The Madison Police Department is investigating 36 residential burglaries that occurred in the Regent Street area since Sept. 1 where most victims are students, Public Information Officer Joel DeSpain said Thursday.
According to DeSpain, police have some concern these burglaries are being perpetrated by heroin addicts.
""We certainly do know we are dealing with this [heroin] epidemic,"" DeSpain said. ""There is at least the possibility that people who are committing these crimes are people trying to get money for heroin.""
Investigators indicated criminals have targeted laptop computers and other small electronics and, for the most part, usually make entry through unlocked doors, according to police.
DeSpain said when it was warmer weather, many burglars would cut through screen doors or climb through open windows.
""A lot of these addresses are off-campus housing and there are many times where students do not lock doors for one reason or another,"" DeSpain said. ""I would urge people to keep their doors locked and windows secured even when they are there.""
DeSpain said students should also hide laptop computers and other small electronics when they are away.
Police said burglaries have also occurred on Mound Street, North Breese Terrace, University Avenue and Lathrop Street.
DeSpain said police have made some arrests and there is a possibility some of the burglaries could be connected.
