CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – A series of robberies was reported on Monday, February 19th, in the 16th (Jefferson Park) Police District, leaving residents concerned about their safety in the area. One incident involved a woman in her 50s or 60s who was beaten and robbed around 11:30 a.m. at an alley entrance near Pensacola and Linder avenues. The attackers, described as Black males, used a club-like object during the attack and fled the scene in a nearby car. Additionally, a 26-year-old woman was robbed while walking in the 6000 block of North Elston Avenue, where she was struck with a metal object and knocked to the ground by three assailants.
The street robberies have prompted Alderman Jim Gardiner (45th) to plan a public safety meeting in the area, acknowledging the need for increased security measures and community involvement in crime prevention. The incidents have caused alarm among residents and local authorities, raising concerns about the safety of individuals in the neighborhood.
Furthermore, a 16-year-old male was shot in his right leg during a reported robbery in the 5700 block of West Cornelia Avenue. The teen was transported to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in good condition, but the incident has sparked fears about a potential increase in violent crimes in the area. In addition, a robbery was reported at a convenience store on West Lawrence Avenue, although a weapon was reportedly not displayed during the incident.
These recent crimes have prompted discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures and increased police presence in the 16th District. Community leaders and residents are expressing their worries about the uptick in robberies and are calling for immediate action to address the underlying issues contributing to these incidents. Public safety remains a top priority for the district, and efforts are being made to engage with the community and implement strategies to prevent further criminal activity.