The Upper Providence Police Department, along with several municipal police agencies and federal law enforcement partners, has identified a nationwide trend of residential burglaries committed by groups known as “South American Theft Groups” (SATGs) or “Crime Tourists.” SATGs are highly organized criminal enterprises that travel from state to state, committing burglaries and thefts. These groups often employ advanced techniques to conceal their activities and typically target expensive homes, particularly those owned by Asian Americans. While these groups are often unrelated, they share similar methods in their operations.

Detectives from the Upper Providence Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division are currently investigating a recent burglary related to a SATG, as well as several other previous burglaries linked to the same trend. Although SATG members are frequently Colombian nationals, this crime pattern is evident throughout the country.

SATGs are known for stealing items such as jewelry, watches, designer merchandise, cash, and gold bars. They utilize radios, disguises, lookouts, and surveillance to scout out potential homes in neighborhoods. Once they decide to act, they execute the burglary quickly. The stolen items are typically shipped back to their home countries or sold prior to their departure.

The Upper Providence Police Department wants to raise awareness among residents about this crime trend and encourage everyone to take additional steps to secure their homes and belongings. Here are some recommendations:

1. **Consult with your homeowners' association** about the installation of Automated License Plate Readers at the entrance and exit of neighborhoods.   

2. **Secure Doors and Windows:** Install solid exterior doors with deadbolt locks and reinforced frames. Use high-quality locks on all doors and consider upgrading to smart locks. Install window locks on all accessible windows and reinforce glass with security film or laminates.

3. **Install a comprehensive home security system** that includes burglar alarms, motion sensors, and security cameras. Display signs or stickers indicating the presence of a security system, which can act as a deterrent.

4. **Install motion-sensor lights** around the perimeter of your home, especially near entry points. Ensure that pathways, entrances, and dark areas are well-lit to minimize hiding spots for potential burglars.

5. **Communicate with your neighbors,** report suspicious activities, and look out for one another.

6. **Keep valuable items,** such as jewelry, cash, and important documents, in a secure safe or lockbox. Avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight through windows or in easily accessible areas.

7. **Maintain a well-kept appearance** of your home to deter potential burglars. Use timers for lights and electronic devices to create the illusion of occupancy when you’re away.

8. **Avoid sharing vacation plans** or posting about being away from home on social media, as burglars can exploit this information to target unoccupied houses.

9. **Install security bars or grilles** on vulnerable entry points, such as basement windows or sliding doors. Consider reinforcing doors with door jammers or security plates to prevent forced entry.

10. **Be aware of your surroundings** and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. Installing surveillance cameras can also help monitor and record activities around your property.

11. **Report suspicious persons and vehicles** to 9-1-1.

The Upper Providence Police Department continues to collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, utilizing the most current investigative tools to help prevent and solve these burglaries.utilizing the most current investigative tools to help prevent and solve these burglaries.