The Santa Clara Police Department has experienced multiple strong-arm robberies near Bing Drive at Homestead Road, El Camino Real at Lawrence Expressway and Monroe Street at Los Padres Boulevard over the past month. The suspect(s) target individuals of Asian Indian decent with visible gold chains around their neck. The subject either snatches the jewelry and runs away, or brandishes a handgun and demands the jewelry and a wallet. The male suspect in each case is described as a black male adult, approximately 19-24 years of age and 5-foot-9″to 6-feet tall.
“Thankfully, nobody has been hurt” according to Police Chief Michael J. Sellers. However “it is a very traumatic experience for the victims.” As in all cases, Sellers reminds residents that “prompt reporting of a crime increases the Police Department’s ability to solve crimes and support victims.”
Police advise residents to take caution while wearing jewelry, especially gold necklaces, and to be aware of their surroundings. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call for help. Police advise the public not to fight back for risk of personal injury. Finally, residents are reminded to report suspicious persons or behavior in and around these areas. Dial 9-1-1- for emergencies or call the non-emergency phone line at (408) 615-5580.
