Street Robbery Prevention Tips from the Alameda Police Department

By Lt. Sean Lynch

Alameda residents become more active during the summertime, enjoying longer days, excellent weather and the many social opportunities the Island city offers.

Unfortunately, criminals also become more active during the summer months. Alameda is a safe community and enjoys a comparatively lower crime rate than other cities in the Bay Area, but no community is immune to crime. It is easy to become complacent. Remember, anyone can be a victim of crime.

Last month, the Alameda Police Department provided . This month, the focus is on preventing street robbery prevention. 

Take Responsibility for Your Personal Safety

• Stay in well-lit areas. 
• Walk near the curb — away from shrubbery and places where someone could be hiding.
• Walk against traffic, so that cars cannot surprise you from behind.
• Keep an arm’s length away from strangers.
• If you think someone suspicious is approaching or following you, cross to the other side of the street and head for the nearest public place.
• Avoid illegal behaviors, such as buying or using narcotics, which increase the likelihood of being targeted for robbery.

Don't Make It Obvious That You're in Unfamiliar Territory

• Giving the appearance of not paying attention and not being alert is what suspects look for in a victim. (Not surprisingly, many victims are robbed while talking on their cell phones).
• Stay sober enough to take care of yourself. Criminals view impaired persons as easy prey.
• Walk briskly and with confidence.

At Night, Avoid Public Parks, Vacant Lots, Alleys and Areas with Excessive Trees and Bushes

• Know which stores and other public places are open along your route.
• Don't hesitate to run back to where you came from to get help.
• Look for anyone "hanging around" your car or your path to your car.
• Have your keys in your hand and be ready to open the car door.

Street Robbery: Dos and Don'ts

• Never wrap a purse strap around your wrist; forcible removal could result in serious injury.
• Keeping cash in a separate money clip or pouch will allow you to hand it over without sacrificing your credit cards, identification, and personal papers.
• RELEASE THE PURSE. Do not risk personal injury.
• Obey the robber's instructions.
• Make a mental note of the robber's appearance, i.e., height, weight, hair color/style, clothing, etc.
• If possible, take down the vehicle license plate number, a description of the vehicle, and the direction the robber is fleeing.
• Then call 9-1-1 immediately!

For more information, contact the Alameda Police Department Community Oriented Policing and Preventative Services (COPPS) Unit at (510) 337-8305. 

Working together, residents and the police officers who serve them can make Alameda a safer community.