| San Gabriel: Rash of Home Robberies |
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| Written by Staff Reports | |||
| Sat, April 16, 2011 03:33 PM | |||
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Local police departments are investigating a recent rash of eighteen driveway robberies seven of which have occurred in San Gabriel and several others in Alhambra and Monterey Park The robberies have typically occurred when the victim was alone had returned home late at night (between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.), and is in the process of parking a vehicle in the driveway or garage. Police said the victim is usually approached by the robber demanding money. According to the San Gabriel police, in a majority of the robberies, the suspect has displayed a handgun. Although the suspect's description has varied, the general description is male, 5'-7" to 6'-0" tall, 180-200 pounds. The suspect is dressed in dark clothing and his face has been covered with either a ski mask and/or bandana. "The San Gabriel Police Department would like to remind residents to be vigilant and know your surroundings," a city announcement stated. Below are some personal safety tips issued by the San Gabriel police: • If possible, travel with a companion; this is especially important when it is dark outside. • At night, walk in well-lit parking lots and well-traveled areas. Avoid walking while talking on a cell phone and/or looking downward. • Don't overburden yourself with shopping bags or a purse. Carrying too much marks you as a victim. Place your purse in a shopping bag, not on your shoulder where criminals see it and where it is easier to steal. This also leaves both hands free. If you carry a purse, carry it securely between your arm and your body. Although a purse snatcher's intent is to steal the purse, your personal safety may depend on not clinging to it. • If you suspect you're being followed, turn and walk quickly in the opposite direction, and go to a welllit and well-populated area. • Don't carry more cash than you actually need and don't flash large sums of money at restaurants, bars, retail stores or banks - you never know who is watching. Don't carry credit cards if you aren't planning to use them. • Walk on the side of the street facing oncoming traffic. This will prevent a car from "sneaking" up on you. • Be aware of locations and situations that would make you vulnerable to crime, such as alleyways and dark parking lots. • Do not make yourself an obvious target. When practical, avoid wearing expensive, noticeable clothing or jewelry if you are going to be on the street.
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