Holiday Burglaries Reported

Columbia police say they’re already investigating eight reported burglaries since Friday, and that number could rise.Many of the burglaries have been located in the central city, not in heavily student-populated areas. Police anticipate more burglaries being reported when students return to town next week.As students head home for the holidays, and residents leave town to visit family, police say that makes this time of year leaves homes especially susceptible to potential burglaries.Back in 2010, police reported 19 burglaries and 12 forced entries. More than $19,000 in valuables was stolen, but only about $400 was recovered. Last year, in 2011, Columbia police responded to 25 burglaries. Each year, thieves target electronics and other valuables.Police say this year they’re trying to combat the problem of holiday break-ins with increased burglary saturation patrols citywide.