By Mary O’KEEFE

Suspects who smash windows and grab prescription drugs have hit several pharmacies in La Crescenta, Glendale and Burbank. Law enforcement is asking for the public’s help with any information concerning these burglaries.

On Saturday at about 3 a.m., Los Angeles County Sheriff deputies from the Crescenta Valley Station responded to Walgreens in the 3000 block of Foothill Boulevard. They found the front windows had been shattered and several prescription drugs had been stolen, said Lt. Tuinstera.

The Walgreens burglary joined a growing list of pharmacies throughout the area that experienced a similar entry – shatter the windows in the front doors and head straight to the prescription drugs.

“We have been hit hard, and so have Glendale and Burbank,” said Sgt. Herman, CV Station.

Since June, over 12 pharmacies have been burglarized in the La Crescenta, La Cañada and Glendale areas. In the past eight weeks, six pharmacies have been burglarized in Burbank. Some have been small, family owned businesses that have been hit more than once.

“Three of the burglaries were in the same [pharmacy],” said Sgt. Darin Ryburn, Burbank Police Dept. spokesman.

Thousands of pills have been taken from these pharmacies. The types of medication include Vicodin, Oxycodone and other pain medications. These types of medication are often used for those who are addicted to heroin.

Law enforcement has little information on who is perpetrating these crimes. In Burbank there was one description of a suspect that is described as a male of unknown age wearing dark clothes and wearing a mask – not much to go on for law enforcement.

The burglaries usually occur during the early morning hours. If anyone has information on these crimes they are asked to contact law enforcement.

CV Sheriff Station can be called at (818) 248-3464 and Glendale police department (818) 548-4840. Burbank police can be reached at (818) 238-3140.

  Mary Okeefe