Authorities are asking people in Vandenberg Village and nearby Lompoc communities to check their home surveillance cameras after several reports have been made of someone prowling and trying to get inside vehicles in the area.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office says the prowler was captured on video Feb . 11 in two different areas outside Lompoc. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the person checking car doors to get into vehicles and steal items.
Some neighbors were surprised to hear it happened in their area.
“It’s kind of weird, it just doesn’t happen around here,” said Herbert Galullo, a resident of Vandenberg Village.
Deputies are encouraging people in Vandenberg Village, Mission Hills, Mesa Oaks and the Village Country Club area to check their vehicles and make sure nothing, including garage door openers, is missing.
Many are being extra cautious and taking extra security measures.
“My husband and I have agreed that we are putting cameras in the front, we decided that that was a must,” said Rachel Perez, who lives near downtown.
“We lock the car doors, and if my daughter has her purse somewhere, put it in the truck before she get’s out,” said Laura Luna, who works at the Village Country Club. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Anyone who believes they are a victim or who has surveillance footage of the prowler is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at (805) 737-7737. Anonymous tips can be made by calling (805) 681-4171.
