Police Warn of Phone, Credit Card Thefts in Chicago Neighborhoods

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Chicago police are warning residents of a series of cell phone and credit card thefts targeting people at restaurants and bars in the River North and Fulton Market neighborhoods. The suspects use distraction tactics, such as dropping an item near a victim and then covering the victim's phone with a bag to steal it, before fleeing the scene and using the stolen credit cards at department stores.

Why it matters

These thefts highlight the need for increased vigilance and security measures in popular dining and entertainment districts, as criminals continue to exploit opportunities to target unsuspecting victims. The incidents also underscore the financial and personal impacts that can result from having one's phone and credit cards stolen.

The details

According to police, the suspects approach victims who have their phones on the table, drop an object near the victim, and then use a bag to cover and steal the phone before leaving. The suspects then use the stolen credit cards at department stores. The suspects are described as a man wearing a black skullcap, black hooded sweatshirt, and carrying a bag.

• On January 15 at 7:20 p.m. in the 200 block of North Green Street (Fulton Market District)
• On January 29 between 2:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the 100 block of West Illinois Street (River North)

What’s next

Police are urging anyone with information about the thefts to contact Area Three Detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference # P26-3-003.