A shoplifting crew that has repeatedly raided high-end stores along the Mag Mile and Rush Street to steal purses this summer has struck at least three more times — and they may be upping their game with more aggressive tactics.
Police first warned retailers about the team on June 25. When the offenders struck again, detectives issued another warning on July 8. Now there are even more cases.
The earlier alerts from CPD said a small group of offenders was entering businesses, grabbing purses from display tables, and running out to a getaway car.
The crew struck June 8 on the 100 block of East Delaware, June 13 on the 700 block of North Michigan, and July 3 on the first block of East Grand, the second alert said.
CWBChicago has learned the crew returned to the area and raided DIOR, 931 North Rush, around 12:30 p.m. last Sunday, August 15. Between six and eight thieves ran into the store, snatched expensive handbags, and ran to two cars that were waiting outside: a four-door gray Audi A7 and a silver Jeep with Minnesota license plates. Both cars are believed to be stolen.
On Monday, the same cars pulled up to Ikram at 15 East Huron just before 3 p.m. Seven would-be offenders tried to get into the store, but the staff refused to let them in. So, the group pepper-sprayed a nearby maintenance worker and sped away.
Less than 30 minutes later, they hit the Gucci store at 900 North Michigan. According to a CPD report, seven or eight men entered the shop, smashed glass cases, and fled in the Jeep and Audi.
The July alert from CPD said the crew consisted of between two and four Black men in their early- to mid-20s who stand 5’10” to 6’3″ tall, weigh 165 to 185 pounds, and wear hoodies.
Surveillance video from Monday’s incidents shows the group has grown significantly. A source who’s seen video of the crew from the latest raids said the offenders appear to be younger, possibly in their late teens or early 20s. Once again, they all wore hoodies of various colors.
Anyone with information about the group can call Area Three detectives at 312-744-8263 regarding business alert #P21-3-079B.
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