In just over a week, more than 20 people have been targeted in a series of jewelry robberies on streets, at bus stops, grocery stores, and shopping centers on Beacon Hill and in the Rainier Valley.
The robberies happen quickly, with the suspects either grabbing their victims from behind or walking up to their victims, asking them a question, and snatching jewelry and purses from them.
Detectives believe the spate of street robberies began August 14th, when two suspects followed a woman out of a market on Beacon Hill and ripped two gold and jade necklaces from around her neck.
Since then, more than 20 men and women have contacted police about similar chain and purse snatchings across the South Precinct.
“It’s purely a crime of opportunity,” says SPD Robbery Lieutenant Dan Whelan.
In order to protect yourself from a robbery, Whelan says, you should always try to be aware of your surroundings, and keep your jewelry hidden under clothing if possible.
If you have any information about the suspects, please contact the Robbery Unit at (206) 684-5535.
For more tips on protecting yourself from becoming the victim of a robbery, click here.