NEWTON – Law enforcement authorities in Harvey County are investigating a possible serial burglar.

Police reported on social media a suspect has been entering homes while the residents are sleeping.

The current series has eight known offenses, but a review of prowler calls over the last few months has shown an additional 16 calls which police believe were attempted aggravated burglaries.

There may be more attempts that police say they are unaware of.

They say that the burglar of burglars typically ring the doorbell or knock at the front door to see if someone is home, then proceeds to check the door, or attempt to open the back door.

In each case, the burglar has found an open back door or open garage door. This individual only targets purses and backpacks, which are typically found the next morning outside of the residence with cash removed.

Police suggest the need to make sure homes and vehicles are secure. None of these break-ins indicate forced entry and if residents can deny the presence of an easy target, they may prevent people from being victimized.

Police also say if a person is a victim of a similar offense, they need to report it, saying this will allow them to analyze the patterns and behavioral evidence, so they can put forth a plan to apprehend the culprit.
They also suggest that residents should look out for one another. If person sees a neighbor who has left a garage door up, or a car unlocked, notify them. If a burglary is committed in your neighborhood, there is a higher chance your home will be victimized in the successive months.
If you see something suspicious, call 911.