Police probe burglaries near campus

Madison police are investigating three dozen residential burglaries that occurred both north and south of Regent Street since Sept. 1.

Many of the crimes took place in residential neighborhoods near campus. It is not yet known how many of them might be connected.

In many cases, laptop computers and other electronics were targeted by criminals who were able to make entry through unlocked doors or by cutting window screens when the weather was warmer.

Streets where homes have been burglarized include: Mound Street; Adams Street; Kendall Avenue; Madison Street; Chadbourne Avenue; Bowen Court;  St. James Court.; Milton Street;  South Park Street; Drake Street; South Mills Street; Woodrow Street; North Breese Terrace; University Avenue; Erin Street; Lathrop Street; North Prospect Avenue; Colby Street; Jefferson Street; Glenwood Street; and Commonwealth Avenue.

The Madison Police Department’s South District command staff is coordinating the investigation, according to a news release. People in the area are urged to secure doors and windows even when at home, and to hide laptop computers and other small electronic items when they are not at home.

UW Police want you to be aware that whether you live on campus in University Housing or in an off-campus high-rise, house or apartment, awareness and prevention of crime doesn’t stop at your front door.

“These are crimes of opportunity,” says UWPD Sgt. Aaron Chapin, “and we ask faculty and staff to secure their offices and their property.”

UWPD also urges students, faculty and staff not to leave laptops and other belongings unattended in libraries, study areas and common areas around campus.

For more information about “Safety Where You Live,” visit SafeU.