Police: Thieves targeting downtown Chicago stores on Michigan, State

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are putting businesses on alert after a series of brazen robberies in November targeting stores downtown, including along Michigan Avenue and State Street.

Police said thieves have hit stores in the 700-block of North Michigan Avenue, the 1200-block of North Larrabee Street, the 800-block of North Michigan and the 900-block of North State Street, all in the afternoon hours.

While inside, the robbers take merchandise by force. Police said in one case one of the suspects showed a handgun.

Investigators said the robberies are being carried out by several different people but what they all have in common is the use of force.

Police are now warning businesses to encourage their employees to review store policies and not to engage the armed robbers.