Bridgeport police are stepping up patrols in the North End following a rash of area burglaries – including a break-in at City Councilwoman Mary McBride Lee's home.

McBride Lee tells News 12 Connecticut that the burglar – or burglars – trashed the house and made away with thousands of dollars' worth of her property, including a new computer, a television and jewelry. Police say the burglar got into McBride Lee's home by pushing out an air conditioning unit and climbing in through a window.

"Even though I wasnt here, I just feel violated," says McBride Lee, who met with Bridgeport Police Chief AJ Perez Thursday morning.

Perez says there have been several break-ins in the North End over the past two weeks. He increased patrols as a result.

Police say a camera system and burglar alarm are the best defenses when protecting your home.