Storage Unit Burglary in Jacksonville, Police Seek Local Tips
Crime Stoppers of Morgan, Scott and Cass Counties is asking residents for information after a storage unit burglary in the 900 block of East Morton Avenue. The case matters to local residents because stolen tools and equipment can affect workers and small businesses, and tips may lead to a cash reward for those who provide actionable information.
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On Nov. 14, 2025, authorities renewed a request for community help after a reported burglary of a storage unit in Jacksonville. Police say the break in occurred between 6 p.m. on Nov. 3 and 9 a.m. on Nov. 4, when someone gained entry to a unit in the 900 block of East Morton Avenue and removed several items. Among the stolen property were a red toolbox containing various tools and an AC Delco 3½ ton floor jack.
Crime Stoppers of Morgan, Scott and Cass Counties is assisting the Jacksonville Police Department in the investigation. Officials encourage anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 217-243-7300, submit tips online at morganscottcrimestoppers.com, or text 274637, which corresponds to CRIMES, with the word "payout" first in the message. Tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
The theft raises concerns for residents who store work equipment or seasonal items in rental facilities. For many people in Morgan County, tools and small pieces of equipment represent both livelihood and household maintenance capacity. Losses like the red toolbox and floor jack can create financial strain for independent contractors, hobbyists and families who may already be managing limited budgets.
Beyond the immediate property loss, the incident underscores broader public safety and prevention questions. Storage unit facilities vary widely in security measures, and crimes of opportunity often exploit gaps in lighting, surveillance and gate controls. Local policing resources are balanced across response needs, so community reporting and cooperation can be decisive in identifying suspects and recovering stolen goods.
Community engagement matters in cases like this because eyewitness accounts and small details often move investigations forward. Residents who noticed unusual activity near East Morton Avenue between the stated times are urged to come forward. When submitting a tip, providing descriptions of persons, vehicles, or sounds, and noting precise times can increase the usefulness of the information for investigators.
Property owners are also advised to review their storage arrangements, ensure units have strong locks and consider recording serial numbers and photographing valuable items. Insurance coverage for stored property can reduce financial impact, and facilities with adequate lighting and video surveillance provide better deterrence.
Police and Crime Stoppers are continuing the investigation and asking for the public s assistance in locating the stolen items and identifying those responsible. Anyone with relevant information should use the contact options provided to report tips promptly.
