Eugene Police Department warns of burglary ring targeting residential safes, cash, jewelry, and high-end handbags

Eugene, OR – The Eugene Police Department reported an increase in burglaries targeting homes in the Pacific Northwest.

According to authorities, organized crews have focused on residences where homeowners are more likely to keep cash, jewelry, and other valuable items.

In previous incidents, the burglars have targeted Asian business owners and other professionals they believed stored valuables at home.

Investigators say the crews often stole safes after surveilling potential victims, blocking or jamming security devices, and breaking into homes while the occupants were at work.

Police urge residents to avoid keeping large amounts of cash or valuable items at home. They recommend using financial institutions for significant cash reserves and safety deposit boxes for jewelry and heirlooms.

Authorities also advise installing hardwired security and video surveillance systems, which are more difficult for burglars to bypass, and considering insurance for expensive items.