Residents in the 003rd District (South Shore) of Chicago have been put on high alert as a series of motor vehicle thefts have plagued the area this March. According to a community alert issued by the Chicago Police Department, a number of legally parked vehicles have been stolen from several locations throughout the district. Reports have indicated that the thefts occurred under the cover of both night and day, with incidents recorded on the 7000 block of South Chappel Avenue, South Jeffery Boulevard, South Crandon Avenue, South Euclid Avenue, South Crieger Avenue, South Clyde Avenue, East 72nd St., and South Cornell Avenue.
The thefts, which have left community members anxious and seeking solutions, have prompted authorities to offer advice on how to better protect their vehicles. It's advised that citizens should not leave keys in their vehicles or allow their vehicles to run unattended, stepping up security precautions such as ensuring that doors and windows are locked can make a difference. The police urge the public to remain vigilant, immediately report suspicious activities, and pay close attention to any individuals loitering around parking areas, they're reminding Kia and Hyundai owners that they can get anti-theft steering wheel locks from their local CAPS office and that all residents have access to a program that etches special markings into their vehicle's catalytic converter, as detailed by the Chicago Police Department.
In the meantime, to aid in theft prevention and recovery, the Chicago Police Department has also announced that residents can be reimbursed for the cost of their GPS tracking devices by registering with the City.
