Chicago's business community is on high alert as a spate of commercial burglaries has struck multiple neighborhoods within the 1st District. As reported by the Chicago Police Department, the affected areas include Central Station, Near South Side, Printer's Row, and Motor Row District. The thieves, described as one to two male subjects donned in hooded sweatshirts and masks, have systematically targeted businesses, breaking in and swiftly cleaning out cash registers and safes.
The incidents occurred under cover of darkness, between the early morning hours of 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., spanning dates from October 6 to October 26. To quickly respond, business owners are advised to keep their property well-lit and to not ever hesitate in reporting suspicious activities. Doors and windows should be secured, with immediate repairs to any points of entry that may be compromised.
Specific instances of these crimes were reported at several locations, including the 1400 block of S. Michigan Ave and the 0-100 block of E. 16th St. Further burglaries took place on the 500 block of S. Dearborn St and the 0-100 block of E. Cermak Rd, with the latest incident on the 1500 block of S. Wabash Ave. The CPD's description of the offenders might provide leads, but as of now, they remain at large.
The Chicago Police Department urges those whose businesses have been violated to preserve the crime scene and contact them immediately. Additionally, they recommend maintaining video surveillance and to always keep a copy of the footage on hand for investigators. In case witnesses are present, owners should secure their contact information for future reference.
