Several Vehicle Burglaries Reported in Romeoville

The Romeoville Police Department is investigating several burglaries that have been reported recently by residents, according to an incident release from the department.

Many of the burglaries reported were in response to items taken from a car. On Aug. 28, a laptop, backpack, briefcases, cell phone and hunting knives were taken from two unlocked vehicles on the 100 block of Arcadia in Romeoville.

On Sept. 3, three pairs of leather chaps were taken from an unlocked vehicle on the 1000 block of Essington Lane.

But burglars don’t just hit up cars. On Sept. 3 and Sept. 4 someone made off with a BMX-style bike from two homes on the 500 block of Kingston and 600 block of Montrose.

Romeoville Police Commander John Ferdinardo said people can stop crimes from happening by simply locking their car doors or parking their vehicle in the garage if they have one.

“And take out all visible items you might have in your car,” he said. “If someone walks by your car and sees your cell phone, a laptop case or something like that, it gives them more of an opportunity to try to take it.”

For those who are looking to secure their home, Ferdinardo said people should make sure all their doors and windows are locked.

“At night, make sure all your outdoor lights are on,” he said. “I know some people like to turn them off, but it lights your house up and makes it harder for people to sneak around.”

For those who are concerned about the security of their home while on vacation, Ferdinardo said people can sign up at the department to have their home checked on while they’re away.

Other recent burglaries in Romeoville include:

Aug. 30

A burglary from motor vehicle was reported in the 300 block of Elmwood Road. Someone entered an unlocked vehicle that was parked in the driveway and took $5.00 worth of miscellaneous groceries.

Sept. 5

A burglary from motor vehicle was reported in the 1200 block of West Normantown Road. Someone broke the window of a vehicle and took the touchscreen radio. Total estimated cost of the item and to repair the damage is $500.

Sept. 6

An attempted residential burglary was reported in the 500 block of Fair Meadows. Someone pried the window lock open in an attempt to enter the property.

Sept. 9

A burglary from motor vehicle was reported in the 200 block of Hemlock. Someone entered the vehicle and took $40 in change.

A burglary from motor vehicle was reported in the 0-100 block of Abbeywood.Someone entered the vehicle and took $15.00 in change.

A theft over motor vehicle parts was reported in the 0-100 block of East Montrose Drive. Someone took a catalytic converter from a vehicle. Estimated cost of the part is $700.

Residents should be sure to lock their car and not leave anything of value within it or on their lawn.