SQUAW VALLEY - Property crimes detectives with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office need the public’s help to identify three men who committed a burglary. It happened around 7:00 am on August 31st at a home located on the 45000 block of Old Sand Creek Road in Squaw Valley. Three white men, who appear to be in their early 20s, walked onto the property and scanned the area to see if anyone was around.

A video doorbell security system recorded footage as one of the men kicked open the front door, allowing all of them to go inside. One of the men, who has large ear lobe plugs / tunnels, served as a lookout for brief time. All three men eventually left the home carrying various items they had taken from inside. At least two of the suspects were seen holding handguns. There is a possibility the suspects parked a Honda Civic nearby to use as their getaway car.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111 or Detective Michael Clark at (559) 600-8058. You may also call Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867. All tips remain anonymous and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Please reference case # 1712755.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips to help protect your property:

- Close and lock all windows and doors of buildings and vehicles.
- Remove all valuables from your vehicle. Make sure nothing is left in plain view. Hot ticket items for thieves are packages, cell phones, purses and wallets. Remove personal documents as well to prevent identity theft.
- Park vehicles inside a garage. If this is not possible, park in your driveway.
- Remove your garage door opener from your car if it is parked outside. Criminals can return and use it to burglarize your home.
- Consider installing burglar alarm and / or surveillance camera systems. Check the systems on a regular basis to ensure they are functioning properly. Most anti-theft devices cost less than the deductible you would pay to replace windows or doors that were broken and items that were stolen.
- Keep your property well lit. You may consider purchasing motion activated lights, which help to deter criminal activity.
- Notify trusted neighbors, friends or relatives who can watch your house when you will be out of town. Exchange phone numbers and email addresses to stay informed.
- Join http://nextdoor.com and use the app to keep in touch with your neighbors.
- If you live in the county limits, request the Sheriff’s Office to conduct a “House Check” if you go on vacation. Sign up online. http://www.fresnosheriff.org/protect-yourself/crimeprevention/house-check.html
- Report suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Office immediately by dialing (559) 600-3111.