Elmhurst, Illinois – Two suburban men are facing felony charges after authorities say they fabricated an armed robbery involving more than $1 million worth of jewelry in an alleged scheme that triggered a large police response across multiple communities.
According to officials, the men reported being forced off the road and robbed at gunpoint while returning from a jewelry show. Investigators later determined the incident was staged.
Incident Overview
The DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Elmhurst Police Department announced charges against Mahmood Bashang, 30, of the 800 block of Greenwood Circle in Naperville, and Pezhman Gilani Yahyavi, 46, of the 100 block of Vantroba Drive in Glendale Heights.
Authorities said the two men claimed they were victims of an armed robbery while driving home from a jewelry show in Rosemont. They told police that three armed individuals forced their vehicle off the road and stole jewelry valued between $1.5 million and $2 million, most of it reportedly 14-karat gold.
However, investigators allege the robbery never occurred.
Timeline of Events
Police said the pair called 911 around 6:30 p.m. Sunday, reporting that they had been run off the road and robbed. The alleged incident prompted immediate response efforts from multiple departments.
According to law enforcement officials, officers, detectives, and emergency personnel from Elmhurst, Bensenville, and Rosemont were dispatched to investigate what was initially believed to be a serious armed robbery involving high-value merchandise.
During the course of the investigation, authorities concluded that Yahyavi intentionally drove the vehicle off the roadway to make it appear as though the robbery had taken place.
No injuries were reported in connection with the staged incident.
Details From Police
Both men have been charged with disorderly conduct – false report of a crime, classified as a Class 4 felony in Illinois.
Their next court appearance is scheduled for March 23.
Elmhurst Police Chief Michael McLean addressed the incident in an official statement, emphasizing the impact of the false report on public resources.
“The initial report prompted a full-scale response. Officers, detectives and emergency personnel from Elmhurst, Bensenville and Rosemont committed significant time and resources to what was ultimately determined to be a scheme to enrich themselves.”
Authorities did not release specific details about how investigators determined that the robbery was staged. Officials also did not disclose whether any jewelry was actually involved or if insurance claims were filed.
Key Facts
- Mahmood Bashang, 30, Naperville
- Pezhman Gilani Yahyavi, 46, Glendale Heights
- Reported robbery value: $1.5 million to $2 million
- Jewelry reportedly included mostly 14k gold items
- 911 call placed at approximately 6:30 p.m. Sunday
- Charge: Disorderly conduct – false report of a crime (Class 4 felony)
- Next court date: March 23
Impact on Public Safety and Resources
False crime reports can have significant consequences beyond legal penalties. When emergency responders mobilize for a serious felony such as an armed robbery involving millions of dollars in merchandise, it diverts law enforcement resources away from legitimate emergencies.
Multi-agency responses often require coordination, overtime staffing, and investigative manpower. In cases involving alleged armed suspects, officers may also respond with heightened caution, increasing risk levels for everyone involved.
Filing a false police report in Illinois can carry penalties that include fines, probation, and potential prison time, depending on the severity and circumstances of the case.
Authorities stress that such actions undermine public trust and place unnecessary strain on emergency systems.
Additional Context
The jewelry industry frequently involves the transport of high-value merchandise to and from trade shows and exhibitions, making legitimate security concerns common. However, law enforcement officials note that fabricating such crimes can also trigger broader investigations related to insurance fraud or attempted financial gain.
While no further details have been released regarding motive or financial claims, prosecutors indicated that the case represents an alleged attempt to “enrich themselves,” suggesting potential financial intent behind the report.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Conclusion
What was initially reported as a high-value armed jewelry heist in Elmhurst has now turned into a felony case centered on an alleged staged crime. Authorities say the incident highlights the serious legal and community consequences of filing false police reports.
Both defendants are expected back in court on March 23, where further proceedings will determine the next phase of the case.
If you have information related to similar incidents or concerns about false reporting in your community, contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
