Lafayette Police Report Unusual Spike In Robberies

LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — Lafayette Police Chief Jim Craft says his city has seen a spike in robberies in recent weeks, far above what's expected for this time of year.

Police have reported 12 robberies in the past three weeks, including three muggings, four holdups at convenience stores, two bank robberies and robberies at a sandwich shop, a Dollar General store and a bar.

Craft says the same robbers could be involved in some of the crimes, but most are not believed to be connected.

Craft attributed the uptick in robberies to drug activity.

Councilman Kenneth Boudreaux said he believes there might also be a link to Christmas — robbers seeking cash for holiday expenses.