Video: Video catches robbers in action

Larger screen

TACOMA, Wash. - Brazen robbers were caught on tape hitting four Tacoma hotels over the past week, and police are afraid the men might get more violent.

Tacoma police say since last Friday night, two men are responsible for robberies at a La Quinta, the Best Western, the Tacoma Extended Stay America and a Holiday Inn Express.

The men attempted to hide their identities, but surveillance cameras captured their faces as well their clothing.

This afternoon Tacoma police released four separate clips of surveillance video showing the thefts. Using the element of surprise, the crooks take mere seconds in their robberies. Each time, one of the robbers hops over the counter and cleans out the registers.

A female clerk was hit and had hair pulled out during a theft.

Three of the four victims say they were told if they didn't cooperate, they'd be killed.

"They're using terror," said Detective Larry Andren, of the Tacoma Police. "It's a complete takeover-type situation."

KING

The robbers attempted to hide their identities, but surveillance cameras captured their faces.

After four robberies in six nights, detectives are passing fliers around to Tacoma hotels.

They hope someone turns the men in before someone gets seriously hurt or killed.

Crimestoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for anyone who helps identify the crooks.