Crooks Target Garages in Auburn Gresham and Washington Heights

Crooks have been raiding garages in the Auburn Gresham and Washington Heights neighborhoods.

The 22nd Police District is warning of a recent spate of garage burglaries, particularly in beat 2221.

Thieves are entering garages through the overhead door either by force or after a homeowner left it open, police said.

Once inside, thieves took tools and yard equipment. The area being targeted includes the blocks of 8700-9100 from Marshfield to Laflin.

The locations of the reported burglaries include:

• 9000 block of South Laflin, May 18
• 8700 block of South Justine, May 19
• 8700 Block of South Marshfield (two garages), May 22

Police offer the following tips to avoid becoming a crime victim:

• Secure and lock garage doors and vehicles parked inside.
• Keep gates locked and yard fences secure.
• Consider installing motion activated lighting in your yard.
• Install alarm system or security cameras on your property.
• Keep a record of serial numbers, make and model numbers of lawn mowers, snow blowers and other yard equipment.
• Notify a neighbor, relative or friend when you’re going to be out of town.
• Call 911 immediately and provide a detailed description of any suspicious people, including any vehicle description and license plate information.
• Inform your neighbors about the robberies.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to please call the Area South Property Crimes Unit at 312-747-8273.