CITIZEN ALERT: Police Share Information on Recent Unarmed Street Robberies

The Cambridge Police Department is asking residents to be vigilant after three women were victimized in unarmed robberies last night in Cambridge.

The first incident occurred at approximately 10:05 p.m. in the area of Appleton Street.  A female in her twenties stated she was walking alone to her car when she was struck in the head from behind by an unknown object and her cell phone was taken by what is believed to be a single male suspect.

The second incident occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m. in the area of Kirkland and Holden Streets.  Two females in their twenties state they were approached by a black male suspect and knocked to the ground.  One of the female’s cell phones was then stolen.

Cambridge Police are actively investigating these incidents and ask anyone with information to call Cambridge Police at 617-349-3368.   Those who wish to submit tips anonymously via phone, email, and text message, should visit www.CambridgePolice.org/Tips.

To avoid being victimized, Cambridge Police encourage all persons to take the following precautions when walking at night:

• Do not wear earbuds, headphones, or listen to music while walking alone.
• Always walk with a friend or in a group when possible.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts.
• 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.
• 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.
• If approached, DO NOT RESIST.  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.
• 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 on the Cambridge Police Department’s website at www.CambridgePolice.org/SafetyTips.