Two cases have been reported on Chicago's Southeast Side. Both happened in broad daylight, around 2 or 3 p.m. in the afternoon. Police say the man dresses in plain clothes, but claims to be a police officer.
Police say the man approaches people on the sidewalk in the South Shore and South Chicago neighborhoods and says he's a police officer, but shows no identification.
He then orders them into his car saying it's part of a criminal investigation, but after driving a shirt distance, he pulls over and robs them.
"If they're not showing their badge, they shouldn't be allowed to be forced into a car and held at gunpoint, it's kinda scary," said Dion Daniels, neighbor.
Police say he's stolen cash in the two incidents they are aware of. They say he's African American in his 40's. He's bald but has dark sideburns that continue to form a goatee or mustache.
He displays a silver handgun and identifies himself as Agent or Officer Franklin. He also drives a tan SUV, a Mercury Mountaineer with temporary license plates.
Police say people should always ask for identification if someone claims to be an officer.
"If you have an individual that approaches you and announces that he's some sort of law enforcement official or agent, then you should ask for some kind of ID," said Sgt. Yul Cousins, Chicago Police Department.
Police say the man got away with $50 in one robbery, and $83 in the other-- a relatively small reward considering the serious charges he could be facing.
Anyone with information should contact detectives at (312) 747-8273 or send tips to area2tip@chicagopolice.org.
