Bloomington Police Officer Bryce Janssen Addresses Recent Car Theft
Written by Courtney Conroy on November 5, 2024
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Bloomington Police Officer Bryce Janssen addressed recent car thefts on the Illinois State University campus, particularly around the Student Fitness Center.
Janssen’s remarks came after a fatal car crash Sunday on Fox Creek Road near Beich Road that left a 27-year-old woman dead. He emphasized the importance of car safety in the area.
“One of the main things we’re seeing right now is reckless driving,” Janssen said. “I would like to encourage everyone to practice safe driving behavior. Take extra time to get to your destination and put the phones down.”
Janssen also highlighted a rise in vehicle burglaries and thefts in recent weeks. He pointed out that students frequently leave their cars unlocked in the Fitness Center parking lot, with valuables left in plain sight. Some incidents have involved firearms being left in vehicles along with other valuables.
“Another concern we’ve been facing is that people have been leaving firearms in their vehicles, and that can lead to a weapon in the wrong hands,” Janssen said.
Janssen, along with officers from Bloomington and Normal, urged students to lock their vehicles, especially when parking overnight. He also encouraged students to use the BPD’s Tip411 program, a text-to-tip service that allows the public to anonymously submit crime tips 24/7. To send a tip, text “BPDTIPS” followed by a space and the message to 847411. The BPD cannot identify the sender but may respond anonymously.
“If you want to make a positive difference in the community, we are hiring,” Janssen said. “We encourage anybody who’s ever thought about getting into law enforcement to not only apply with us, but do a ride-along with an area department and see what it’s all about.”
Officers invite students to stop by the police station with any questions or concerns, especially those interested in law enforcement careers. For more information about the Bloomington Police Department, visit bloomingtonil.gov/departments/police.
