Full Notification

Strong arm or street robberies are crimes against persons where the criminal targets unsuspecting victims, taking property through force or fear. This type of crime has increased in the region. What can you do to reduce the chances of you or your family becoming a victim?

Safety tips and robbery prevention

Although violent crime at within the City of Newark is rare, we are not immune from such realities. Although quick responses and arrests normally reduce citizen anxieties, prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime by following the safety tips below. Consider what you can do to enhance your personal safety. Robbery is a dangerous crime that can threaten any person or business. It is a crime of violence. Remember that money and material items can be replaced; a life cannot.

Tips for being safe when walking

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door, and remember to be alert to what and who is around you. Glance under your car, around it and in the back seat as you get in.

• Be alert and aware. Pay full attention to who is around you when you are in public. Avoid text messaging and talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to use the phone. If you must use your phone, stop in a safe area to do so.

• Beware of "Apple picking." Be alert when using, or simply carrying, your smart phone -- including iPhones and Android phones -- especially after dark. There is a market for stolen smart phones and you could become a victim of a robbery. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight.

• Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public. Only carry the credit cards you need.

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or excessive amounts of jewelry.

• Be careful with purses or wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.

• There’s safety in numbers. Don’t make yourself an easy target. If you must be out at night, arrange to go to class, do errands or go shopping with a friend or two.

If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call police immediately.

If a robbery should occur

• Try your best to stay calm and if possible, focus on something unique to the suspect.

• Your safety is most important. Above all, don’t be heroic.

• Do what the robber says and don’t stall.

• Don’t make any sudden, unexpected moves. A nervous criminal may think you are reaching for a concealed weapon.

• If the suspect claims he has a gun, knife, razor, or other weapon in his pocket, never try to force the bluff.

• Afterward, call the police immediately. Call 911!

• Write down a complete description of the suspect, weapon and vehicle used, if any.

http://kron4.com/2015/08/06/rash-of-strong-arm-robberies-reported-in-fremont/