The Chicago Police Department is warning locals in the 2nd District (Wentworth) of a spate of motor vehicle thefts that have residents up in arms. According to an alert posted on the department's website, these crimes have been concentrated on Beat 235, where unsuspecting car owners have returned to find their spots empty. Those affected found themselves carless after parking legally, an unsettling pattern that has the community on high alert.
The thieves seem to have no particular taste, striking various models of cars across the area. Getting specific, the alert detailed incidents including two from the 1100 block of East Midway Plaisance, one happening on January 19 between 2:00 p.m. and 2:45 p.m., while another was between 9:00 p.m. the same day extending to the morning of January 20 at 11:00 a.m.
CPD recommends the use of anti-theft devices and GPS tracking, with a special nod to Kia and Hyundai owners who can swing by local CAPS offices for a complimentary steering wheel lock. Amping up community defense, the CPD promises reimbursement for GPS devices for those who register with the city, an initiative targeted at snaring thieves with a digital net.
Residents are urged to keep an eagle eye out for odd behavior and to dial 911 without delay when it comes to suspicious characters. According to a Chicago Police Department alert, cops emphasize the importance of reporting detailed descriptions of any potential culprits or their cars.
