The Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety is reporting a series of necklace snatching robberies appear to be connected.
In the past four months, the department has seen upward of 15 robberies where necklaces have been stolen. In at least two cases, a firearm was brandished.
The robberies have occurred in several locations throughout the city, most recently on Lochinvar Avenue, Evelyn Avenue and Lillick Drive.
Typically, one or two men are involved in the robbery and are described as African-American, in their 20s, heights ranging from 5-foot-10 to 6-foot-2, and thin builds.
“Based upon the similarities of the suspect descriptions, detectives believe a group of associated suspects are committing these crimes,” Sunnyvale DPS reported.
The men will approach from behind the victim before snatching the necklace. Police said the suspected robbers may be using multiple vehicles and working with other people in the area to find potential victims.
Asian Indian victims and primarily women have been targeted, but one case involved a male victim.
Sunnyvale saw a similar series of robberies, also targeting East Indian women, in August 2013. There were at least 10 victims, primarily around Ponderosa Park.
DPS asks for any assistance with these cases and is reminding residents to be aware of their surroundings and immediately call 911 if they have information or are a victim.
Anyone with information on the incidents is asked to contact detective Alan Harnett at 408.730.7138.
