The Scanner Today, Feb. 16

This week we heard from a number of people concerned about recent robberies around the city. Some involved knives and physical violence.

As we looked into the data, we also realized there had been a significant uptick in robberies this month.

We're hoping to learn more, but here's what we know. You won't find this story anywhere else.

Today's news

Berkeley is seeing a spike in robberies; people are worried

“The mayor and police department have to do a better job to protect the area,” one resident told The Scanner. “Things are getting worse.”

The Berkeley ScannerEmilie Raguso

In other news

Last night, we heard about gunfire in southwest Berkeley. We went to the scene to check it out.

It was the second gunfire report of the year (no one was reported to have been hurt in either incident). Make sure to follow us on Twitter for the latest updates.

In case you missed it

More than $19M in illegal cannabis seized in Berkeley raid

Authorities seized nearly 12,000 pounds of cannabis last week from a “heavily fortified” warehouse in West Berkeley.

The Berkeley ScannerEmilie Raguso

Man knocks out UC Berkeley student, 18, in unprovoked attack

According to police, the assailant punched the student from behind, sending him flying onto the sidewalk and knocking him unconscious.

The Berkeley ScannerEmilie Raguso