Six Arrested in Chicago Rolex Store Robbery
Authorities in Chicago have arrested six individuals linked to a recent robbery at the Rolex store located in downtown Chicago. This incident occurred just as discussions were underway about increasing security measures in the city, including possibly deploying the National Guard to address rising crime rates.
The theft happened during the day on Friday at this well-known location along the Magnificent Mile. Reports indicate that one of the suspects broke the display window using a hammer, successfully snatching five Rolex watches valued at approximately $170,500 before fleeing in a vehicle.
“Those involved in organized retail theft should recognize that law enforcement is taking these offenses seriously and will pursue prosecution to the fullest extent,”
Chicago police quickly responded to the incident, using a helicopter to track the fleeing suspect. After leaving the highway, the suspect crashed into a parked car. Though they tried to escape on foot after the crash, police apprehended the individual and recovered four of the five stolen watches.
The suspects include Victory Bank, 33; Will Brown, 21; Aldonte Goodman, 22; Anthony Hampton, 24; Dalvin Johnson, 31; and 18-year-old Armon Williams. They face multiple charges, including theft exceeding $100,000, criminal damage, and robbery—all classified as felonies.
As of Monday, the bank was not listed in the Cook County Jail population. Meanwhile, Williams, Goodman, Brown, Hampton, and Johnson remain in custody. Court hearings for Williams, Goodman, and Brown are scheduled for Thursday, while Johnson’s hearing is set for Tuesday, and Hampton’s is scheduled for Monday.
Interestingly, Johnson had previously been released on bail for another robbery offense before this smash-and-grab incident, according to court records.
Cook County State Attorney Irene O’Neill Burke commented, “Those engaged in organized retail theft should understand that these crimes are treated with great seriousness and bring severe consequences.” She expressed appreciation for the Chicago Police Department’s swift action in bringing the suspects to justice.
In a related note, Chicago Alderman Raymond Lopez has suggested that deploying the National Guard could help secure tourist areas, asserting that local police shouldn’t have to waste resources monitoring non-essential locations. He added that there’s a backlog of thousands of 911 calls that remain unanswered.
Unfortunately, the Rolex store has been targeted by daytime thefts, even with pedestrians and officers close by. This incident comes at a time when the city saw a significant increase in violence, with reports indicating that, over Labor Day weekend, 21 people were shot, seven of whom lost their lives.
