UPDATED 12:50 P.M. TUESDAY:
Elmhurst police have arrested the man they believe broke into a home on the 400 block of South Street Monday.
Rocco D. Passarella, 52, of 917 N. 23rd Ave., Melrose Park, was arrested and charged with residential burglary. Police said he had been staying with a resident on the 400 block of South Street. He was taken to DuPage County Jail.
EARLIER:
A burglar was caught on surveillance video while breaking into a home on the 400 block of South Street at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 29, Elmhurst police said.
Police inspected the exterior of the property and noticed that the rear sliding glass door was open and there appeared to be signs of forced entry. A "shadowy figure" was seen on the video entering the rear door. Police have a suspect they are attempting to contact.
The resident said about $160 to $200 in cash was taken from a wooden cigar box located in his bedroom.
An investigation is underway.
Don't Be an Easy Target
Police also issued a press release on Monday reminding residents to use caution.
"Elmhurst is not alone in these types of crimes. Surrounding communities are also seeing similar crime patterns," the release said. "With increased awareness and by following these suggestions, we can work together to prevent yourself and others from becoming a victim of crime."
To reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim:
- Be alert to any suspicious activity, people or vehicles and call 911 immediately.
- Be aware of people ringing the doorbell or knocking excessively. If someone is knocking urgently, they could be trying to determine if someone is home. Call 911 immediately.
- If you have a burglar alarm, set it every time you leave home.
- Purchase security system signs or decals for windows and doors.
- Make sure all windows and doors are locked when you leave.
- Install interior and exterior motion detection lights.
- Use interior lights and timers.
- If you see a suspicious vehicle that does not belong in the neighborhood, note the license plates and a description of the vehicle or person and call 911.
- Trust your instincts. If it doesn't look right, it probably isn't. Call 911.
- Remove newspapers from the driveway.
- Always lock your vehicle with all the windows up. Vehicle burglary is very common on the victim's driveway; never leave valuables in the vehicle.
- Pass these suggestions on to relatives, neighbors and friends.
