Durham Region home break-ins are increasing in several communities, with police warning that an organized group may be using parks, trails and greenspaces to reach residential backyards.
Durham Regional Police said investigators have identified a recent pattern of residential break-and-enters occurring primarily in Clarington, Pickering and Whitby.
The suspects are reportedly approaching properties from behind rather than using streets or front entrances, allowing them to move between neighbourhood greenspaces and residential yards while attracting less attention.
How Durham Region Home Break-Ins Are Occurring
Police said suspects involved in the Durham Region home break-ins have used several methods to enter houses.
In some incidents, rear sliding glass doors were shattered to gain access. In others, ladders were reportedly used to reach windows on the second floor of a home.
Police previously investigated an attempted Pickering break-in in which two suspects used a ladder to try to access the second storey of a residence. The suspects were unable to enter and left the area.
Investigators believe the people involved in the current incidents may attempt to appear as though they have a legitimate reason to be in the neighbourhood.
They may carry work tools, ladders or backpacks and pose as landscapers, contractors or other tradespeople while walking through residential areas.
The suspects are generally described as males wearing medical masks, baseball caps, dark-coloured shorts, T-shirts and gloves.
No arrests or specific suspect identities were announced in connection with the latest warning.
Residents Asked to Watch Parks and Backyards
Police are asking residents to pay attention to unfamiliar people entering backyards, trails, parks or greenspaces without an obvious reason.
People carrying ladders or tools should not automatically be considered suspicious. However, residents should take note when individuals appear to be moving between properties without working at a nearby home or displaying identifiable company information.
Residents are advised not to confront suspicious individuals.
Anyone who sees a possible break-in in progress or believes there is an immediate threat to public safety should call 911.
Non-emergency suspicious activity can be reported to Durham Regional Police at 905-579-1520 or 1-888-579-1520.
Police Recommend Additional Home Security
Durham police recommend that residents check whether all doors and windows are properly locked, particularly entrances at the rear of the home.
Other suggested precautions include:
- Installing motion-activated exterior lighting
- Using visible security cameras or video doorbells
- Adding stronger locks to sliding glass doors
- Keeping ladders and tools secured inside a locked garage or shed
- Trimming vegetation that could conceal someone near a window or door
- Asking trusted neighbours to monitor the property during extended absences
- Saving surveillance recordings of suspicious people or vehicles
Residents should also ensure that security cameras cover rear doors, side entrances and backyard access points rather than only the front of the property.
Police are continuing to investigate the break-ins and are asking residents to report unusual activity promptly.
