19th Ward Residents Alerted To Rash Of Thefts From Unlocked Vehicles

CHICAGO — Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th) is alerting residents living in the 22nd Chicago Police District of a recent rash of thefts from unlocked cars.

Thieves are shaking door handles to determine if cars are locked. When they find an unlocked vehicle, they enter the car and steal everything inside. The thefts typically occur between midnight and 6 a.m.

Residents are strongly encouraged to keep car doors locked at all times and to report any suspicious behavior to 9-1-1 immediately.

Here are some tips to protect your vehicle and yourself from becoming a crime victim:

• Park in a garage, gated community or in a well-lit area,
• Don’t leave purses, wallets, phones, briefcases, bags or even a cup of change that could prove tempting to a potential door handle shaker or smash-and-grabber.
• If your vehicle is stolen, report it to police immediately. Be ready to provide the make, model, VIN number and call your insurance company immediately.