Menlo Park Residents Perceive Rise in Burglaries Despite Decline in Incidents
Residents of Menlo Park, California, are expressing heightened anxiety over perceived increases in neighborhood burglaries, despite data showing a decline in such incidents. According to local police, the number of burglaries has decreased from 48 in early 2024 to 18 in the same period of 2026. However, the fear persists, fueled by social media and the targeting of wealthier neighborhoods. Residents are taking additional security measures, such as installing cameras and hiring private security. The perception of increased crime is attributed to the boldness of recent burglaries, often occurring in daylight and involving masked perpetrators.