Last Thursday, a resident of the Peninsula walked in on a burglar fleeing from their residence. Neighbors, along with the resident, called the Long Beach Police Department, leading to the arrest of the two juvenile suspects.

The juveniles—residents of Long Beach—entered the home in the 6600 block of Seaside Walk through a window that was left slightly open and began removing various valuables. After the suspects were arrested, property was recovered and returned to the victim.

According to the LBPD, residential burglaries increased by 12 percent in 2012 over 2011.The Long Beach Police Department would like to remind residents to be vigilant in preventing crime by following the safety tips:

  • Meet your neighbors and participate in Community Watch – This makes it easier to recognize a person that doesn’t belong.  Neighbors who communicate are more likely to look out for one another.
  • Always report suspicious persons or activity immediately by calling Long Beach Police Dispatch at 9-1-1 or (562) 435-6711.
  • Report loiterers – Loitering is often a precursor activity for burglars, enabling them to case the area.
  • Keep any gates to backyards locked and secure at all times.
  • Keep porch lights on at night.
  • Be sure your house number is visible from the street – Should police or emergency personnel need to respond to your location, it allows them to find the location more quickly.
  • Record serial numbers and photograph valuables to aid in claiming stolen property.
  • Consider installing surveillance cameras to deter suspicious activity in your alley.
  • When away for extended periods, make sure your home has the “lived in” look – Have lights on timers and ask a neighbor to clear any newspapers and fliers that may accumulate.
  • Request a free “vacation check” by contacting the Senior Police Partner volunteers at (562) 570-7212.

Anyone with further information information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Frank Romero of the Juvenile Investigations Section at 562-570-1456 or (562) 570-1425. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call 800-222-TIPS (8477), or text TIPLA plus your tip to 274637 (CRIMES), or visit http://www.lacrimestoppers.org/.