CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- As they try to repair their homes and streets after the storms, people in Kanawha City are also trying to repair their sense of security.

Police say a string of home break-ins followed the violent weather pattern over the past week, hitting several streets in the area.

Thieves took advantage of the messy situation by targeting homes that had already been robbed of electricity and comfort.

"It's disgusting," community member Joy Redmond said. "I think it goes along with people who are stealing generators and ice and other things people need right now."

Brent Aikman, another resident, agreed. "We're trying to help our neighbors out because there are a lot of elderly folks that live around here," he said.

Police say houses along Venable Avenue, Virginia Avenue, and Kanawha Avenue were targeted, making four victims in total.

They say the break-ins started after the first storm hit more than a week ago -- leaving neighbors like Ronald Catersino on edge.

"I was fearful all last night because we're so vulnerable here," he said. "The majority of folks in my neighborhood are over 60."

Catersino says he's reluctant to use force against an intruder but would do so if threatened.

"I'm not the vigilante type," he said. "But I will protect myself and my home."

Neighbors hope police will catch the culprits -- but in the meantime, they say they'll lean on each other.

"It's sad," Redmond said. "You know, I've seen mostly a good sense of community during [the storms.] So it's hard to hear the bad side of things that are going on."

No arrests have been made in connection with the crimes yet, but Charleston Police told WSAZ.com they are investigating some leads.