Fake maids caught on surveillance video in Laguna Niguel

LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. (KABC) -- Surveillance video has been released of two Riverside women arrested on suspicion of burglarizing homes across Orange County while pretending to be housekeepers.

In the footage, Sandra Rojas, 36, and Marie Rojas, 38, are seen parking in front of the house and getting out with their cleaning supplies. Authorities allege the two, who are related by marriage, were only pretending to be maids in order to burglarize the house.

"They had no intention of cleaning the house. They would steal money or jewelry and then they would leave," Orange County Sheriff's Lt. Jeff Hallock said.

Investigators believe the two women carefully scoped out their victims, choosing homes that already employed legitimate housecleaners.

"Neighbors would see them entering a house with vacuums or brooms or something that indicated they were housekeepers or maids. They didn't alarm neighbors," Hallock said.

The two Riverside women were tied to several burglaries in south Orange County over the past year, stealing thousands of dollars in cash and jewelry, authorities said.

"That's just sad to see that people would go that far to steal something from someone's home," Laguna Niguel resident Freddy Hernandez said.

Investigators were also seeking the public's help. They hope those who recognize the women will come forward.

Anyone with information was asked to call the Orange County Sheriff's Department at (949) 425-1901. Anonymous tips can be made to Orange County Crime Stoppers at (855) TIP-OCCS.