Rising crime in Wrigleyville has residents on edge

CHICAGO (WLS) -- New safety alerts for people within a mile of Wrigley Field have residents concerned.

Wednesday night, Chicago police held a meeting with residents after a string of 10 burglaries.

Bill Barth is often out with his dog, Bentley, and he has noticed a few changes in Lakeview.

"It's not quite the old family value neighborhood I think it was when I moved in 20 years ago."

But recently, burglars have targeted the area, including Barth's block.

"It's scary to think that you can't walk outside your front door without something happening or that somebody can break into your house," said Lakeview resident Aubrey Wells.

Chicago police said burglars are targeting the area around Wrigley Field, mostly Lakeview, from Irving Park to the north, south to Belmont and between Damen and Halsted.

Since mid-May, burglars have hit 10 homes, swiping jewelry, cash and electronics.

"We need more police," said Lakeview resident Kevin McIntyre.

Wednesday night, police and the alderman told upset residents that 40 percent of the burglaries happen because of unlocked windows or doors and that the area has added 41 officers.

Whether that's progress, depends on who you ask.

"Nothing, nothing is going to happen," said resident Robert Nowicki. "It's the same routine we have every summer."

"The most important that thing we can do as a community is band together and be organized and empowered," said Elaine Osgood of the group "Taking Back Lakeview."

Most of the burglaries happened between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Police say it is critical that residents lock their doors and windows.