Chicago's 12th District neighborhoods, including Goose Island, Ukrainian Village, East Village, Fulton Market District, and Pilsen, are on alert following a series of commercial burglaries. According to a business alert issued by the Chicago Police Department, multiple businesses have been targeted by an individual who's been breaking in primarily via the front glass doors using objects or prying open rear doors with a crowbar.
The incidents, which began on September 24, have all occurred in the early morning hours. In each case, after gaining entry, the offender heads straight for the cash register, removes the cash, and flees the scene—often taking the entire register if it cannot be opened onsite. Empty registers later turn up in nearby alleys. The suspect is described as a male, aged between 18 to 39, standing between 5'00" and 6'00" tall, weighing 200 - 250 lbs, with a medium brown complexion, and has been seen wearing a variety of clothing that includes orange baseball caps, black ski masks, and different hooded sweatshirts.
Business owners within the mentioned neighborhoods are urged to keep their properties well-lit and secure all entries. The Police Department advised, "If video surveillance is available, save and make a copy of the incident for investigating detectives." They also recommend that any suspicious activity should be reported immediately to law enforcement, and if a crime has occurred, to avoid touching anything and call the police immediately. Adding to this, they suggest soliciting contact information from any witnesses present.
As the investigation continues, community members and nearby businesses are being encouraged to remain vigilant. The Police Department's notice lays out basic preventative measures: keeping the perimeter of your property well-lit, being aware of this crime, and notifying nearby businesses. The list of precautionary actions businesses can take extends to include repairing any broken windows, doors, or locks. These tips aim to reduce the chances of further theft while the culprit remains at large.
