At a Glance
- A man camouflaged with fresh leaves was caught installing hidden cameras on residential streets.
- He and an accomplice were arrested for burglary tools, conspiracy, and outstanding warrants.
- Police say the cameras were likely used to study homeowners’ routines before break-ins.
- Why it matters: The bust highlights a wave of South American theft crews using tech to case homes across L.A. County.
Torrance police have arrested two people, including one who tried to blend into the shrubbery, after officers discovered an alleged scheme to spy on homes and later burglarize them.
The arrests happened Thursday night when a patrol unit noticed a car that had been “abruptly parked” near Iris Avenue and 227th Street, the department said. Backup arrived, and the officers quickly realized one of the suspects had coated himself in fresh foliage to avoid detection while he mounted tiny surveillance cameras along fences and utility boxes.
How the Suspects Were Spotted
- Officer on routine patrol spotted the oddly parked vehicle.
- Additional units arrived and approached the pair.
- One suspect wore leaves as makeshift camouflage.
- Officers recovered burglary tools and camera equipment.
Both suspects were taken into custody on probable-cause charges of burglary, possession of burglary tools, and conspiracy. Police later learned one of the two also carried multiple warrants issued in North Carolina for theft, conspiracy, and financial crimes.
A Growing Tactic Across the Southland
Torrance investigators tied the case to a broader pattern that surged last year, when South American theft rings began installing covert cameras in front of target homes. The devices let crews monitor residents’ daily schedules and spot vulnerabilities before striking.
Similar cameras-often masked with mesh netting or fake grass-have surfaced in West Covina, Arcadia, Garden Grove, and Alhambra, prompting alerts from those cities’ police departments.
What Homeowners Should Watch For
Police urge residents to report any unfamiliar objects attached to fences, light poles, or parked cars that appear to contain lenses or wires. Torrance detectives can be reached at (310) 328-3456.
Key Takeaways
- Camouflaged surveillance gear is the newest tool for burglary crews.
- Quick-arrest shows patrol vigilance can foil elaborate casing plans.
- Homeowners should scan yards and streets for tiny hidden devices.
