Police offer tips on protecting car, property from burglary

With the holiday shopping season approaching, the Naperville Police Department would like to take this opportunity to remind you how to protect your property and identity from thieves.

In September we issued a press release detailing an organized car and burglary /identity theft ring that has been dubbed the “Felony Lane Gang”. Since that release, seven additional vehicles have been targeted by this group in Naperville alone. Locations targeted by the thieves include church parking lots, swim and racquet clubs, park district facilities and fitness workout facilities.

The offenders observe drivers (usually women) leave their vehicles empty handed. Once the driver has entered whatever business they are visiting, the offenders force entry into the vehicle and take purses, wallets or other valuables.

As cautioned before, avoid being a victim! Never leave purses, wallets or any valuables inside your vehicle. If you must leave these items inside your vehicle, lock them in the trunk if your vehicle has one.

Additionally, leaving packages in your car as you shop from one location to the next may also invite thieves to target your vehicle. At the very least, keep packages in the trunk of your car or if your vehicle has no trunk, cover the items with a blanket or other item.

We hope these friendly reminders help you have a safe, enjoyable, and crime free holiday season.