A Lake Bluff-area woman has been charged with stealing from homes where she was babysitting and then selling the items online, according to local police.
Lake Bluff and Lake Forest police said Darissa A. Chavarria, 22, is facing felony theft charges after two homeowners reported stolen items — including jewelry, handbags and clothing — from their homes.
Police said Chavarria later posted the stolen items for sale on Facebook Marketplace.
Police said they were informed by a Lake Bluff homeowner in late January that about $10,000 in merchandise was missing from their home and they suspected Chavarria, who had previously babysat at the residence.
A Lake Forest homeowner who had also used Chavarria as a babysitter reported about $1,700 in stolen merchandise.
“We commend the victims who came forward to report these thefts,” Lake Forest Police Chief John Burke said. “Many people hesitate to report theft, but victims coming forward is essential in helping us recover stolen property and also prevents future crimes.”
Authorities are asking anyone who employed Chavarria to check their homes and contact police if items are missing.
