A wave of thefts targeting work vans has prompted the Chicago Police Department to issue a community alert. Captured on surveillance footage, a crew has been seen breaking into vans to steal valuable tools, a warning that has sent ripples of concern through several Chicago neighborhoods.
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Over the course of just two days, Tuesday and Wednesday, at least ten vehicles have fallen prey to these thieves, according to police reports. The footage released by authorities clearly shows the culprits transferring boxes loaded with equipment from the targeted vans into their getaway vehicle.
The strategy employed by these criminals involves using cutting tools or saws to forcibly open van locks, revealing the calculated and brazen nature of these break-ins.
The rash of thefts has occurred at various times and locations, with one such incident reported in the North Center neighborhood. At 8:18 a.m. on November 25, the crew struck on the 2300 block of West Cullom, marking yet another point on their spree.
The crimes happened at the following times and locations, according to police:
-2300 block of W Cullom on November 25 at 8:18 a.m. (North Center)
-4500 block of N Seeley on November 25 at 8:30 a.m. (Ravenswood)
-4500 block of N Seeley on November 25 at 8:30 a.m. (Ravenswood)
-4000 block of N Clarendon on November 25 at 7 p.m. (Uptown)
-2000 block of W Barry on November 26 at 8:41 a.m. (Lakeview)
-1900 block of W Melrose on November 26 at 8:50 a.m. (Roscoe Village)
-1900 block of W Fletcher on November 26 at 8:52 a.m. (West Lakeview)
-3100 block of N Clifton on November 26 at 9:22 a.m. (Lake View East)
-3700 block of N Racine on November 26 at 9:27 a.m. (Wrigleyville)
-4500 block of N Clarendon on November 26 at 10:50 a.m. (Uptown)
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