California homeowners are being urged to inspect their yards and landscaping after authorities in Los Angeles County reported multiple discoveries of hidden surveillance devices believed to be connected to residential burglary activity.
The warning comes after deputies in San Dimas uncovered concealed cameras hidden in bushes near homes that were later targeted during burglaries. Investigators say the devices appeared designed to monitor residents’ routines and identify when homes were unoccupied.
Law enforcement officials are now encouraging residents to remain alert for suspicious objects hidden around entryways, gardens, and exterior property areas.
Discovery
According to the San Dimas Sheriff’s Station, deputies responded to a residential burglary on May 12 in the 800 block of Via Gregorio.
During the investigation, authorities located a concealed surveillance setup hidden inside bushes across from the victim’s home.
Police said the equipment included:
| Device Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Hidden Camera | Used for live surveillance |
| Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot | Allowed remote monitoring |
| External Battery Pack | Provided continuous power |
Officials stated that the device was intentionally concealed to blend into surrounding landscaping.
Just one week earlier, another similar device was reportedly discovered in the same neighborhood after a landscaper noticed suspicious equipment hidden in hedges near a residence.
Investigators said that setup included a mobile phone attached to a power bank and wrapped in camouflage tape with artificial foliage.
Warning
In a public statement shared on social media, the San Dimas Sheriff’s Station urged residents to stay alert and monitor their properties carefully.
“Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and be aware of suspicious or hidden cameras that may be placed in or around yards, entryways, or exterior areas of homes,” the department stated.
Authorities advised homeowners to immediately report suspicious items or devices to local law enforcement.
Officials emphasized that community awareness can help investigators identify criminal activity before burglaries occur.
Purpose
Law enforcement agencies say these hidden surveillance systems are often used by burglary crews to study homeowner routines.
Investigators believe criminals may monitor:
- When residents leave for work
- Whether homes are occupied overnight
- Delivery schedules
- Security system activity
- Potential valuables entering or leaving a property
Police say the devices can stream live video remotely through wireless internet connections, allowing suspects to monitor targets from another location.
Authorities noted that modern surveillance technology has become smaller, less expensive, and easier to conceal in residential areas.
Locations
Investigators say hidden cameras are frequently placed in landscaping or exterior areas where they are difficult to notice.
Residents are being advised to inspect the following locations:
| Common Hiding Spots | Why They Are Used |
|---|---|
| Bushes and hedges | Natural concealment |
| Flower beds | Low visibility |
| Trees | Elevated viewing angle |
| Planters | Blends with landscaping |
| Exterior entryways | Direct view of activity |
Police said many devices are disguised using green tape, fake leaves, or camouflage coverings designed to resemble plants or garden materials.
Prevention
Authorities recommend several steps homeowners can take to reduce the risk of surveillance-related burglaries.
Recommended safety measures include:
- Regularly inspecting landscaping and yard areas
- Keeping hedges and shrubs trimmed
- Installing exterior lighting
- Monitoring personal security cameras
- Reporting unfamiliar objects immediately
Investigators also cautioned residents not to touch or move suspicious devices if they discover them.
Police say surveillance equipment may contain fingerprints, DNA evidence, or digital information valuable to an investigation.
Instead, residents are advised to contact local law enforcement so officers can safely document and collect the equipment.
Crime Trends
While authorities continue warning about increasingly sophisticated burglary methods, officials say overall burglary rates in Los Angeles have declined compared to the previous year.
According to LAPD officials, residential and commercial burglaries citywide are reportedly down more than 30 percent compared to the same period in 2025.
Deputy Chief Gerald Woodyard recently said the reduction reflects ongoing enforcement and prevention strategies across Los Angeles.
However, police also acknowledged that burglary operations are becoming more organized and technologically advanced.
Organized Groups
Earlier this year, LAPD officials discussed concerns involving organized burglary crews traveling to Southern California specifically to target affluent neighborhoods.
In March, investigators announced arrests connected to groups described as “burglary tourists” operating in upscale areas throughout Los Angeles County.
Authorities alleged that some crews traveled from South America and used advanced surveillance tactics, tracking methods, and coordinated planning during break-ins.
Police officials said organized residential burglary activity has increased significantly over the past several years.
LAPD Chief Dominic Choi stated during a Police Commission meeting that investigators are seeing a growing number of crimes tied to organized groups targeting high-end homes.
Awareness
The recent discoveries in San Dimas highlight how criminal tactics continue evolving alongside consumer technology.
Law enforcement agencies say hidden surveillance devices are becoming more difficult to detect because they are designed to blend naturally into outdoor environments.
Officials continue encouraging residents to stay alert, monitor unusual activity, and report suspicious objects around homes and neighborhoods.
FAQs
Where were the hidden cameras found?
They were discovered in San Dimas, California.
Why do burglars use hidden cameras?
To monitor homeowner routines and vacant homes.
Where are cameras commonly hidden?
Bushes, flower beds, trees, and planters.
Should residents touch suspicious devices?
No, police advise contacting authorities instead.
Are burglaries increasing in Los Angeles?
Police say overall burglaries are down this year.
