Two More Strong-Arm Muggings Near Franklin Avenue

Two more people have been mugged near Franklin Avenue by robbers who threatened to shoot them, continuing a string of strong-arm attacks in the neighborhood.

On Sunday, a 36-year-old woman was walking up the stairwell in her apartment building when a man held up what she described as an “artificial” looking handgun and said repeatedly, “give me your phone lady,” according to a police report. 

The woman handed over her wallet, which held about $100. The thief then ran off, the report said.

The attack happened just before 2:20 a.m. on Jan. 8 in a building on Lincoln Place between Classon and Franklin avenues.

On Monday afternoon, Jan. 9, a 33-year-old man robbed at the corner of Dean Street and Franklin avenue as he was walking to the bus stop.

Just before 4:10 p.m. a man came up to him holding an “object in his waistband” and threatened to shoot him. The robber then reached into the victim’s rear pocket and took out his wallet, which had the man’s passport, credit cards and $15.

Then the thief ran away, according to a police report.

These two make at least 10 reported strong-arm muggings in the neighborhood, with one happening on and Vanderbilt Avenue, and .

In addition,  on Dec. 17 while walking home from the subway on Park Place between Vanderbilt and Washington avenues.  

Dep. Inspector Elvio Capocci, head of the 77th Precinct, said he has placed extra foot patrols in the Franklin Avenue area and reminds residents to avoid showing cell phones and other electronic devices while walking outside.

He also recommends people avoid walking alone at night if possible. One option for getting home safely is the , a free volunteer escort service.

Anyone with information on either crime can submit tips to Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477), on the Crime Stoppers' website or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.  All calls are strictly confidential.