PORTLAND — Portland police are on the lookout for an individual they say has entered a series of homes over the past week while residents have slept, sneaking in through unlocked doors or windows and stealing cash and other items.

“This is an unusual and concerning trend because the homes have been occupied during the burglaries,” said Lt. James Sweatt of the Portland Police Department in a Thursday afternoon news release.

The burglaries have occurred in the Libbytown neighborhood and near the University of Southern Maine campus in the city, specifically on Craigie Street, Twin Knolls Lane, Woodmont Street, Bolton Street and Frances Street.

Sweatt said that police believe the same perpetrator or perpetrators is responsible for all the crimes, and that those responsible have “generally targeted cash, credit cards and small electronics, such as iPads and cellphones.”

Sweatt urged residents in the city to report any suspicious activity and remember to lock doors and windows at night.

“Help avoid becoming a victim by keeping your windows closed and locked at night as well as when you are away for the day,” he said. “Please keep electronics and other valuables away from windows. Lock the windows and doors to your residences and vehicles.”

Police are asking anyone with any information about the crimes or who has seen any suspicious activity to call the department at 874-8533, or to provide an anonymous tip by texting the keyword “GOTCHA” plus a message to 274637, calling 874-8584 or visiting www.portland-police.com.


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