ARMED ROBBERIES OF PEDESTRIANS

Investigators from the Clifton Police Department are searching for suspects in four separate armed robberies that occurred within the City of Clifton during the past week. The first incident took place on October 21st near 556 Van Houten Avenue at approximately 11:45 PM. During this incident, the male victim was accosted by two male actors; one of whom placed a knife against the victim's back and demanded that he "hand over everything". The victim complied and the actors fled the scene in a vehicle being operated by a third accomplice.

On October 24th, at approximately 10:00 P.M., a 35 year old male was walking on DeMott Avenue near First Street when he was approached by three male actors who pushed him to the ground, rifled through his pockets, and ultimately removed numerous personal belongings from his possession. The actors then fled the scene after threatening to "shoot" the victim.  Moments later, two females (55 and 56 years of age) were walking to their respective vehicles on DeMott Avenue near Second Street when they were simultaneoulsly approached by at least two male actors. One of the actors was reportedly in possession of a handgun and attempted to physically remove a purse from one of the victims. When the victim resisted, the actor used even greater force and ultimately caused the purse to tear in half and the contents of same to become strewn about the roadway. During this time, the second victim was being assaulted as another actor attempted to gain possession of her purse. While doing so, the actor forced the victim to the ground where she struck her head against the pavement and ultimately relinquished control of her purse to him. Both victims sustained injuries, however one victim received further treatment at St. Mary's Hospital.

The actors in all four incidents were described as dark-skinned Hispanic males, possibly of Dominican descent; ages 15-21.
The investigation is on-going and additional details will be released as they become available. Anyone with information regarding these incidents can contact the Detective Division at 973-470-5908.