About half of the week's traffic stops have taken place on side roads and residential streets off of New Hampshire Avenue, as officers are focusing on a problem of auto theft and larceny from auto, especially in the X7 and X8 beats (Ward 6). During the past week, more than 10 reports were taken in this area related to auto thefts, attempts, and recovery of vehicles stolen in other jurisdictions.
Residents are encouraged to immediately report any suspicious behavior to 301/270-1100. Examples of suspicious behavior related to auto theft are:
- someone quickly parking a car and getting into another waiting vehicle,
- poorly parked cars not regularly seen in the area,
- a stranger changing tags on a car, or
- a vehicle with multiple riders slowly cruising an area.
If you see someone "drop" a vehicle and hurry to a waiting vehicle, it is useful to provide a description of the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, distinctive elements like body damage and -- ideally -- a license plate number.
Only one of the vehicles recently stolen in this area was reported to have secondary auto theft security in operation at the time of the theft. A steering wheel lock (often called a "club") is an excellent deterrent to vehicle theft. The Takoma Park Police are offering these locks for $10, a substantial discount from the retail cost. They are available on weekday at the Administrative Office or on weekends from the Communications Dispatcher (exact amount only on weekends).
For more information or to arrange a community meeting with a COP Team officer, contact Sgt. Gilbert at 301/891-7124.
Posted by Police at December 30, 2005 05:39 PM