Crime & Safety

Good Samaritans Tackle Screwdriver-Armed Robber, Cops Say

Chicago Police are applauding two Good Samaritans for their work detaining an accused robber in Lincoln Park over the weekend.

Police are crediting two Good Samaritans with the arrest of a man who they say was armed with a screwdriver Saturday night when he stole a woman's purse in Lincoln Park.

Jose Rodriguez, 30, reportedly approached the 29-year-old victim around 11:45 p.m. in the 800 block of West Diversey Parkway, which is near the street's intersection with North Halsted Street, according to a Chicago Police Department written statement. 

Demanding money, he reportedly threatened the woman using a screwdriver. He pressed it against her torso, police said.

Find out what's happening in Lincoln Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

A male witness followed Rodriguez when he ran away with the bag.

While the suspect passed another man, the witness yelled to that man, a 24-year-old, asking that he stop him. The two then teamed up to wrestle Rodriguez to the ground, according to police.

Find out what's happening in Lincoln Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Officers eventually arrived on scene and charged Rodriguez with armed robbery with a weapon. He was also arrested on an active warrant for violating parole.

Sign up for our free Lincoln Park newsletter, as well as breaking news alerts. Fast signup here.

Looking for related news

  • Bat-Wielding Driver Beats Police Officer
  • Gangster Disciple Survives Gunshot to Head; Tenant Douses Floor with Burning Oil
  • Pestering Panhandlers: When Do They Cross the Line? 

Follow us on Facebook!


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.