WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) — Suburban Chicago police say the fact they are soft targets may be behind a string of church burglaries and vandalism.
Waukegan police Cmdr. Joe Florip said Wednesday investigators don’t believe religion is a factor in the crime spree that began earlier this month.
Police said the first of four church burglaries occurred the evening of March 22 and was reported the next day. The three other churches were burglarized and vandalized Sunday evening. Stolen items included computers, printers, crucifixes, candlestick holders and cash.
Florip said the churches are open, inviting places and that likely made them desirable for those involved the crimes.
Waukegan police say patrols will be increased around all religious venues.
