Aurora Residents Warned Of Spike In Burglaries

AURORA (CBS) -- As Aurora residents get ready for the holidays, police are warning them to keep gifts locked up amid a rash of burglaries.

There has been a 52 percent jump in garage break-ins on the east side of Aurora over last year and a 42 percent hike in home break-ins, according to Lt. Pete Inda.

Citywide there has been a 19 percent increase in home burglaries and a 14 percent spike in garage burglaries, WBBM Newsradio's Nancy Harty reports.

Inda says about one-fifth of the victims left their property unlocked.

He says thieves strike mostly during the middle of the day, while residents are at work.

Electronics, jewelry and copper pipes have been stolen but Lt. Inda says holiday gifts are sure to be targets.

Police suggest residents lock their homes, garages and cars at all times and keep valuables out of sight.

Inda says police did make a couple of burglary arrests earlier this week but are urging people to stay vigilant and call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

Vehicle burglaries have actually dropped about 30 percent over last year, according to police.