Burglars hit celebrity homes in California

LOS ANGELES, July 20 (UPI) -- Some of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Los Angeles have been targeted by a burglary crew that has reportedly robbed from multiple celebrities.

Although police didn't release the names of the victims, sources close to the investigation say among the homes burgled where those belonging to former Paramount Pictures chief Sherry Lansing and her Oscar-winning director husband, William Friedkin; Clippers basketball star Cuttino Mobley; Duran Duran guitarist John Taylor and his wife Juicy Couture president Gela Nash-Taylor; and country stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, The Los Angeles Times reported Friday.

Police said the group of two or three burglars has taken more than $7 million in cash, rare books and jewelry from more than 70 homes.

"It is a target-rich environment in the hills, and these guys know it and know the homes and area," Lt. Ray Lombardo, head of detectives in the LAPD's West Los Angeles Division, who is leading a task force pursuing the burglars, told the Times. "I hate to call them it but they're professionals. They aren't opportunists."