Robbery Suspect Sought, Safe Exchange Zones Available
Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance to identify an armed robbery suspect and remind the public that Safe Exchange Zones are available while conducting transactions.
In an incident last month, the male in the attached photos was in contact with an individual through social media for the purpose of buying an item. When they met at the location, the suspect brandished a firearm and robbed the victim of the item, a mobile phone.
Richmond Police detectives are investigating several similar incidents of transactions that began on social media and became robberies recently, although not necessarily involving this same suspect.
While conducting business with unknown persons, the Richmond Police Department advises the public to use Safe Exchange Zones, located at two police precincts. Photos are attached. Safe Exchange Zones are well marked areas with a video camera recording 24 hours a day. While these cameras are not monitored live, should an incident occur, the video can be used to assist a detective’s investigation.
Safe Exchange Zones can be found here:
• Second Precinct
– 177 E. Belt Boulevard
• Fourth Precinct
– 2219 Chamberlayne Avenue
If you cannot
locate a Safe Exchange Zone location, follow these safety tips:
• Meet at a
well-lit, public location that you choose.
• Do not conduct
exchanges at your home or at the unknown person’s home.
• Conduct
exchanges during daylight hours.
• Avoid meeting
strangers alone.
• Share your
location with a trusted friend or family member.
• Trust your
instincts, if something does not feel right, cancel the meeting.
Anyone with information about this suspect or other incidents of robbery is asked to contact First Precinct Detective A. Partain at (804) 646-1290 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.
