Clearwater police warn Hispanics about robberies

CLEARWATER - Police are warning Hispanic men about a series of robberies in which the victim was a Hispanic male and the suspect was a black male.

Since January, there have been at least 45 incidents citywide that appear to be related by location, suspect description, suspect vehicle description, victim description, and/or motive. In all cases, at least one of the victims was a Hispanic male and the suspects were black males. In most cases, two armed black men robbed the victims. In most cases, the suspects were described as being between 17 and 25 years of age. In 11 cases, the suspects wore some kind of mask. In most cases, the subjects knocked the victims to the ground, kicked and/or punched them, or held a gun to their heads and then took their wallets and money. In two incidents, a victim was shot.

The majority of the incidents occurred between 10 p.m. and 2:30 a.m. and incidents have occurred on every day of the week. 

Police are asking local Hispanic men and women to follow these safety tips: walk or ride with others, be aware of surroundings, do not carry large amounts of cash, pick a safe route, and stay away from dark areas.

"Many of these cases seem to be targeted crimes of opportunity," said Hispanic Outreach Officer Brian Munoz. "By taking certain precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk."

Police will have extra patrols in the area and are asking those with information about the robberies to call (727) 562-4422.

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