillance before breaking into homes in a new trend. (iStock)
To that end, officials advise homeowners to inspect their properties regularly, looking for signs of tampering or strangely placed objects.
Law enforcement officials also recommend homeowners install motion-sensor lights, perimeter fencing or surveillance systems to prevent threats.
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The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who sees anything suspicious to immediately report the sighting to local law enforcement officials.
In Los Angeles County, residents can call 800-222-TIPS or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
