SYRACUSE -- Syracuse police say they have a busy burglar on their hands.

Since March 28, there have been 12 break-ins at businesses in the downtown area. Three law firms, a diner, an Armory Square restaurant, an optometrists, a hair salon, and a grocery store are all among the targets.

The thief has taken money, credit cards, and in some cases, electronics.

Police believe the same person is responsible for all the break-ins because they all happened downtown, all were over night, and there was forced entry involved.

Sgt. Tom Connellan with the Syracuse Police Department recommends all the businesses utilize their alarm systems and video surveillance equipment if possible. He said, "Sometimes, it may be a little bit of an expense, but sometimes a suspect will see that and it will deter them and go on to a different place. We're encouraging people to use anything at their disposal to try and prevent this type of thing."