The Brief
- Police are warning of a robbery pattern in River North involving suspects who ask to use victims’ phones.
- Investigators say money is then transferred electronically through payment apps.
- In some cases, force was used when victims refused.
CHICAGO – Police are warning River North residents and visitors about a string of robberies in which offenders allegedly trick victims into handing over their phones before stealing money electronically.
What we know:
According to Chicago police, several incidents were reported in December in the 600 block of North Dearborn Street, where victims said they were approached by groups of men asking for donations or requesting that they follow them on Instagram. Once the offenders gained access to the phones, they allegedly transferred money using services such as Zelle or Apple Pay.…