Authorities are warning of a concerning new burglary trend where foreign criminals are exploiting the U.S. Visa Waiver Program to target wealthy neighborhoods and carry out thefts for profit. This crime wave involves individuals from Chile who are taking advantage of the program's leniency to enter the United States without thorough vetting.
These burglars are employing sophisticated tactics such as using cellphone-jamming equipment to disrupt security systems and Wi-Fi networks. In some instances, they have been caught wearing ghillie suits and hiding in bushes, waiting for homeowners to leave so they can break into homes undetected.
Chile is the only Latin American country included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens from approved countries to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa. Despite being described as a regional leader in law and economic stability by the State Department, Chile is failing to conduct adequate criminal background checks on individuals traveling under the program.
Authorities have reported a surge in burglaries in affluent areas like Orange County, California, where burglars have targeted waterfront homes and even entered residences while occupants were present. The criminals often focus on second-floor entry points where security measures may be lacking.
Law enforcement agencies in Southern California, including the LAPD, have been working to combat this international crime spree. However, challenges persist due to the lack of proper vetting procedures for Chilean travelers under the Visa Waiver Program.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer has been vocal about the issue, emphasizing that these burglaries are not random acts but carefully planned crimes that violate the sanctity of people's homes. Spitzer's office has called on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to take action and remove Chile from the Visa Waiver Program to curb this criminal activity.
While efforts are being made to address the situation, authorities stress the need for stronger measures to prevent further incidents and protect communities from these organized burglary operations.
