Lower Merion residents leaving home this summer should make their houses look occupied to avoid being targeted by thieves who are casing homes that appear empty.

The Lower Merion Police Department is investigating several residential burglaries over the past three weeks, with thieves targeting high-value homes that appear unoccupied and stealing jewelry and small valuables, Lt. Michael Keenan said Friday, calling summer "burglary season" for the township.

The department said the crimes may be connected to the South American Theft Group, which commits residential burglaries across wealthy neighborhoods. The incidents are consistent with burglary trends reported across the Philadelphia region, according to the police statement.

Keenan declined to say where in the township the break-ins occurred or provide an exact count. No arrests have been announced.

How the burglars operate

According to the FBI, the pattern involves groups that drive to affluent neighborhoods, target expensive homes near golf courses, parks or walking trails, and break in through back windows or glass doors, often on the second floor.

"“Burglars want jewelry; they want small items they can carry and get away with,” Keenan said.

Lower Merion experienced a similar wave of burglaries in December 2024, when police linked break-ins in Gladwyne and other Main Line neighborhoods to so-called "crime tourists" who were also hitting areas as far as Fishtown in Philadelphia.

What residents can do

Keenan's advice is to "make it look like you're there." Police are encouraging residents to use a home alarm, keep lights on timers, make sure mail and packages aren't piling up outside and leave a car in the driveway when away for extended periods.

The township offers two free programs:

Vacant Home Program: Officers will conduct extra patrol checks and security inspections around a resident's home while they're out of town. Sign up at lowermerion.org/departments/police-department/services/vacant-house-program-form or call the police non-emergency line.

Home Security Assessment Program: Any Lower Merion resident can request a free in-person security survey. Call the Crime Prevention Unit at 610-645-6240 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

Police are asking anyone who sees suspicious behavior to call 911.