Champaign County Crime Stoppers | Suspect sought in smoke shop robbery

Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking public assistance to identify a suspect involved in a robbery at Exotic's Smoke Shop on East University Avenue. The incident occurred on March 25 at approximately 2:20 p.m. when the suspect entered the store, selected items, and attempted to leave without paying.

During the attempted theft, the suspect confronted an employee while trying to grab a bag of items. When the employee resisted, the suspect pushed them aside and moved behind the counter, indicating a willingness to escalate the situation. Another employee tried to intervene, prompting the suspect to reveal an object from his waistband, which he pointed at the employees before fleeing the scene.

The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 25 to 30 years old, wearing distinct clothing that includes a black stocking cap, a yellow disposable mask, a black puffy coat, black pants, and black and yellow Jordan 13 retro "Carmelo Class of 2002" high-top shoes. Surveillance footage is available, and police believe it may help in identifying him.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the robbery or the suspect to reach out. Tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477, visiting 373tips.com, or using the free "P3 Tips" mobile app. All submissions are processed in a manner that ensures the anonymity of the tipster.

Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to arrests in various cases, including up to $5,000 for tips related to homicides and up to $1,000 for tips on other crimes in Champaign County.