There’s A New Hug and Grab Robbery Tactic: A Warning for Las Vegas Travelers to California
Because I am aware that so many people in this town frequently travel to California, I have to warn you guys about a new criminal trend that’s been hitting the state. California police are warning locals and travelers about what they’re describing as a new form of pickpocketing. California police and authorities are even calling the new tactic the “Hug and Grab.” And it’s pretty much exactly what you think it sounds like.
California Police Warn Against Hug And Grab
It’s a relatively new trend, but it’s been happening to people who live in (and visit) Orange Country, California. The Rancho Santa Margarita Police Services even stated on Facebook, which specifically spoke about one victim from earlier in the month. Their statement mentions that a man in California was outside of his house when a car pulled up on him. They say that a woman jumped out of the vehicle, pretended like she knew him, ran up to him, and proceeded to hug him. However, the hug wasn’t a friendly one. Their statement says it was a tactic to get close enough to the victim, to violently snatch his gold chained necklace from around his neck. Afterwards, the suspect quickly fled the scene.
Hug And Grab Bandits Apprehended By California Police
Thankfully, police were called and were able to locate and arrest the suspects the following day. However, California police discovered that the incident was bigger than they expected. The criminals, who have been using this tactic, had around 50 other pieces of stolen jewelry in their possession.
Fox 11, in Los Angeles, also covered the story and spoke with Orange County Sherriff’s deputies.
Listen, we’re always trying to keep you safe from criminals. So if you plan of visiting California any time soon, keep this in mind, police advise that this tactic can happen anywhere and say you should always be on your guard and never let strangers attempt to give you a hug.