A series of gold scams and forceful strong-arm robberies occurred in various shopping center parking lots throughout Chula Vista.
Authorities report the suspects will run in pairs of 2 or 3, utilize children and will oftentimes have counterparts of both genders. The recorded attacks have occurred in broad daylight.
The tactics utilized by the suspects will oftentimes tug at victims heartstrings. Authorities said suspects are targeting people between 50 to 70 years old.
According to the CVPD, suspects will tell victims they are selling gold due to food insecurity, needing funds to get home and use young children. They have sold fake gold at a lower price in exchange for the victim’s jewlery, and even forcefully remove the victim’s jewlery once they've reached their cars.
The public is encouraged to be vigilant as every robbery is different. In the event of a robbery, you will need to assess yourself, the robber and the situation to determine what should be done.
The city of San Diego recommends for people to follow these steps in the event of a robbery:
- Act calmly. Do exactly what the robber says. Keep your movements short and smooth to avoid startling the robber.
- Do not resist. Cooperate for your own safety and the safety of others. Robbers usually are excited and easily provoked. Tell the robber about any movements you plan to make.
- Activate an alarm if it can be done safely without alerting the robber.
- Observe carefully. Study the robber's face and clothing, note any other distinguishing features, observe the direction of escape, record the license, make, and color of any vehicle used in the robbery, etc. Write down everything you can remember about the robber and the crime itself.
- Lock the door and call 911 immediately after the robber leaves. Then you can make other calls.
- Preserve the scene. Discontinue regular business until officers have searched the scene. Cover any surfaces the robber may have touched and keep away from areas where the robber may have been.
- Ask other witnesses to remain. Get names and phone numbers if they are unable to remain. Ask to see their driver's licenses or other ID to verify this information.
- Save camera imagery records.
- Don't discuss the robbery with others until all statements have been taken.
These crimes are currently under investigation. Anyone with any information regarding this crime is encouraged to call Chula Vista Police at (619) 691-5151.
