This is not news. But, yes it does help the Patch make it look like they are providing a service.

Bill, I received multiple emails, in-box messages on the Elmhurst Patch Facebook page, text messages and other communications from neighbors in the area of the search who wanted to know if a criminal was on the loose or if their families were in danger. It is news to them.

This is info especially considering when you called the Police Dept. the POLICE DEPT. would NOT tell us what was going on in our neighborhood. When squad cars with light flashing, etc. are placed on Fairfield/Adams, Hawthorne/Adams, Fairfield/Jackson, Fairfield/VanBuren, Hawthorne/VanBuren. One would expect an explanation wanting to know if it was 'safe' to be at home.
This is the same police dept. that would respond to domestic matters, confirm my ex-husband was a threat though do nothing because any issue revolving around a divorce is for the court system. Where are those squad cars when my ex sits in his car on the corner watching "stalking" our lives? Oh, right, it's a public street; the police did nothing; still do nothing.

@ Bill This is news! Sorry Elmhurst isn't a high crime area, but when numerous cops, dog and spotlight are scouring a neighborhood---it's news hers. Unsubscribe or don't read the Patch. BTW, there were multiple FB posts regarding this from concerned citizens but police wouldn't say if this this was a dangerous situation, so thanks Patch for telling what really happened.

@ Bill - this is news! Sorry Elmhurst isn't a high crime area, but when numerous cops, dog and spotlight are scouring a neighborhood---it's news here. Unsubscribe or don't read the Patch. BTW, there were multiple FB posts regarding this from concerned citizens but police wouldn't tell anyone if this this was a dangerous situation or not, so thanks Patch for telling what really happened.

I dont think the cops should tell you what they are doing - you may be the guy they are looking for or maybe you will tell they guy who they are looking for.

Bravo Karen! You do a wonderful job with the Patch and this (including your breaking news email) is an example. We are fortunate in Elmhurst to have someone doggedly pursue items like this because this IS a part of the news in town. Keep up the good work.

Concerned, I would agree that there are times when our Police Department washes their hands of problems and takes a hands off approach.

. Over concern for liability has made them very conservative and cautious. It can be very frustrating. I suggest that you direct your thoughts to our new Police Chief Ruth. He is a very responsive person who strongly gives the impression of a very positive direction for the Police Department. He listens, is down to earth and friendly, while striking me as extremely professional. It must be a difficult road to walk, standing up for both the Policeman's individual preferences while at the same time embracing the public's concerns. In this day when we speak of quasi-military Police, drones, etc, the public has a right to legitimate concern. Elmhurst is blessed with many exceptional Police Officers and just a few that I wonder about.
I do have to wonder if this was just a teenager acting out in a stupid but non-criminal way. Although many Police present can seem like overkill, it does send a message that when Police are needed, the response will be aggressive. IF I were a criminal that would sure give me pause.

Karen, you do a great job. I love the Patch and I really love our community

I was down there last night. With the numerous squad cars and their flashing lights, I figured something was up. However, I also noticed that traffic was not being stopped. At one corner I asked the PD what was going on. I got the standard no answer/answer, but the patrolmen also volunteered that the matter was "not criminal." Reading between the lines, I guessed that someone, who was at risk, was out and about.In my opinion, the PD did a great job in providing a huge amount of resources in order to aid a family.

Last Friday night, there were approximately 8 - 10 Elmhurst Police vehicles parked on Hale St. (a one-block street between York and Kirk) at 11 p.m. Rifles were out, the police were hiding behind a tree toward the west end of the street - they were parked there for approximately 20 - 25 minutes - this incluced blocking off both ends of the block. Eventually, one by one, the police vehicles all left the area, with no apparent result/suspect found... my husband called out the front door, asking, "Is everything ok, Sir?" and the officer replied, "Ya." This happened last summer on our block - several police vehicles on the block, but apparently focused on another home on the street - again, to no avail. We have no idea what either of these incidents involved, but it is scary to have the guns drawn, wondering who might be lurking in our neighborhoods.

Laura,

I would especially scared if I was a criminal and realized takes this approach.

Keep out the "bad guys"

I love Elmhurst !

left out Elmhurst Police. Boy, that coffee was strong.

police dog? really this is why Elmhurst Police have a reputation of taking their job to seriously. And plus they had 10 pluss police cars patrolling the area and they still couldnt find the kid he went home on his own