Burglar allegedly steals $150 from Aurelio's, causes property damage

JOLIET – A man allegedly forced his way inside Aurelio’s and stole $150 – but the damage he caused proved even more costly, the restaurant’s owner said.

The burglary occurred Thursday at the pizza restaurant at 3101 W. Jefferson St., said the restaurant’s owner, Luke Pascale. The police are investigating the break-in, Pascale said.

The Joliet police failed to respond to calls seeking further information on the case Friday.

Pascale said a man wearing a gray hoodie and carrying a hammer and flashlight was seen on camera bashing through the glass doors. Once inside, the crook allegedly forced open a cash register and tried to access the safe.

The burglar managed to steal $150, but the restaurant’s alarm scared him off, Pascale said. The thief allegedly damaged the doors and cash register.

“He caused more damage than he actually took,” Pascale said.

Pascale said police responded to the theft and contacted him regarding it. They have several leads and were given the restaurant’s security footage, he said.

“Hopefully, they catch him,” Pascale said.