Convicted Felon Arrested for Mugging International College Student at Red Line Station
A convicted felon with a history of robbery convictions has been accused of mugging an international college student at the North-Clybourn Red Line station in Chicago. The incident has left the victim, Shubham Patil, considering a move back to India. Chicago police arrested 28-year-old Aaron Hughes at the Monroe Red Line station after recognizing him, according to CPD reports.
The attack took place in the early hours of January 25 when 23-year-old Roosevelt University student Shubham Patil was on a southbound train from the Fullerton station. Patil, who was speaking with his grandmother in his native language, was approached by a stranger who started punching him repeatedly with his legs and knees.
Hughes allegedly yelled profanities at Patil, punched him in the face, and stole his valuables before fleeing the scene. When the train reached North-Clybourn, Patil followed the robber onto the platform, but was attacked again and had more belongings taken before Hughes escaped on foot. Patil sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Despite pressing the emergency help button and screaming for assistance, Patil claimed that the train operator instructed him to move to another car instead of helping him. CPD issued a bulletin seeking help to identify the robber, but Hughes was apprehended by a Public Transportation Unit tactical team that recognized him while on patrol in the Loop. Hughes has previous convictions for robbery and armed robbery.
Due to the traumatic experience, Patil is contemplating dropping out for the semester and returning to his home country, feeling unsafe in Chicago. He expressed forgiveness towards the attacker but urged them not to harm other international students or individuals.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance, especially for international students in unfamiliar environments. It also highlights the role of law enforcement in apprehending criminals and ensuring justice for victims of crime.
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