The NYPD is providing New Yorkers with safety tips on what to watch for as scooter-riding thieves have been robbing people on the street.
Police say that these thieves often ride in pairs on scooters – one drives, while the other snatches cell phones and personal belongings out of people’s hands.
The 49th Precinct issued a crime alert warning to the community after a recent theft where two men snatched a woman’s phone and drove off on Pelham Parkway South on March 7.
According to crime statistics, there have been 46 reported snatching incidents of electronic devices citywide from March 11 to March 17, with 23 of those taking place in the Bronx. It’s not confirmed how many of those have been done by thieves on scooters.
The NYPD is encouraging New Yorkers to turn their headphone volume down, walk with another person if possible, and keep your cellphones and devices secured.