5 Cars Burglarized, One Stolen in Western Springs

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL — Five cars have been burglarized and one has been stolen since July 25 in Western Springs, according to police.

Two car burglaries took place between 9 p.m. July 25 and 7 a.m. July 26 in the 5000 block of Lawn Avenue.

Two other car burglaries took place between 9 p.m. July 25 and 7 a.m. July 26 in the 5000 block of Woodland Avenue, and one happened between 9 p.m. July 25 and 7 a.m. on July 26 in the 5100 block of Central Avenue, police reported.

The burglar or burglars got into the cars through unlocked doors and took a cell phone, jewelry, cash and personal identification.

The car theft occurred between 8 p.m. July 26 and 8 a.m. July 26 in the 800 block of Elm Street. The car thief got into the car through an unlocked door and found the keys on the center console.

Western Springs police offer the following tips to prevent crimes like these:

• Keep all vehicle doors and windows closed and locked at all times, even during quick errands. Lock the trunk, hatchback or tailgate to block access into your vehicle. Close all vents or wing windows and sunroofs. Always take your keys with you.
• If your vehicle has a built in security system, use it. If you don't have a security system installed, it is worth the investment. It may also qualify you for a discount on your auto insurance.
• Remove visible items (cash, wallet, purse, MP3 players, IPods and cell phones) from the vehicle or place them in the trunk. If you leave items visible in your vehicle, you are a target. Don't forget that GPS system, as these portable devices are targets too.
• Park your vehicle in an area that is visible to the public and well-lit at night. If possible, park your vehicle in the garage. If garage parking is not available, park your vehicle in the driveway and install motion-sensor security lighting on your home.

Be a good neighbor:

• A person looking into parked vehicles may be looking for a vehicle to steal or valuables left in plain view inside.
• The sound of breaking glass or car alarm could mean a vehicle break-in.
• Any vehicle without lights at night, cruising slowly, or following a course that seems aimless or repetitive is suspicious in any location. Occupants may be "casing" for a burglary.
• A person walking around pulling on car door handles may be looking for unlocked vehicles to steal from.

Western Springs residents are asked to call 9-1-1 about suspicious activity. If anyone has any information about these crimes, contact the Western Springs Investigative Division at (708) 246-8540.

Published July 26, 2016.