On Thursday May 31, 2012, Transit Police Division officers arrested a 16-year-old male in connection with three separate robberies of iPhones from passengers on TriMet. The robberies occurred on April 18, May 13 and May 17, 2012. At the time of his arrest, the suspect was in possession of a stolen iPhone not connected with these three robberies. That investigation is continuing.
The suspect was charged with three counts of Robbery in the Third Degree, two counts of Theft in the Second Degree and one count of Theft in the Second Degree by Receiving.
Transit Police Division officers are continuing to investigate incidents, including using onboard surveillance video to prosecute individuals involved in robberies of iPhones and iPads from passengers.
Thefts of iPhones and iPads are increasing across the nation and in Portland due to the growing popularity of these devices. Whether on transit, on a city sidewalk or in a park, this is a crime of opportunity that can be avoided by being vigilant. The Portland Police Bureau, Transit Police Division and TriMet encourage people to always be aware of their surroundings and not focus solely on their electronic device. Be attentive to the people nearby. Keep devices close to the body when using and stowed away when not in use.
The suspect was lodged at the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Home.
