Lunchtime larceny: Thieves targeting purses in Loop restaurants, police say

Police released these images of suspects connected to the theft pattern. | CPD

Don’t leave your purse hanging on the back of your chair in a restaurant.

Map showing approximate locations of reported incidents.

It’s an easy rule to remember. And an easy rule to break. But here’s some motivation to be more diligent as you dine: Chicago police have issued a community alert after at least 20 women reported items stolen from bags that were left draped on restaurant chairs. Surveillance images of suspects were included with the CPD warning.

Police typically issue a community alert when they believe a series of crimes is the work of one person or group.

All of the thefts listed in the warning took place in or near the Loop during lunchtime hours between July 12th and Monday, Aug. 12th. The thieves are stealing wallets from purses and then using the victims’ credit cards, police said.

Anyone with information about the suspects may contact Area Central investigators at 312-747-8384 regarding pattern number P19-1-242A.

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CWBChicago was created in 2013 by five residents of Wrigleyville and Boystown who had grown disheartened with inaccurate information that was being provided at local Community Policing (CAPS) meetings. Our coverage area has expanded since then to cover Lincoln Park, River North, The Loop, Uptown, and other North Side Areas. But our mission remains unchanged: To provide original public safety reporting with better context and greater detail than mainstream media outlets. Our editorial email address is news@cwbchicago.com