Recent Thefts From Autos Near Meadowlark Drive

posted August 6, 2025 - 9:25pm

Unfortunately, there has been a recent pattern of thefts from automobiles - both on Meadowlark Drive near the Rolling Meadows and Heritage Heights neighborhoods and a separate cluster in the Elvehjem neighborhood south of Cottage Grove Road.

More information from the MPD East District:

"As of right now, we can say that these incidents seem to be occuring primarily at night or in early morning hours. The suspects are targeting vehicles that are unlocked, and may check several vehicles in the vicinity before finding an unlocked one.

What we are doing:

I have directed our East District overnight Officers to make a concerted effort to patrol these areas during downtime and to consider canvassing nearby addresses for witnesses or videos when called to the scene of a theft or a suspicious person.
Officers will also distribute Property Crime Prevention flyers in neighborhoods when these or similar crimes are reported. This flyer provides some helpful tips on preventing property crimes of opportunity.
We are attempting to identify suspects.

What you can do to help:

Please call promptly to report any thefts, burglaries, damage to property, or suspicious individuals (checking door handles) in your neighborhood. The sooner we can get there, the better,
Lock your vehicles at night- even vehicles in your driveway
Close and secure garage doors
If parking on the street, park in well-lit areas
Remove any valuables, currency, weapons, and medications from vehicles parked outside at night. All of these items have been recently stolen.
If traveling out of town, consider having a trusted friend, relative, or neighbor check on your home and property from time to time. If possible, give them directions on how to contact you; we may need to speak with you directly if your property is stolen or damaged.

Please keep these tips in mind. I urge residents to call promptly to report crimes and suspicious activity. I will update the blog when we have some good news to share. Please stay safe out there."