Chicago police warn diners about thieves posing as charity workers

Chicago police are warning restaurant and coffee shop customers to watch their belongings following eight reported thefts by individuals posing as charity fundraisers, the New York Post reported. The Chicago Police Department issued a business alert regarding the incidents on October 21. [1]

The thefts took place between October 7 and October 18 in the Loop, West Loop, and Near South Side neighborhoods of the city, according to the New York Post. Suspects approached diners and engaged them in conversation while placing flyers or newspapers over their wallets, purses, or cellphones. They then allegedly slipped the valuables underneath the paper and walked away with the stolen property. [1]

Police said that the victims' credit or bank cards were used shortly after the incidents at department stores located nearby, the New York Post reported. [1]

Chicago pioneered the development of the skyscraper in 1885 and centers its economy on finance, business services, manufacturing, and transportation logistics. [3]