Portsmouth Police responded to multiple reports of suspected break-ins and attempted entries over a short period of time, as residents across several neighborhoods reported suspicious activity, damaged doors, and fears that someone was trying to get inside their homes.
10th Street: Cameras Tell a Different Story
Police were first called to 10th Street after a man reported that someone had entered his home and stolen money from his bedroom. While officers were present, the resident reviewed his home security footage.
The cameras did not show anyone entering the house. The only activity captured was a neighbor knocking on the door. Because there was no evidence of a break-in, the man chose not to file a police report.
Wayne Hills: Apartment Break-In Reported
About two hours later, officers were called to Thomas Avenue in Wayne Hills for a report that someone had broken into an apartment. Police took information for a report. No additional details about damage or stolen property were immediately available.
17th Street: Kicked Door, Suspect Flees
Officers also responded to 17th Street after a resident reported a man attempted to break into a home by kicking the back door, causing damage before fleeing through the backyard and over a fence.
The suspect was described as wearing a Carhartt jacket. No items were taken. A neighbor has security cameras, and the victim told police they would follow up if usable video is obtained. Officers briefly spoke with a man near Mound Park, but no suspect was located.
Charles Street: Dog Chases Intruder Away
On Charles Street, a woman told police she saw a man on her property attempting to get into her garage. The suspect was described as wearing blue jeans and high boots, standing about 5’3″.
Nothing was damaged or taken, and the homeowner said her dog chased the man away. She requested extra patrols in the area and said she would call again if the individual returned. Officers attempted follow-up at a nearby address tied to a recent report, but no one was home.
Summit Street: Suspicious Activity Near Garage
Just before midnight, police were called to Summit Street after a resident reported seeing two men near her garage carrying an unknown object she believed might be used to break in. The caller said there had been several recent break-ins in the area.
The caller declined to speak directly with an officer, and police were unable to locate any suspects.
