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A man allegedly responsible for six Center City robberies is believed to have recently resided in Hawthorne.
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The suspect, Willie Wyche, 39, is known to frequent Center City and the 800 block of South Broad Street, which borders the Hawthorne and South of South neighborhoods, according to a Police Public Affairs press release. He also is believed to have resided in Hawthorne. Wyche was arrested yesterday, but no further details were available at press time.
The six robberies he may be responsible for occurred between Locust and Lombard streets and Second and 12th streets from 6:50 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 25 to July 16, according to Police Public Affairs. Wyche allegedly grabbed each victim — a woman ranging in age from 25 to 72 — from behind, put her in a chokehold and pulled her to the ground before stealing her valuables.
“These incidents may or may not have been committed by the same suspect(s); however, the Philadelphia Police Department is urging the public to exercise caution; avoid walking alone on small streets, alleys or walkways; and report suspicious behavior immediately to 911,” according to the release.
Wyche previously served jail sentences for related crimes. He was charged as an adult in 1988 when he was 16 and found guilty of robbery, simple assault, terroristic threats, attempted theft and attempted rape, according to court records. Four years later, he pled guilty to multiple counts of robbery and burglary.
To report information, call Central Detective Division at 215-686-3093 or visit www.phillypolice.com/forms.
Contact Managing Editor Amanda L. Snyder at asnyder@southphillyreview.com or ext. 117.
Also in this week’s Police Report:
Teen behind bars
Officer charged with DUI
Triple shooting
Follow the bleeder
Assault averted
Wanted man spotted in area
Police meetings 07-21-11
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