Police: Peninsula home burglaries may be related

A string of residential burglaries on the Balboa Peninsula over a two-month period appear to be related, Newport Beach police said.

Beginning in mid-August, there have been reports of break-ins at homes there, with burglars getting in through windows and open doors while the victims are home, according to a police crime alert.

Among the items taken were a purse, jewelry, cash, MacBooks, laptops, an iPad and a watch.

Five of the 11 total burglaries happened on Balboa Boulevard. Police said six of the incidents were the result of someone entering the home through an open door.

A possible male suspect was spotted after an Aug. 26 incident. He is described as a 25-year-old balding Latino, approximately 5 feet 11 and 200 pounds, according to police spokeswoman Kathy Lowe.

The most recent burglary happened Oct. 9 in the 1000 block of West Balboa Boulevard; a MacBook was taken after the burglar entered a home through the side window.

Police are offering a free home security inspection to those interested in improving their home safety. To schedule an appointment, call (949) 644-3699 to reach the police Crime Prevention Unit, or schedule a vacation check on a home at (949) 644-3717.

—Lauren Williams

Twitter: @lawilliams30