Patty Bulack, an activist behind one of the town watch groups in the area, graciously allowed us to republish the message she sent to her group email list. The message is regarding a series of robberies which took place near 47th and Baltimore in the past month, the latest one occurring on Wednesday, Jan. 4. We reported on two of these incidents here.

“There appears to be targeting of those coming off/waiting for trolleys, and those walking past trolley stops… This fits what happened to Stephen Fisher when he walked past the trolley stop at 46th and Baltimore, where the two assailants were standing as if waiting for a trolley. The two incidents recently at 47th and Baltimore also fit this scenario…. In all cases, including the recent one on the 900 block of Farragut near Mood Cafe, two robbers were involved.”

And here’s what Patty advises to do:

“Be extra observant at trolley stops, especially after dark. If someone’s behavior, manner, dress (especially if there are two together) makes you uncomfortable, don’t ignore that feeling. Keep observing to decide if you need to change your plans. Just because they appear to be waiting for a trolley, doesn’t mean you should turn off your inner alert system. But educate that alarm system! Learn what cues let you know when people are socializing, and not threatening, and what would make you uncomfortable (obviously a longer discussion, but wanted to get this out there…)

If you are concerned, take steps to be met at the trolley stop by a friend or neighbor, especially after dark. We can work together on that! …It seems to be a little harder to get the timing right with UCD bike ambassadors but they may be worth a try as well (215-898-WALK).

I am willing to entertain organizing a focused “town watch” at trolley stops (48th, 47th, 46th and Baltimore; 47th, 48th and Chester). At least until someone is arrested who may be responsible for this. Anyone want to do this with me???? How about sitting in cars, or somewhere nearby, or visibly on the corners as teams to deter criminal intentions? For the hours from 5 to 9? Any ideas? What do you think?

In your normal travels, especially if you are a dog walker, be extra observant at those corners – or even intentional about going past them just to see if anyone is acting suspiciously. If you do see something, call 911…”

If you want to reach Patty, email her at: pbulack[at]gmail.com