Burglary Spree Hits San Fernando Valley Homes as LAPD Patrols Increase

Two more homes targeted amid mayor's directive for heightened security in the area

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a broken window lock or shattered glass from a home burglary, capturing the stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic of the crime scene.A recent wave of targeted home burglaries in the San Fernando Valley has prompted the mayor to order increased police patrols in the area.Los Angeles Today

A string of burglaries has hit homes in and around the San Fernando Valley, with two more incidents reported over the weekend. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has ordered the LAPD to increase patrols along Ventura Boulevard in response to the spree, which has now reached nine break-ins since April 11.

Why it matters

The burglary spree has shaken up residents in the San Fernando Valley, which has seen a rise in home invasions and break-ins over the past year. The mayor's directive to boost LAPD presence in the area aims to hold the perpetrators accountable and restore a sense of safety for local communities.

The details

The latest burglaries occurred on Saturday night in Toluca Lake, where high-value items like jewelry and cash were stolen, and early Sunday in the Hollywood Hills. Police have not yet determined if the incidents are connected. In addition to the six Valley-area burglaries previously reported, police also responded to calls in Sylmar, Granada Hills, and at the Hollywood Hills home of 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody' star Dylan Sprouse, where a trespasser was tackled by Sprouse on his property.

  • On April 11, the first burglary was reported in Sherman Oaks.
  • On April 12, police responded to a home invasion in the Hollywood Hills.
  • On April 14 and 15, multiple burglaries occurred in Valley Village and Valley Glen.
  • On April 16, a home in Granada Hills was targeted.
  • On April 19, two more homes were burglarized in Toluca Lake and the Hollywood Hills.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who has directed the LAPD to increase patrols in the San Fernando Valley in response to the burglary spree.

LAPD

The Los Angeles Police Department, which is deploying more resources including increased patrols, mobile license plate readers, air support, and collaboration with specialized divisions to investigate the burglaries.

Spencer Pratt

A former reality TV star who is running for mayor of Los Angeles and has criticized Bass' directive to the LAPD as 'grandstanding.'

Dylan Sprouse

An actor known for the Disney Channel series 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody,' who tackled a trespasser on the lawn near his Hollywood Hills home.

Barbara Palvin

Victoria's Secret model and wife of Dylan Sprouse, who spotted the trespasser on their property.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'I've directed the LAPD to strategically deploy resources along Ventura Boulevard and to continue making this area a priority by holding these criminals accountable. Residents deserve to feel safe in their communities, especially in their homes, and we will continue to deploy the resources necessary to keep people safe.'”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles

“'Bass is just grandstanding to appear tough on crime when she claims to 'order' the Chief of Police to specifically direct police resources. The City Charter is very clear and limits of authority of the Mayor in this regard. The Chief is solely responsible for the day to day operations of the police department.'”

— Spencer Pratt, Mayoral Candidate

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate whether the burglaries are connected and are working to identify and apprehend the suspects. Mayor Bass has vowed to keep the area a priority and deploy necessary resources to keep residents safe.

The takeaway

The burglary spree in the San Fernando Valley has heightened concerns about public safety and home security, leading the mayor to order a heightened police presence in the area. The incidents underscore the ongoing challenges of combating property crime in Los Angeles neighborhoods.