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The area’s plague of burglaries and vehicle thefts in which criminals take advantage of unlocked vehicles and residences is continuing and included two home invasions early Friday, the Dane County Sheriff’s Office said.

In a blunt statement, the Sheriff’s Office said it “cannot stress enough the need for homeowners to be extremely diligent about securing their homes and vehicles. This is a large and organized group of criminals that are becoming increasingly brazen. They are swarming entire neighborhoods in search of easy targets. No area/neighborhood is considered off limits.

“In several recent burglaries throughout the county, firearms have been stolen and there is a high likelihood that some of these thieves may be armed. In addition to locking homes and vehicles, we encourage citizens to keep their outdoor lights on throughout the night and do not leave valuables like wallets, purses and car keys where they are easily accessible.”

The Sheriff’s Office asked for the public’s help in catching the criminals, saying, “If you see or hear suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call 911 immediately. For those with home video systems like a Ring doorbell or other home security systems, save and share anything suspicious or concerning with your local authorities.”