The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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Series of robberies prompts call for caution

Nov. 17, 2015 – With four robberies reported since Nov. 7, Oak Park Police are urging residents to stay alert and report suspicious persons immediately.

An arrest was made in one of the incidents – an armed robbery on Nov. 13 in the 800 block of South Humphrey Avenue. Police arrived in time to see the offenders running from the scene and captured one of them hiding in a nearby alley after a brief foot chase.

All four incidents – the most recent at about 8:30 p.m. last night on South Humphrey Avenue near Jackson Boulevard – involved two or more assailants physically accosting individuals on foot, then taking cell phones and other personal items.

No serious physical injuries were reported in any of the incidents, but Police say the experiences were traumatic for the victims, all of whom were pushed to the ground, punched or kicked, making it difficult for them to identify their assailants.

In three of the incidents, a handgun was implied or displayed, and one of the incidents involved a teenage victim and teenage assailants. Police say the descriptions provided by the victims suggest two of the incidents may be connected.

“These types of crimes are difficult to solve without the help of the community,” said Police Chief Rick C. Tanksley. “We ask residents to keep their eyes and ears open for unusual activity or suspicious individuals in their neighborhoods and to never hesitate to call 911.”

Being aware of one’s surroundings and not distracted by a cell phone also can help reduce the chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime, Police caution.

“Listening to music with headphones or checking your email can make it a lot easier for an assailant to slip up unnoticed,” Tanksley said. “Criminals spend their time looking for opportunities. An individual walking alone down a dark street, wearing headphones and scrolling a screen can be an easy mark.”

In addition to avoiding cell-phone distractions, Police are asking residents to consider the following personal safety tips:

  • Trust your instincts. Cross the street to avoid groups that are loitering or hanging out.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone.
  • Give up your possessions. Don't risk personal injury.

Anyone with information on any crime can report it anonymously to Police by calling 708.434.1636. Anonymous crime tips also can be made online at www.oak-park.us/crimetip.