Bloomingdale Plagued by String of Home Burglaries

News Report

The burglars were brazen.

They struck during the middle of the day when they could be readily seen by onlookers.

However, according to Detective James Howell, based at the Bloomingdale Community Substation on Erindale Drive, the criminals were counting on the fact that most people aren't home during the day and those that are aren't looking out for their neighbors' homes.

Howell told members of the Bloomingdale Community Association during its monthly meeting that he's investigating a string of home burglaries in Bloomingdale West. Burglars are gaining entry to the homes by breaking windows or patio doors. They then remove cash, jewelry and anything else of value from the home.

In one incident, he said, criminals forced their way into a home when an elderly woman in Bloomingdale West answered her door.

Some homeowners, though, make it easy for burglars. They leave their garage doors or back doors unlocked, allowing easy entry, said Howell. He noted that a number of bicycles have been stolen from unlocked garages.

He said burglars also have been known to follow around UPS trucks and then steal packages the drivers drop off at homes. To prevent this, he recommends that homeowners track all packages and make arrangements with UPS to deliver only when someone signs for the package.

Howell said it's also important for residents to be aware of who is in their neighborhood and report any suspicious activity including decriptions of vehicles and license plates. Call 813-247-8200.