Residents in South Philadelphia have been on high alert following a spate of violent street robberies over the past month. Two juveniles, a 13-year-old and a 16-year-old, were recently arrested in connection with the various incidents that began around January 17, as per 6abc. The area affected, stretching from Seventh to 13th streets between Reed Street and South Street, has seen five strong-arm robberies and seven scooter thefts, police said.
The crimes, which have largely taken place late at night and into the early morning hours, involved perpetrators donning all-black clothing and masks. Police are working to actively stop the seemingly arbitrary pattern of attacks that has unsettled the community. Speaking during a public safety meeting covered by CBS News Philadelphia, Councilmember Mark Squilla expressed hope for a decrease in criminal activity following enhanced police presence in the affected areas.
According to PHL17, the Philadelphia Police are now calling on the public to assist in the investigation. They have requested that residents and business owners review their surveillance footage for any clues that could lead to further arrests.
Police have responded to the trend of violent robberies by increasing patrols between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., adding highway patrol and bicycle officers to the area. Additionally, they have begun to strategically distribute flyers and share information via Hispanic radio stations, considering many of the victims were Hispanic. "They're getting more violent, so definitely a group we want to catch and put an end to these acts," Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore was quoted saying in the 6abc article. Vanore also mentioned that the robberies seem to break into two patterns: one involving suspects on foot targeting lone individuals, and another involving scooter-related thefts.
Local residents, while distressed, have acknowledged the police's efforts to maintain safety. They continue to be aware of their surroundings and look out for each other as the investigation progresses. Any information or tips relating to the crimes can be directed to South Detectives at 215-686-3013 or call 911, as law enforcement remains steadfast in their pursuit to resolve this troubling sequence of crimes.
