Law enforcement agencies across the country are reporting an alarming trend of hidden cameras being placed in residents’ lawns and gardens. These cameras are believed to be used by burglary suspects to determine when homes might be unoccupied.
Recently, the NYPD received a report of unlawful surveillance with a caller finding a cellphone, charger, and cable buried in his front yard. Authorities are investigating and urging anyone with concerns to report incidents. In California, authorities linked the trend to a South American theft ring, which uses hidden cameras in shrubs and gardens to plan burglaries.
The LA County Sheriff’s Office shared images of such devices found in flower beds. These groups, often composed of Chilean or Colombian nationals on tourist visas, operate as highly organized criminal enterprises, using technology for real-time surveillance across states. The issue highlights a growing threat to home security and the need for increased vigilance among homeowners.