Monterey neighborhood on edge after recent home burglaries

Two home break-ins within 48-hours, both during the daytime, have some residents in the Del Monte/Laguna Grande neighborhood of Monterey concerned.

“It’s surprising because we’re lucky to have so relatively few of those instances. So when it happens it is a big deal,” said Scott Hanson with the neighborhood association.

Hanson said it’s even got him considering upgrading his security system.

“The reality is a suspect who’s going to break into a home is looking for an easier target,” said Officer Jeremiah Ruttschow with Monterey police.

With the holidays approaching, Monterey police said that’s when criminals strike. Homes filled with pricey presents can be a big draw.

Here are three simple steps that could help:

1) Install a home security system
2) Lock all doors and windows
3) Make sure your home is well lit

“Just leaving a porch light on or a back light on –the more lighting there is, the less likely it is that somebody is going to be walking on your property unnoticed,” said Ruttschow.

Still, police said the most important thing is to be aware of what’s going on in your neighborhood.

Homeowners like Hanson agree. He said residents are already working together, connecting through social media apps like NextDoor.

“It is scary to think that happens. I know it can happen in any area. But if there’s something we can do to minimize the potential for that then I think we need to do that,” said Hanson.