Eugene, OR. — Recent burglaries targeting Asian American households and business owners have prompted community meetings and official condemnation from local leaders.
According to OPB, at least “10 households owned by Asian American residents” were burglarized in Eugene in the past year, with investigators saying the incidents appear to be “part of a coordinated pattern of burglaries across the West Coast.” Police said that “burglars have taken jewelry, cash, and family heirlooms,” often when “nobody was home.”
Eugene Police Lt. Chris Mackey said investigators “believe there may be a group traveling throughout the West Coast targeting Asian families.” Victims told OPB that they felt singled out. “They know exactly where the money and gold are,” said Eugene resident Jenny Yang, whose home was burglarized.
The pattern of break-ins has extended to local businesses. During a community forum hosted in October, business owners described the fear and financial toll. As reported by OPB, one speaker said, “It’s not just the money, it’s the feeling of being unsafe in your own community.”
In response, the Lane County Board of Commissioners issued a statement on November 4, writing, “We stand in solidarity with our Asian American neighbors and business owners who have been targeted by recent organized burglaries. These crimes are not just attacks on property, they are assaults on the sense of safety and belonging that every member of our community deserves.”
The statement continued, “Acts that single out any group because of their identity have no place in Lane County. We denounce bias, intimidation, and exploitation in all forms, and we reaffirm our commitment to building a community rooted in respect, trust, and belonging.”
Chair David Loveall signed the release on behalf of the board, concluding: “There is no place for hate in Lane County.”
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