SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT News Release
		Release #10-11-02 October 11, 2002 For Immediate Release
						Media Office 916-433-0808  Capt. Sam Somers Sgt. Justin Risley, PIO AA Audrey Lee PCIII Cheryl Moore Internet: www.sacpd.org

The Police Department is asking the community to be on alert.  In the past month there has been an increase in purse snatch robberies through-out the city.
 
The victims in these cases are mostly female ranging from 17 to 70 years of age.  Many of the victims have been attacked while in the driveway or garage of their residence after returning home.   The suspects have been taking the victims’ purses and on several occasions have actually entered the residence looking for other items.
 
The robberies have occurred on most days of the week between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. The suspects have been described as being male black, 16-25 years of age, driving a variety of vehicles.

If you observe suspicious activity in your neighborhood please call the Police Department at 264-5471.  The following are safety measures you can take to prevent from being a victim.  Remember, it can happen to you!

1.  Be aware of your surroundings, especially after returning home in your vehicle.
2.  Lock your vehicle doors and look around before getting out of your vehicle.
3.  If you believe you are being followed, drive to a well lit and populated location, and call the police.
4.  If you can, leave valuables at home.
5.  If you are a victim, immediately cancel any credit cards that were stolen and be sure to monitor your          
     accounts for unathorized usage.  Report any unauthorized activity to the police.

Anyone with information on any of these crimes is asked to call Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or (800) AA-CRIME. Callers can remain anonymous and can earn up to $1,000 reward.

Sergeant Justin Risley
#10-11-02