Thieves stealing West Chicago sewer grates

Thieves have been stealing storm sewer grates throughout West Chicago, putting both pedestrians and bicyclists in danger, authorities said Monday.

Many of the thefts have occurred in the Hampton Hills and Westgrove subdivisions, officials said, but grates have been stolen throughout the community.

The missing grates present obvious safety hazards and residents are being asked to report any suspicious activity to police at (630) 293-2222.

When city crews remove grates for maintenance or repairs they always leave a barricade or other device to warn people.