Sloan locked her car door more frequently after hearing that there was a ______ in the neighborhood.

The correct answer is "burglar," which refers to a person who illegally enters a building or property with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft. The context of the sentence suggests that Sloan's behavior of locking her car door more frequently is a reaction to the presence of criminal activity in her neighborhood.

Using the term "burglar" conveys the idea that there is a specific threat or concern about property crime in the area, prompting her increased caution. The other terms presented are variations or misspellings of "burglar," which do not hold the same meaning or relevance in this context. Proper terminology is essential in conveying a clear understanding of the situation, and "burglar" is the only one that accurately describes the person associated with the potential threat.