Subway Meetup Turns Into Jewelry Robbery Attempt: Mount Prospect PD

MOUNT PROSPECT, IL — A resident, who had set up a meeting to sell jewelry to someone they had connected with through an online marketplace, was nearly robbed Monday night at a Subway restaurant. Mount Prospect police said the attempted strong arm robbery occurred at around 7:45 p.m. at 30 East Northway Highway.

According to police, the 23-year-old victim said a man — described as Black, in his late teens or early 20s, approximately 6-foot-3, weighing 160 pounds, and wearing a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt and dark-colored pants — approached him, saying he was there to buy the item.

The suspect, who had asked the victim if he could inspect the jewelry before finalizing the transaction, then forcefully took the item from the victim's hand and ran toward the exit of the restaurant.

Police said the victim caught up to the man and was able to get the jewelry back before the suspect exited the restaurant and fled in an unknown direction. Neither the victim, nor a restaurant employee who was there at the time of the attempted robbery, were injured during the incident.

In a news release, the Mount Prospect Police Department shared some safety information for anyone using online marketplaces to buy or sell things locally in person:

• Use Safe Zones: Use police station parking lots or lobbies, which often have 24/7 video surveillance. The Mount Prospect Police Department Headquarters is available for safer exchanges.
• If They Refuse, Walk Away: If a buyer or seller refuses to meet at a police station, it is a red flag to stop the transaction.
• Meet in Public and Well-Lit Areas: If not at a police station, choose a location with high foot traffic, such as a coffee shop or shopping center.
• Bring Someone: Always bring a friend or family member for security.
• Daylight Exchange: Conduct transactions during daylight hours.
• Don't Share Info: Do not give out your home address or personal information before the meeting.
• Handle Cash Carefully: Use cash or verified, secure digital payments, and only bring the exact amount needed.
• Inspect Before Payment: Thoroughly inspect the item before finalizing the purchase.

An investigation into the attempted robbery is ongoing and anyone with information can contact the Mount Prospect Police Department's Investigations Section at 847-870-5654.