Asian residents in Kent and neighboring cities have become the target of robberies and need to be aware of the crime trend, according to Kent Police.
“While most of these incidents have occurred outside of Kent, it is essential that our community remains informed and vigilant,” according to a Friday, May 16 Kent Police crime alert.
During the crimes, the suspects have approached people in a seemingly friendly manner, according to police. They often engage in small talk, ask for directions, or offer gifts such as money or jewelry.
In some cases, suspects have asked to pray with the person, during which they may place fake jewelry or a towel around the person’s neck, according to police. They discreetly and forcibly remove the person’s real jewelry, sometimes without the victim noticing until later. In more serious cases, suspects have threatened or used violence, including the display of knives.
“The suspects are described as both male and female, often appearing to be of Middle Eastern descent and estimated to be between 20 and 30 years old,” according to police.
In Kent, incidents have been reported in areas frequently visited by members of the Asian community, including:
• Great Wall Shopping Mall, 18230 E. Valley Highway.
• Hong Kong Market, 320 E. Meeker St.
How to stay safe
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Shop with a friend or family member, especially in locations where incidents have occurred
• Avoid wearing visible or expensive jewelry in public, particularly in the areas mentioned above.
• Report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately.
The Kent Police Department, in collaboration with partner law enforcement agencies, is actively investigating these crimes and working to bring those responsible to justice.
If you have any information about these incidents, please contact the Kent Police Department KPDTipLine@kentwa.gov or call the tip line at 253-856-5808.
If you have been a victim of this crime in the past and have not made a report, call 911 or the non-emergency police dispatch line 253-852-2121.
Call 911 if you have specific information about the suspects’ identities or whereabouts, witness suspicious activity, or become a victim of a similar crime.
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