Buffalo Grove police warn of vehicle break-ins

After receiving reports of more than two dozen auto break-ins since April, Buffalo Grove police are urging residents to lock their vehicle doors.

In the vast majority of those cases, police say, the vehicles were left unlocked when burglarized.

"It is unfortunate to continually receive these types of calls because burglary to vehicles is a highly preventable crime," Deputy Chief Michael Szos said in a news release Monday. "We urge everyone to do all they can to avoid becoming a victim. This includes locking vehicles anytime it is not in use, making sure all windows are closed, and removing valuables from sight."

Police say Buffalo Grove's reputation as a safe community may be inadvertently aiding burglars.

"Due to Buffalo Grove's consistent placement in safest community rankings, residents may have a false sense of security believing crime does not happen here," Szos said.

Should a vehicle be broken into, police request residents call 911 immediately, prior to going through the car. This assists evidence technicians in the event that something of evidentiary value is left behind.