Authorities investigate multiple break-ins

<p class="p1">Local and state authorities are investigating a series of break-ins which occurred during the past week in the Union County area. Authorities said that churches and a local business were targeted. The incidents are being investigated by the Union County Sheriff's Office, the Anna Police Department and the Illinois State Police.</p><p class="p1">Union County Sheriff Scott Harvel reported that  the break-ins involved a total of seven churches and one business.</p><p class="p1">Break-ins were reported at the Ebenezer, United Missionary and New Hope churches in the Lick Creek area, at the Saratoga Church near Anna, at Mill Creek Baptist Church and at the Dongola United Pentecostal Church.</p><p class="p1">Anna Police Chief Scott Rice said a break-in occurred at Anna Heights Baptist Church, which is located at 100 Turner Ave.</p><p class="p1">The sheriff reported that a break-in also was reported at Hoggy Bottom Boys in Dongola.</p><p class="p1">Forced entry was involved in each break-in, authorities reported. Cash and small electronics were reported to have been stolen.</p><p class="p1">Authorities are welcoming help from the public as they continue the investigation. Information can be shared by calling the Union County Sheriff's Office at 833-5500 or by visiting the sheriff's office's Facebook page.</p><p class="p2"> </p>

Authorities investigate multiple break-ins