Armed robberies on rise in Lincoln Park

CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago police are warning residents about brazen armed robberies targeting people on the streets of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

In each attack, a group of thieves have threatened to shoot victims if they didn’t follow orders.

The police said the incidents took place on May 22, in the 2300-block of North Halsted Street and 600-block of West Webster Avenue, and on May 23, in the 700-block of West Dickens Avenue, 600-block of West Webster Avenue, 500-block of West Belden Avenue and 500-block of West Fullerton Parkway.

All of the armed robberies took place between 10 pm and 11 pm.

In each incident, a group of four offenders approached the victims, produced a handgun and demanded their property. The offenders threatened to shoot the victims if they didn’t comply, and were seen fleeing in a silver vehicle during one incident.

All of the robberies happened in a several block radius in Lincoln Park that is on or near the DePaul campus. They have posted the police alert around campus and most students are aware of the warning.

Alderman Michelle Smith (Ward 43) has also sent alerts to neighborhood residents, saying, "CPD has increased patrols and will keep up intense surveillance throughout the holiday weekend. We urge everyone to be vigilant and report anything suspicious immediately to 911."

The suspects are described as four male African Americans, 17 to 20 years old, with heights ranging from 5 ft. 2 in. to 6 ft. 4 in. and weighing between 160 and 185 lbs.

If you have any information, contact Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380.