WILMINGTON, DELAWARE (11/24/2015) City police are offering tips to the public after seeing an increase in armed and strong-arm robberies in Wilmington.
Thieves are targeting cellphones and other personal items such as wallets and purses, police said, over the past month.
The crimes have happened at various locations across the city.
In many of the crimes, a distracted cellphone user had the phone snatched from their hand or pocket because it was visible, police said.
Police suggested these tips to protect the public:
1. Do not text and walk at the same time.
2. At night, walk in well-lit areas in pairs if possible.
3. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your head up and scan your surroundings.
4. If listening to music, use only one ear bud.
5. Record your cellphone’s serial number to provide police in the event it is stolen.
6. Treat your cellphone as cash and keep it hidden from public view.
7. Report any person that you believe to be suspicious and be as detailed as possible in your description.