Investigators conducting surveillance arrested a woman in connection with several residential burglaries, including one where a victim came face-to-face with the suspect, in Crystal Lake.
The Crystal Lake Police Department responded on February 13 and February 16 to the 800 block of Chasefield Lane and 900 block of Golf Course Road.
Crystal Lake Deputy Police Chief Richard Neumann said several residential burglaries occurred on the two blocks during the daytime hours.
The Crystal Lake Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit was in the 800 block of Chasefield Lane on Tuesday, Neumann said.
Neumann said investigators observed Miriam Aranda, 42, of Elgin, acting suspiciously near the entrance of a residence.
Court documents said the officers, who were conducting covert surveillance due to the numerous burglaries in the area, observed Aranda gaining access to residential buildings.
She was taken into custody for an arrest warrant originating out of Kane County.
A further investigation was conducted and she was transported to the McHenry County Jail, Neumann said.
She was charged in McHenry County with residential burglary, a Class 1 felony; burglary, a Class 2 felony; and possession of burglary tools, a Class 4 felony.
A criminal complaint filed in McHenry County Circuit Court alleges Aranda entered a condo in the 800 block of Chasefield Lane with the intent to commit a theft around 11:15 a.m. Friday.
A separate criminal complaint said Aranda entered a second residential building in the 800 block of Chasefield Lane with the intent to commit a theft around 12 p.m. Tuesday.
Court documents said a victim came face-to-face with Aranda inside their home during one of the burglaries.
Officers found Aranda in possession of burglary tools, including lock-picking devices and latch-opening shims, according to the complaint.
Neumann said additional charges against Aranda are anticipated.
The McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to detain the woman pending trial, calling her a willful flight risk.
Prosecutors said they believe Aranda is a flight risk and that no condition or combination of conditions could mitigate her flight risk.
McHenry County Judge Michael Chmiel granted the petition on Wednesday and remanded Aranda to the McHenry County Jail.
Anyone with information on the burglaries is encouraged to contact the Crystal Lake Police Department at 815-356-3620.