The Robbery Division is responsible for on-scene and follow up investigations of crimes against persons that involve property. These crimes involve the suspect threatening the victim, placing the victim in fear of imminent bodily injury or death, causing bodily injury to the victim or the suspect using or exhibiting a deadly weapon during the course of committing theft.

Robbery is a violent crime. The robber almost always uses force. Far too often the victim is injured or killed. Here are some things that you can do that may reduce your chances of being a robbery victim.

Robbery Prevention Tips at Work
Employers, train your employees! This is the most important factor in both robbery prevention and employee safety. Employees should be instructed in methods of handling money, how to recognize a suspicious person, how to stock merchandise in a manner, which will not aid the robber, and most importantly, how to react if a robbery does occur.

• Handling Money - Don't build up a large cash supply. Keep only enough money on hand to operate the business. Make frequent deposits but don't establish a pattern of going to and from the bank at the same time each day. Use alternate routes. Do not carry your money in a bank bag. Allow two people to go to the bank whenever possible. Balance your register one or two hours before closing time. Place the cash register in a manner that it can be easily viewed from the street. This will aid the patrol deputy, allow pedestrians to observe a robbery in progress, and may discourage the robber because of the likelihood of being seen.
  
  
• Opening and Closing the Business - Whenever possible, use two employees to open and close the business. Use extreme caution when entering and leaving the store, look for anything suspicious, such as people loitering in the area, or signs of forced entry to the building. When closing, always check the storeroom, stockroom, and other places where criminals might hide. If possible, park your vehicle close to the front exit of the store in a lighted area.
  
  
• After Hours Entry into the Business - When returning to the business on an emergency call (burglar alarm, etc.) always notify someone that you will be returning to the store. Ask the police to meet you there. Never enter the store before the police arrive. If you must return to the store for repair problems, phone the repair company before leaving home. Verify all phone calls you receive after store hours before leaving your home.
  
  
• Internal Security - Place the cash register close to the window and keep it well lit at night. Do not block the view of the register with advertising posters, etc. Keep merchandise stacked as low as possible and use aisle mirrors to maintain a good view of people in the store. Do not allow people to linger in the store, read magazines or newspapers, etc. They should conduct their business and leave. Do not leave tools or other such items lying around - they could be used as a weapon against you.

Cash register trip alarms or foot button silent alarms are recommended for most types of business. A camera, even a dummy camera, is a good investment. Fear of being recorded on film often deters a potential robber.

Accepting only exact cash or credit cards and deposit money in a drop safe is a practical approach to preventing robbery. The use of bullet resistant glass to protect the cashier is an excellent practice and may well save your life.

If you are robbed - remain as calm as you possibly can. Cooperate with the robber, but do not offer him more than he asks for. Try to get a good description of the robber and the vehicle he uses to complete his escape - TRY to record the license plate number. Call the police immediately. Remember - the robber is just as scared as you are. By remaining calm, and cautious of your actions, you will risk the least harm to yourself.

Robbery Prevention Tips at Home

Don't try to be a HERO! Money can be replaced - Life cannot!

• Never open the door of your home to a stranger. If someone asks for assistance, offer to call someone for him or her. KNOW WHO IS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR BEFORE YOU OPEN IT! KEEP ALL DOORS LOCKED - EVEN WHEN YOU ARE AT HOME! Never tell a stranger or a telephone caller that you are home alone.

Robbery Prevention Tips on the Road
Don't use ATM machines at night. Plan ahead and get your cash during safer times. Use ATM machines that are very visible. Avoid isolated ATM machines.

• Walking - Many pedestrians and even people in their own homes are robbery victims. Don't carry large sums of money with you and don't "hide" money around the house. When possible, carry travelers or certified checks. Always walk in well-lit, open areas, even if it means taking the "long way", and use routes that are well traveled. Walk with a companion whenever possible, and continually observe who is around you. Avoid carrying a purse or other bags and packages, if you can.
  
  
• Driving - When driving keep your car in gear, all doors locked, windows rolled up, and travel on busy streets. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at intersections and stoplights. Know the locations of hospitals, fire stations and police stations.
  
  If someone follows you, don't go home. Stop at a safe location and call the police or drive to a police or "fire station, a hospital or all-night restaurant, etc. Try to note the license number and description of the car and persons following you.
  
  
• Parking - Park your vehicle in areas that will be well lit when you return. When using valet parking, ensure that all internal compartments of the vehicle are locked to prevent strangers from looking in your glove compartment and trunk and finding personal information.