‘Polite’ Gunman Suspected of More Than 20 Robberies on North and West Sides

Chicago police have issued an alert about a gunman suspected of robbing more than 20 people and businesses on the North and West sides since the end of November, usually while “speaking in a polite manner.”

He often commits two or more robberies in a short span of time, police said in the alert, and uses rental cars with out of state plates. The latest descriptions had him driving a silver Mitsubishi with Texas plates.

Watch NBC Chicago local news and weather for free 24/7

Sometimes he has pulled out a gun in a business and had fled without taking any property, police said. ”On more than one occasion, he has signaled the cashier to keep quiet by placing his index finger to his lips,” police said in the alert,

The businesses range from convenience stores, liquor stores, a clothing store and a fast food restaurant, police said.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

In the street robberies, the gunman has approached the victims from behind, often while they are entering apartment buildings. He displays a handgun and takes money, cell phones and jewelry and runs away, police said.

He is described as Black, 5-foot-9 to 6-foot-2, possible tattoo on the neck, medium complexion, often wearing a black face mask and hooded sweatshirt — though he has worn a green one and a red one — and black or yellow gloves. He has been seen wearing dark Jordan brand sweatpants and acid washed jeans. His gym shoes have been black, and black with red.

He is suspected of the following robberies: