Police Release Sketch Of West Side Attacker
CHICAGO (STMW) - Chicago Police released a sketch Wednesday night of one of two men suspected of numerous armed robberies and sexual assaults on the West Side.
Police believe two men wearing masks are responsible for at least eight attacks between Aug. 28 and Oct. 7
The suspect is described as a 5-feet-5 to 6-foot black man in his 20s or 30s that weighs 130 to 170 pounds, according to a community alert from Harrison Area detectives. He wears a black skull cap or ski mask, black jacket or sweatshirt and black jeans.
Police said the men approach females on foot while they are walking down the sidewalk, parking their vehicles or entering their residences. They display a handgun and demand personal property, including purses, money, jewelry and cell phones.
During the robbery the men sexually abuse or assault the women before fleeing, police said.
All attacks are happening from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. in several neighborhoods from United Center Park to the Austin community.
"They probably think that's the safest time for them to commit their crimes," Harrison Area police Cmdr. Anthony Riccio said at a press conference this month.
The attacks have occurred in the following locations: the 1100 block of North Lawndale; 8000 block of North Harding; 4700 block of West Maypole; 3800 block of West Monroe; 2200 block of West Monroe; 5500 block of West End; and the 600 and 900 blocks of North Leamington, police said.
In the first and most recent cases, the men worked together, while in the other six, the men worked solo, police said. The victims range in age from 18 to 32.
"The safety of people within the community is a paramount concern to the department. We will continue to vigorously and aggressively pursue those responsible," Riccio said.
Anyone with information should call detectives at (312) 746-8253.
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