Bicycle gangs robbing pedestrians in New Haven

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP) — Groups of youths on bicycles have been attacking and robbing pedestrians in the city, prompting a crackdown by police.

Gangs of bicyclists have been a particular problem in the Fair Haven neighborhood, often targeting the large population of immigrant workers who live in the area, Police Sgt. Tony Zona told the New Haven Register.

"They're beating them up (first) and then they're taking their stuff," he said.

Zona said the department has begun saturating the area with patrols with orders to stop groups of kids riding bikes, take pictures and videos and share them with officer stationed at schools and school security guards so they can talk to the youths.

When appropriate, officers will seize bikes and call parents, police said.

"When you ride in packs, you can expect to be engaged" by police, said assistant police chief Luiz Casanova.

Yale University Police said officers there also have noticed the problem and have stopped four or five packs and seized several pellet guns.

"The kids ride around on bikes watching, waiting," said Yale Assistant Chief Steven Woznyk.

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Information from: New Haven Register