Cop Calls: Burglars Sneak Inside Unsecured Newport Homes

Burglars took advantage of two unlocked homes in Newport Beach, police reported this week.

• On Friday, June 29 between 8:30 and 9 p.m., an unknown suspect entered a home in the 2100 block of East Ocean Boulevard through an unlocked sliding glass door. Police say the victim was upstairs while the burglar was in the house and later reported a stolen purse.

• According to police, between Tuesday, June 26 at noon and Friday, June 29 at 10 p.m., an unknown suspect entered a home in the 2100 block of Miramar through an open, upstairs window. Police say the window was accessible from an upstairs patio, which has an exterior staircase. The suspect went through the home and opened drawers and cupboards, but nothing was stolen.

Home Security Tips:

- Close and lock all doors, windows and garage door.

- All exterior doors should be equipped with a deadbolt lock, which should always be used have a security strike plate, attached with a minimum of two, three inch screws.

- If you have an alarm, always activate it when you are away.

- Use photo cells or timers to turn both interior and exterior lights on and off.

- If you are going to be out of town, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your home and pick up your mail. Signup for a vacation check from the police department at www.nbpd.org

Don't Open the Doors to Strangers:

- Install and use a peephole with a minimum 190 degree view.

- When you go to the door, have your phone with you.

- Acknowledge you are home without opening the door.

- If the individual acts suspiciously, call the police department immediately and provide them with a description of the subject and why you thought their behavior was suspicious.

Call police immediately if you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood at 949-644-3717.