A hidden surveillance camera found tucked inside neighborhood bushes has raised concerns that burglars may be watching residents’ routines before targeting their homes, prompting police in an Orange County city to issue a warning.
Authorities said the camouflaged device, made to blend into the landscaping, was discovered by a Brea resident who noticed it concealed among shrubbery.
Police cautioned that criminals are increasingly placing covert cameras near homes to monitor when residents leave and return, study daily patterns and determine the most opportune time to break in.
The technology gives thieves a way to scout potential targets remotely while making it difficult for homeowners to realize they are being watched, officials said.
“Burglary crews typically use these devices to surveil homeowners, track daily routines, identify valuables and determine the best time to break in,” the Brea Police Department said in posts on X and Facebook.
According to police, the cameras are often placed in bushes, planters or trees, where they can easily disappear into surrounding landscaping.
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Officials are urging homeowners to inspect the areas around their properties regularly and consider installing their own security cameras to help deter theft and break-ins.
The warning comes after several South American gang members were arrested last month in Los Angeles, where they were accused of using a suspicious delivery-style tactic to burglarize homes.
Seven criminal gang members — including four Colombian nationals — were accused of robbing unsuspecting homeowners across LA by pretending to work for delivery services.
Police said the suspected burglars used items from delivery companies like Amazon, DoorDash and UberEats to gain access to people’s homes.
If an individual encounters a suspicious object or device, it is critical that they do not touch, move, or disturb it in any way, as doing so could pose a significant safety risk. Instead, witnesses are urged to immediately clear the area and contact the Brea Police Department by calling 714-990-7911.
Upon receiving the report, Brea Police will be dispatched to the scene to secure the perimeter. These officials will then conduct a thorough inspection and execute necessary safety proceedings to neutralize any potential threat. Once the area is deemed safe, the device will be carefully collected and processed as evidence for further investigation.
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