Police have acknowledged that four downtown robberies, two of which occurred in the past month and involved sexual assaults, are linked — and a North Charleston robbery and sexual assault last summer has joined the mix, as well. But they aren't saying much else as they try to solve what has left many downtown residents worried for their safety.

From The Post and Courier:

"We are providing as much information as possible, within the parameters of not jeopardizing or hindering the investigation," said Charles Francis, police public information officer.

...

Laura Hudson is executive director of the S.C. Crime Victims Council. She said she understands that police must protect some detail, but that a blanket refusal to provide any information is not wise.

"It would seem to me that the safety of the community would outweigh their need to keep all of that information private. People have a right to know what's going on," Hudson said. "It would seem to me that they would want the public's help in solving this issue, and the only way they can do that is to inform the public and let the public look for something. What's fair is to let people have enough knowledge to protect themselves."

While Police Chief Greg Mullen had initially refused any interviews, he apparently has changed his mind and will be interviewed by the newspaper today sometime. We'll let you know what the The Post and Courier reports on the talk.