Police search for suspects in 70 salon burglaries

Authorities are searching for suspects who have pulled 70 burglaries at local hair and nail salons.

The burglaries have occurred in 31 suburbs scattered throughout DuPage, Lake and Cook counties and 16 in Chicago since August.

In Northbrook, there have been eight burglaries, with some salons hit twice. Police Chief Charles Wernick says video surveillance of a recent burglary indicates one of two thieves stayed in a car while the other entered the business and broke out the glass of the front door.

Authorities say the thieves tend strike between 8 p.m. and midnight, sometimes hitting multiple salons in the same night, stealing cash and jewelry and in once case a laptop.

In a recent interview with the Daily Herald, Lake County Undersheriff Raymond Rose said businesses owners should ensure they are using a burglar alarm and video surveillance systems to assist law enforcement. The public should report any suspicious activity by dialing 911, he said.

Covelli said business owners should also ensure businesses have ample lighting, use a secure safe to store cash and valuables when it's necessary to leave items overnight, reinforce door frames and windows, and make sure to use door locks with deadbolts.

"To reduce the risk of loss, remove cash and expensive valuables from your business every night," Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran said.

Since the burglaries started, several businesses have increased security and are posting "no cash overnight" signs on their salons.