Between January and the beginning of April 2019, a total of 11 violent swarming incidents have been reported to police involving the same group of suspects. In each incident, the same group of suspects has swarmed unsuspecting teen complainants, subjecting them to personal robberies and assaults.
Investigators believe the group is comprised of several black male youths under the age of 18, who have committed random criminal acts, including robberies with offensive weapons, personal robberies and assaults. In one of the incidents, a teen male complainant sustained a life-altering injury after being shot with an air soft pistol in the face.
Police are also investigating another 20 incidents of personal robberies and assaults that have taken place in and around the Clareview Recreation Centre throughout 2019. In these incidents, however, only one suspect and one complainant were involved - not multiple suspects.
In all of these incidents, suspects have targeted teen complainants stealing cell phones, head phones, wallets, purses and brand name clothing items.
Police have increased patrols throughout the area, and continue to work with its partners, including the City of Edmonton and Alberta Justice to investigate the series of incidents.
Anyone with information regarding the youths responsible for the 11 swarming incidents and/or any of the single suspect personal robbery incidents inside or outside of the Clareview Recreation Centre is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
Target Hardening: Protect yourself against personal robbery
While it may not be possible to prevent a personal robbery, there are some ways that you can minimize the risks:
Pick safe routes to get to your destination
Plan ahead, and let someone know where you are going and for how long
If you are walking after dark, take routes that are well lit and are well populated
If you’re using transit, stand or ride near others - do not isolate yourself
If you’re driving, avoid parking in an isolated area. Park in a well-lit, highly-visible, high-traffic area
Scan the surroundings as you walk or approach or leave your vehicle. If possible, walk with another person
If you’re carrying small personal electronics, like an iPod, conceal it under your clothes. These are targets for would-be thieves who can easily sell or exchange the device.
Keep your keys ready when walking to your vehicle or home, so that you can get in to your vehicle or home promptly
Lock the doors of your vehicle while you are inside.
Keep your vehicle in good working condition, especially in winter months, to reduce the chance of breaking down and stopping
Call out for help in an emergency, and carry a cell phone with you
Report a personal robbery, or any suspicious persons, vehicles or activities to police as soon as possible
Please remember that your personal safety is more valuable than your vehicle or other personal belongings.
https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/CrimePrevention/PersonalFamilySafety