The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office is investigating five residential break-ins within the last week and is seeking the public’s help — not only for tips but ways they can protect their own property.

Major Bruce Temple said the crimes, which have occurred in the Roanoke Rapids and Littleton areas, appear to have the same method of operation. They involve forced entry. “It’s reasonable to think they’re related but it’s too soon to tell.”

Targeted in the break-ins are flat screen televisions, jewelry and cash.  The hours of these crimes are typically early morning through late night before midnight.

The sheriff’s office is responding by increasing presence in and around the areas where the break-ins have occurred, Temple said.

As the sheriff’s office continues to investigate these crimes, Temple said there are things people can do to possibly help prevent them.

One is to coordinate with trusted friends, relatives and neighbors to ride by property. “We recommend having frequent spontaneous checks by as many people as possible. Make sure that alarm systems are in working order, along with lights and locks.”

Look for suspicious people and vehicles in the area and call the sheriff’s office to report any activity. “Do not,” Temple says, “approach suspicious people. When observing suspicious activity, pay close attention to details of vehicles and traits of people. License plate numbers are very helpful as are details of tattoos.”

If you see a breaking and entering in progress call 911. If anyone has information on possible suspects they are encouraged to call Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.