A 24-year-old man, identified as Phillip Shockley, has been sentenced to probation after an absurd attempt to rob a victim during a Facebook Marketplace transaction. Ironically, this incident took place in the parking lot of a Chicago police station, and Shockley made a desperate bid for escape by running into the station’s lobby.

In a plea agreement, Shockley admitted to one count of robbery, resulting in a two-year probation term imposed by Judge Carol Howard. In addition to probation, the court mandated that Shockley complete 45 hours of community service, obtain his GED, and show a “good faith effort” at securing employment.

The bizarre crime unfolded around noon on February 6. Shockley had arranged to purchase an Audemars Piguet watch, valued at $3,000, from a 19-year-old man via Facebook Marketplace. The duo agreed to meet at the Austin (15th) District police station located at 5701 West Madison Street. Typically, meeting at a police station is encouraged for such transactions to deter potential robbery.


Tim Hecke is the managing partner at CWBChicago. He began his professional journey at KMOX, a prominent news radio station in St. Louis. Following that, he worked at radio stations in Minneapolis, Chicago, and New York City. Tim has also developed syndicated radio news and content services catering to all of America’s top 100 radio markets. He assumed the role of managing partner at CWBChicago in 2019.
His email address is tim@cwbchicago.com