CITIZEN ALERT: Recent Armed Street Robberies & How to Protect Yourself

October 25, 2011 – The Cambridge Police Department is warning residents to be vigilant after several armed street robberies last night.  Two took place on the border of the East Cambridge and Inman/Harrington neighborhoods, with a third taking place in Mid-Cambridge.
On 10/24 at approximately 8:15 PM, there was an armed robbery of a female by two black male suspects on Marney Street.  The suspects showed a handgun and stole the victim’s purse before fleeing.  The victim was not injured.
Shortly after, at approximately 8:40 PM, a male delivery person was robbed by two black male suspects on Thorndike Street.  The suspects showed a handgun and stole the victim’s wallet and cell phone.  The victim was not injured.
In the early morning hours of 10/25, two males were robbed of their cell phones and money while walking on Chatham and Hancock streets by two black male suspects who showed a handgun.  The victims were not injured.
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call Cambridge Police at 617-349-3300.  Anonymous tips may also be sent via text message to TIP411 (847411). Begin your text with TIP650 and then type your message.
Cambridge Police have a number of leads at this time and are reaching out to surrounding communities to see if they have had any similar incidents.  A team of detectives has been assigned to focus their efforts on this investigation and the Patrol Division is ensuring that personnel are deployed appropriately.  
To help protect yourself from becoming a victim of such crimes, Cambridge Police encourage you to take the following precautions when walking at night:
•	If approached, DO NOT RESIST, especially if you know or believe the robber to be armed. The best course of action is to hand over money and whatever other belongings are demanded and try to disengage from this confrontational and potentially dangerous situation as soon as possible. Remember, things can always be replaced.
•	Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts.
•	Always walk with a friend or in a group when possible.
•	Walk with confidence on the street and at a good, steady pace. Keep your head up and observe your surroundings. Don't look down at the ground.
•	Do not wear earbuds, headphones, or listen to music while walking alone.
•	If you feel you are being followed, show you are suspicious – Turn to look at the person. This sends a clear message that you will not be taken by surprise.
•	Change directions. If someone is following you on foot, cross the street and vary your pace. If the person following you is in a car, turn and walk in the opposite direction.
•	Try to remember descriptive information about the robber (height, age, race, etc.) to relay to police when reporting the incident.

More safety tips are available via the Cambridge Police Department website at http://www.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridge_Content/documents/street%20saftety.pdf.
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