Sheriff's officials investigating home burglaries in Ottawa, Eagle

WAUKESHA COUNTY -- Waukesha County Sheriff's officials say they're investigating a number of residential burglaries in the Town of Ottawa and Town of Eagle.

Officials say most of the burglaries have involved suspects entering the homes through unlocked doors overnight. In some cases, screens were cut.

The most recent burglaries have occurred on Waterville Road. Officials say nine homes and cars were targeted Tuesday night in the areas of Waterville Road, Ulrickson Road and Piper Road. The burglaries began last week.

Jack Stollenwerk told FOX6 News Wednesday his sense of privacy and security was stolen after a thief broke into his home while he was sleeping. The thief also hit his motor home.

"You feel violated. My wife started looking around and saw her briefcase was moved to the office and the contents were taken out. He got in through the office door. We normally leave our doors unlocked. I had some card playing money -- 50 bucks, mostly singles, and that's gone," Stollenwerk said.

Neighbor Nancy Schwanz said she's on edge after someone tried to get into her home.

"Our screen doors were left opened. The stopper was propped open so the door would not close, or we wouldn't hear the door closing. All three of them were left open," Schwanz said.

Officials are beefing up patrols in the area, and urging residents to be on alert and call authorities regarding any suspicious activity. Sheriff's officials also encourage residents to lock their doors -- especially in the evening hours and overnight.

"The awareness of everyone is ten-fold. It's probably going to change our lives," Stollenwerk said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Waukesha County Sheriff's Office at (262) 548-7122.