The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a number of burglaries at vacant homes in the northeast portion of Lake County. Thieves have been breaking into vacant homes and stealing copper pipe/plumbing from the homes.

Since December 1, 2016, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has investigated five burglaries to vacant homes, where copper plumbing has been stolen. The burglars have been forcing entry to the front or rear doors of the homes in order to gain entry.

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office reminds the community to call 9-1-1, if they observe anything suspicious or out of the ordinary in their neighborhood. This could include a car they don’t recognize at a vacant home or someone entering or exiting a vacant home without a homeowner or realtor present. Realtors should enlist the assistance of neighbors to keep a watch on vacant homes for sale. Anyone leaving their house for vacation should ask neighbors or relatives to watch their home, while out of town.