The State of Illinois has seen an increase in the number of thefts regarding automobiles, catalytic converters and atv’s throughout 2022. According to NICB.org (National Insurance Crime Bureau), the top vehicles stolen last year were the Jeep Cherokee, Chevy Malibu, Nissan Altima, Chevy Impala, Toyota Camry, Full size Ford Pick-Ups, Dodge Charger, Honda Civic, Honda Accord and the Ford Fusion. Not only were motor vehicle thefts up in Illinois, but also catalytic converters and ATV’s. McDonough County Sheriff Nicholas Pettigout says cameras are now playing a significant role in helping to reduce burglaries:
“Back in the day you know we would have to have 3 to 4, 5, 6 or 10 burglaries before some eyewitness saw a vehicle or saw something that we could go and follow up on. Well, the best part about video cameras is that first burglary it’s on camera, we know what kind of vehicle we’re looking for and we can start license plate information, registration. That type of thing, so it’s really very helpful in catching that person right away.”
Pettigout says these crimes are typically “Meth Theft”:
“Usually drugs. Usually drug related theft, Meth Theft is what we call it. Typically, that’s what it is. Somebody is stealing something to fund a habit.”
Sheriff Pettigout says to eliminate the opportunity for someone to steal your property by securing your items in a locked building, shed or garage
