Residents of Chicago's 2nd District are on high alert after a series of burglaries shook the neighborhoods of Wentworth. Per a community alert issued by the Chicago Police, these recent incidents have involved unauthorized entry into apartments through doors and windows, with thieves making away with personal property. In a brazen twist, intruders have been known to remove window air conditioning units to gain access.
The burglaries occurred at three separate addresses: first on the 5300 block of South Ellis Ave. on June 27, then the 5300 block of South Greenwood Ave. between July 8 and 9, and most recently on the 5200 block of South Drexel Ave. on July 18. The break-ins have taken place at various hours, indicating no specific time targeting by the offender or offenders.
Authorities are advising community members to take proactive measures to secure their homes. Suggestions include maintaining well-lit property perimeters and ensuring windows and doors are locked securely. In the event of structural damages like broken windows or compromised locks, prompt repairs are recommended. For those with surveillance systems, retaining video footage of any suspicious activity can be invaluable to investigative efforts.
Community cohesion is also being encouraged as a deterrent. Neighbors are urged to forge agreements to keep an eye out on each others’ properties for any unusual occurrences. Victims are instructed to refrain from disturbing the crime scene and to contact the police immediately. Additionally, if a witness to any suspicious event is present, collecting their contact information could assist authorities.
