This year, Chicago has seen a major spike in robberies in over two decades, according to recent analysis. In fact, between July 1 and November 26, there have been nearly 4,900 robberies. Which is more than 55% increase when compared to the previous five-month periods. Furthermore, the analysis, conducted by the WBEZ, shows this is the greatest spike Chicago has seen since 2001.
Startling Spike
The startling spike also includes a significant climb in armed robberies, at an 75% increase. Furthermore, as of November 26, Chicago has seen 1,177 carjackings. Additionally, the areas with the highest robbery rates during the five-month surge are Humboldt Park, West Garfield Park, and East Garfield Park.
Moreover, the equivalent of the robbery rates in these areas equals to basically one incident for every 200 residents. The analysis also found the community areas of Humboldt Park, Austin, and West Town saw the highest number of total robberies during the five-month period between July and November.
Chicago Is Not Alone
In addition to the recent spike, Chicago residents have been facing sudden and brutal thefts for decades. Of course, this sentiment can be felt in other areas across the nation.
In 2022, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania saw a rise in violent crimes with a total of 15,668. During that same time frame, Houston, Texas had 25,697 violent crimes reported. With a population of 146,713, Rockford, Illinois saw 2,155 violent crimes last year. Those are just a few listed by Insider Monkey earlier this year.
Robberies, thefts, and other violent crimes are felt in many places across the nation. They’re just not broadcasted as much as Chicago.
Harrowing Tales
In this year alone, there have been numerous harrowing tales of people being robbed in Chicago. While these robberies don’t always include a gun, they are terrifying and can leave victims felling traumatized.
One local Chicago resident, Jeremiah Watson, knows the effects felt after being ambushed and robbed at gunpoint. Furthermore, the suspects beat Watson up before they hit him with the gun. Then, they stole his money. Watson received care for his injuries at the hospital where they gave him six stitches.
Another person to fall victim to the spike in robberies in Chicago was Daniel Penates, who is in the city from Miami, Florida to work. In the early hours of October 22, Penates had left a bar near the Mag Mile when he was approached from behind. The person hit him in the back of his head. Penates threw the attacker off of him before continuing to walk down the street. However, the suspect got back up and pulled a gun on him.
In an interview with the Sun-Times, Penates described what happened next.
Next thing you know, I hear somebody running behind me and when I turn around he has the gun pointed straight at my head. He said, ‘Do something stupid again, and I’m gonna shoot you.’
Subsequently, Penates cooperated with the robber, handing over his cellphone and chain necklace. Penates stated the “chain cost a lot of money” but felt his “life is worth more.”
19 Chicago Communities
Furthermore, 19 Chicago communities saw robberies double during the five-month period between July 1 through November 26. Moreover, in some of these areas they saw more than double the rate of robberies so far this year. Primarily, in the communities located on the Southwest and Northwest sides.
Additionally, the Chicago Police Department issued at least 15 community alerts in November to alert citizens about rashes of robberies striking across the city. Many of which included suspects driving up on their victims, exit their vehicles as they brandished firearms, demanding money and valuables.
On Thanksgiving, Chicago saw its highest number of robberies its had in seven years. Furthermore, more than 280 individuals were victimized over the holiday weekend. However, the onslaught of burglaries and robberies have continued since then.
Be Cautious
It is important to be cautious when one is out and about, whether the that person knows the area or not. Furthermore, it is advisable to be aware of ones surroundings. While it is hard to be hypervigilant of everything, it is smart to keep in mind of those around.
Additionally, it is a good idea to keep valuables, like cell phones or expensive items, out of sight when shopping or in unfamiliar areas. Not to mention, one should not make it know how much cash is on hand.
The Chicago Police Department has also told people “If you see something, say something.” This could not only keep you safe but your community as well.
by Sheena Robertson
Sources:
Hoodline: Robberies Surge by Over 55% in Chicago, Marking Largest Increase Since 2001
Yahoo!: 30 U.S. Cities With Highest Violent Crime Rates
WBEZ Chicago: Robberies in Chicago are at a six-year high
Chicago Sun-Times: Chicago is seeing largest spike in robberies in over 20 years, analysis shows
Featured Image Courtesy of Josué Goge‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Stephen Hogan‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
