NEWS RELEASE
City of Takoma Park Police Department
• 7500 Maple Avenue • Takoma Park, Md 20912
For more information contact:
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Catherine Plevy, 301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901
November 3, 2008 (5:25 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald Ricucci announced today that the Takoma Park Police Department is investigating four robberies that occurred between October 25, 2008 and November 2, 2008, in the business district of Takoma Park, Maryland, along the New Hampshire Avenue corridor. Police now believe that the same suspects may be responsible for all four robberies. Chief Ricucci stated that all four victims were of Asian descent which leads Police to believe they are being targeted. The dates, times, and locations of each occurrence are:
Saturday, October 25 at approximately 8:38 p.m., Takoma Park Police officers responded to the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue at Banner Cleaners.
Saturday, November 1 at approximately 9:07 p.m., Takoma Park Police officers responded to the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue at the Red Apple Market.
Sunday, November 2 at approximately 12:05 p.m., Takoma Park Police officers responded to the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue at the Citibank parking lot.
Sunday, November 2 at approximately 7:05 p.m., Takoma Park Police officers responded to the 6800 block of New Hampshire Avenue at the Best Nails II.
In each robbery, the victims were physically assaulted resulting in minor injuries.
In all four robberies the suspects were described similarly: (1) black male, approximately 5’6, wearing a red shirt, black pants, and black do-rag/knit cap, (2) black male, approximately 6’0, wearing a white t-shirt, black pants and a black do-rag/knit cap; (3) black male, approximately 6’0 wearing a black do-rag/knit cap; and (4) black female (usually the driver) with long braids or a weave.
Chief Ricucci announced that the Takoma Park Police are increasing their uniform and plain-clothes patrol officers to the area, specifically targeting these robberies.
Some safety tips the Takoma Park Police want citizens to know and how they can protect themselves throughout the community.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Most criminals look for convenient and what they perceive as “easy” prey. There are some common sense precautions you can take to minimize the risk of being robbed.
If you see an individual, a group or a parked vehicle that looks suspicious or causes you concern, keep your distance.
If you must walk alone at night, walk in highly visible, well lighted areas.
Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. As you walk, look around you. Scan the area.
Do not allow yourself to be distracted by using a cell phone or head phones.
Walk purposefully and look confident. Keep your head up.
Do not walk close to shrubbery, doorways or cars where someone can easily hide.
Hide your valuables. Don’t flash jewelry or other expensive belongings. Keep any bag or purse close to your body, preferably in front.
Try to limit your use of ATM machines to daytime, avoiding those that are out of the way and as always, be aware of your surroundings.
If you think you are being followed, quickly change directions and if possible go to a location where there are other people that can help you.
If an unknown vehicle approaches you, immediately change directions.
If you do find yourself being robbed, avoid being injured by giving the robber what they want.
Don’t attempt to resist or attack the subject.
If possible, try to note details that will help in catching the suspect, such as race, hair, facial features, height, weight, build, clothing and vehicle and tag information.
Call police immediately (301.270.1100) or “911" and stay in a safe place nearby until they arrive.
Anyone who has information about these robberies and/or the suspects involved is asked to call the Takoma Park Police at 301-270-1100. Callers may remain anonymous.
Posted by Plevy at November 3, 2008 05:25 PM