Counter-jumping thief stealing narcotics from North Side pharmacies

Chicago Police Issue Warning to North Side Pharmacies Following String of Narcotic Thefts

Chicago police have issued a warning to North Side pharmacies to be on high alert after a man has been repeatedly jumping pharmacy counters to steal bottles of narcotics, making his getaway each time on a black electric scooter.

According to a community alert released by the department on Sunday, the thief has targeted at least seven pharmacies throughout October, with incidents reported in areas ranging from Lakeview to Rogers Park. Police stated that the man enters each pharmacy, leaps over the counter, snatches multiple bottles of narcotics, and swiftly escapes the scene.

The spree of thefts began on October 1, with three incidents occurring within a 30-minute timeframe. The first theft took place around 1:30 p.m. in the 1200 block of West Devon Avenue, followed by thefts at 1:53 p.m. in the 6500 block of North Sheridan Road, and at 2 p.m. in the 5300 block of North Broadway.

Subsequent thefts occurred later in the month, with the suspect striking again on October 5 at approximately 4:30 p.m. in the 3000 block of North Broadway. On October 22, he targeted two locations on the North Side, first at 9:47 a.m. in the 1500 block of West Devon Avenue, followed by another incident at 10:20 a.m. in the 5600 block of North Ridge. Another theft occurred on October 24 in the 1500 block of West Devon Avenue at 1:22 p.m.

The suspect has been described by police as a man wearing black and white shoes, occasionally seen in an orange zip-up sweatshirt and camouflage pants.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Area Three detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com, referencing case number P25-3-047.

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This information serves as a cautionary reminder for pharmacies in the North Side area to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent further thefts of narcotics.