Plano police have arrested a fourth person in connection to a rash of burglaries.
Cedric Smith Jr., 18, faces two counts of burglary after police spotted him driving a stolen car through a quiet Plano neighborhood.
Plano police said at least 45 homes were burglarized in the area since the end of October.
Gregg Kitchen is president of the homeowners association in the Steeplechase subdivision where neighbors are on high alert.
“Well you can imagine [neighbors are] afraid, concerned, feeling violated. But now it’s really shifted into complete awareness,” said Kitchen.
Plano police have also increased patrol throughout many neighborhoods.
“You see their presence all over the streets and in the alleys constant,” said Kitchen.
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Since December, police arrested four people they say are responsible for the break-ins. But investigators have not found any evidence that proves the people were working together.
Police believe there is a fifth burglar still on the loose. They think that person burglarized at least 20 homes, breaking in between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. and stealing high-end jewelry.
“A lot of homeowners, not just in our subdivision in other areas, they have weapons,” said Kitchen. “I think if someone comes in, you’re going to protect your family.”
The Steeplechase subdivision now has an email alert system set up where people will be notified of any type of security issue when it comes to the safety in their neighborhood.
All people have to do is send their email address to the homeowners association president to get on the list serve.
