Society Hill choker mugging women

Society Hill resident Lindsay Allen found herself looking down alleys and taking extra precautions yesterday as police investigate a series of violent robberies in the area.

“The biggest thing is if I don’t have to, I don’t carry my purse,” said Allen, 25, who noted that she has Mace but does not usually carry it with her.

Police say they believe five of the attacks are connected. The first assault happened on June 25 on South Fourth Street between Delancey and Cypress. In each attack, the suspect has approached the victim from behind, grabbed her and taken her belongings. In three attacks, victims were choked until losing consciousness.

The attacks have happened at various times of the day, and the victims range in age from 25 to 73. No sexual assaults have been reported, but authorities are also cautioning women to be on the lookout.

“Beware of your surroundings, try not to travel alone,” said Capt. Brian Korn of the Sixth District.