Lakeview, Uptown businesses targeted by burglars, police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are warning businesses after a series of retail burglaries on the city's North Side. There have been at least five burglaries in Lakeview and Uptown neighborhoods since early last week. In each case, the front window was smashed.

There is security video of the latest break-in at a restaurant in the 900-block of West Diversey.

After hours at Torta Haus, surveillance video shows the suspect looking through the window, checking out his surroundings, and making sure the coast is clear before pulling out a tool from his bag to start prying his way inside the Mexican restaurant in Lakeview.

"I can't believe it. He was so brazen," owner Robert Medina said.

The suspect with his face covered and wearing gloves repeatedly kicks the glass panel and then goes under to get inside. While inside, he grabs the cash box, opens the doors and walks out, setting off the alarm. He was in and out in about seven minutes.

"I hope he gets caught. There is nothing you can tell them. They have no regard for anybody's property," Medina said.

This break-in happened around 2:15 a.m. Tuesday morning. Police say this is one of several in the area over the last week, with most happening in the early morning hours.

Medina says he and other business owners need to be on guard.

"I suggest to all the businesses that you have to get cameras. It is an expense but it's something you to get," he said.

The suspect only got away with $100, but Medina said he caused hundreds of dollars in damage.