‘Dinner Set’ burglars targeting Collier County homes

Author: Nicole Papageorge
Published: Updated:

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla.- Two break-ins this week in North Naples appear to be the work of Dinner Set burglars, say Collier County Sheriff’s Office detectives.

Dinner Set burglars are professional criminals who typically strike upscale homes while the residents are out to dinner.

In the most recent burglary, a home on Troon Lakes Drive in the Pelican Marsh was broken into Wednesday evening. Detectives said the burglars may have entered the home from the lanai and rear sliding glass door. They focused on a particular room and made off with an undisclosed amount of jewelry and designer handbags.

On Monday, a residence on Myrtle Road was broken into. Detective said a rear sliding glass door may have been a point of interest as a possible entry. One room of the house had been disturbed and the burglars left with an undisclosed amount of jewelry.

“Unfortunately, some treasures that my husband had gotten me over the years,” said victim, Nancy Seibert.

Detectives say Dinner Set burglars surveil homes typically between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Before entering, they hide in nearby dark locations such as golf courses and watch through the home’s windows for signs of activity. If they do not see anyone inside after 20-30 minutes they attempt to make entry, usually through the master bedroom sliding glass door. They work quickly and are typically out of the home within minutes.

Following these tips can help prevent someone from entering your home and taking your property:

* Keep your doors and windows locked, especially if you’re not home. Turn on your alarm, if you have one.

* Trim bushes and trees away from windows and doors. They can provide a good hiding place for a burglar.

* Don’t place packaging for pricey home goods such as a television or computer box at the end of your driveway for trash pick-up.

* Always report suspicious activity to law enforcement.

* Organize a Neighborhood Watch in your community.

* Schedule a free home security assessment conducted by a CCSO Crime Prevention specialist. Call the Crime Prevention Section at 239-252-0700, or e-mail prevention@colliersheriff.org for more information.

Anyone with information on these burglaries is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239-252-9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 800-780-8477 (TIPS).

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