Mobile surveillance unit installed along Ventura Blvd. in Studio City after string of home invasions

STUDIO CITY, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Los Angeles Police Department is increasing patrols and adding new mobile surveillance equipment in Studio City following a string of recent home invasions, leaving many residents on edge but cautiously hopeful the added security will help deter crime.

The mobile surveillance unit was recently installed on the corner of Ventura Boulevard and Ethel Avenue. A representative for the company told Eyewitness News the mobile surveillance unit was placed at the location earlier this week at the request of the LAPD.

The company representative said the unit uses artificial intelligence technology to detect activity and provides surveillance that can be shared with law enforcement.

One resident, Skylar Logan, said the added technology brings reassurance.

"I love it. I say more cameras, more surveillance just to make us safer," Logan said.

Another neighbor, Tracey Ormandy, said she supports increased security after her nearby home was burglarized twice.

Ormandy said the neighborhood already pays for private security through a company called ACS, whose patrol vehicles were seen driving through the area Friday night.

Logan said while the mobile surveillance equipment is proactive, the added security has not yet stopped crime from occurring.

"They're really on top of it but it hasn't stopped the crime from happening," Logan said.

Last week, Mayor Karen Bass directed the LAPD to add patrols along Ventura Boulevard amid a rise in reported break-ins and robberies, including incidents at local businesses and homes.

One Studio City resident, identified only as Nina, described how police responding to her home invasion were immediately called to another nearby incident.

"After they were taking the report about my home invasion, they got another call of another home invasion within a mile away. It's pretty scary," she said.

Residents said they hope the increased patrols and surveillance will lead to a long-term reduction in crime.

"I hope that the police get the support and resources they need," Logan said.

The private security company said the mobile surveillance unit will remain in the neighborhood for the foreseeable future at the request of the LAPD.