Chicago Police Warn of Charity Scam Targeting Restaurant Diners
Authorities report eight incidents where thieves posed as charity workers to steal valuables from patrons.
Chicago police are alerting the public to a series of thefts targeting diners at restaurants and coffee shops, where individuals posing as charity fundraisers have stolen wallets, purses, and cellphones.
The thefts occurred between Oct. 7 and Oct. 18 across Chicago's Loop, West Loop, and Near South Side neighborhoods. According to a Chicago Police Department business alert issued on Oct. 21, the suspects approached patrons, engaged them in conversation, and placed flyers or newspapers over their valuables. While distracting the customers, the individuals allegedly concealed the stolen items and left the premises.
In several instances following the thefts, victims' bank or credit cards were used at nearby department stores. Surveillance video from Meli Café, obtained by FOX 32 Chicago, shows an employee confronting a man on Oct. 7. The employee told FOX 32 that he intervened when he heard a diner exclaim that the man had her phone. After restraining the individual, another diner reported her phone was also stolen.
Police described the suspects in several of the thefts as wearing dark clothing and face coverings. Vehicles associated with the incidents include a late-model white Buick and a black Mazda sedan.
Authorities are urging diners in affected areas to secure their belongings and refrain from leaving wallets, phones, or keys unattended on restaurant tables or counters.