Alta Vista Neighborhood Hit With String of Burglaries

Sarasota Police are investigating several burglaries reported at homes in the Alta Vista neighborhood, including one in which a woman awoke to find two teen suspects in her bedroom, officials said Monday.

The burglaries occurred between the 2000 and 2500 block of Bay Street and the 800 block of South Shade Avenue, police said. The suspected burglars are entering unlocked homes and quietly taking items, so as not to disturb sleeping homeowners.

In one case, police said, a victim awoke to find two teens in her bedroom; they ran when she screamed.

Items taken include laptops, jewelry, cash, and in one case a car that was stolen and left abandoned in the 2000 block of North Euclid Avenue.

"For our community’s safety, it is best to lock all doors and windows of your home at night and when you leave," said Officer Linda DeNiro, police spokesperson, in a media release. "If anyone sees anything suspicious or unusual please call the police department to report it by calling the non-emergency number at (941) 316-1201.  In case of an emergency dial 911."

Anyone with information about these burglary cases is asked to contact Detective K. Laster at the Sarasota Police Department Criminal Investigation Division at (941) 364-7327, or to leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling (941) 366-TIPS (8477).  

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