CENTREVILLE, Va. - A community is in fear after dozens of homes were burglarized by vandals seeking gold and other valuables. The bandits have struck dozens of homes since the summer.

Families of Indian decent in Loudon and Fairfax counties are growing more concerned over a rash of burglaries that don't appear to be random.

"It is completely out of control," said Jaye Sapre, a victim of one of the burglaries.

If the size of the town hall meeting with police Thursday night doesn't demonstrate the overwhelming fear, Jaye Sapre's emotional state definitely does.

"Oh they took everything," said Dinesh Sapre, "All my gold passed on from my grand mom, my mom."

She's not alone. More than 40 families have been burglarized in the past year and the problem seems to be intensifying. Four homes were hit Tuesday, and three more were hit Thursday. Most have been daytime break-ins when no one is home and the burglars have a keen appreciation for gold and knowledge of where to find it.

Raman Kumar, a victim of a burglary, shared, "Everyday it's very hard for us to sleep in our own house."

Items like gold religious statues and jewelry, including family heirlooms, are being snagged.

Sapre said, "It's really difficult for us. It's not about the money, it's about the sentiments."

The families are hoping law enforcement can step up and, they say, do more.

"This kind of thing happened in Texas," said Dinesh Sapre. "And they had a special force."

About that Fairfax County (web | news) Police Chief Dave Rohrer said, "We have a virtual task force here."

Police believe the burglars are reselling the stolen goods. Currently, gold is selling at $1,000 an ounce. In some cases, the thieves have stolen more than $100,000 worth of goods.

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