Car Thefts, Burglaries Addressed By Lemont Police

LEMONT, IL — With the recent theft of two vehicles in Lemont, police are advising residents of the situation and to always lock your cars. Police said two unlocked cars were stolen in neighborhoods along I-355, and several cars had items stolen from them. According to police, the thefts are committed by juveniles who travel the interstate system victimizing the communities close to interchanges.

"We typically see these crews in the months leading up to Christmas," police said in a notification to the community. "This year, we have been hit twice in the last month."

Police said the thieves only target unlocked vehicles and they grab what is accessible. They also only use stolen cars to travel from town to town, and will commit crimes in several suburbs during one night. They occasionally steal vehicles if they find keys inside the vehicle, and use those stolen vehicles for their raids on the days immediately following the theft.

In the case in Lemont, when the two vehicles were stolen, other cars were also burglarized. Police said in the first incident, one other car was burglarized. In the second case, four other cars were entered and items were taken from one of the cars.

Police said they will be increasing presence in the neighborhoods targeted by these crews, and ask residents to assist in protecting your possessions. Residents should always locked cars that are parked outside overnight; close the garage door; and do not leave keys inside an unattended vehicle. If you observe any individuals who you don’t recognize from the neighborhood, contact the police by dialing 911.

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