After authorities in Chicago offered tips to victims of violent robberies in the wake of an August crime spree in the city, an ex-NYPD officer slammed the department for the advice it gave to other potential victims. 

There were eight violent robberies in Chicago’s Grant Park, New Eastside and Loop areas last month, according to a memo circulated by the Chicago Police Department. 

“In each incident, the offender(s) targeted lone, unsuspecting victims on park property and, while using physical force, took possession of victims’ property,” the memo said. “A gold chain/necklace was taken in each occurrence.” 

Chicago police officers patrol downtown on Aug. 26, 2025, in Chicago.  (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

“And now you’re telling me they want someone with a .357 Magnum pointed at their head to remain calm, try to look for witnesses, look for identifying factors?” he asked, “The only thing you’re going to see is the barrel of that gun.” 

DeFazio suggested implementing community patrols to identify dangerous neighborhoods, and people in those neighborhoods who might cause trouble, akin to the early 2000s “stop and frisk” policies where police were allowed to conduct pat-downs to see whether people were carrying weapons. 

“That’s why the police aren’t doing well in Chicago,” he said. “They react to crime instead of preventing it. They’re not doing anything preventative.”

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling responds to a question as U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, left, listens during a news conference about the upcoming Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, in Chicago.  (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

DeFazio also emphasized appearing as nonthreatening as possible during a robbery. 

“If someone’s got a gun pointed at you, don’t move,” he said. “Keep your hands down. Don’t make any sudden movements. Do exactly what they say. That’s what they should be telling you.”

The Chicago Police Department did not return a comment request.