Police probe rash of burglaries in Toluca Lake

Los Angeles police are warning residents in Toluca Lake to watch for unexpected visitors after a few residential burglaries and attempted burglaries in the area. 

During one, a resident pointed a gun to scare off a would-be burglar who first knocked on the front door and then forced open a back window, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Two burglaries occurred in houses that are under construction and tools were stolen.

In a Facebook post on its North Hollywood page, the LAPD encouraged residents to be cautious when an unexpected visitor comes to the door.

Det. David Torres said burglars often knock and ring doorbells to see if residents are home before breaking in.

"When someone is knocking at the door, you can say, 'I am not interested,' " he said. "You don't have to open your door. Just let them know you are there."

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-- Anna Gorman