Palatine Police Investigate Home Burglaries

The is investigating two recent home burglaries that could be connected to unlicensed solicitors who have been in the area.

The department has forwarded information to Palatine neighborhood watch groups and is asking the public to come forward with any information.

Palatine Police said that two homes were burglarized between 4 p.m. and 8:19 p.m. Dec. 10. Police said force was used to gain entry to both of the homes.

A home in the 500 block of E. Juniper Drive and a home in the 400 block of E. Balsam Lane. The rear door of the home on Juniper Drive was kicked in and a bathroom window of the home on Balsam Lane was forced open.

Jewelry, electronics and other valuables were taken from the homes.

Police said at the time of the burglaries unlicensed solicitors were in the area going door-to-door. The solicitors were selling "coupon" books. Some residents in the area purchased the books only to find that the coupons were expired, police said.

The solicitors also were placing fliers on front doors and possibly attempted to open the doors in the process, police said.

The village issues permits to solicitors who are supposed to display them. The permits include a photo ID of the solicitor. Police said residents should call 9-1-1 if their home is visited by a solicitor who is does not have a permit. The permit requirement does not apply to charities – such as girl scouts – or politicians.

If residents have information related to unlicensed solicitors, but the situation is not "in progress" they should call the Palatine Police at 847-359-9000.