Hinsdale Sees Rash of Car Break-Ins

The accompanied its fifth report of a car burglary in the last two weeks with a statement advising residents to be more conscientious when leaving a parked car.

The latest vehicle burglary took place in the Katherine Legge Memorial Parking Lot on Tuesday between 7:35 a.m. and 8 a.m. According to police, an unknown suspect broke through a passenger-side window and stole a female victim's purse, filled with credit cards that were unused as of the time of the report.

Tuesday's break-in came after four other similar incidents were reported by police in less than two weeks. , one occurred , and another car was burglarized in the Veeck Park parking lot July 13.

In four of the incidents, according to police, there has been forced entry through a window by way of a foreign object or a "center-punch." Purses and credit cards seem to be the primary target of the burglar(s). 

"The Hinsdale Police Department is urging residents to not only lock their vehicles when left unoccupied, but also to conceal valuables including purses, wallets, and electronics," a police department release read. "The target of this two-week crime pattern has been predominantly purses that were left visible from the outside of the car."

Police say similar break-ins are being reported in nearby communities such as Burr Ridge, Downers Grove, Westmont, and LaGrange Park.

"Suspects in the cases remain unknown at this time as the investigation continues," the release read.

The department encourages anyone who observes someone displaying unusual or suspicious behavior to call 9-1-1 with a description of the perons, including his or her clothing, height, gender, and race.

To report a suspicious vehicle, note the color, make, style, and/or license plate.

Any questions can be directed to the Hinsdale Police Department Investigations Division at 630-789-7080.