Arrest Made In Vernon Hills Car Burglaries Investigation

VERNON HILLS, IL — A man has been arrested following an investigation into a Sunday car burglary in the Westwood subdivision, the Vernon Hills Police Department said in a release. Michael J. Corcoran, 19, of the 1600 block of 10th Street, Winthrop Harbor, faces one count of the charge burglary from a motor vehicle, according to the release.

Police said a person living in the subdivision called police at 3:15 a.m. and reported that four people were pulling on car door handles in the area of Basswood Drive and Ashwood Court. Vernon Hills officers found four people one block away, and while talking to the suspects, an officer learned one of the suspects had a large amount of coins (USC) and other small personal items, the release said.

Police quickly saw that some parked cars in the area looked like they were entered due to open glove compartments, according to the release, adding that a parked car's driver's door was open. The owner of this car was called, who then told police that coins had been taken from it, according to police.

“This incident highlights the importance of calling 911 immediately when seeing someone or something suspicious” Patrick Kreis, VHPD Chief of Police, said in the release. “Had we not been called, it’s possible that many more vehicles might have been burglarized. It’s also a good reminder to keep your vehicle locked at all times, especially overnight.”

Police said it's believed at least four cars were entered, and that none of them had been locked.

According to police, Corcoran's bond was set at $10,000 Monday, and his court appearance is set for Thursday, Aug. 15 in Waukegan.