Woodridge Police: There Is No Tolerance For Looting

WOODBRIDGE, IL—As violent protests persist across the nation - which has also included the Chicago area - the Woodridge Police Department is warning people that it will not tolerate criminal activity.

Following the death of George Floyd, protests have quickly erupted all over the country, many turning violent, resulting in the destruction and looting of many businesses.

"Woodridge officers are committed to ensuring the safety for everyone to exercise their lawful, first amendment rights," village officials said Monday. "The Woodridge Police Department has no tolerance for looting."

According to village officials, nearby suburban communities sustained damage from criminal activity Sunday night. Some local businesses opted to close that night as a result of these circumstances occurring, officials said.

"While there were no incidents that occurred in Woodridge, our police department continues to monitor this situation along with our regional law enforcement partners. We will continue to maintain a heightened presence throughout the community," village officials said.

Residents and community members are reminded and encouraged to pay attention to their surroundings and dial 9-1-1 in the event they observe criminal activity.

"The Woodridge Police Department and the Woodridge business community have a strong partnership to help ensure the well-being of everyone who lives and shops here," village officials said. "Safety is our top priority, and the village and the police department will continue to keep the community up-to-date."

The protests come more than a week after the death of George Floyd, 46, of Minneapolis. On May 25, former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin placed his left knee in the area of Floyd's head and neck for about nine minutes as Floyd remained face down on the ground.

Court records show that officers were arresting Floyd for using a fake $20 bill to buy merchandise at a Minneapolis business. Floyd later died in handcuffs after saying that he was struggling to breathe during the arrest, video shows.