Video gambling establishments see alarming spike in burglaries, $2.7 million stolen in 2025 - Chicago Sun-Times
Video gambling establishments in Illinois experienced a surge in burglaries in 2025, with over $2.7 million stolen, signaling a growing crime trend.Summary
Illinois video gambling establishments faced a dramatic increase in burglaries in 2025, with 473 incidents resulting in over $2.7 million in losses. The surge, particularly pronounced in the last quarter of the year, has prompted concern from industry leaders and law enforcement. Burglaries often involve stolen vehicles, forced entry, and increasingly sophisticated methods to bypass security systems, including electronic alarm circumvention and targeting ATMs and redemption kiosks. While authorities are investigating potential organized crime involvement, including connections to street gangs or the mob, the Illinois Gaming Board emphasizes its role is regulatory, not direct security. The potential expansion of video gambling into Chicago raises further public safety concerns, with officials anticipating a possible escalation of these criminal activities. Law enforcement agencies are collaborating to share information and implement strategies to combat the growing problem, drawing parallels to past efforts to curb bank robberies.
(Source：Chicago Sun-Times)