AUBURN, Calif. (FOX26) — Detectives with the Placer County Sheriff’s Office are warning community members after discovering a hidden surveillance camera disguised with fake leaves outside a home in North Auburn.
Investigators say the camera was hidden in landscaping, and its location was not random.
“This is part of a larger investigation, and we’ve tied this to South American theft groups,” said Elise Soviar, Communications Manager for the Placer County Sheriff’s Department.
According to investigators, similar organized theft crews have been active across California, including the Central Valley.
Soviar said these groups typically target high-value homes to try and steal luxury items.
“They’re targeting homes that are very high dollar, homes that would have luxury items like very nice jewelry, incredibly expensive handbags, nice watches, and other items of high monetary value,” she said.
What made this case unusual, investigators say, is the location.
“In this specific case, what makes it unique is that this home is in a very normal neighborhood,” Soviar said, adding that it was not a traditional high-end property.
Detectives say leads from a separate investigation brought them to the property, where they noticed the camera hidden behind shrubbery.
Authorities say similar recording devices have been disguised as rocks, moss, or even foliage to spy on homes before thefts.
The bottom line:
“If you see something that looks suspicious, we would suggest not touching it. Don’t tamper with it. Contact your local law enforcement,” Soviar said.
She also encouraged homeowners to rethink where valuables are stored inside their homes, noting that safes are commonly placed in master bedrooms, bathrooms, or garages.
Soviar emphasized that the goal of sharing this information is prevention, not panic.
“We’re sharing this information so that people are armed with the knowledge of some of the ways that crooks are looking to target them,” Soviar said.