Businesses in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood of Chicago are on high alert after a series of commercial burglaries. The Chicago Police Department has issued a warning about an individual breaking into local establishments, specifically targeting restaurants. The alert details incidents where the burglar used rocks to shatter glass doors and gain entry, seeking cash and valuables once inside.
The recent string of break-ins all occurred in the early morning hours between Wednesday and Thursday. Addresses affected include the 8000 block of S. Ashland Ave, the 300 block of W. 79th St., the 400 block of E. 83rd St, and the 8300 block of S. Holland Rd. The suspect has been described as an African American male, clothed in all black with a black skull cap and gloves. He was also seen carrying a backpack in two of the surveillance videos.
Chicago Police are advising business owners to take precautions to secure their properties. Recommended measures include maintaining a well-lit perimeter, being vigilant of suspicious activities, and ensuring all points of entry are properly secured. Businesses are also encouraged to repair any damages promptly and to work their surveillance systems to cover potential points of entry.
For those unfortunate to fall victim to these crimes, the CPD urges not to interfere with the crime scene and to contact the police immediately. Business owners are also encouraged to leave empty cash registers open and visible, as a deterrent to potential theft. To assist with any ongoing investigations, it is important for businesses to have functioning video surveillance and to provide footage to the detectives if a break-in occurs.
