Vallejo police warn residents about series of strong-arm robberies

VALLEJO, Calif. -- Vallejo police are reminding residents to be vigilant in the wake of a series of strong-arm robberies in the past month.

Many of the purse and jewelry thefts have taken place during daylight hours in and around shopping centers, police Sgt. Joe Iacono said.

The suspects approach the victims on foot, grab jewelry or bags using force or fear and flee to a waiting vehicle, Iacono said.

Police urge citizens to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant of suspicious people, especially as the holiday season approaches, Iacono said.

Police recommend walking in groups and keeping valuables out of plain sight to avoid being victimized.

One suspect was captured on film by a security camera at an OfficeMax store on Plaza Drive before a strong-arm robbery on Sunday, Iacono said.

Anyone with information about the robberies is asked to call Vallejo police at (800) 488-9383.