Police Ramp Up Patrols in Dover Shores and Mariners

There has been an increase in residential burglaries at unlocked homes in the Dover Shores and Mariners neighborhoods in Newport Beach, police reported.

The most recent burglary occurred Friday, between 10 a.m. and 11:20 p.m., at a home in the 1900 block of Commodore. According to police, an unknown suspect entered the home through an open bathroom window, rummaged through the drawers and stole a laptop computer and jewelry.

"We've increased patrols in the Dover Shores/Mariners area," Kathy Lowe, police spokeswoman, said. "Additionally, we continue to alert residents about the increase in crime through Nixle messages and Neighborhood Watch groups."

There have been eight residential burglaries within the Dover Shores and Mariners area since Sept. 25. In five out of the eight burglaries the suspects entered the home through an open window or unlocked door, police said.

A Neighborhood Watch meeting is scheduled in Dover Shores on Thursday night.

Home Security Tips

• Close and lock all doors, windows and garage door. All exterior doors should be equipped with a deadbolt lock, which should always be used have a security strike plate, attached with a minimum of two, three inch screws. 
• If you have an alarm, always activate it when you are away. 
• Use photo cells or timers to turn both interior and exterior lights on and off. 
• If you are going to be out of town, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your home and pick up your mail. Sign-up for a vacation check from the police department at www.nbpd.org.
• If you see suspicious activity, vehicles, or people call the Newport Beach Police Department immediately at 949-644-3717.