CHICAGO, Illinois — A 32-year-old Chicago man with a violent criminal history is now facing multiple felony charges after police linked him to two separate street robberies in just over two weeks.
Dennis Laird was taken into custody Thursday near 93rd Street and Stony Island Avenue in the Calumet Heights neighborhood on the city’s South Side.
What Happened Near Wrigley Field
The first incident took place on April 22 in the 3500 block of North Clark Street — just one block from Wrigley Field.
Police say Laird robbed and physically beat a 20-year-old man in that location. The area is one of Chicago’s most active entertainment strips, packed with bars, restaurants, and foot traffic on game days and weekends.
Less than three weeks later, on May 8, Laird allegedly struck again.
A Second Victim in River North
This time, police say Laird participated in restraining and robbing a 30-year-old man in the 400 block of North Clark Street in the River North neighborhood.
River North is one of the city’s busiest nightlife and dining districts, drawing thousands of visitors and residents every weekend.
The second incident involved not just robbery but physical restraint — pushing the severity of the charges significantly higher.
Charges Filed
Laird now faces four charges in connection with the two incidents.
He has been charged with armed robbery with a dangerous weapon, robbery, aggravated unlawful restraint, and aggravated battery in a public place.
Each of those charges carries serious sentencing exposure under Illinois law.
A Long History With Chicago Police
This arrest is not Laird’s first — not even close.
According to police, Laird has been arrested four times in Chicago since 2014. Those prior arrests include a charge of first-degree murder and a charge of resisting or obstructing a peace officer.
It is not immediately clear how those prior cases were resolved.
What Comes Next
Laird had a detention hearing scheduled for Friday, where a judge will determine whether he remains in custody while his case moves forward.
Given the nature of the charges and his prior arrest history, prosecutors are expected to argue for his continued detention.
Have you noticed increased criminal activity in the Wrigley Field or River North area? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
