A police car. View Full Caption File photo

WEST TOWN — Groups of men committed five late-night robberies in less than two hours last week — and in all but one of the five instances a gun was involved, police said.

In the five robberies, offenders approached the victims and announced a robbery, according to a Near West Police District (12th) community alert issued on Saturday night.

On Monday, Officer Laura Amezga, a Chicago Police spokeswoman, said the victims were bth men and women. In some cases, the victims were alone.

Amezaga said that a gun was displayed in four of the five robberies.

The robberies occurred at the following spots, days and times:

• 1800 Block of West Hubbard Street on Thursday at 10:40 p.m.

• 800 Block of North Sangamon Street on Thursday at 11:01 p.m.

•1100 Block of North Hoyne Avenue on Thursday at 11:35 p.m.

•1700 Block of West Erie Street on Friday at 12:07 a.m.

•1000 Block of West Carroll Avenue on Friday between midnight and 12:30 a.m.

The robbers were described as two to three black men, between the ages of 16 and 25, weighing 150 to 160 pounds, wearing blue, black and dark hooded sweatshirts, black pants and white shoes.

Police advise calling 911 to report any suspicious persons or activity, remembering any unique characteristics like scars and acne, walking in groups, avoid talking to strangers or approaching unknown cars. Residents should be aware of their surroundings and walk in well-lit and populated areas, police said.

Anyone with information should call the Area Central Bureau of Detectives at 312-747-8382. Reference the following case numbers: JA-441447, JA-441479, JA-441457, JA-441474, JA-441493.



