NEWS RELEASE
City of Takoma Park Police Department
• 7500 Maple Avenue • Takoma Park, Md 20912
For more information contact:
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Catherine Plevy, 301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901
December 5, 2008 (1:20 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
During the months of November and December 2008, Takoma Park Police detectives are investigating a series of residential burglaries that have occurred throughout the City. Within the last week, there have been three (3) nighttime residential burglaries where the occupants were at home. Entry has been made by various means, including an unlocked door, prying windows and/or smashing out windows. The two nighttime residential burglaries that occurred on November 24 happened in the 700 block of Erie Avenue and in the 7200 block of 13th Avenue, and the third on December 5 happened in the 7200 block of Maple Avenue. No violence has occurred and no weapons have been displayed during the nighttime burglaries. In all three instances, the suspects immediately fled after being encountered by the homeowner(s). The three burglaries occurred between 12:00 midnight and 5:00 AM. In two out of the three nighttime burglaries, property was taken. If homeowners do encounter a burglar in their home, please attempt to secure yourself in a room where you have access to a phone and immediately contact police. Do not confront suspect(s) or attempt to fight and/or chase after suspect(s).
The suspects in the burglaries above are described as:
(1) black male, 20-29 years of age, approximately 5’6 – 5’8, approximately 165 pounds, brown eyes, black hair, medium complexion, thin build.
(2) possible male, unknown ethnicity, dark clothing, approximately 5’9 – 5’10 (no further identifying information).
Chief Ricucci announced that the Takoma Park Police are increasing their uniform and plainclothes patrol officers to the areas, specifically targeting these burglaries.
As we approach the holiday season, we ask that our residents take extra safety precautions to ensure a safe and happy holiday season. Be mindful of keeping doors and windows locked at all times. Do not open the door to strangers. If someone does come to your door, ask for identification. Keep an outside light on after dark. Do not leave items of value in plain sight from a window; with the holiday season this would include holiday presents. Call the police if you see or hear anything suspicious.
If you see suspicious persons, vehicles and/or activity, please call Takoma Park Police at 301-270-1100 or 9-1-1.
Posted by Plevy at December 5, 2008 01:20 PM