Lakeside Condo Complex Targeted By Thieves

Burglars and robbers are on a crime spree near the Altamonte Mall. At least six homes in the Lakewood Park condo community (see map) have been burglarized in just the past few days. One person was even robbed there while out walking his dog.

Residents at Lakewood Park Condos are taking the break-ins seriously. Residents say a wide open front gate may be at least part of the problem.

First thing Monday morning, Brinks Security was already installing a new security system at one condo. Late last week, the owner became the latest victim in a frightening rash of break-ins at the sleepy complex.

Like the other break-ins, thieves stole the resident's television, electronics and jewelry. There have been six such hits recently and four since Tuesday, March 10. In one instance, an armed gunman demanded access to his victim's apartment.

"It really scared me. You know, it's such a quiet neighborhood. I have great neighbors. To think that this has been going on, it's terrifying," resident Tracey Black said.

"They're definitely targeting this one neighborhood," said Tim Hyer, Altamonte Springs Police Department.

Altamonte Springs police say they have three detectives working the case and several leads. They don't yet know why the complex has been so unlucky.

"It's a very active community. People are going in and out all the time, walking their dogs. There's a lot of pet owners in that neighborhood. We can't see why this neighborhood in particular would be a target," Hyer said.

One thing police said residents can do right now is find their electronics and write down their serial numbers so the items can be traced. But some residents worry more about their safety than their belongings.

"I'm looking at mace, taser, whatever else I can do, basically just to protect myself," Black said.

There is a Neighborhood Watch sign at the entrance to the complex and the Altamonte Police Department said the group has been very helpful, but they're still asking anyone who may have information on the cases to call them.

Last Friday, Eyewitness News reported on a similar rash of break-ins nearby in the Bear Lake area of Seminole County. Investigators said there have been 15 break-ins in the upscale community since the beginning of the year and, often, thieves sneak into the lakefront side of the homes to make off with electronics and jewelry.