Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Twitter
Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Twitter
On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at approximately 12:40 p.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a call reporting a robbery in the 7300 block of Inspiration Drive. APD Robbery Unit Detectives processed the scene.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Christopher Phillips, aged 22, surveilled bank customers and targeted an 80-year-old community member. Phillips followed the victim home from the bank and attacked him as he attempted to enter his residence.
Believing the victim had withdrawn a large amount of cash, Phillips stole the victim’s wallet and damaged his doorbell camera.
"Thanks to the excellent work from officers from the Charlie 200s, APD’s Violent Crimes Task Force, APD’s Air Unit, The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and detectives from APD’s Robbery Unit," said an official statement. "Phillips was arrested within hours of the robbery taking place."
The Austin Police Department advises everyone to be aware of vehicles loitering near bank parking lots or appearing to conduct surveillance. They also caution individuals to be mindful of any vehicles that seem to be following them.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact APD's Robbery unit at 512-974-5092. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.
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