Burglars Will Spill Secrets at Local Safety Seminar

When it comes to break-ins, the only true experts are the ones behind the crime—burglars.

That's why local officials are bringing former thieves to an upcoming safety meeting aimed at combating a recent increase in the number of home burglaries in the area. The event will kick off the 18th district's "Lock Your Door" campaign, 43rd Ward Ald. Michele Smith said at a community meeting this past week.

"The No. 1 crime in our neighborhood is unforced entry … open doors and windows," she said Tuesday evening. "The  second most common is forced entry."

Police have issued several alerts in recent weeks regarding residential burglaries in the city's 18th policing district, most of which were in the Near North area.

As of Thursday, the 2013 burglary toll in the police beats that cover Lincoln Park had reached 97, according to city of Chicago data.

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The upcoming seminar will focus on three simple things every homeowner can do to decrease the risk of a break in, Smith says, as well as how neighbors can work more effectively together and with law enforcement officials.

A panel of former burglars will share their tips as part of the Chicago Police Department's "Keepin' It Real" program.

"Since I have taken office, public safety has been one of my top priorities," said Smith, who is a former federal prosecutor. "While overall crime in our ward continues to fall, I am not satisfied with our progress in all areas."

The meeting will be held April 17 on the second floor of the DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton Ave.

Want more police news?

• Police: Man Burglarized 4 Stores on Clybourn Corridor
• Where Burglars Hit Most in Lincoln Park (Heat Map)

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