LAPD addresses increased robbery, theft of electronic devices

Tis the season -- for street robberies. It's an unfortunate side-effect of our busy lives that we get distracted by our devices.

Unfortunately- that makes us easy prey for crooks. On Wednesday, a group of LAPD officers gave tips on how not to become a victim.

LAPD Deputy Chief Phillip Tingirides presided over a multi-agency news conference to advise people on how to avoid being victimized by "distraction crimes'' committed by suspects who steal their electronic devices.

Such crimes have occurred while people are walking near schools and also on buses and commuter trains. The LAPD's advice is simply -- be aware of your surroundings and put down your smartphone.

Copyright 2017 FOX 11 Los Angeles : Download our mobile app for breaking news alerts or to watch FOX 11 News | Follow us on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .