5 arrested in Chicago 'crash-and-grab' thefts

CHICAGO (AP) - Chicago police have announced arrests in connection with a series of burglaries that saw the use a vehicle to slam through front windows to gain access to loot.

Police officials said Tuesday more than 40 businesses were targeted, netting the thieves more than $2 million in merchandise.

Surveillance video recorded the thieves using stolen vehicles to crash into businesses before racing from the scene with merchandise. Police say the two-yearlong crime spree was the work of gang members.

The four men arrested were identified as 23-year-old Kenneth C. Greene, 24-year-old Jawon Sellers, 22-year-old Tommie Adams and 18-year-old Hershel Phillips. An unnamed juvenile was also arrested, and four other men are being sought.

Commander Eugene Roy says much of the stolen merchandise won't be recovered because the crew sold it quickly.