SEATTLE — Police arrested five people believed to be connected to a string of robberies in south Seattle since June.
At least 14 guns were recovered by police when they served the warrants on Wednesday, according to police Chief Adrian Diaz.
All five of those arrested are males; four adults and one 17-year-old.
Diaz said detectives will continue to work the case to see if there are any additional people involved.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell released the following statement in regard to the arrests:
“I appreciate our officers and detectives who never lost sight of bringing justice to the victims of these violent crimes. The arrests today are an example of good police work, deliberate efforts to build a case, and an outcome that I hope will put an end to this string of robberies. Perhaps these arrests can help to restore peace of mind to many of our South Seattle neighbors.
“Our police department has a responsibility to support the safety of all Seattle residents, and it’s through actions, like today’s announcement, that demonstrate that commitment in real terms. To AAPI communities who have faced a rise in fear, threats, and violence, and to any person who feels vulnerable in our city, know that my administration and our police service will continue working every day to create a Seattle where everyone can feel safe and be safe.”
Over the summer, police warned of an increase in robberies in south end areas of the city. Most of those targeted elderly members of the Asian community.
Though a total of 14 were reported, police at the time believed more went unreported.
Most of the incidents involved the suspects accosting victims outside of their homes or even forcing their way inside of victims' homes, Seattle Police Department Detective Judinna Gulpan said at the time, adding that victims were often assaulted at gunpoint.
Seattle police offered the following tips to help stay safe:
- Make safety your No. 1 priority
- Be observant and remain alert – trust your instincts
- Be aware of your surroundings – call 911 when you observe suspicious activity
- Communication with friends and family on who will be home and at what time
- Security devices and or sounding alarms – potentially located at doors, windows, and garages
- Option of video surveillance system
- Motion sensor lighting for entrances, exits, and parking areas
- Avoid keeping large amounts of cash within your home
- Participate in your local neighborhood watch
- Contact your local precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator for questions on security and prevention tips for crime in your area