NOVI, Mich. – The Novi Police Department is investigating four home invasions that they believe are linked to South American gangs.
The first home invasion happened on Oct. 31, and the most recent two happened on Nov. 15.
Police say that the suspects’ method of entry and the items taken in these home invasions are similar to other crimes that happened in Oakland County that are also believed to be connected to South American gangs.
The suspects are believed to have conducted surveillance on each home before the break-ins, to make sure residents wouldn’t be home. They also used technology to jam Wi-Fi signals, which prevented security systems from working properly, according to police.
“They know where to go, what to steal, and are in and out in just minutes,” said an Oakland County homeowner, echoing the unsettling pattern observed by police.
These theft crews are known to use advanced tools such as Wi-Fi jammers and surveillance equipment to evade security systems and track homeowner routines.
“In other parts of the country, they’ve been seen using trackers to pattern your life,” said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.
Novi Police Commander Jason Meier confirmed that the burglars primarily target items that are easy to carry such as jewelry, designer bags, credit cards, cash, and high-end clothing. The homes targeted often back wooded or open areas, allowing the criminals to approach unseen.
“The Chileans [are methodical], while the Colombians and Venezuelans can be more opportunistic and willing to resort to violence,” Bouchard said.
Typically operating in groups of three to five, these crews often use rental cars and wear heavy clothing to mask their identities. Despite their sophistication, police warn that anyone bold enough to invade a home still has the potential for violence.
“What will they do if confronted?” Bouchard asked.
Novi police, in collaboration with Oakland County and surrounding agencies, is increasing patrols in affected neighborhoods. They urge neighbors to remain vigilant, secure their homes, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Here’s a breakdown of each Novi break-in:
Oct. 31 home invasion
This home invasion happened between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 31, at a home in the 40000 block of Revello Court, in the area of Beck and Eight Mile roads.
The suspects entered the home after breaking the window of a rear door and stole items.
Police believe the suspects approached the home from the wooded area that the home backs up to.
Nov. 2 home invasion
The home invasion on Nov. 2 happened between 6 p.m. and 8:55 p.m. at a home in the 40000 block of Vento Drive, near Garfield and Eight Mile roads.
The suspect also broke the window of the rear door to enter this home, and stole items. Police believe the suspects approached the house from the large field located behind it.
Nov. 15 home invasion (5:46 p.m.)
In this break-in, the suspect broke into a home in the 20000 block of Pomino Drive, also near Garfield and Eight Mile roads.
The suspect entered this home through a second-story bathroom window and stole items.
Police believe the suspects also approached this house from the wooded area located behind it.
Nov. 15 home invasion (6:58 p.m.)
The suspects broke into a home in the 20000 block of Turnberry Boulevard, which is in the area of Haggerty and Eight Mile roads, according to police. Items were stolen during this home invasion, and the suspects are believed to have also approached this house from a wooded area behind it.
There were no residents home during any of these four break-ins.
Novi police will increase their presence in these areas as they investigate the break-ins.
“We encourage our residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity or vehicles in their neighborhood immediately and we ask anyone with information to contact 248-348-7100,” said Novi police.
