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Sanibel Police search for home intruder

Posted at 9:15 PM, Mar 11, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-12 10:05:40-04

SANIBEL ISLAND, Fla. -- Sanibel Police Department is asking for the public's help finding a home intruder, Saturday.

The department sent out a release saying at around 12:49 A.M., police responded to an intruder having entered an occupied residential unit in Periwinkle Park. Soon after, two more reports of attempted break-ins were received.

Neighbors were woken up by police K9's and a search helicopter around 2 in the morning, as Sanibel Police along with Lee County Sheriff's Deputies searched for the suspect. He is described as a white male in his 30's or 40's, about 5'10', heavy set, with long black hair. He was wearing a black shirt at the time.

Residents told Fox 4 they were shocked at the incident, and believe people may not have their guard up because crime is rare on the island. "We are in such a safe, quiet place, that how could this happen," said one neighbor. "It's alarming."

Sanibel Police reminds all residents and guests to keep the doors to their homes and cars locked at all times. Additionally, they request if you hear any suspicious activities or noises or see any suspicious people in your area, call the Sanibel Police.
 
In a statement, management at the park said the following:
 
On behalf of the residents of Periwinkle Park, the ownership, and management, would like to thank the Sanibel Police Dept. for their prompt response time and coordination with the Lee County Sheriff dept, neighbors, and staff to handle this situation that has us all a little shook up. We are extremely grateful that no one in our community was hurt.
It reminds us why we need to be vigilant and heed the advise of authorities when they ask us to lock the doors to our vehicles and homes. To have adequate lighting on motion sensors outdoors. And more importantly, to say something if you see something.