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Resident Reporting, Police Investigation Leads to Burglary Arrest

Resident Reporting, Police Investigation Leads to Burglary Arrest

August 6, 2021 – On Tuesday, August 3, 2021 at 6:50 p.m., Highland Park Police Officers responded to the 1200 block of McDaniels Avenue for a report of a suspicious person who entered the caller’s home. The caller was outside in the back yard when an unknown person was heard inside. The caller went inside to question the person who related that he wanted to let the caller know the garage door was open. The suspicious person then fled on a bicycle without any conflict.

While officers continued to investigate and search the immediate area, dispatch received a call of another potential burglary in the 1100 Block of Thorn Tree Lane. At 7:03 p.m., officers observed a person matching the description from the initial McDaniels Avenue report. Officers spoke with the individual and learned that the person, later identified as Charles M Lawson, was involved in these incidents. Police subsequently responded to two additional incidents in the area where callers reported suspicious activity, including forced entry into a garage, stolen packages from the front porch, and indications of an earlier home invasion, although no items were taken.

Mr. Lawson was arrested and the facts were reviewed with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office. Mr. Lawson was charged with:

  • Two counts of Residential Burglary, Class 4
  • One count of Theft, Class A

Mr. Lawson was transported to a bond hearing where the judge issued a $75,000 bond and a court date of August 10th.

Quick reporting by affected residents allowed police officers to investigate and to quickly apprehend the alleged offender. Similar instances, including vehicle and home burglaries or attempted burglaries and vehicle thefts, have been reported in communities throughout the North Shore. The Highland Park Police Department urges residents to quickly report any suspicious activity and evidence of break-ins. Suspicious behaviors include vehicles driving slowly and aimlessly, especially at night with lights off, and individuals loitering around parked cars and peering into windows.

Burglaries and thefts can occur at any time of day, even in public places. The Police Department suggests following the “9 PM Routine” to keep vehicles and homes secure before going to bed or leaving home:

  • Lock all doors, even when you are at home, and be sure windows are closed and locked before leaving home.
  • Lock all vehicle doors and close windows and sunroofs, even if parking in your garage.
  • Keep garage doors closed.
  • Keep all valuables out of sight, especially garage door openers.
  • Never leave keys or key fobs in your car.

Report suspicious activity immediately to the police by calling 911. For all other questions and concerns, please contact the Police Department 24-hour nonemergency public safety line, at 847.432.7730.

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