A woman woke up and was confronted by four burglars.
Police said one of the men, who entered the house in Coalville, was believed to be carrying a gun.
The incident happened at the woman's home in Cropston Drive, Greenhill, at 6.45am on Saturday.
The woman was woken by her dog barking downstairs.
She went to investigate and found the men stealing items including her television.
Police said she was frightened but unharmed.
Neighbour Samantha Bentham said neighbours were shocked by the incident.
The 34-year-old said: "We just can't believe it. This woman was confronted in her own home by these men.
"The family has a bull mastiff dog, so who would take that on?''
Mum-of-three Samantha: said: "It is normally really quiet round here, so it was a real shock when the police told us what had happened.
"They asked me if I had seen or heard anything but I hadn't.
"We will be making sure all our doors and windows are firmly locked every night in future."
Detective Constable Luke Brooks said: "This was a frightening incident for the victim.
"Fortunately, incidents of this nature are extremely rare in Leicestershire.
"We are taking the report very seriously and are determined to identify those responsible.
"The television that was stolen has a vertical scratch down the centre of the screen.
"If anyone knows someone who has acquired a similar television since Saturday, we would like to speak to them as soon as possible."
Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
