Warning: Chicago Felony Lane Gang Members Possibly In Town
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ALLEN (CBSDFW.COM) - The Allen Police Department issued a warning on Friday night after investigators received intelligence that a group of men from Illinois could be traveling to DFW over the next few days to commit financial crimes.
Sergeant Jon Felty put out the blunt memo Friday evening, warning merchants and shopper about nine men who could be traveling from Chicago to use stolen identities to rack up unauthorized charges.
Allen Police believe it could be related to the "Felony Lane Gang," who has already been the source of dozens of smash-and-grabs. Officers believe there are similar behaviors and patterns.
"It almost seems unreal. Right?" questioned Mari Berry, an Allen resident. "It's scary but I think it's good especially after living through it. I'm still cleaning up their mess."
Berry's car was broken into recently when she went inside a daycare to pick up her child. Two minutes later, her purse was gone. Then the unauthorized charges and withdrawals began.
The worst part, Berry said police told her the thieves were from out of state and used information from other people that was stolen to get rental cars.
"It felt like you were taken advantage of," said Berry.
Allen Police said it is a whole lot easier to prevent rather than prosecute.
"When we have information that we can share, we're going to share it. We're going to be proactive," said Sgt. Felty.
Sgt. Felty said the information he has received from federal and out-of-state law enforcement shows a connection and pattern between DFW and Chicago.
"We're going to be watching for you," said Sgt. Felty.
Berry said after all the headaches she has suffered, she appreciates any tips from law enforcement.
"Don't think it's not going to happen to you because it happens," said Berry.
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