Bond set for Chicago man in Wood Dale robberies

Bond was set at $300,000 Friday for a Chicago man accused of robbing two Wood Dale tobacco shops.

Prosecutors alleged Michael Wilson, 19, pointed a revolver at two clerks in two separate holdups - the first on Dec. 30, 2013, and the second on Jan. 17 - at two Wood Dale tobacco stores on the 300 and 400 blocks of Irving Park Road.

DuPage Assistant State's Attorney Anne Theriau said Wilson faces a minimum 21 years in prison on the armed robbery charge.

Wood Dale police Chief Greg Vesta said authorities have been circulating videos of Wilson's car used in the robberies and photos of the sweatshirt and stocking cap he is alleged to have worn.

Vesta said an officer noticed Wilson's car Thursday night at a local convenience store and recognized it from the video. Shortly after, Wilson was stopped for having an obstructed windshield and not wearing his seat belt.

Within a short time, Vesta said, the officer found the sweatshirt and cap used in the robbery.

"I'm very positive, based on the clothing and everything else that we have our guy," Vesta said. "That's for sure."

Vesta said nerves have been high in the area following the late January murder of a Bensenville shop owner during an attempted robbery.

"We knew those cases were not connected but we hope this arrest lowers the apprehension in that area," Vesta said. "I really do think a lot of nerves in that area have been calmed."

Wilson is next due in court at 1:30 p.m. March 24.