OAKLAND — An ex-convict has been charged with eight counts of robbery and attempted robbery in a three-week spree that targeted victims mainly in Chinatown, according to authorities and court records.
Steven McCord, 22, of Oakland, admitted his involvement in the robberies that occurred between Sept. 23 and Oct. 16, court records show. Police said he was apologetic and committed the robberies because he needed money.
Victims in the robberies were women and men in their 40s to 60s who usually were walking by themselves. Three of the robbery counts include an enhancement clause that the victims were older than 60 and in three of the robberies McCord is accused of using a gun.
Authorities said most of the robberies were in Chinatown, but at least one was outside a church at 12th and West streets. Authorities said McCord rode a bicycle he stole from a relative to look for victims.
Victims had wallets and other items taken, and some victims were thrown to the ground but did not require medical aid. In three of the robberies McCord wore a mask and used what turned out to be a BB gun to threaten the victims and take their property.
Police had surveillance video of most of the robberies which eventually led to McCord being identified as the suspect. Police determined where he was living and he was arrested Oct. 24 at his home near 14th and Myrtle streets in West Oakland.
Police recovered the bicycle and clothing they say he wore during the robberies as well as the mask. Police believe he stopped the robberies because he suffered a hand injury that required a cast.
In addition to the robbery counts, McCord is charged with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, two counts of possession of a firearm by a person with a prior conviction and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.
According to court records, McCord was convicted of second-degree robbery in December 2014 and given a prison term. He also was convicted of second-degree burglary in November 2016 and given a prison term. He is being held without bail and is scheduled to enter a plea Nov. 20.