Amberley Village police investigating series of home burglaries

AMBERLEY VILLAGE - Amberley Village police are investigating an increase in the amount of home burglaries.

On Tuesday, officers held a news conference on the most recent break-in where two suspects were caught while attempting to burglarize a home.

Police said a man was coming home when he saw two suspects attempting to take items out of the home on Fair Oaks Lane through the garage. The homeowner called police, who were able to track down the suspects.

Jason Michael Evans, 35, and Brandon S. Pyles, 31, have both been charged with burglary.

In November 2011, officers arrested Phillip Lovins, 26, while he was trying to break in to a house. Police said he had already burglarized two other homes before he was apprehended.

Police believe the suspects knock on the front door and walk around the home to see if anyone is home. Once they determine no one is home, they break a window or door in the rear of the home.

"First of all, don't have your children answer the door, especially if they're home alone," said Lt. Brian Blum.

Investigators want the community to call police when they have a stranger knock at their door, whether you answer the door or not. If you have older children, or children home with a babysitter, they want to encourage them not to answer the door for a stranger, and call police immediately.

If you have any information about these crimes, please call Crime Stoppers at (513) 352-3040. You don't have to give your name and you may be eligible for a reward if your tips lead to an arrest.