San Ramon Burglary Spree: Police Offer Safety Tips

SAN RAMON, CA — Six home burglaries across San Ramon Saturday night appear to be related, and there was at least one common theme: The thieves struck early.

The burglaries, which stretched across the city, took place between approximately 6-9 p.m., according to San Ramon Police Sergeant Rob Ransom. This time of year holiday parties and other social gatherings are underway, and thieves are looking for easy targets. In the late afternoon/early evening, as it starts getting dark, no lights on inside a home signals to burglars that it is empty inside, Ransom explained.

"Not too many people go to bed 5 o'clock," Ransom said.

In Saturday's burglaries, the thieves smashed backdoor glass entryways and sought high-value items, Ransom continued.

Although no suspect descriptions are available, Ransom believes the thieves are likely teens and/or young adult males. In one break-in on Asterbell Drive, a couple returned home to a burglary in progress, where at least three suspects made a getaway in a dark-colored Mercedes with dealer paper license plates.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no additional burglaries have been reported in the city, Ransom said. He's hopeful residents are taking measures to prevent home break-ins. He suggests keeping lights on a timer if you won't be home before dark.

"Make it look like someone is home," he suggested. Alarm systems are helpful too, and checking in with trusted neighbors to let them know when you'll be gone can help keep watchful eyes on your home.

"Be aware in your neighborhood," Ransom continued.

He also suggested installing a home surveillance video system and registering it with the San Ramon Police Department's "Citizen's View." Whether you are a crime victim, or someone in your neighborhood is, your surveillance system might capture useful information that could help catch criminals. (Click to learn more about Citizen's View and to register.)