ARCADIA >> Police are seeking two men believed to have attempted to rob three women of their purses before successfully robbing a fourth woman Friday night.
The first crime took place about 9:40 p.m. in the 200 block of East Huntington Drive, Arcadia police Lt. Colleen Flores said in a written statement.
Three women were walking when two would-be robbers grabbed their purses, Flores said.
“A struggle ensued and the victims were able to maintain control of their purses despite one victim being punched in the back of the head and all three victims being pushed to the ground,” she said. The robbers fled in an older-model, four-door sedan.
The women did not require medical treatment, Flores added.
About 10 minutes later and 2-and-a-half miles away, a second purse robber was reported at Sunset Boulevard and Arcadia Avenue, the lieutenant said.
“Officers learned that a female victim was walking in the area and was pushed to the ground by two suspects who stole her handbag and fled in an awaiting vehicle,” she said. The car was described as a four-door vehicle with tinted windows.
“Based on the initial investigation it appears that these two incidents may have been committed by the same suspects,” Flores said.
They were described as Latino or Indian men between 18 and 30 years old, of thin build, with short, dark hair.
Police planned to field extra officers in the area in response to the robberies, Flores said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Arcadia police at 626-570-5151. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.