A man accused of breaking into homes prepped for fumigation was allegedly caught in the act, police said Wednesday.
San Diego Police say they received 19 reports of burglaries at homes undergoing pest fumigation between July and February.
Evidence led investigators to arrest 34-year-old Salvador Amador Padilla on Feb. 9.
Lt. Terence Charlot told NBC7 Padilla was trying to break into a home when he was arrested.
Officers serving a search warrant at Padilla’s home allegedly uncovered stolen property that officers have connected to eight victims, Charlot said.
The victims’ homes were tented by various fumigation companies, Charlot said, but he would not specify which companies were targeted.
What should you do if you have to leave your home while the professionals get rid of the pests?
"If your house is being fumigated and they want you to be away from the house. Make sure you notify your neighbors that your leaving so they can look after your house," Charlot said. "Just make sure all your valuables are secure or taken with you."
Local
Padilla was in jail Wednesday, booked on various charges including burglary, attempted burglary, possession of narcotics, and possession of burglary tools.
"Great team effort with the detectives," said Charlot. "I'm happy we were able to put a burglar behind bars and get property back to the owners."
Charlot said this was an ongoing investigation. Anyone who believes they may have been burglarized during fumigation can call the San Diego Police Department's non-emergency line at (619) 531-2000 or (858) 484-3154.
