Police Investigate Portage Lake Burglaries

The Washtenaw County Sherriff’s Department said Thursday it is investigating five burglaries that occurred near the northern edge of Portage Lake in Webster Township on Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning.

According to Derrick Jackson, community engagement director for the sheriff’s department, on Wednesday five property owners reported forced entries that occurred between 8 p.m. Tuesday and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.

“It appears that smaller items such as iPods and binoculars were taken, leading us to believe that the suspect was on foot, vs. driving their car to the particular residences,” Jackson said.

Jackson said deputies believe the burglaries were isolated incidents but encourage residents to be on the lookout for any suspicious people in the area, especially at night or early morning hours.

“If anyone noticed suspicious activity near the county line and the canal on the north end of Portage Lake this week, we encourage them to give us a call,” Jackson said.

He said overall, burglaries have been down countywide this year.

“This incident was a blip on our radar. We’re certainly not seeing a steady increase in burglaries in the western part of the county,” Jackson said.

To report suspicious activity, call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up or the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department's confidential tip line at 734-973-7711.