Philadelphia police are asking the community to help locate the men believed to be behind a series of strong‑arm robberies aimed at women entering or exiting banks in Northeast Philadelphia. Detectives from the Northeast Detective Division say they have confirmed four incidents over the past six weeks.
Pattern of attacks
Surveillance footage captured one of the assaults outside a Bank of America branch on the 9500 block of Bustleton Avenue on Aug. 21. In each case, the perpetrators approached women in cars, forced them from their vehicles, and stole cash or valuables. Capt. Jack Ryan of Northeast Detectives noted that the suspects have been selective, targeting women who have just left a bank or, in one instance, a woman who was entering the bank to make a deposit.
Details of the robberies
All four robberies occurred in broad daylight between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Three of the victims were pushed to the ground and suffered minor injuries. One victim is an 80‑year‑old woman who was left shaken but unharmed. Police say the suspects used a different vehicle for each robbery, and at least one of those vehicles was reported stolen.
Authorities believe at least two individuals are involved, including a getaway driver. Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man shown in surveillance images who is believed to have carried out the attacks.
Police response
“Right now, we have four for certain. They are all linked to a geographic area and M.O.,” Capt. Ryan said. “He is targeting vulnerable women leaving the bank. We need someone to step up.” The police department has set up a tip line for anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicles used.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and avoid walking alone near bank entrances and exits, especially during daylight hours. The police department assures the community that the investigation is ongoing and that they are reviewing all available video evidence to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
