Strong-arm robbers steal phones in Lincoln Park, River North, Gold Coast

Police are warning residents about a series of strong-arm robberies since last week in Lincoln Park, River North and the Gold Coast.

In each case, a group of two to four men or teen boys approached victims and forcibly grabbed cellphones out of their hands, according to a community alert from Chicago police. The suspects then drove off in a black sedan.

The robberies were reported in the afternoon hours on the following dates:

• Dec. 3 in the 1000 block of West Armitage Avenue;
• Dec. 3 in the 1300 block of West Fullerton Avenue;
• Dec. 4 in the 2300 block of North Lincoln Avenue;
• Dec. 4 in the 2200 block of North Clark Street;
• Dec. 4 in the 600 block of North Wells Street;
• Dec. 5 in the first block of East Walton Street;
• Dec. 5 in the 900 block of North Michigan Avenue; and
• Dec. 5 in the 1000 block of West North Avenue.

The suspects were described as males between 17 and 20 years old, standing 5-foot-10 to 6 feet tall and weighing 150 to 180 pounds, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380.

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