Lafayette police on high alert for holiday season after multiple robberies

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Alvin Riehle was in Aldi Supermarket in Lafayette Sunday morning when a man acting like a customer demanded money from the cashier.

"One of the female employees said 'We need everyone to stay where you are because we just got robbed," Riehle said.

Police say the robber was holding what appeared to be a hand gun. He is described as being a white male between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 5 inches tall. He is between 40 and 50 years old.

Just eight hours later Lafayette Police were called to the 3100 block of Vinton Street after a Papa John's delivery driver was reportedly robbed.

That robber is also described as being a white male. He was wearing dark clothing and a ski mask.

Lafayette Police Captain Kurt Wolf said these crimes are most likely not related.

"They're two completely separate kind of methods, so we don't think they're related at all," Wolf said.

However, police are still investigating whether or not either of the robberies are connected to last Thursday's Gas America robbery.

This group of robberies along with the multiple bank robberies in recent months have police patrolling vulnerable areas.

"[There is] extra patrolling in some of the convenience stores and gas stations," Wolf said. "Officers are pretty much on high alert."

This cluster of robberies is leading into the holiday season. Police said fraud and theft crimes go up during the holidays. Wolf said there are many ways to make sure you don't become a victim.

"If you're Christmas shopping make sure your car is locked," Wolf said. "Make sure presents and packages are either locked in the trunk or somewhere they can't be seen. The big thing is out of sight out of mind."

Like the patrols at convenience stores and gas stations, Wolf said patrols at the shops will begin soon.

"We'll concentrate on the malls and shopping areas in the city," Wolf said. "[We're] just trying to be visible."

Wolf said shoppers should keep an eye out for anything suspicious. If you are unsure about anything Wolf said to call police.

If you have any information on Sunday's robberies call Lafayette Police or the We Tip Hotline at 1-800-782-7463.