Community Alert: Boston Police Increase Patrols After Robberies near Dorchester MBTA Stations
Boston and Transit Police are stepping up patrols and alerting the public after several Dorchester area robberies. All of the robberies targeted women walking home from the MBTA Red Line stations, including JFK-UMass, Savin Hill, Shawmut and Ashmont.
The incidents have occurred between the hours of 7 pm. and 10:30 pm. In some of the incidents, the suspect, described as a black male with a thin build, age 20-30, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and showed a handgun. The male suspect has engaged victims in a brief conversation before demanding money.
The Boston Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is asked to call District-11 Detectives (617) 343-4335.
Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those who wish to remain anonymous.
Personal Safety Tips:
• Don’t assume it can’t happen to you. Crime can happen to anyone at any time.
• Avoid walking alone late at night. Walk with a friend whenever possible.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially, at night.
• Walk with confidence and never let anyone violate your personal space.
• Travel in well-lit and populated areas.
• Carry a cell phone but don’t become distracted while talking on it.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles.
• Call ahead to your destination to notify loved ones that you’re on your way home. Provide a specific time that you expect to be home by so, in the event you fail to arrive on time, loved ones will know to begin looking for you.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use it.
• Yelling “fire,” “help,” or “rape” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to scare, distract or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• Trust your instincts. If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk towards an open store, restaurant or residence.
