Minneapolis police warn of increase in carjackings, robberies

Minneapolis police on Tuesday reported a recent increase in robberies and carjackings in the Third and Fifth Precinct areas.

According to police, suspects are targeting cellphones, purses and vehicles. Some victims have been maced, dragged, assaulted and some threatened with a gun, police said.

The department said most of the incidents have occurred north of 42nd Street E.

In July alone, 100 robberies and 20 carjackings have been reported to Third Precinct police.

The precinct said downtown and southwest Minneapolis have also seen an increase.

Below are some tips offered by police to prevent robberies:

• Don’t walk alone;
• Be hyper-aware of your surroundings at all times, don’t be distracted;
• Carry only items you need and carry less cash;
• Be prepared to give up your cellphone and purse or wallet;
• Have your keys already in your hand as you approach your vehicle;
• Don’t fight with criminal, remember your safety is most important;
• Be a good witness, be prepared to tell police how many suspects, what age, height, complexion, hair and eye color and any other descriptive features, as well as any weapons they had, what they left in and what direction they went.

Below are some tips offered by police to prevent robberies:

• Lock your doors while driving;
• Don’t stop for strangers approaching you;
• Park in well-lit areas;
• Always be hyper-aware of your surroundings;
• Use a tracking device;
• Never leave valuable items in your vehicle;
• Never leave your vehicle running while unattended;
• Memorize your license plate number to help police find it faster.

The Third Precinct is the city’s largest precinct geographically, and covers from Interstate 35W to the Mississippi River and I-94 to 62nd Street. The Fifth Precinct area is bounded by I-35W on the east, I-94 on the north and the city limits on the west and south.