Suspect arrested in armed robbery

Officers of the UIC Police/Chicago Police Department Joint Robbery Task Force arrested a second suspect Friday in the Dec. 4 armed robbery of a UIC student near the Peoria Street pedestrian bridge.

Tom Michael Kaniewski, 19, of 2413 N. 78th Court, Elmwood Park, was taken into custody at his residence and charged with one count of felony armed robbery. He remains in Cook County Jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.

Kaniewski and another offender allegedly asked to borrow the victim’s mobile phone, placed several calls, then displayed a knife when the victim asked for its return. The victim was not injured in the crime.

Suspects were identified with the help of CTA investigators using video surveillance and the victim’s description. Task force officers arrested a minor in connection with the robbery Dec. 15. He was convicted in juvenile court and awaits sentencing.

“The joint effort between UIC Police and CPD is essential in maintaining the safety and security of UIC and the surrounding communities,” UIC Police Chief Kevin Booker said.

The UIC Police Department is a force of sworn officers with statewide statutory powers of arrest. The department has a long tradition of community-based policing in partnership with the on- and off-campus community.