Man accused in string of suburban 7-Eleven armed robberies denied pretrial release
LOMBARD, Ill. - A DuPage County judge denied pretrial release for a 19-year-old man accused of holding up two suburban 7-Eleven stores at gunpoint in a months-long crime spree.
What we know:
Syed Osman appeared in court Friday morning on two counts of armed robbery with a firearm, a Class X felony.
He was identified as a suspect in a string of eight robberies at two 7-Eleven stores that began in March 2021, according to the DuPage County state’s attorney.
Syed Osman, 19.
Prosecutors allege Osman entered a 7-Eleven at 801 S. Westmore Road on the night of April 25, 2024, and confronted a clerk at gunpoint.
Osman ordered the clerk to hand over cash, cigarettes and vape pods, authorities said. After the clerk complied, he fled on foot.
On Oct. 2, 2024, Osman allegedly entered another 7-Eleven at 246 S. Westmore Road, confronted a clerk and demanded cash and vape pods, prosecutors said.
After the clerk complied, Osman again fled on foot.
What Led to Osman's Arrest :
Following an investigation, detectives identified Osman's residence in Hanover Park and began surveillance on Jan. 30.
When detectives saw him drive away from the home, they initiated a traffic stop for speeding and took him into custody.
What they're saying:
"It is alleged that on multiple occasions, Mr. Osman entered a Lombard 7-Eleven, displayed a handgun and then stole cash and merchandise from the store before fleeing on foot," DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. "This type of brazen behavior will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law. Through the outstanding efforts of the Lombard Police Department, Mr. Osman’s alleged crime spree has been brought to an end. The identification and apprehension of the defendant in this case is a shining example of DuPage County law enforcement’s efforts to protect our residents and businesses. I commend the Lombard Police Department for their diligence and outstanding police work on this case. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Sean Kinsella and Melissa Kravich for their efforts in preparing a strong case against Mr. Osman.
"I would like to commend the diligent work of the Lombard Police Department’s patrol officers and especially the Investigations Unit for their persistence in investigating this case," Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing said. "I would also like to thank DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his office for their assistance."
What's next:
Osman will remain in custody until his next court date, set for Feb. 24.