A recent string of burglaries in Chicago's 11th and 15th districts has put local business owners on high alert. The Chicago Police Department has released a community alert, detailing the method of operation for the crimes that have targeted area businesses, specifically implicating a group of up to five individuals.
The burglaries have been taking place with a similar pattern where an offender compromises the security gate lock and then shatters the front entryway to access the premises. Once inside, the assailant or assailants proceed to steal cash from registers and ATMs. Incidents have been reported on the 5200 block of W. Chicago on June 27, the 3900 block of W. Monroe between June 28/29, and the 4800 block of W. Fulton St on July 17, as detailed by the Chicago Police Department.
Officials have described the suspects as wearing hoodies, face masks, and gloves during these incidents. The authorities have also noted the presence of two individuals acting as lookouts during the crimes.
The Chicago Police Department has issued specific advice to individuals who may witness or be present during a burglary, "Never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide the information to the police," as per the Chicago Police Department. They also caution against resisting robbery attempts, emphasizing that personal safety is paramount over possessions. If approached by a witness, they ask for contact information to be collected and urge victims or witnesses to dial 9-1-1 immediately, while advising against touching anything that could compromise potential evidence until officers arrive on the scene.
