Los Angeles Police announced Thursday an increase in patrols across the Rampart, Wilshire, Hollywood and West Los Angeles areas following a string of flash mob robberies at 7-Eleven stores, as investigators work to identify the suspects.
The LAPD said between 20 and 40 suspects are responsible for the robberies, fleeing the scene on bicycles.
The first robbery was reported on July 12 at 1234 Wilshire Boulevard, followed by multiple others at the following 7-Eleven locations:
— 610 South Rampart Boulevard, 3100 Beverly Boulevard, 1770 North Highland Avenue and 6077 West Third Street — all on July 19;
— 1234 Wilshire Boulevard on Aug. 2;
— 5600 San Vicente Boulevard and 8500 Olympic Boulevard on Aug. 9;
— 3100 Beverly Boulevard, 1770 North Highland Avenue, 7040 West Sunset Boulevard and 5700 Santa Monica Boulevard — on Aug. 16; and
— 1451 South La Cienega Boulevard and 8500 Olympic Boulevard on Sept. 20.
Investigators said the suspects were a diverse group of young males, possibly in their teens.
“In several incidents, the witnesses were physically pushed by the suspects during the criminal take-over of the stores, with no regard for safety,” police said in a statement.
Anyone with information regarding the flash robberies was urged to contact 877-527-3247. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.