Stranger Danger Part Two: Suspects steal jewelry from residents, Bellevue PD asks community to stay vigilant

The jewelry theft incidents from this summer appear to be back in Bellevue, and Bellevue Police are asking residents to stay vigilant and exercise caution when communicating with strangers.

Three separate incidents occurred between approximately 2:30-3:40 p.m. on Tuesday, September 17. Victims said the three female suspects traveling in either a red or gray sedan or a gray SUV approached them, struck up a conversation, and allegedly stole their jewelry from their necks or arms in the process. One victim was targeted while picking up a child from school and another was forcibly held down during the crime.

Synopsis of each crime on September 17 are as follows:

Approximately 2:45 p.m.: On the intersection of NE 13^th Place and 156^th Avenue NE, a female victim told law enforcement a suspect deftly removed her gold necklace while she was waiting at a school bus stop. The victim only realized the jewelry was missing after the suspect left the scene in a gray sport utility vehicle.

Approximately 3:15 p.m.: On the intersection of 165^th Place NE and NE 30^th Street, a female victim told police that while on a walk, three female suspects in a gray sedan pulled up to her and demanded jewelry. She did not possess any and the subjects drove away.

Approximately 3:40 p.m.: On the intersection of 148^th Ave NE and NE 57^th Street, a female victim was strong armed by three suspects. Two suspects held her from behind while the third suspect stole the jewelry from her. They left the scene in a red sedan. About 5-7 necklaces were stolen from the victim.

Victims from all three incidents did not sustain any serious physical injuries. However, the Bellevue Police Department asks all residents to use caution when being approached by strangers in vehicles and follow simple guidelines that parents often share with their young children:

1. Travel in groups
2. Do not approach the vehicles
3. Use caution when talking with a stranger
4. Provide distance between a stranger and you during a conversation
5. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings

If an individual becomes a victim of an incident similar to this, Bellevue Police ask they immediately call law enforcement when it is safe to do so. And, residents should always call law enforcement if they feel like their safety is at risk.