CHICAGO, IL (WBBM Newsradio) - What had been a one-off crime in Gage Park earlier in the month, became a series of three armed robberies targeting anime fans on a social media market place over the weekend.
Chicago Police warning that the suspect, a Latino man in his 20’s or 30’s, with a beard and dark sunglasses, 5-foot-6 weighing about 200 pounds, displayed a handgun in each of the incidents, where victims arrived thinking they were about to sell him anime trading cards, he instead took the cards.
Each of the robberies taking place in the 5200 or 5300 blocks of South Kedzie, the first on Tuesday March 17th, the remaining happening Saturday and Sunday(March 28th and 29th), mid-morning to early afternoon.
Chicago police are reminding residents that all CPD districts are open 24/7 to safely facilitate in person meet ups for sales initiated with strangers online.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Always be aware of your surroundings
Report suspicious activity immediately
If you are confronted by an assailant remain calm
Remember any unique physical characteristics (scars, limp, acne, teeth, etc.)
Never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide the information to the police
If approached by a witness to the incident, request contact information
Dial 9-1-1 immediately and remain on scene when possible
