Expensive Coat Robberies Plague Baltimore Students

Baltimore is experiencing a concerning wave of robberies, with at least 20 incidents targeting students for their expensive winter coats. These thefts predominantly occur before or after school hours, with victims typically being alone and sometimes at bus stops or in poorly lit areas. The perpetrators, who are between 15 and 18 years old, have also prompted alerts in neighboring Baltimore and Anne Arundel counties.

Authorities are working closely with city school police and the MTA to address the crime spree. Detective Vernon Davis emphasized that the targets are often students wearing high-value clothing, including coats, jackets, and watches. Police are encouraging parents to report if they suspect their children have acquired expensive items without purchasing them, aiding in the recovery of stolen goods.

While police have made some arrests, they advise victims to avoid confrontation during robberies and to focus on obtaining a detailed description of the suspect. This trend of expensive coat theft is not isolated to Baltimore, with similar incidents reported nationwide, including a recent shooting in Philadelphia over a coat. Victims are urged to call 911 immediately after a robbery.