PARADISE VALLEY --- Residents in one Paradise Valley neighborhood have growing concerns for their safety after yet another home invasion was reported in their area.
It’s been going on since October 20, with the most recent home invasion occurring last Friday. Homeowners are on edge, anxious for this suspect to be caught.
“I'm not an idiot; wouldn't anybody be concerned?” one resident said.
Paradise Valley homeowners are on high alert after six home invasions in the past few weeks.
“He is armed and he's demanding cash and jewelry,” said Paradise Valley Police Cdr. Alan Laitsch.
“It's very frightening,” another resident said.
The most recent robbery occurred Friday night at a home on North Yucca Road. Police believe that suspect is the same person that has struck several other homes near Doubletree Ranch and Scottsdale roads.
“He didn't break in; he just came in through an open door with a gun, held me at gunpoint and tied me up,” Mike Russell said.
Russell was hit Monday, November 24. He says only one door at his home was unlocked -- it was a door he had just been going in and out of. He believes the suspect had been watching him and knew exactly when to strike.
“I think he's scoping it out, checking out the access,” Russell said.
Police agree the suspect is likely familiar with the homes, watching people and doors.
“In a couple of the cases he has approached the people as they've pulled into their garage,” Laitsch said. "In several other cases he's come into the home unbeknownst to them through an unlocked door."
Police are encouraging everyone to be on the lookout. Keep doors and windows locked and always be aware of your surroundings.
“It's changed the way everybody I know around here looks at their own security,” Russell said, “and hopefully they'll catch the guy soon.”
The suspect is described as a white man, 25-35 years old, roughly 6 feet tall and 200 pounds.
There is a community meeting scheduled for Wednesday night. It starts at 6 p.m. at the Camelback Golf Club.
