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General Category => Off the Record => Topic started by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 07:47:15 PM

Title: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 07:47:15 PM
I finally got to experience the finer points of Jersey City experience.  Boy, do I suck at being a victim.  I've been staring at a lowlife for a couple of minutes, and yet I can't recall anything but the most basic things about him, and I'm unsure even about that.  Ugh.  :ultra:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Neil on June 29, 2009, 07:53:56 PM
Well, it can be difficult.  All black people do look alike. :hug:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DontSayBanana on June 29, 2009, 07:55:45 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 07:47:15 PM
I finally got to experience the finer points of Jersey City experience.  Boy, do I suck at being a victim.  I've been staring at a lowlife for a couple of minutes, and yet I can't recall anything but the most basic things about him, and I'm unsure even about that.  Ugh.  :ultra:

Well, that's about the only positive of being in Cumberland County. The chances of being mugged down here are slim, even here in downtown Millville.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 07:55:57 PM
Seriously, I think that is a large part of it.  I'm not too proud to admit it, but I certainly would've noticed more features on a white guy.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Faeelin on June 29, 2009, 07:57:31 PM
Ouch. Sorry, man. Are you alright, other than the theft?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 08:01:22 PM
Quote from: Faeelin on June 29, 2009, 07:57:31 PM
Ouch. Sorry, man. Are you alright, other than the theft?
Despite my best efforts, yes.  I only got a lightly bruised jaw and a heavily bruised ego.  The guy didn't have a weapon and wasn't direct with his demands, so it took me a while to realize that I should stop arguing and withdraw money from the ATM.  All that in daylight, with people walking by.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Jaron on June 29, 2009, 08:02:41 PM
That sucks. Something like that would never happen out here, I hope you consider leaving that hellhole.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on June 29, 2009, 08:18:39 PM
In Kentucky, robbers give YOU money.  :Canuck:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DontSayBanana on June 29, 2009, 08:20:12 PM
Quote from: Caliga on June 29, 2009, 08:18:39 PM
In Kentucky, robbers give YOU money.  :Canuck:

If they're PAYING for time with the pigs, that makes it PROSTITUTION, Cal. :contract:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on June 29, 2009, 08:20:51 PM
 :lol: I: schooled!
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: jimmy olsen on June 29, 2009, 09:21:50 PM
Yikes, hope they catch the guy. :console:

There should be a camera at an ATM though, no?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 09:23:53 PM
 :hug:  I got mugged a few months ago here in Phila. by a couple of young teenagers, but it's hard to argue with a gun.   :(  On the bright side, my wallet was mailed back to me by a good Samaritan a couple of weeks ago, sans cash.   :)
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:29:27 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 29, 2009, 09:21:50 PM
Yikes, hope they catch the guy. :console:

There should be a camera at an ATM though, no?
I hope so too.  I felt disgusted with myself at my poor observational skills.  They actually handcuffed some guy nearby who fit my description, and the worst thing is that it may well have been him.  However, I just couldn't be sure, despite police encouraging me to be sure :unsure:.

I've heard the cops talking about the ATM camera as well, so hopefully that would do it.  The thug didn't seem to be particularly good at what he was doing, so hopefully he let his face slip on the camera, and that the camera is actually working.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:32:39 PM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 09:23:53 PM
:hug:  I got mugged a few months ago here in Phila. by a couple of young teenagers, but it's hard to argue with a gun.   :(  On the bright side, my wallet was mailed back to me by a good Samaritan a couple of weeks ago, sans cash.   :)
:console: That's much worse.  At least I couldn't be accidentally punched to death by a jumpy robber.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: KRonn on June 29, 2009, 10:17:08 PM
Wow DG, that stinks. Glad you're physically ok. But the mental stress will take some time to deal with.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 10:21:04 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:32:39 PM
:console: That's much worse.  At least I couldn't be accidentally punched to death by a jumpy robber.
It's true, but I got pseudo-robbed like you on Atlantic Ave in Atlantic City a couple of years ago, and it was more irritating in some ways.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 10:21:04 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:32:39 PM
:console: That's much worse.  At least I couldn't be accidentally punched to death by a jumpy robber.
It's true, but I got pseudo-robbed like you on Atlantic Ave in Atlantic City a couple of years ago, and it was more irritating in some ways.
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 10:32:36 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.

:D  Nothing like confusion turning into fear turning into shame to make you feel like a man.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Phillip V on June 29, 2009, 11:11:14 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.
Take it out on someone, preferably a small woman or child.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 11:18:54 PM
Quote from: Phillip V on June 29, 2009, 11:11:14 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.
Take it out on someone, preferably a small woman or child.
What if they fight back? :unsure:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Phillip V on June 29, 2009, 11:46:20 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 11:18:54 PM
What if they fight back? :unsure:
Die.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Razgovory on June 30, 2009, 12:05:09 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 11:18:54 PM
Quote from: Phillip V on June 29, 2009, 11:11:14 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.
Take it out on someone, preferably a small woman or child.
What if they fight back? :unsure:

Move on to cripples.  Then coma patients.

You should have just pretended not to know English.  Go all Borat on him.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 12:09:30 AM
Quote from: Razgovory on June 30, 2009, 12:05:09 AM
You should have just pretended not to know English.  Go all Borat on him.

He should have started stripping.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DontSayBanana on June 30, 2009, 12:16:03 AM
Quote from: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 12:09:30 AM
Quote from: Razgovory on June 30, 2009, 12:05:09 AM
You should have just pretended not to know English.  Go all Borat on him.

He should have started stripping.

Teabagging. For when you can't get to the pepper spray/handgun/club with a nail in it. :D
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Razgovory on June 30, 2009, 12:16:29 AM
When I would still go out side I got in a similar situation as DG here.  I bit the guy and beat him with an umbrella.  It wasn't an identical situation.  He wasn't exactly mugging me.  It was more me hiding on top of a retaining wall and waiting for him to leave the building then jumping on his back and attacking him.  But the same principle applies I think.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 04:09:41 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 08:01:22 PMDespite my best efforts, yes.  I only got a lightly bruised jaw and a heavily bruised ego.  The guy didn't have a weapon and wasn't direct with his demands, so it took me a while to realize that I should stop arguing and withdraw money from the ATM.  All that in daylight, with people walking by.

What the fuck, man?  What kind of robbery was that? Why didn't you stomp his fucking guts out?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 04:16:25 AM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 09:23:53 PMI got mugged a few months ago here in Phila. by a couple of young teenagers, but it's hard to argue with a gun.

Next time a dazzling urbanite pulls a gun on you, ask him if he's filed down the sight so it doesn't hurt when you shove it up his ass.  See what happens then.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Lettow77 on June 30, 2009, 05:32:24 AM
Trolled. I am alot better at getting robbed; more experience. But yeah, a black guy with no sort of armament robbed you? EZ, GG no RM, etc.

Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 07:26:30 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 04:09:41 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 08:01:22 PMDespite my best efforts, yes.  I only got a lightly bruised jaw and a heavily bruised ego.  The guy didn't have a weapon and wasn't direct with his demands, so it took me a while to realize that I should stop arguing and withdraw money from the ATM.  All that in daylight, with people walking by.

What the fuck, man?  What kind of robbery was that? Why didn't you stomp his fucking guts out?
Probably because I can't take on a well-muscled young black man.  And, after a punch to the jaw, I realized that continuing to tell him to get out of my face and stop pinning me against the wall might not be the best strategy either.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Warspite on June 30, 2009, 07:29:39 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 07:26:30 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 04:09:41 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 08:01:22 PMDespite my best efforts, yes.  I only got a lightly bruised jaw and a heavily bruised ego.  The guy didn't have a weapon and wasn't direct with his demands, so it took me a while to realize that I should stop arguing and withdraw money from the ATM.  All that in daylight, with people walking by.

What the fuck, man?  What kind of robbery was that? Why didn't you stomp his fucking guts out?
Probably because I can't take on a well-muscled young black man.  And, after a punch to the jaw, I realized that continuing to tell him to get out of my face and stop pinning me against the wall might not be the best strategy either.

Did you knee him very hard in the nuts?

http://www.amazon.com/Get-Tough-W-E-Fairbairn/dp/0873640020
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: KRonn on June 30, 2009, 07:34:20 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 10:29:32 PM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 10:21:04 PM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:32:39 PM
:console: That's much worse.  At least I couldn't be accidentally punched to death by a jumpy robber.
It's true, but I got pseudo-robbed like you on Atlantic Ave in Atlantic City a couple of years ago, and it was more irritating in some ways.
It certainly makes you feel like a wimp.
Can be tough to react when something like that happens all of a sudden, to people not accustomed to it. It takes you by surprise, and especially if you're not accustomed to fighting like that then it's even tougher. And if he does have a weapon that changes things.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Savonarola on June 30, 2009, 07:35:42 AM
Quote from: KRonn on June 30, 2009, 07:34:20 AM
And if he does have a weapon that changes things.

He puts himself at an immediate disadvantage.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Savonarola on June 30, 2009, 07:37:32 AM
Anyhow I'm sorry to hear this, DG.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 07:38:40 AM
Damn DG, that sucks. He slugged right in broad daylight, with people around?

Glad you are ok. Any chance he knocked some sense into you? :P
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 07:43:53 AM
It wasn't Manhattan-crowded, but people were going by at a slow trickle.  Of course, everybody does their best to not get involved.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 07:47:46 AM
I am always rather amazed by that. My instincts are almost the exact opposite when something happens - my first move is to get involved, which used to get me in trouble somewhat regularly, at least when I was younger and more around when things happened.

Now I live in suburbia, and my penchant for sticking my nose where it potentially does not belong almost never comes up anymore. Which is probably for the best.

So the dickhead socked you, then forced you to take money from your ATM - I take it this happened as you were using the ATM to begin with?

Stand up of you to refuse to id the guy if you were not sure.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 07:56:10 AM
I was near the ATM when I was originally pinned, but I wasn't planning on using it.  It was considerate of the developer to create both a perfect ambush point, and an ATM right next to it.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Scipio on June 30, 2009, 08:57:48 AM
That sucks, mang.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: barkdreg on June 30, 2009, 10:16:19 AM
Being a coward at heart I would probably do the same thing, just hand over the cash.
That is unless the cheapskate I also am get's the upper hand, in that case I'd  break the card.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 10:29:26 AM
Nothing to do with being a coward, IMO.  If I decided to save the $60 that he told me to withdraw, then 98% of the time I'd do that successfully, simply by making a run for it.  However, 1% of the time he'll get pissed off and give me a real whack before running off, which could lead to some serious damage.  Another 1% he might have some concealed weapon on him.  Is it worth taking such a risk?  I don't think so.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 10:32:47 AM
Well, to play Devils Advocate, the $60 is not the only thing you are "losing" by acceding to his demands, is it?

It is the only *personal* loss, but there are some external costs as well.

And of course, there is also the risk that even if you give him money, he may whack you anyway.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:35:37 AM
Who the hell is stupid enough to mug you for $60?

Dammit - the stupidity of criminals never ceases to amaze me.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: alfred russel on June 30, 2009, 10:35:46 AM
Quote from: DGuller on June 29, 2009, 09:29:27 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 29, 2009, 09:21:50 PM
Yikes, hope they catch the guy. :console:

There should be a camera at an ATM though, no?
I hope so too.  I felt disgusted with myself at my poor observational skills.  They actually handcuffed some guy nearby who fit my description, and the worst thing is that it may well have been him.  However, I just couldn't be sure, despite police encouraging me to be sure :unsure:.

I've heard the cops talking about the ATM camera as well, so hopefully that would do it.  The thug didn't seem to be particularly good at what he was doing, so hopefully he let his face slip on the camera, and that the camera is actually working.


On the one hand you showed character and integrity, but on the other you missed an opportunity to be a footnote in a Denzell Washington movie and Bob Dylan song.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Malthus on June 30, 2009, 10:40:21 AM
I honestly don't know what I would do in the same situation.

Of course, this being the Internet, I ought to say I'd pull Ninja moves and bust his ass. In reality, this 41 year old just isn't up to that.  :lol:

I'm a pretty stubborn ass, so I might just say no and take my probable beating. In a similar situation I had pretty good success with the "run into the middle of the street" strategy (on the correct assumption that the would-be beaters weren't willing to do their beating in the middle of the road with cars wizzing by). Thing is, how stupid would it be to be injured or killed for $60?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 10:46:30 AM
Did you consider yelling help?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on June 30, 2009, 10:48:20 AM
Quote from: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:35:37 AM
Who the hell is stupid enough to mug you for $60?

Dammit - the stupidity of criminals never ceases to amaze me.
Nobody ever accused muggers of being particularly bright individuals.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 10:49:22 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 10:46:30 AM
Did you consider yelling help?
The thought never entered my mind, to be honest.  To say that I wasn't thinking clearly at the time would be an understatement.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Savonarola on June 30, 2009, 10:51:09 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 10:46:30 AM
Did you consider yelling help?

I've read that you're supposed to yell "Fire" since people are more likely to pay attention to that than "Help."
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Cerr on June 30, 2009, 10:52:04 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 10:46:30 AM
Did you consider yelling help?
Not sure if it's bull or not but I've heard from some people that yelling fire! is more effective than yelling help.

Edit - Sav beat me to it.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:53:10 AM
Quote from: Savonarola on June 30, 2009, 10:51:09 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 10:46:30 AM
Did you consider yelling help?

I've read that you're supposed to yell "Fire" since people are more likely to pay attention to that than "Help."

We were playing softball last night.  My wife was on third base when she hears some kid running through the trees yelling "emergency!".  My wife stops play to run over and ask the kid what was the matter.

The kid yells back "my dad needs a beer".

:lol: :mad: :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Josquius on June 30, 2009, 11:02:25 AM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 29, 2009, 09:23:53 PM
:hug:  I got mugged a few months ago here in Phila. by a couple of young teenagers, but it's hard to argue with a gun.   :(  On the bright side, my wallet was mailed back to me by a good Samaritan a couple of weeks ago, sans cash.   :)
Yeah thats pretty bad. With regular muggers you can just run like hell, they tend to be lazy. With a gun involved though probally not worth risking it.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 11:04:17 AM
I would use the British method of refusal from A Bridge Too Far.

"What? You wish to give me money? No thanks, good chap, I have quite enough already! Cheerio!"
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Capetan Mihali on June 30, 2009, 11:19:26 AM
Quote from: Malthus on June 30, 2009, 10:40:21 AM
In a similar situation I had pretty good success with the "run into the middle of the street" strategy (on the correct assumption that the would-be beaters weren't willing to do their beating in the middle of the road with cars wizzing by).

I successfully dodged another robbery in Atlantic City by darting into the nearest store, which was, inevitably, a porn video booth emporium, on the correct assumption that they would be deterred from robbing me while I watched deafeningly loud pornographic movies in a tiny cubicle.  Though the video booths come with their own set of risks...
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 11:25:55 AM
Quote from: Capetan Mihali on June 30, 2009, 11:19:26 AMThough the video booths come with their own set of risks...

And rewards!
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 11:28:13 AM
Quote from: Tyr on June 30, 2009, 11:02:25 AMWith regular muggers you can just run like hell, they tend to be lazy.

Have people tried to mug you a lot?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Josquius on June 30, 2009, 11:32:33 AM
Quote from: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 11:28:13 AM
Quote from: Tyr on June 30, 2009, 11:02:25 AMWith regular muggers you can just run like hell, they tend to be lazy.

Have people tried to mug you a lot?
Thrice.
Or maybe four. There was one time when a kid demanded 20p or he'd beat me up, I found it so funny I just gave in and gave him the money.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 11:44:24 AM
The closest I came to being mugged was one time in Montego Bay.  We were taking a cab back to the hotel, I suggested we grab some jerk chicken and smoke some nice ganja on the beach.  Cabbie took us to this gas station with a jerk stand set up in the lot.  It was late at night and about 8 dudes were just hanging out.  One guy approached and told me his name was Dr. Black and it was dangerous in that part of town so it might be a good idea to pay him for protection.  Dr. Black looked like he had a degree in body building.  I said no thanks.  I felt confident because my bud has a black belt in karate. 

Then as we were leaving this one very crack head looking dude starts babbling in patois, the only words I could make out were 'money, money, money!" The cabbie yells at us to give him some money, so my bud grabs some random Jamaican dollar bills (worth about a quarter) and shoved them out the window.  And we drove off.  And ate some jerk chicken and smoked some nice ganja on the beach.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DisturbedPervert on June 30, 2009, 12:20:49 PM
I've never been close to being mugged.  An aggressive panhandler in SF after coming out of a strip club was the closest, gave him a couple bucks to leave me alone and stop following me telling where to find pussy at 3am. 
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Iormlund on June 30, 2009, 12:42:12 PM
I've never been mugged. It was close once, though. I was walking through the park and a bunch of gypsies where hanging out between me and the exit. One of them started the routine but the rest couldn't be bothered (they were probably too wasted) and they left me alone.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Habbaku on June 30, 2009, 12:44:43 PM
I've never been mugged, nor even come into a situation that I thought I was being targeted for a mugging.

I suspect, in DG's position, I might've tried to run away rather than provoke anything further.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Jaron on June 30, 2009, 12:56:55 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on June 30, 2009, 12:44:43 PM
I've never been mugged, nor even come into a situation that I thought I was being targeted for a mugging.

I suspect, in DG's position, I might've tried to run away rather than provoke anything further.

I'm surprised you wouldn't use one of the eight concealed weapons you keep on your person at all times. Or at the least made a dash for the assault rifle you keep in the trunk... ;)
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Neil on June 30, 2009, 01:20:15 PM
Quote from: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:35:37 AM
Who the hell is stupid enough to mug you for $60?

Dammit - the stupidity of criminals never ceases to amaze me.
$60 allows him to score drugs (non-whites are all addicted to drugs), and he'll get a lot less of a fight asking for a small amount of money than he would asking people to clear out their savings accounts.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 01:32:12 PM
He did ask me to withdraw $100 originally.  I was still in a state of confused stubborness, and said it was too much and tried walking away from the ATM.  He pinned me again, but went down to $60. 
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on June 30, 2009, 01:35:12 PM
uh..... so why didn't you say $60 was too much?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 01:39:10 PM
Quote from: Caliga on June 30, 2009, 01:35:12 PM
uh..... so why didn't you say $60 was too much?
Sometime between the request for a $100 and a request for $60 it finally clicked with me that he was robbing me (I'm not very good at getting hints).  The way he asked for money was to repeatedly and threateningly ask to "buy some candy", as he pretended to be one of those kids who sell candy.  When he asked for $100, my thought was that it was too much to pay for candy, so that's why I refused.  Yes, I'm that slow.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 02:08:08 PM
LOL, what a great story DG. I could totally see myself going through that mental confusion.

"WTF? $100 for candy? ARE YOU ON CRACK!?!!?! Oh...wait...."
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: BuddhaRhubarb on June 30, 2009, 02:48:10 PM
Quote from: Berkut on June 30, 2009, 02:08:08 PM
LOL, what a great story DG. I could totally see myself going through that mental confusion.

"WTF? $100 for candy? ARE YOU ON CRACK!?!!?! Oh...wait...."


:lol:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 06:40:07 PM
Quote from: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:35:37 AM
Who the hell is stupid enough to mug you for $60?

Dammit - the stupidity of criminals never ceases to amaze me.

I'm trying to figure out who lets themselves withdraw $60 for somebody without a weapon.

DG, I'm sure you are a kind, sweet soul, but sometimes, you just need to say "fuck that shit", and go whiteboy crazy, regardless of how many black eyes you get.  It's not just about money.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 06:40:59 PM
Quote from: Malthus on June 30, 2009, 10:40:21 AM
I honestly don't know what I would do in the same situation.

As a Jew, you'd have rather died than withdraw $20.

WTF MAN THERES A FEE INVOLVED
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 07:08:17 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 06:40:07 PM
Quote from: Barrister on June 30, 2009, 10:35:37 AM
Who the hell is stupid enough to mug you for $60?

Dammit - the stupidity of criminals never ceases to amaze me.

I'm trying to figure out who lets themselves withdraw $60 for somebody without a weapon.

DG, I'm sure you are a kind, sweet soul, but sometimes, you just need to say "fuck that shit", and go whiteboy crazy, regardless of how many black eyes you get.  It's not just about money.

That too.

I'm trying to put myself in that situation.  I can't be 100% sure, but I think I'd stand there with a stunned expression on me and say - "umm, no."  And walk on.  Guy might hit me once, but he's hardly going to start wailing away on me in broad daylight.

A guy with a gun gets whatever the hell he wants though.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 07:33:11 PM
In poor DGuller's defense, virtually anyone coming from a placid, law-abiding country like Russia would be unprepared for the mean streets of America.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Neil on June 30, 2009, 08:10:37 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 07:33:11 PM
In poor DGuller's defense, virtually anyone coming from a placid, law-abiding country like Russia would be unprepared for the mean streets of America.
In Russia, they wouldn't have said anything.  They'd just hit him over the head and cut the body up for organs.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: citizen k on June 30, 2009, 08:18:39 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 30, 2009, 07:33:11 PM
In poor DGuller's defense, virtually anyone coming from a placid, law-abiding country like Russia would be unprepared for the mean streets of America.
I imagine there's some places in Moscow you wouldn't want to be wandering in after dark.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 08:56:05 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 30, 2009, 06:40:07 PM
I'm trying to figure out who lets themselves withdraw $60 for somebody without a weapon.

DG, I'm sure you are a kind, sweet soul, but sometimes, you just need to say "fuck that shit", and go whiteboy crazy, regardless of how many black eyes you get.  It's not just about money.
Perhaps your perspective would change if you were untrained for the situation, clearly physically outmatched, already be hit once, and were made clear that real physical harm could come your way.  Maybe with more confidence I could've ensured a an outcome I would be more proud of, but eventually a warning bell in my head came on to just give him the money and get the fuck away from the situation with as little further confrontation as I could muster. 

Black eye is one thing, losing some of my teeth, suffering a brain injury from hitting the concrete at some point during the possible assault, or finding out that he's not unarmed after all, were the possibilities eventually on my mind.  I was also not keen to assume rationality on the part of a thug who robs people for $60 in broad daylight.  Last but not least, as I said earlier, I was not as composed mentally back when I was pinned against a wall as I am now typing on my keyboard.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Kleves on June 30, 2009, 10:10:30 PM
Incidentally, there have been a string of bank robberies near the University of Washington. Apparently the UW police are required to notify students of any criminal incidents. With the email notification I just recieved, they sent some tips about what to do during a robbery (specifically a bank robbery, but it seems to be generally applicable) . Here are their tips:

Simple Survival Steps

To make the best of a bad situation, think along the following lines:

* My money is insured, the only thing at risk is my safety

* Let the guy have what he wants, the sooner he gets it the sooner he'll go away

* He's probably done this before and he'll do it again - the more often he does it the better are his chances of getting caught

Although it may be difficult to control your anger in such a situation, the best thing is to let the robber go so that everybody is safe. Bank robbers are often desperate, and you don't want to mess with a desperate and scared person.

Every law enforcement official will tell you the same thing: the most heroic act you can take in a bank robbery is noticing any details about the robber. You should not try to stop the robbery by force. Keep in mind that an increasing number of bank robbers are using powerful drugs (cocaine and methampheta

mine) during the time of the robbery. You don't want to take chances with an intoxicated person in a desperate situation. If you notice that a bank robbery is in progress, simply get some details on the robber that you can pass on to the police. Try to observe:
* Clothing - look for layers under the visible layer (the outer layer will come off)
* Physical characteristics - height, weight, eyes, hair, mannerisms, scars/tattoos
* Automobile description (not the most important since it's probably stolen)
* Direction of travel
* Weapons - the police need to know if the robber is armed

Remember that the bank robber is trying to avoid getting caught, and he probably knows what you're looking for. Therefore, do not stare at a bank robber. In fact, it's best not to attract any attention to yourself. Simply follow instructions so that the robber can get out of there as soon as possible. Law enforcement will pursue the robber. Agitating a bank robber can result in harm to yourself and/or others.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: jimmy olsen on June 30, 2009, 10:17:33 PM
Quote from: Kleves on June 30, 2009, 10:10:30 PM

Every law enforcement official will tell you the same thing: the most heroic act you can take in a bank robbery is noticing any details about the robber. You should not try to stop the robbery by force. Keep in mind that an increasing number of bank robbers are using powerful drugs (cocaine and methampheta
mine) during the time of the robbery. You don't want to take chances with an intoxicated person in a desperate situation.
Unpossible! I'm an internet badass who knowz ten kinds of kung fu!
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Strix on June 30, 2009, 10:26:49 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

It happens a lot in Rochester. Muggers will have guns and people just start wrestling with them and/or run away. It's just life on the streets to those that live in high crime areas.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Strix on June 30, 2009, 10:29:11 PM
Oh, and sorry to hear that happened to you DG!  :hug:
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on June 30, 2009, 10:31:12 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.
He would probably run away the huge majority of the time, because he's looking for easy targets.  However, he may be high, and thus be unpredictable in his reaction.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Palisadoes on June 30, 2009, 10:41:43 PM
Sorry to hear about that.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: sbr on June 30, 2009, 11:39:16 PM
Shitty.

AFAIK I have never come close to being mugged, robbed or held-up.  I am 99% sure i would have reacted the same as you did; don't let these Internet Tough Guys make you feel any worse. :)
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on July 01, 2009, 06:54:52 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 30, 2009, 10:17:33 PM
Unpossible! I'm an internet badass who knowz ten kinds of kung fu!
If you ever get mugged, you just need to do that gross thing with your leg and the robber will either throw up or run away. :)
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 08:38:27 AM
Now if Dguller was packing this could have ended very differently.  The robber could have stolen the gun as well!
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Queequeg on July 01, 2009, 08:43:51 AM
A group of about 10 "urban" 3rd graders came up to me once and said that if I didn't give them my money they'd beat me up.  I'm a big guy, so I just kept walking.  Then they said that they'd get their older brothers, and I realized how bad it would look if I got in a fight with 3rd graders, no matter the root cause of said fight, would be bad, and that there was probably a couple of mean older brothers or even fathers in there.  Fuckers walked away with $40.

So don't feel bad DG; at least your robber was postpubescent.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Warspite on July 01, 2009, 08:58:46 AM
Quote from: Queequeg on July 01, 2009, 08:43:51 AM
A group of about 10 "urban" 3rd graders came up to me once and said that if I didn't give them my money they'd beat me up.  I'm a big guy, so I just kept walking.  Then they said that they'd get their older brothers, and I realized how bad it would look if I got in a fight with 3rd graders, no matter the root cause of said fight, would be bad, and that there was probably a couple of mean older brothers or even fathers in there.  Fuckers walked away with $40.

So don't feel bad DG; at least your robber was postpubescent.

Could you have tried to outrun them?
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Caliga on July 01, 2009, 09:26:07 AM
I hope to one day be rubbed by a bitch  :)
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 12:02:21 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

Attacking them is a poor idea, but going apeshit crazy and screaming at them and coming across threatening can work.  Doing something completely unexpected will confuse the person and give him second thoughts.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Malthus on July 01, 2009, 12:05:51 PM
Quote from: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 12:02:21 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

Attacking them is a poor idea, but going apeshit crazy and screaming at them and coming across threatening can work.  Doing something completely unexpected will confuse the person and give him second thoughts.

Hey, it works in business meetings.  :D
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2009, 12:11:43 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 01, 2009, 12:05:51 PM
Quote from: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 12:02:21 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

Attacking them is a poor idea, but going apeshit crazy and screaming at them and coming across threatening can work.  Doing something completely unexpected will confuse the person and give him second thoughts.

Hey, it works in business meetings.  :D
Might be an urban legend, but I remember reading about this guy who was backpacking/hitchhiking across the US and decided to keep going through Mexico all the way down to Alcapulco or Cancun. He'd managed to scrape enough money to ride a bus and was being eyed by some suspicious looking young men, so he decided to have an enthusiastic conversation with his guitar. It worked and nobody bothered him while he was in Mexico.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Malthus on July 01, 2009, 12:13:50 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2009, 12:11:43 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 01, 2009, 12:05:51 PM
Quote from: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 12:02:21 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

Attacking them is a poor idea, but going apeshit crazy and screaming at them and coming across threatening can work.  Doing something completely unexpected will confuse the person and give him second thoughts.

Hey, it works in business meetings.  :D
Might be an urban legend, but I remember reading about this guy who was backpacking/hitchhiking across the US and decided to keep going through Mexico all the way down to Alcapulco or Cancun. He'd managed to scrape enough money to ride a bus and was being eyed by some suspicious looking young men, so he decided to have an enthusiastic conversation with his guitar. It worked and nobody bothered him while he was in Mexico.

They were no doubt "eyeing" him because they thought he looked nuts.  :D
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Ed Anger on July 02, 2009, 04:22:23 PM
Quote from: Queequeg on July 01, 2009, 08:43:51 AM
A group of about 10 "urban" 3rd graders came up to me once and said that if I didn't give them my money they'd beat me up.  I'm a big guy, so I just kept walking.  Then they said that they'd get their older brothers, and I realized how bad it would look if I got in a fight with 3rd graders, no matter the root cause of said fight, would be bad, and that there was probably a couple of mean older brothers or even fathers in there.  Fuckers walked away with $40.

So don't feel bad DG; at least your robber was postpubescent.

Just to let you know that this nugget hasn't escaped my notice during my absence. Info filed away for future mocking.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: CountDeMoney on July 02, 2009, 04:34:40 PM
Quote from: Queequeg on July 01, 2009, 08:43:51 AM
A group of about 10 "urban" 3rd graders came up to me once and said that if I didn't give them my money they'd beat me up.  I'm a big guy, so I just kept walking.  Then they said that they'd get their older brothers, and I realized how bad it would look if I got in a fight with 3rd graders, no matter the root cause of said fight, would be bad, and that there was probably a couple of mean older brothers or even fathers in there.  Fuckers walked away with $40.

It's people like you and DG that encourage these little shits.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: DGuller on July 02, 2009, 04:47:42 PM
I dunno, my guy seemed pretty encouraged all on his own.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Razgovory on July 02, 2009, 04:52:58 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2009, 12:11:43 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 01, 2009, 12:05:51 PM
Quote from: Razgovory on July 01, 2009, 12:02:21 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on June 30, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
I always wondered what the mugger would do if the victim just suddenly and unexpectedly went completely apeshit, fists and knees flying so fast there's no time to react.  :P

Pre-emptive mugging defense.

Attacking them is a poor idea, but going apeshit crazy and screaming at them and coming across threatening can work.  Doing something completely unexpected will confuse the person and give him second thoughts.

Hey, it works in business meetings.  :D
Might be an urban legend, but I remember reading about this guy who was backpacking/hitchhiking across the US and decided to keep going through Mexico all the way down to Alcapulco or Cancun. He'd managed to scrape enough money to ride a bus and was being eyed by some suspicious looking young men, so he decided to have an enthusiastic conversation with his guitar. It worked and nobody bothered him while he was in Mexico.

I can tell you I'm pretty crazy and people avoid me like the plague.
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: Strix on July 02, 2009, 06:22:12 PM
Quote from: Razgovory on July 02, 2009, 04:52:58 PM
I can tell you I'm pretty crazy and people avoid me like the plague.

How many times must we explain that your family do not count as "people".
Title: Re: Robbery, up close and personal
Post by: HVC on July 02, 2009, 06:36:47 PM
I find that if you look mad and hav ea shaved head people leave you alone :P .