IRVINE

The burglar usually waits until the weekend to strike, entering a house through a rear window or back door during the evening hours.

Clothing and the homeowner’s personal items are scattered throughout the house as the thief searches for cash and other items, such as jewelry and laptop computers, that can be hauled off in a backpack.

The Police Department believes the same thief using this modus operandi has been responsible for a slew of burglaries in the village of Woodbridge since the beginning of the year.

Lt. Sam Allevato said there have been few clues to the thief’s identity, leaving police with no leads. The department is encouraging residents to take preventive steps.