A Hanover Park cleaning woman faces charges after being accused of filching over $20,000 in jewelry from various clients' homes in the Glen Ellyn area. Sandy Hernandez, 38, has been charged with three counts of Residential Burglary, a Class 1 Felony, after an investigation tied her to the thefts. Despite the serious allegations, a court has ruled that Hernandez will not be detained before her trial, with certain restrictions set in place, such as prohibitions on working in private residences and any contact with the victims.
According to the DuPage County State’s Attorney's Office, the alleged thefts came to light when a series of Glen Ellyn residents reported missing jewelry between December 2024 and January 2025. The stolen items ranged from a Cartier ring and charm necklaces to engagement and wedding bands, some with significant sentimental, as well as monetary value. The total worth of the items reported missing amounted to an estimated $20,400. An investigation by authorities eventually pointed the finger at Hernandez, who had been employed to clean the houses from where the jewelry had vanished.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin highlighted the alleged abuse of trust that occurred, saying, "It is alleged that Ms. Hernandez used her employment as a cleaning woman to gain access to her victims’ homes, and once inside, stole thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry." Berlin took the opportunity to remind the public of the caution necessary when allowing strangers into one's home, advising to inquire about work experience, insurance coverage and to request references.
Glen Ellyn Chief of Police Philip Norton emphasized the importance of the collaborative effort between the police department and the State’s Attorney’s Office that led to Hernandez’s apprehension. "The hard work and cooperation between the Glen Ellyn Police Department and the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office once again resulted in a successful apprehension of a suspect, allegedly committing crime in our communities," Norton stated. Hernandez is scheduled to appear before Judge Joseph Bugos on May 5, 2025.
