Suspects Arrested in String of Burglaries From Motor Vehicles

The Effingham Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection with a recent string of burglaries from motor vehicles in Effingham, while the search for other suspects continues.

As released in Monday's media report, Nathaniel T. Martin, 19, and Ryan A. Harris, 20, both of Effingham were arrested by Effingham Police after a report of suspicious subjects seen entering vehicles in a parking lot in the 1200th block of N. Merchant October 24. Each was charged with Burglary, a Class 2 Felony.

Effingham has experienced a rash of thefts and burglaries in the past week, both to vehicles as well as homes and businesses. Police investigators are continuing the investigations into these reports.

Schutzbach credited city police officers and investigators, Effingham County Sheriff's deputies, Illinois State Police and the Effingham County  State's Attorney's office for assisting in these cases and working together to solve these crimes. He also credits the citizens of Effingham who report unusual or suspicious activity, which allows for a solid partnership between local law enforcement and the community.

While such was not the case in every incident, more than half of the burglarized vehicles were unlocked at the time of the theft. With this in mind, Schutzbach offers recommendations on ways vehicle owners can lessen the chance of becoming a victim of theft from vehicles:

-- Do not leave vehicles unlocked, even when parked in a driveway or garage.

-- Do not leave keys in unattended vehicles (including spare keys, keys to a residence or business, etc.).

-- Do not leave valuables in sight which may tempt others to break in. This includes loose change, purses, billfolds, cellular phones, laptops or other electronic devices.

While not all of the recent reports of thefts are burglaries to motor vehicles, some of those same recommendations apply to residences, businesses, outbuildings and storage units. Some additional ideas for protecting fixed locations:

-- Install motion detection lights.

-- Utilize an alarm system.

-- Lock all doors and windows.

-- Keep all garage doors closed and locked, including the one from the garage to inside the home.

-- Get to know your neighbors.

-- Leave a radio or television on when not at home.

As always, if you see suspicious activity or have any information on the recent burglaries, thefts, or any other cirme, call the Effingham Police Department at 217-347-0774 or your local law enforcement agency, or call Crime Stoppers at 217-34-SOLVE (217-342-6583).