7 homes struck in Aurora burglary spree

AURORA, Ill. (WLS) -- Aurora police say seven homes were burglarized back-to-back in a crime spree in the western suburb's west side. Jewelry, electronics and a puppy were all taken, officials said.

The burglaries have all occurred since September 5, and six of them were during the daylight hours: September 5: in the 500-block of North Elmwood Drive; September 9: in the 900-block of North Calumet Avenue and in the 1100-block of Orchard Lake Drive; and September 10: 400-block of Oak Avenue; 300-block of Sunset Avenue; 1900-block of Birch Lane and 700-block of Oak Avenue.

"It's a quiet neighborhood. Other than a little bit of vandalizing, like that, we haven't had anything bad occur around here," David Weber, neighbor, said.

Aurora officials said a 1-year-old pit bull puppy was stolen from the home on Birch Lane. "Champ" is a service dog for his owner, who is blind.

Jewelry and electronics, worth more than $9,000, were taken from the other homes, police said.

Officials said the burglar gains entry through rear windows and doors, some of which were unsecured. They are reminding residents to lock up.

Aurora officials said a man riding a bicycle with a child's seat on back was seen trying to enter one of the homes around the time of the burglary, and a man 6' to 6'2" dressed all in black was reportedly seen looking into another home.

"We're asking people to stay vigilant to make sure doors and windows are locked. And the biggest thing here is that if they see any suspicious activity to call 911 right away," Spokesperson Dan Ferrelli, City of Aurora, said.

Anyone with information on any of the incidents should call Aurora police investigations at 630-256-5500 or Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at 630-892-1000.