Uptick In Burglaries Reported In Oak Lawn

OAK LAWN, IL -- Police are investigating several residential burglaries that have happened throughout Oak Lawn since March 1. The burglaries have happened mostly during the daytime hours while homeowners have been away. Residents are asked to be alert and report any suspicious vehicles or persons trolling around their neighborhoods.

According to Oak Lawn police, the burglars have been getting into residences primarily through unlocked rear windows and doors. In one of the burglaries, home surveillance video from a nearby neighbor shows a possible suspect knocking on the door and then return to his vehicle after receiving no answer. The suspect returned to the same residence moments later with an accomplice, who managed to get into the home and burglarize it.

The burglaries are under investigation and police are working to determine if it’s the same people committing the burglaries. In several of the burglaries, a silver Kia Optima with at least two occupants was used. In other burglaries, a late model gray GMC pick-up truck was spotted.

A common tactic used by these knuckleheads is to knock on the door or ring the doorbell to see if someone is home. Should someone answer the door, the would-be burglars will say they have the wrong address or make up a story about why they are there.

What residents can do to help:

• Call 911 if you see unfamiliar cars or persons trolling your neighborhood. You’re not bothering police.
• Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you are home. It is also wise to keep your storm door locked, especially when answering the door and there is a stranger outside.
• Make sure locks on windows are in working order, especially those windows that cannot be seen on the street.
• When leaving your home for work or a day trip, make sure all the lower level windows and doors are locked.

Police have released a photo of a vehicle used in one of the burglaries. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oak Lawn Police Department at 708-422-8292.