Chicago Police Apprehend Two Armed Robbers in LIttle Village Theft

Chicago Police arrested and charged two men after a brazen midday armed robbery at a health food store in the South Lawndale Community yesterday.

Benjamin Marrero, 29, of the 2600 block of W. Cermak Rd. and David Lopez, 31, of the 2800 block of W. Cermak Rd. were each charged early this morning with one felony count of Armed Robbery and Aggravated Kidnapping.

Marrero and Lopez entered the health food store in the 3100 block of W. 26th St. shortly before noon yesterday and asked the store owner for a particular hand cream. The store owner recalled Marrero visiting the business last week requesting the same product.

The owner began walking toward the rear stock room when Marrero grabbed the victim,  while brandishing a screwdriver, and announced a robbery.

The offenders proceeded to restrain the 47-year-old female victim’s hands and feet with duct tape before rummaging through her purse, taking her cell phone, car keys and bank card.

The offenders then moved to the cash register where they forced it open before fleeing the store in the victim’s vehicle.

Officers quickly responded to the store where they obtained a detailed description of the offenders and the victim’s stolen car. A short time later, officers apprehended both offenders near an ATM machine where they had withdrawn cash from the victim’s account.

Both offenders are expected to appear in Felony Bond Court today.