SAN DIEGO — Flood victims in San Diego's southeast neighborhoods are dealing with yet another problem. Burglars are targeting their homes, as residents try to put their lives back together.
Ana Ramirez and her family had five feet of water flood their home in Shelltown. She and her sister are doing many of the repairs themselves.
"We've been doing it because it has to be done. My dad, he is 70, so I can't stand to see him out here working," she said.
Their home has been broken into twice. She said the thieves stole expensive tools and blowers being used to dry up the water.
"It's not right. You think, what person would do something like that to someone already going through so much?" she said.
People living on Birch Street near Southcrest Trails Park are also concerned.
"Before with the park, there was a lot of people gathering there, and now they know the houses are empty so they break into the houses," said Jaima.
CBS 8 reached out to San Diego Police Department, who sent the following statement:
"San Diego Police Southeastern Division has responded to some burglaries in the flood areas. The investigations are being conducted by Southeastern Detectives. Our Officers continue to give extra patrol to this area and have since the floods occurred. We ask the public to be alert and please report any crimes or suspicious activity to the police."
After experiencing two break-ins, Ana Ramirez would like to see more done.
"I tell them there's no one staying in these houses. You guys are aware of that so you all should be patrolling that. It's been my neighbors and sisters driving down here at night making sure no one is breaking in," she said.
WATCH RELATED: San Diego flood recovery efforts continue nearly two months after storm (March 18, 2024)