Thieves in South Phila. breaking in through door mail slots

(CBS) Philadelphia - Thieves have hit upon a new m.o. in South Philadelphia this summer - breaking into homes in broad daylight by removing the front door mail slots, according to police. It's happened at least four times since mid-July, CBS Philly reports, most recently on Tuesday afternoon.

CBS Philly spoke with one victim who wished to remain anonymous, but said, "They unscrewed it and ripped it off. At the same time, they put their hand through to undo the dead bolt down at the bottom."

Police say that they received the first report on July 14, the second report on August 19, and the third report on August 30th. On Tuesday, a fourth victim called to report a similar crime.

Police have released surveillance video from one of the incidents and investigators believe a man seen on the tape speaking on the phone may be responsible for stealing more than $50,000 worth of jewels and high end watches.

After receiving an email alert and a notice that was distributed to the neighborhood on how to protect your home, a neighbor of one of the victims, Eric Rapp said, "I have to give a lot of credit to the Philadelphia Police. I think my wife and I are probably going to replace the entire door."

According to CBS Philly, the police alert outlined several ways to better protect your home, ending with this piece of advice: "The best thing you can do to prevent crime is to be alert, be safe, be smart and be neighborly. Keep an eye on your neighbor's home and ask that they do the same for you!"