Waukegan cops say churches seen as easy targets in burglary spree

Crucifixes and electronics were among the items Waukegan police say were stolen in a string of church burglaries and vandalism not believed to have any connection to religion.

Waukegan police Cmdr. Joe Florip said Wednesday investigators believe the churches were hit in the burglary and vandalism spree that began March 22 because the buildings were viewed as easy prey. He said investigators have placed a high priority in solving the crimes and hope to receive the community's assistance.

"Hey, this is our community," Florip said. "We live here. We work here. We worship here."

Forced entry was made at each church. Florip, who declined to name the churches per standard police procedure in burglary cases, said stolen items included computers, printers, crucifixes, candlestick holders and cash.

Police said the first of the four burglaries occurred the evening of March 22 and was reported the next day at a church in the 400 block of Keller Road. Florip said that church, where a metal filing cabinet was pried open, sustained damage such as shattered windows and broken doors.

Authorities said the three other churches were burglarized and vandalized Sunday evening and discovered Monday. They are in the 1000 block of Indiana Avenue, the 400 block of North McAree Road and the 1500 block of North McAree.

Florip said the churches are open, inviting places and that likely made them desirable for those involved the burglaries and vandalism.

"We don't see it as a crime against religion," he said. "It was a crime against soft targets."

Waukegan police have increased patrols and will focus on all religious venues, officials said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Waukegan police tip line at (847) 360-9001.