Investigators released a composite sketch of the suspect on Wednesday. She is described as a Hispanic woman in her 20s with a distinct tattoo of stars and a crescent moon next to her left eye. She is about 5 feet 4 inches tall with a medium to heavy build.
Authorities say she trespassed into at least two Mission Hills homes since Saturday, even walking into open garages during broad daylight.
"If she's unchallenged, she goes into the home and takes the first thing she sees," said Lt. Paul Vernon, the commanding officer of the Mission Detective Division, in a news release.
The last two incidents occurred on Jan. 12 in the 15400 block of San Jose Street and the 14500 block of Peach Avenue.
Jose Valenzuela says his wife was cleaning their home with music on, when the female suspect broke in.
"We think she actually tried the doors, went around through the bathroom window, pulled it open, and let herself to the bedroom, grabbed whatever she wanted to. She had enough time to open up a perfume bottle," said Valenzuela. "They also took our wedding bands, which is actually more important than anything."
Police estimate the value of what was taken from Valenzuela's home at $3,000.
In a second case, the suspect was confronted by the resident. The suspect said she was looking for "Leslie," which was a person who lived in the house. Vernon said this means the suspect may live in the neighborhood or is casing the homes she hits.
Authorities say these types of suspects are usually drug users, who steal valuables then sell or trade them for drugs to maintain their habit.
The suspect may also be connected to a black Ford Explorer, which was seen leaving the area of one of the incidents.
Authorities are investigating a possible third burglary victim.
Police officers have been instructed to keep an eye out for this suspect, particularly among the several motels along the Sepulveda Corridor. Residents were warned to keep their doors, garages and windows locked at all times.
If you have any information about these incidents, you're urged to contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.
