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Woman Armed With 'Claw-Like Object' Steals Xanax From Jewel-Osco: Charges

 Ernelle Oliver, 58, is a registered nurse with no criminal history.
Ernelle Oliver, 58, is a registered nurse with no criminal history.
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Shutterstock; Chicago Police Department

COOK COUNTY CRIMINAL COURTHOUSE — A suburban woman armed with a "black claw-like object" stole hundreds of Xanax pills from a Jewel-Osco pharmacy, prosecutors said Tuesday.

Ernelle Oliver, 58, robbed the same store twice, but when she tried to rob the store a third time Monday, employees recognized her and called police, Assistant State's Attorney Lorraine Scaduto said during a bond hearing Tuesday.

Oliver, of south suburban Richton Park, now faces aggravated-robbery charges.

According to police, Oliver first hit the South Loop Jewel at 1340 S. Canal St. about 2:55 p.m. Jan. 27. She stole 262 Xanax pills after displaying a dark object and saying, "Give me your Xanax. Don't push any buttons or I will shoot you," court records show.

Oliver returned to the Jewel with a "black claw-like object" about 8 p.m. March 17, prosecutors said. She is accused of stealing 529 Xanax pills before leaving the store.

When Oliver returned to the Jewel about 9:15 a.m. Monday, police said, she was arrested carrying a kitchen knife.

According to prosecutors, Oliver said, "I did it," before telling officers she used Xanax and had "mental-health issues." Oliver is a registered nurse with no criminal background.

Cook County Judge Maria Kuriakos Ciesil on Tuesday said Oliver could be released on her own recognizance so long as she qualifies for electronic monitoring. If not, Oliver will be responsible for $50,000 bail.