DPD Searches For Vandalism Suspects Caught In The Act

DENVER (CBS4) - Denver police are looking for three vandalism suspects caught in the act by surveillance cameras in the University Park neighborhood.

The area was becoming a target for crime, so homeowners did something about it and they're fighting back. They have banded together and now there's real evidence for police.

There has been a series of vandalism and garages have been targeted by burglars.

"I think that's great. I think we all should be looking out for each other and I'm all for it," resident Kristen Del Calzo said.

"I love it, I love it. In fact I was thinking about doing the same thing," resident Shawn Schmidt said about installing cameras.

Three boys were caught on video Saturday night between 10:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. They are all white, tall and lean with short haircuts. They tried to force entry into a locked gate. One suspect used paint to cover what he thought was a camera.

"We were a bit shocked. A little chill went up our spine that someone had the gall to, while we're home, attempt to get into our backyard and our gate, and obviously who knows how far they would've gone," the homeowner who installed the cameras told CBS4. He preferred not to be identified.

Denver police appreciate the neighborhood efforts.

"I don't think any of us can ever assume we're not on camera. And it's not a bad thing if you're doing the right thing," Sonny Jackson with Denver police said.

The surveillance video is now part of the investigation and police want help identifying the boys.

When it comes to helping police fight crime, Denver police say don't think about getting physical, just be the best witness and call the authorities.