Residents of Chicago's 18th District are on high alert following a series of forcible entry burglaries that have rattled the Near North community. The Chicago Police Department issued a community alert, advising locals, particularly on beats 1811 and 1813 of the disturbing pattern.
According to the community alert, the suspects, described as a male dressed in a hooded sweatshirt, grey pants, black gym shoes, and black gloves, have been targeting residential areas. The individual has been seen climbing fences surrounding properties and gaining access to houses and garages by using a pry tool to break locks or by kicking in doors. There was one incident reported where, purloining valuables and a sense of security, the resident was home during the break-in.
The Chicago Police detailed three incidents, all occurring on Thursday, September 19, 2024: the first at 1:40 A.M. on the 1900 block of N. Sheffield Ave., a second at 1:45 P.M. on the 1900 block of N. Orchard St., and a third at 8:00 P.M. on the 1700 block of N. Burling St. These events have prompted increased vigilance among community members.
CPD urges residents to remain vigilant and to alert family and friends in the area. They recommend special attention to suspicious individuals surveying the property and advise remaining calm if confronted. In a statement obtained by the Chicago Police Department's community alert, "If you are a victim, try not touch anything and contact the police immediately." They also encourage witnesses or victims to call 911, providing detailed descriptions of offenders and any vehicle information.
