Cops' Kids Among Robbery Victims

Police issue community alert after rash of robberies in Beverly neighborhood

At least two children of Chicago police officers are included in the victims of a rash of attacks in the Beverly neighborhood, authorities said Thursday.

Six robberies, all occurring between May 7 and May 18, prompted police to issue a community alert urging residents to be on the lookout for a group of men who surround their victims, attack them and steal money, cell phones and other valuables.

One of the robberies took place on the playground of Sutherland Elementary School, in the 10000 block of South Leavitt Street.  Another happened a block away from the school, officials said.

The robbers seem to be targetting teens.  All have happened after sundown but before curfew.  A gun was pulled in two cases, police said.

"When these types of crimes occur, it's upsetting," said Ald. Matt O'Shea (19th), who's only been on the job a few days.

Police said the attacks appear to be crimes of opportunity.

"Our offenders are kind of wandering around the neighborhood picking out someone they figure they can take, someone that they can physically intimidate," said 22nd District Commander Michael Kuemmeth.

The community alert describes the attackers as black males between 17 and 20 years old.  They stand between 5 feet, 8 inches and six feet tall.  All have dark complexions and were wearing dark clothing, police said.  In three of the incidents, one of the attackers was wearing a hooded sweatshirt.

The robberies occurred in the area of the 9400 block of South Oakley, the 10000 block of South Western Avenue, 2300 West on 101st St., the 10300 block of South Walden Parkway, the 10000 block of South Hamilton Street, and the10100 block of South Leavitt Street, police said.

Anyone with information should call police at 312-747-8273.

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