Crime spree in Back of the Yards

Armed bandits commit 10 robberies in less than two hours

By Tim Hadac

A burst of armed robberies in the Back of the Yards area has prompted police to issue a community warning.

The 10 stickups occurred in less than two hours on Wednesday, March 15.

Crime scenes include:

• 4600 block of South Albany at 6:02 a.m.
• 2400 block of West 47th Street at 6:03 a.m.
• 1700 block of West 47th Street at 6:06 a.m.
• 4300 block of South Archer at 6:07 a.m.
• 4600 block of South Troy at 6:10 a.m.
• 1700 block of West 47th Street at 7:10 a.m.
• 1900 block of West 47th Street at 7:15 a.m.
• 4700 block of South Hermitage at 7:15 a.m.
• 4800 block of South Paulina Street at 7:24 a.m.
• 4400 block of South Western at 7:46 a.m.

The robbers were described as two to four black men age 18-20, wearing all black clothing, as well as one Hispanic man, also age 18-20.

Police declined to say if the armed bandits were one or multiple crew.

Those with useful information to share are asked to call CPD Area 1 detectives at (312) 747-8384 and refer to crime pattern P23-1-055.

On social media, several Back of the Yards residents weighed in with concerns.

“My cousin was one of the victims,” said Liza Cardenal. “He said the guys moved so fast, it was like it was over a second after it started. It’s like they run up on you, wave their guns, take your stuff and get away. Almost like they didn’t even need to speak.”

Josue Montero-Seguin had advice for victims.

“I know how it feels to get robbed,” he said. “You’ve got to fight back. Arm yourself, legally. Get a FOID card, buy a gun and learn how to use it at a CCW class. Don’t be a victim forever.”

In the wake of the crimes, police advise:

• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Report suspicious activity immediately.
• If you are confronted by an assailant, remain calm.
• Remember any unique physical characteristics (such as scars, limp, acne, teeth).
• Never pursue a fleeing assailant; instead, provide accurate information to the police.
• If video surveillance equipment is present, save a copy of the incident for investigating detectives.
• If approached by a witness to the crime, request contact information.
• Dial 9-1-1 immediately and remain on scene when possible.