Police arrest five suspects in three East Side armed robberies

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee police arrested five suspects who they say are linked to three armed robberies that were committed on the city's east side early on Saturday, January 18th. There were three robberies in just 40 minutes.

Milwaukee Police Capt. Aaron Rapp explained how they went down.

"In each of those cases, victims were approached while they were on foot acting as pedestrians on the sidewalk by multiple suspects who demanded valuables and displayed what appeared to be a firearm," said Capt. Rapp.

The robberies occurred on Maryland Ave., Astor St. and Arlington Pl.

After the third robbery, a witness called police with a description of a vehicle used by the suspected robbers. Using that information, police were able to locate that vehicle, stop it, and take five suspects in custody -- three men, one woman and a 17-year-old girl.

"Thieves are targeting cell phones, cash, on occasion credit cards but usually it's the quick disposable items that can be used readily at stores or sold for a profit," said Capt. Rapp.

Capt. Rapp says they found some of the victims' property either in the vehicle or on the suspects. Police touted the citizen witness and work of the officers involved in the arrest.

"This highlights the fact that we have officers who are vigilant. we have citizens willing to get involved to help us out. and we have suspects who are going to be taken into custody," said Capt. Rapp.

Police are warning you to be always be aware of your surroundings, be in control of how much alcohol you consume, and if possible try to walk with a buddy.