Crime of the Week

Crime of the Week 04/29/2026

The Decatur Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying suspects involved in a series of thefts and vandalism incidents.

Detectives are currently investigating approximately 20 incidents involving the theft of headstones and vases, along with related vandalism. The damage and loss of property are estimated to total several thousand dollars.

The suspects are believed to be three individuals operating four-wheelers described as blue, red, and green in color. One of the suspects, who was riding the green four-wheeler, is described as a white male approximately 30 years of age. The other two operators appeared to be significantly younger.

In one incident, the suspects were observed traveling northbound through the Pilgrim Lutheran Church parking lot.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact the Decatur Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 217-424-2734 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 217-423-TIPS.

Past Crimes of the Week

Crime of the Week 04/15/2026

The Decatur Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in solving this week’s Crime of the Week.

On March 18, 2026, officers responded to a residential burglary in the 1300 block of East Locust Street. Upon arrival, officers learned that an unknown suspect had broken two windows to gain entry into the residence.

The victim later reported that a Black male suspect returned to the residence and brought back most of the stolen items, with the exception of a cellular phone.

The suspect is described as having a distinct star tattoo on his forehead, located between his eyes. He is also believed to possibly reside in the 1400 block of East Locust Street.

Digital photos of the suspect are available on the Crime Stoppers website.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Decatur Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 217-424-2734 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 217-423-TIPS.

Crime of the Week 04/09/2026

The Decatur Police Department is asking for your help with this week’s Crime of the Week.

The Decatur Police are investigating an armed home invasion that occurred March twenty‑seventh around eleven a.m. in the eleven‑hundred block of East Elmhurst. Two armed male suspects entered the home, demanded money, and stole electronics and beauty products. Two occupants suffered injuries during the attack.

The first suspect is a Black male, late teens to early twenties, wearing all black and a black ski mask, armed with a semi‑automatic handgun.

The second suspect is a Black male, late teens to early twenties, five‑ten to six feet tall, large build, wearing a black letterman jacket with “H‑V” in white lettering, also armed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Decatur Police at 217‑424‑2734 or Crime Stoppers at 217‑423‑TIPS.

Crime of the Week 04/01/2026

On 03/27/2026, Decatur Police responded to 2525 N Main St regarding a burglary. Upon arrival, officers observed a shattered glass door and damaged property inside.

Surveillance footage shows two suspects approaching on foot from the south. One used a sledgehammer to break the front door, allowing both to enter. They caused significant property damage, likely trying to access secured money, but were unsuccessful. The suspects then fled south on foot.

Suspect Descriptions:

Suspect 1: Male, unknown age, ~5’6”, larger build, all black clothing, facemask, gloves with white lettering, carrying a sledgehammer.
Suspect 2: Male, unknown age, ~5’6”, thin build, all black clothing, facemask, gloves with white lettering, carrying a sledgehammer and prybar.

This incident is part of a string of similar burglaries and remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Decatur Police Criminal Investigations Division at 217-424-2734 or Crime Stoppers at 217-423-TIPS.