Most Serious Trouble Comes from Out of Town, Says Chief

The trouble isn’t with Oak Forest. It's just that the majority of trouble is coming to the city.

Some residents at a recent expressed concerns about crime filtering in from neighboring cities and villages.

Greg Anderson believes that "professional" criminals are coming across the city borders and residents should follow some tips for preventing crimes of opportunity. 

While locals commit some of the lesser crimes, those who come into Oak Forest from outside are perpetrating the majority of the “professional crime,” Anderson said.

“A lot of the burglaries—the catalytic converter thefts—I do believe a lot of people are coming out of town to do those things,” he said.

The key is prevention. Simple actions eliminate many crimes of opportunities that professional criminals capitalize on.

Anderson cited a recent string of car burglaries on June 2 in the Foster Elementary School neighborhood as an example.

Most of the vehicles ransacked in the had unlocked doors. Many were parked in driveways.

Neighbors should also help keep an eye out for potential problems and to call the police.

“In their neighborhoods, they do know what is standard and what is out of place,” Anderson said.

Tips for preventing those professional criminals from succeeding:

• Closing garage doors
• Not leaving valuable in sight
• Watch out for neighbors
• Call when you see something suspicious

Follow Oak Forest Patch on Facebook!

Want more crime news!