Police caution residents after string of robberies

Be alert.

That’s what Nassau County Police are saying after two men robbed several women this month in East Meadow, Merrick, North Merrick, North Bellmore, Baldwin, Wantagh and Levittown.

The most recent robberies occurred on the night of Nov. 18 in North Bellmore and Merrick. A similar robbery occurred in Elmont as well, but Detective Lt. Kevin Smith said at a news conference in Mineola on Friday that police have yet to connect the incident with the pattern.

Smith described the first suspect as a black male, about 20 years old, between five-foot-four and five-foot-six, with a thin build and dark clothing. The second suspect was described as a black male, about 20 to 25 years old, between six feet and six-foot-two, with a medium build and dark clothing. Police also said they were seen driving in a dark-colored, possibly gray, four-door sedan.

All nine of the robberies have followed a similar pattern. All of the victims have been women. “They find a vulnerable target,” Smith said. They follow the target home, where they push her to the ground and grab her purse and cell phone. Smith noted that “no weapons have been displayed.”

The most recent incident in North Bellmore involved a 29-year-old woman who was walking home from the train station. The woman had earphones on and was unaware of who was behind her. When the suspect attacked, he said “just give me your pocket book, give me your cell phone,” according to Smith. The woman screamed, and the suspect ran off without obtaining her purse or cell phone.

Police are asking people to be aware of their surroundings. “Try to be more vigilant about what’s going on behind you,” Smith said. Police also suggested lighting your home and driveway better, and to not get out of the car if you see a suspicious vehicle. Smith also cautioned that if you are attacked to give up you purse and cell phone. “Give it up and call the police,” he said.

Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 244-TIPS or the county’s Robbery Squad at (516) 573-8044.

Comments about this story? DKrasula@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 234.