PSA 208: “Swarming” Assault Downtown on May 31
PSA 208 covers the Dupont Circle neighborhood and part of Kalorama Circle. West Borderstan (west of 15th Street) is in PSA 208. (Image: MPD Web site.)
Following are May 31 crimes reported by Police Service Area (PSA) 208… What’s up with these “swarming” (my term) assaults on people on the street? The first crime detailed below (Pennsylvania Avenue NW) reminds me of the robberies that occurred in the clothing stores on 14th Street at Universal Gear (with video) and Rue 14 (with video). They are disturbing to say the least, especially when someone is attacked by 15 to 18 teenagers.
- May 31. Two-Robbery/Force & Violence:
- 2400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. – A group of 15-18 male juveniles approached the complainant, grabbed him around the neck and demanded his watch. The complainant refused and all of the suspects began punching and kicking the complainant. The complainant fell and one of the suspects took the watch. The suspects were described as black males; approximately 15-18 years old; 5’6″-5’8″; and 110 – 140 pounds.
- 1500 block of 20th Street N.W. – A group of four males approached the complainant, who was going down the escalators. One of the suspects asked for money, the complainant refused and all of the suspects begin kicking and punching the complainant. One of the suspects reached into the complainant’s pants and took money from his pocket. The suspects were described as black males; all thin built; all 5’7″ – 5’10”.
- May 31. Robbery/Snatch in the 1700 block of Rhode Island Avenue, N.W. – While the complainant was walking, an unknown suspect approached from behind and snatched pocketbook. No description provided.
- May 31. Robbery/Pickpocket in the 1600 block of 17th Street N.W. – The complainant was in the restaurant with the suspects. As they were leaving, the suspect reached inside of the complainants pocket and removed U.S. currency.
