Since the beginning of October, our community has experienced an increase in “gold chain snatch” robberies. The recent robberies have occurred between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during broad day light. In each of the cases, an unknown male suspect has approached a female victim and forcibly ripped a necklace from her neck. The victims were all wearing high valued gold chain necklaces and have been of Asian Indian decent. Victims and witnesses have described the suspect(s) as a black male adult, between the age of 20-35 years old and tall with a “skinny” or “fit” build. The locations of the robberies have varied between busy commercial shopping areas to quite neighborhoods, but there has been a concentration in the area of town that lies between the roadways of Stevenson Blvd. and Eggers Drive and Argonaut Way and Paseo Padre Pkwy.
During this time period, a significant amount of time and resources have been dedicated to this investigation. On November 5, 2014, Fremont Police apprehended and arrested a suspect responsible for an armed gold chain snatch robbery that occurred in early October. This robbery series remains an active and ongoing investigation. If anyone has information about these robberies, we ask that you please contact the Fremont Police Crimes Against Persons Unit at 510-790-6900.
In an effort to help further protect our community, Fremont Detectives would like to stress the importance of personal safety and have the following tips to share:
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When walking outdoors, don't carry large quantities of money or wear expensive jewelry. Even if your necklace is concealed, it may still be possible for a suspect to see the shimmer from your neckline.
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Don’t be distracted while talking on your cell phone or listening to music on your headphones.
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Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention and take notice of people following behind you, watching you from their vehicle as you walk or shoulder surfing you at a bank or retail establishment.
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Always be alert in your neighborhood. Report unknown persons and vehicles that appear suspicious or that don’t belong to the area. If you notice a suspicious vehicle, try to get the license plate and a good description of the car and driver. Always call the police before sharing the information with your neighbors.
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As the holidays approach, don't leave expensive gifts or items sitting visibly in your vehicle. Hide items in your trunk before you arrive or ask the store if they will hold your purchases for you until you are ready to go home.
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When shopping at night, always park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
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When leaving a mall or retailer be alert and make sure no one is following you to your car. If you don't feel comfortable walking out to your car alone, ask to see if a security guard is available to escort you.
We hope that you have a safe and happy holiday season and we ask that you share these tips with all of your friends, family and neighbors.
Always report suspicious activity to the Fremont Police Department by dialing 790-6800 and selecting option 3, or dial 9-1-1 to report a crime in progress.
