Chief Ronald Ricucci is working together with various police jurisdictions to stay abreast of a string of armed robberies occurring in Montgomery County and the District of Columbia. These armed robberies have not occurred in the City of Takoma Park, but they are close to our jurisdiction and the Chief wants the citizens to be aware and alert.
On November 2, two Hispanic males traveling in a red SUV with possible Maryland tags completed three (3) armed robberies and two (2) attempted armed robberies in and around Montgomery County and the District of Columbia. The locations of the robberies were: (1) Pizza Hut located in the 8600 block of 16th Street in the District of Columbia; (2) Chipotle located on Connecticut Avenue in Montgomery County; (3) a citizen in front of Lia’s restaurant in the 4400 block of Willard Avenue in Montgomery County; (4) Chipotle located in the 400 block of Willard Avenue in Montgomery County; and (5) Chipotle located in Tenley Town in the District of Columbia. Some of the victims in these robberies were assaulted but not seriously injured.
The armed robberies have not taken place in the City of Takoma Park, but because of the vicinity of their locations to the City, Chief Ricucci would implore the citizens to be careful and aware of their surroundings.
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.
Posted by Plevy at November 3, 2008 06:45 PM