Stonington — Police said Tuesday that three more Pawcatuck homes were burglarized in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to seven that have been the target of break-ins in Pawcatuck in less than a week.

While the town had a total of 83 burglaries last year, it is unusual to have so many in such a short period of time.

Police said Tuesday that unoccupied homes near Pawcatuck Middle School and on upper Liberty Street were targeted in this latest round of burglaries. The news came after police said last week that four homes on Courtland Street, Field Street and Lathrop Avenue were broken into late Wednesday night.

Police Capt. Jerry Desmond said the burglaries took place in homes that appeared to be unoccupied, and the burglar or burglars forced their way inside.

"It seems to be that they were looking for vacant homes," he said.

Desmond said household items, cash and valuables were taken. He said there was a good possibility the burglaries are connected. He said extra officers are being assigned to patrols areas where the break-ins occurred.

Desmond urged residents to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity they see, even if it seems minor, to police at (860) 599-4411.

He said some residents who live near the recently targeted homes later told police they saw something unusual but did not think much of it at the time. Desmond said such information reported immediately could help police apprehend the burglars.

The police department sent out email alerts about the burglaries to residents and businesses Tuesday afternoon and fielded calls from concerned residents.

Desmond also urged residents to take steps to not only secure their homes but to also record serial numbers and take photographs of their valuables in case they are stolen. This measure will help police track the items if they are stolen.