An Illinois woman has been accused of theft after allegedly stealing jewelry, handbags, and clothing from homes where she worked as a babysitter. It is believed that she then proceeded to sell these items on Facebook Marketplace.
A 22-year-old woman named Darissa A. Chavarria, residing in unincorporated Lake Bluff, is currently facing multiple felony charges related to theft.
Timeline: Lake Forest police were made aware of a theft in January, which prompted the initiation of an investigation into Chavarria.
Chavarria, who worked as a babysitter, was identified by officers as a suspect in the theft of jewelry, clothing, and handbags from homes in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff. It is believed that she sold these stolen items on Facebook Marketplace.
After conducting an investigation, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office has granted an arrest warrant for Chavarria on two felony theft charges in connection with the initial Lake Forest case.
A Lake Bluff resident recently reported to the Lake Forest Police Department that her home was missing over $10,000 worth of jewelry, bags, and clothing. The resident suspected that Chavarria, a former babysitter, had stolen the items and sold them on Facebook Marketplace.
The incident was then reported to the Lake Bluff Police by the Lake Forest Police.
On January 27th, another Lake Forest resident came forward with a report of missing jewelry valued at $1,700. The resident had suspicions that Chavarria, who had previously worked as their babysitter, may be involved.
On January 28th, Lake Forest Police obtained a search warrant for Chavarria’s residence in unincorporated Lake Bluff and promptly conducted the search.
The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office has issued arrest warrants for Chavarria on two felony theft charges in connection to the Lake Forest cases. The warrants were approved on Feb. 7, 2025.
The Lake Bluff Police Department has successfully obtained an arrest warrant for a felony theft charge.
Here’s what people are saying: Lake Forest Police Chief John Burke praised the victims for their courage in coming forward.
“We applaud the victims who have stepped forward to report these thefts. It is common for individuals to hesitate when it comes to reporting theft, but it is crucial that victims come forward as it not only aids in the recovery of stolen property but also acts as a deterrent for future crimes.”
Here are some actions you can take: The Lake Bluff and Lake Forest Police Departments are urging individuals who have employed Chavarria as a babysitter to thoroughly inspect their belongings.
If you think you might have been a victim of theft, please get in touch with your local police department.