Designer jackets, bags and sneakers have become the latest targets in Jamaica, where the NYPD’s 113th Precinct is warning residents to be on high alert after a recent run of robberies. The precinct put out a safety advisory Friday, urging people to take extra care at night, stick to well-lit routes and stay sharp on public transit while officers dig into the reports.
Where the alert came from
The 113th Precinct, which covers southeastern Jamaica and nearby neighborhoods, shared the warning through its community channels, according to the NYPD 113th Precinct page. The precinct’s online listing also includes direct contact numbers for community affairs and crime-prevention officers so residents can pass along concerns or tips.
What the alert recommends
In its advisory, the precinct asks residents to avoid walking alone late at night or in low-traffic areas whenever possible and to stick to well-lit streets. People are urged to keep headphone volume low, or use transparency mode, so they can stay aware of what is happening around them.
The notice also reminds folks to keep bags zipped and close to the body, and for anyone riding transit, to hold bags in front of them, tuck valuables into interior pockets and use a high-quality lock on any locker they might be using. Riders are encouraged to stay alert on train platforms and at bus stops, according to the NYPD 113th Precinct post.
How this fits into local outreach
The new warning is part of a broader push by the 113th Precinct to get ahead of theft trends and keep residents in the loop. In mid-February, officers distributed flyers about wheel and rim thefts in Jamaica, getting prevention tips directly into neighbors’ hands. That earlier effort was covered in Rim Raiders Hit Jamaica Streets. Similar alerts about thieves eyeing high-end sneakers and accessories have surfaced in other cities as well, according to FOX 5 DC.
How residents can respond
Anyone who spots suspicious activity is urged to call 911 right away. For non-emergencies, residents can dial 311 or reach out to the precinct’s community affairs unit for guidance, per the NYPD 113th Precinct. Officers are asking neighbors to keep valuables out of sight and to share any information that might help investigators identify suspects or patterns behind the designer-item robberies.
