Authorities in Pottawattamie County are urging residents, especially those in the rural areas, to be on the lookout for strange activity at their neighbors’ homes, in light of recent reported burglaries which occurred while residents were away. Pott Co Sheriff Jeff Danker says there’s been a recent string of break-ins off U.S. Highway 6 near Westfair.

On Thursday burglars hit the home of Richard and Cathy Torneten on Hunt Avenue. Danker said the suspects stole jewelry, radios, televisions, computer and other, possibly unaccounted for items.  The family dog, a tan Yorkshire, was also missing, though it’s unclear if the burglars took the dog. Danker said “With the door open and the dog scared, it might’ve run out.” The suspects entered the house sometime between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Thursday.

Danker encourages people, especially those in the rural areas, to call the Sheriff’s Department if they see any suspicious activity at another residence.  He says also, locking doors is a must and a installing a security system would certainly help prevent or at least deter, theft.

Sgt. Chad Meyers with the Council Bluffs Police Department also reported an increase in burglaries, which he says is common during the holiday season. Meyers said a majority of residential his department has investigated, occur during the day, when residents are at work. He says having a dog and alarm system helps prevent such crimes, but he added that “Most important is neighbors looking out for neighbors. If you see something suspicious at your neighbor’s house, call 9-1-1.”