The Bellevue Police Department is asking residents to remain vigilant after multiple street thefts targeting older individuals. The recent incidents involved a young male and female suspect who approached victims for assistance before stealing valuable jewelry.
Recently, a 91-year-old man was targeted on the 13800 block of SE 44th Street. According to the police report, the female suspect approached him from a white SUV, asking for directions. When he extended his hand for a handshake, she snatched his Rolex watch and fled. The victim sustained minor cuts during the incident.
A similar theft occurred previous to this, when a 71-year-old woman was approached at the corner of 124th Avenue NE and NE 2nd Street. After helping the suspects with directions, the female suspect offered jewelry and asked for a handshake, then quickly yanked the victim’s Rolex watch before speeding off in a white SUV.
Before that, a 68-year-old woman and a 78-year-old man were stopped at 108th Avenue NE and NE 2nd Place by suspects in a black sedan. The suspects, speaking in a foreign language, pretended the female passenger was pregnant and needed directions to a hospital. The female suspect then hugged the victims, using the gesture to unzip the woman’s jacket and steal her gold chain necklace.
While none of the victims sustained serious physical injuries, the Bellevue Police Department advises residents, especially older individuals, to follow these safety guideline
- Travel in groups
- Avoid approaching vehicles
- Do not accept gifts from strangers
- Stay aware of your surroundings
Residents are encouraged to contact law enforcement if they feel their safety is at risk.
