Chicago businesses are once more grappling with the scourge of break-ins, with a slew of early morning burglaries reported in the 1st District throughout October. As described in a public notice issued by the Chicago Police Department (CPD), the affected areas encompass Beat 123 and Beat 131 with restaurants and businesses suffering at the hands of one or two unidentified male culprits.
The burglars, clad in hooded sweatshirts, dark-colored pants, surgical or ski masks, and gloves, have efficiently managed to silently break through windows and doors to pilfer cash registers and safes. According to CPD's reports, five incidents have occurred too close together to not appear related, striking the local community hard. The incidents were precisely timed, occurring in the near South Side and the Chicago Loop.
Specific incidents include the 1400 block of S. Michigan Ave on October 6th and the 0-100 block of E. Cermak Rd on October 10th, among others. Business owners are now urged to take precautionary measures including keeping areas well-lit and ensuring that doors and windows are secure to deter further incidents. Police have emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious activity, and have advised to avoid tampering with crime scenes should they fall victim to these burglaries.
The department has also encouraged those with video surveillance to diligently save and reproduce copies for investigators. For those fortunate enough to have witnesses on hand, the CPD has advised to immediately ask for contact information to aid in the investigation. In the meantime, the CPD is intensifying their efforts to trace down the perpetrators, urging any victims to call the police without delay.
