In Wentworth, a noticeable increase in motor vehicle thefts has led to an urgent call for vigilance among residents. Parked vehicles have fallen victim to theft or attempted theft, causing damage to their steering columns, according to a community alert issued by the Chicago Police Department.
Occurrences of such crimes have been reported in various locations within the district, including the 5100 and 5300 blocks of South Indiana Ave., the 200 block of East 56th St., the 5200 block of South Calumet Ave., and the 5400 and 5500 blocks of South Indiana Ave. These incidents have taken place between September 6th and 15th, 2023.
As a response to the surge in motor vehicle thefts, local authorities have provided residents with a catalogue of preventative measures they can take. To begin with, they advise against leaving keys in the vehicle or allowing it to run unattended. Moreover, the installation and activation of anti-theft devices, as well as parking in well-lit and frequently traveled areas, is recommended according to the police department's community alert.
Furthermore, residents are urged to report any suspicious activity or individuals immediately, take the initiative to keep their vehicles secured through locked doors and windows, and foster a sense of collective awareness and cooperation among their neighbors. Reporting any theft or suspicious activity should be done promptly by calling 911 and providing detailed descriptions of the offenders, as well as any information on the vehicle in question, particularly license plate numbers.
In an effort to provide assistance to car owners in the area, the police department has also offered Kia and Hyundai owners the option to obtain anti-theft steering wheel locks from their local CAPS offices. In addition, residents can apply for reimbursement of the cost of their GPS tracking devices, providing that they register with the City.
