Norwich – Police are investigating a string of residential burglaries that they say specifically targeted residents of ethnic Indian descent.

Since July 2013, Norwich police said "up to three" burglaries were reported in which the perpetrator forced entry into a home through sliding glass patio doors or other doors at the rear of the building. In each incident, gold jewelry and cultural artifacts were stolen.

In a statement, police said similar burglaries have been reported "along the eastern seaboard from Maine to New Jersey," including other in New London County.

Detectives are reminding residents who will be away from home for several days to lock their homes, activate alarm systems and have friends or family members check on their residence periodically. Vehicles with out-of-state license plates, particularly from New York and New Jersey, and unfamiliar individuals seen in and around a neighbor's property should be noted, police said.

Anyone with information regarding these crimes or other criminal activity can call Norwich Police Detectives at (860) 892-2892 or leave an anonymous tip at (860) 886-5561 ext. 500.