On the evening of January 22 through to the early morning of January 23, 2009, there were numerous reports from citizens on Spruce Avenue, Willow Avenue, Park Avenue and Hancock Avenue regarding their vehicles having been vandalized some time during the night. Tires had been slashed. A Takoma Park Police Department investigator has been assigned to these cases. At this time, there is no suspect information. There does not seem to be any specific pattern to the type of vehicle vandalized, or whether the vehicles were targeted for any common purpose, i.e., political affiliation, beliefs, etc. Most vehicles were parked on the street, however, some were parked in driveways. The instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife. For most of the vehicles that were damaged, it involved the tires that faced the street.
There were also five more reported vandalized vehicles from citizens on Circle Avenue and Elm Avenue that occurred during the evening of January 23 through to the early morning of January 24, 2009. The incident on Elm Avenue involved a baseball bat to break out the rear window. It cannot be confirmed at this time whether these incidents are related to those of January 22-23, 2009. However, as with the prior ones, the instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife.
Detectives continue to investigate the vandalism to vehicles. The neighborhood has been canvassed and many interviews conducted, however, to date, no new information has been developed.
If you have any information regarding these vandalisms, please contact the police department at 301-270-1100. Parents, if you have a child who has information that could assist in this investigation, and that child would like to remain anonymous, you may make a phone call on his/her behalf to the lead investigator, Det. Mitchell, at 301-891-7111.
As we receive further information, we will update you.
On the evening of January 22 through to the early morning of January 23, 2009, there were numerous reports from citizens on Spruce Avenue, Willow Avenue, Park Avenue and Hancock Avenue regarding their vehicles having been vandalized some time during the night. Tires had been slashed. A Takoma Park Police Department investigator has been assigned to these cases. At this time, there is no suspect information. There does not seem to be any specific pattern to the type of vehicle vandalized, or whether the vehicles were targeted for any common purpose, i.e., political affiliation, beliefs, etc. Most vehicles were parked on the street, however, some were parked in driveways. The instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife. For most of the vehicles that were damaged, it involved the tires that faced the street.
There were also five more reported vandalized vehicles from citizens on Circle Avenue and Elm Avenue that occurred during the evening of January 23 through to the early morning of January 24, 2009. The incident on Elm Avenue involved a baseball bat to break out the rear window. It cannot be confirmed at this time whether these incidents are related to those of January 22-23, 2009. However, as with the prior ones, the instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife.
Detectives continue to investigate the vandalism to vehicles. The neighborhood has been canvassed and many interviews conducted, however, to date, no new information has been developed.
If you have any information regarding these vandalisms, please contact the police department at 301-270-1100. Parents, if you have a child who has information that could assist in this investigation, and that child would like to remain anonymous, you may make a phone call on his/her behalf to the lead investigator, Det. Mitchell, at 301-891-7111.
As we receive further information, we will update you.
Vandalism to Vehicles
Between Thursday, January 22 and Friday, January 23, twenty vandalism to vehicles occurred in the 7200 block of Spruce Avenue, 7300 block of Willow Avenue, 100 block of Park Avenue, and 7400 block of Hancock Avenue. Suspect(s) used a razor type knife to slash vehicle tires. Four additional vehicles’ tires were slashed in the 400 block of Circle Avenue between Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24.
T1 Beat:
Auto Theft
300 block of Tulip Avenue, between Sunday, January 25 at 2:00 p.m. and Monday, January 26 at 1:20 a.m. ’99 Dodge Caravan
RECOVERED by National Security Agency Police, Ft. Meade, MD. Juvenile male arrested and charged with Auto Theft.
T2 Beat:
No reported incidents.
T3 Beat:
Assault
A domestic assault occurred in the 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Wednesday, January 28 at 8:30 p.m. Suspect threatened and assaulted victim during an argument.
Burglary – Commercial
7600 New Hampshire Avenue, Accounting & Consulting Resources, Saturday, January 24 at 10:14 p.m. ATTEMPT forced entry. No property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
1100 block of Kirklynn Avenue, Monday, January 26 between 5:00 a.m. and 5:10 a.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
1100 block of Linden Avenue, between Tuesday, January 29 at 11:30 p.m. and Wednesday, January 28 at 2:30 p.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
Auto Theft
7300, 7400, and 8000 block of Wildwood Drive, Wednesday, January 28. Three ATTEMPT stolen autos. Two ’00 Honda Civics and a ’98 Honda
Arrests:
On Saturday, January 24 at 1:11 a.m. in the 7400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested on an open warrant for Saint Mary’s County for Violation of Probation on Armed Robbery charges.
On Sunday, January 25 at 4:01 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On Monday, January 26 at 11:08 p.m. in the 1100 block of Holton Lane, an adult male was arrested on an open warrant for Failure to Appear – Attempt Theft Over $500.
On January 28, 2009, a series of attempted stolen autos on Wildwood Drive occurred as follows:
- 7400 block of Wildwood Drive - A 2000 silver Honda Civic had the driver’s side window broken out. No further damage. The vehicle had an anti-theft device on the gas pedal. (Case #09005027)
- 7300 block of Wildwood Drive - A 2000 red Honda Civic had the driver’s side window broken out. The steering column was broken and the vehicle was hot-wired. The vehicle was moved to the middle of Wildwood Drive in front of the owner’s residence and left there. (Case #09005030)
- 8000 block of Wildwood Drive - A 1998 green Honda had the driver’s side window broken out and the steering column broken. The vehicle was hot-wired and left running in the driveway of the residence. (Case #09005046)
No property was taken from any of the vehicles. Investigation continues under the case numbers listed above. Anyone with information about these crimes is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
It has recently been brought to my attention that many citizens in the City of Takoma Park are not aware of the responsibilities of our fire department. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Department handles all fires and subsequent investigations into those fires. The Montgomery County Fire Marshall’s Office is the investigative arm which conducts those investigations. When a fire is reported, you should call 9-1-1 and ask for fire. The fire department will respond. If they need assistance from the City of Takoma Park Police Department, they will contact us and we will respond to assist accordingly. On all fire related scenes, the fire department is the primary agency who handles putting out the fire and they handle the subsequent investigation. The City of Takoma Park Police Department works with the fire department when assistance is requested which requires both agencies. Any questions about fires and fire investigations should be directed to the Montgomery County Fire Investigations Unit at 240-777-2255. It is my intention to ensure that all of our citizens are aware of the delineation of responsibilities on fire investigations in the City of Takoma Park. If you have any questions about this, please contact me directly at 301-891-7104 or my assistant and the Public Information Officer, Ms. Cathy Plevy, at 301-891-7142.
The City of Takoma Park Administrative Offices will be opening at 10:30 AM today, January 28. Use extreme caution should travel be required.
The Winter Storm Warning continues until noon today for Montgomery County. Freezing rain is falling over parts of the area and will continue throughout the morning. Freezing rain is expected to change to plain rain later today.
Montgomery County Government is Open Today with Liberal Leave for Employees.
Montgomery County Public Schools are closed today, Jan. 28, due to emergency weather conditions. All school and community activities in school buildings also are canceled. All administrative offices will open two hours late. Day care programs in school buildings will also open two hours late today.
Montgomery College will open at noon today, January 28 due to weather conditions.
Maryland State Police have declared a SNOW EMERGENCY for Montgomery County.
The Maryland State Police (MSP) declares snow emergencies with input from MD State Highway Administration. Once a snow emergency is declared, the law requires certain precautions.
They include:
Prohibited parking on roads and streets designated as snow emergency routes and
The use of snow tires/chains (most cars now use all weather tires, so changing to "snow" tires is unnecessary).
Once an emergency is in effect, all requirements are in effect until lifted. A Snow Emergency Plan is put into effect by county. Certain exceptions can occur while a snow emergency plan is in effect. A specific route(s) can be lifted and the remainders of the roads in the county still remain under the Snow Emergency Plan. If the Statewide Operations Center is notified of an exception, we will note these routes as exceptions in our list below. For the most up to date information, it is advised to call the local MSP barrack for the county. http://www.mdsp.org/fob/barrack_choices.asp
Travel is hazardous on some roads and should be discouraged. Use extreme caution should travel be required.
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
January 27, 2009 (11:43 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci announces the release of the Takoma Park Police Department 2008 Annual Report, which can be viewed on-line at www.takomaparkmd.gov/police/annualreport. Highlights in the report for the year 2008 are the 11% reduction in Part 1 crimes. The biggest decreases are auto thefts by 24%, larceny by 22% and felony assaults by 22%.
The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) had a banner year by closing 47% of their cases, a 14% increase from last year, and having a 22% increase in arrests.
The Patrol Division had a very successful year with a 28% increase in Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests. In an effort to be closer to our community, bike patrol increased by 692 hours and foot patrol by 2,000 hours.
The Department continues to operate at full staffing with no vacancies.
Chief Ricucci attributes the decrease in crime to a fully staffed patrol division, the Criminal Investigations Division, and the addition of the Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) - plainclothes unit. Although the results are good, we still have to work on reducing property crimes and the fear of crime in our City.
Chief Ricucci urges residents to report crimes and suspicious situations to the police department. Citizens must practice good crime prevention habits to assist in the department’s endeavor to continue to reduce crime.
The Annual Report will become a regular part of our department's reporting and sharing with the residents.
The Police Department has been in touch with Public Works regarding the weather operations plan today. Public Works will have all five trucks on the roads throughout today providing salt treatment and plowing, as needed.
Montgomery County Public Schools are closed today due to emergency weather conditions. All school and community activities in school buildings also are canceled. All administrative offices are open. Day care programs in school buildings will remain open as scheduled.
Snow now falling across parts of the region. A mix of precipitation types expected. Travel may become very hazardous or impossible tonight.
The National Weather Service has upgraded the Winter Storm Watch to a WINTER STORM WARNING. This Warning is in effect until 12 PM EST Wednesday.
Snowfall may accumulate several inches today before changing over to sleet, ice pellets, and freezing rain. Most of the precipitation that falls during the day lights hours today, should fall as snow, which may increase in intensity at times, reducing visibility. Significant ice accumulations in excess of 1/4 in are possible tonight. Ice covered limbs and power lines may cause power outages.
Montgomery County Public Schools are closed today due to emergency weather conditions. All school and community activities in school buildings also are canceled. All administrative offices are open. Day care programs in school buildings will remain open as scheduled.
A WINTER STORM WARNING means that significant amounts of snow, sleet, or freezing rain are expected or are occurring in the warned area. Significant amounts of snow, sleet, and freezing rain are possible as this storm passes.
Travel disruptions within the County and region are likely as roads quickly become snow covered and icy. Caution should be used during any travel and please remain alert for ongoing plow/salt operations. Deteriorating weather conditions are now imminent. Any remaining Winter storm preparations should be rushed to completion.
On January 24, 2009, at approximately 8:30 p.m., District of Columbia Police responded to 110 Carroll Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., to the CVS store parking lot for reports of a citizen armed robbery (this address is just across the D.C. line). The victim was sitting inside her vehicle when two subjects walked up to her vehicle. The first subject knocked on the window and demanded that she roll it down and then demanded property. The victim complied. The subject then displayed a silver handgun and demanded more property. Both subjects then fled on foot eastbound on Willow Street, NW. The victim was not injured. The subjects are described as:
(1) black male, in his early 20’s, unknown height and weight, light complexion with dread locks, wearing a green jacket, a blue hoodie, blue jeans, and armed with a silver handgun; and
(2) black male, in his early 20’s, unknown height and weight, last seen wearing a red jacket.
Investigation is continuing by District of Columbia Police. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call them at 202.715.7400.
On the evening of January 22 through to the early morning of January 23, 2009, there were numerous reports from citizens on Spruce Avenue, Willow Avenue, Park Avenue and Hancock Avenue regarding their vehicles having been vandalized some time during the night. Tires had been slashed. A Takoma Park Police Department investigator has been assigned to these cases. At this time, there is no suspect information. There does not seem to be any specific pattern to the type of vehicle vandalized, or whether the vehicles were targeted for any common purpose, i.e., political affiliation, beliefs, etc. The only commonality seems to be that most of the vehicles were parked in a darker area of the street without a street light above. There were also some vehicles that were parked in a driveway. The instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife. In all but two of the 20 reported cases, the two tires that were facing the road were the ones that were slashed.
There have since been four more reported vandalized vehicles from citizens on Circle Avenue that occurred during the evening of January 23 through to the early morning of January 24, 2009. We cannot confirm at this time whether these incidents are related to those of January 22-23, 2009. However, as with the prior ones, the instrument used to slash the tires appears to be a razor type knife.
Please report any vandalism to the police department at 301-270-1100. As we receive further information, we will update you.
Winter Storm inbound with a mix of precipitation types expected. Tuesday and Wednesday rush hours may be affected.
The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER STORM WATCH for Montgomery County from Tuesday through Wednesday afternoon. A strong low pressure system is expected to develop over the lower Tennessee valley and move through the region.
Current indications suggest this will be a mixed precipitation event for the County. Snow and sleet are expected at onset and snowfall may accumulate before changing to freezing rain. Significant icing is possible. Residents should begin Winter Storm preparations which should consider the potential of significant snow and ice accumulations within the next 48 hours. Please remain alert for the issuance of additional warnings.
A winter storm watch is issued when there is the potential for significant snowfall and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours.
Four more water main breaks have been reported at the following locations:
Ethan Allen Avenue between Elm and New Hampshire
7300 block of Holly Avenue
New Hampshire at Auburn
Tulip at Cedar
WSSC has been notified. The roads are still open but please use caution when driving in those areas.
There have been numerous reports from citizens on Spruce Avenue, Willow Avenue and Park Avenue regarding their vehicles having been vandalised some time during the night. Tires have been slashed. Please check your vehicle before driving this morning. Officers are out on various scenes and taking police reports. Please report any vandalism to the police department at 301-270-1100. As we receive further information, we will update you.
T1 Beat:
Burglary – Commercial
7600 block of Takoma Avenue, between Friday, January 16 at 3:00 p.m. and Wednesday, January 21 at 8:00 a.m. Construction site. Property taken.
6900 block of Laurel Avenue, between Tuesday, January 20 at 7:10 p.m. and Wednesday, January 21 at 11:00 a.m. Attempt only.
Auto Theft
Unit block of Hickory Avenue, between Sunday, January 18 at 9:30 p.m. and Monday, January 19 at 5:30 a.m. ’97 Mercury Marquis
T2 Beat:
Burglary – Residential
Unit block of Jefferson Avenue, Friday, January 16 between 7:40 a.m. and 8:20 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Burglary – Commercial
7300 block of Carroll Avenue, Wednesday, January 21, time unknown. Forced entry. No property taken.
T3 Beat:
Armed Carjacking/Kidnapping
An armed carjacking/kidnapping occurred in the 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue on Sunday, January 18 between 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The victim parked his vehicle and was approached by three black males; one displaying a handgun. Suspects demanded property and the victim complied. Suspects then demanded the victim’s vehicle and ordered the victim into the backseat. The suspects demanded the victim’s PIN number and drove to the Wachovia Bank ATM at New Hampshire Avenue and University Boulevard East. After leaving the ATM, the suspects drove southbound on New Hampshire Avenue and ordered the victim out of the vehicle. The suspects continued to flee in the victim’s 2004 white Isuzu Ascender, MD tag #A177370. S1: B/M, approx. 22 years old, approx. 6’0, 200 pounds, muscular build, dark complexion, last seen wearing a black hood, sweatshirt and black three-hole mask, carrying a silver revolver. S2: B/M, approx. 18 years old, approx. 5’9, 150-160 pounds, dark complexion, last seen wearing black jeans, coat and skull/knit cap. S3: B/M, approx. 18 years old, approx. 5’1-5’2, 130-140 pounds, light complexions, last seen wearing a brown sweater and black skull/knit cap.
Robbery
An armed robbery occurred in the 900 block of East-West Highway, Jason’s Sub Shop, on Saturday, January 17 at 11:55 p.m. Four black males wearing all black clothing and ski masks entered the establishment by breaking down a rear door. The suspects, one displaying a handgun, ordered two of the victim’s to lie on the floor. After taking property, the suspects fled on foot.
Arrests:
On Sunday, January 18 at 5:49 a.m. in the 7500 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested on an open warrant through Montgomery County for Larceny.
On Sunday, January 18 at 7:11 p.m. in the 7300 block of Piney Branch Road, an adult female was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Monday, January 19 at 9:29 a.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On Tuesday, January 20 at 8:57 a.m. in the 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Simple Assault.
On Wednesday, January 21 at 1:51 a.m. at the intersection of Kirklynn Avenue and Kennewick Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Stolen Auto, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Theft, Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS), and numerous traffic offenses.
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
January 21, 2009 (7:55 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ricucci announces the arrest of Brian Christopher Baldwin, 35, of Silver Spring, Maryland, for 1st Degree Assault, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Theft over $500, Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) Cocaine, Possession of CDS paraphernalia, and various traffic offenses, including fleeing and eluding police.
On January 21, at approximately 1:51 a.m., a Takoma Park police officer was on routine patrol when a tag check came back as a stolen vehicle on January 16 through Prince George’s County, on a vehicle parked at Kirklynn Avenue and Kennewick Avenue, which was occupied by a male subject and female subject. The male driver of the vehicle tried fleeing, and in doing so he struck the officer’s cruiser and almost the officer himself. The driver fled towards Wheaton where Montgomery County Police attempted stop sticks on University Boulevard, but were unsuccessful. The driver bailed from the vehicle after parking it in a driveway off of Dennis Avenue and was later apprehended by Montgomery County Police on Route 29 and identified by the officer. The female subject who was the second occupant of the vehicle fled the scene. The officer was not seriously injured.
Baldwin was transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
Chief Ricucci would like to thank Montgomery County Police for their assistance in this apprehension. Great teamwork by both jurisdictions.
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
January 21, 2009 (11:00 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A Message from the Chief of Police:
If you observe a water main break, please contact the police department immediately so that we may inform WSSC, State Roads and Public Works. It is imperative that the police department be involved so that it may assist with any road closures for hazardous areas, citizen safety and to be able to get the proper authorities on the scene to treat the area with sand, salt or whatever they deem necessary to control the flow of traffic and the safety of citizens. Please call our non-emergency number of 301-270-1100. If it is an emergency, please call 9-1-1.
There is a water main break in the 6700 block of Westmoreland Avenue. WSSC and Public Works have been notified. Sand and salt have been requested. Please use caution in that area.
On January 21, 2009, at approximately 7:22 a.m., Takoma Park Police, while on routine patrol in the 7300 block of Carroll Avenue, observed broken glass to the front window of TJ Food Market. The unknown suspect threw a brick through the front window. No property was taken. There were no injuries. Investigation continues under case #09003607. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
Due to several water main breaks, the following roads are icy, but they remain open:
7100 block - 7200 block in Old Towne - re-opened but icy conditions
Carroll and Lincoln - the water has slowed but icy conditions
Hodges and Chestnut - no work by WSSC as of yet because of several water main breaks and back ups; road open but icy conditions
Philadelphia between Maple and Piney Branch - icy due to the Hodges and Chestnut water main break
Holly at Philadelphia - icy conditions
The Municipal Library parking lot also has icy conditions
Public Works has been notified. The salt trucks are out.
Montgomery County Ride-on, Metro Transit and Montgomery County School transportation have all been notified of the icy conditions.
Two more water main breaks have been reported at Hodges and Chestnut AND Carroll and Lincoln. WSSC, State Roads and Public Works have been notified. Sand and salt have been requested. The roads are still open but please use caution as they are icy. Until both water main breaks can be fixed, officers will continue to check the area for an update on the road status.
The water main break at Park and Carroll is still leaking and work continues. The City has requested salt from WSSC, State Roads and Public Works. Park Road at Carroll is now closed due to continuous leaking. Please avoid traveling in that direction due to icy conditions. We will continue to update you as we are upated by WSSC.
There is a water main break at Park and Carroll. WSSC has been notified and they are en route. Public Works has also been notified and they will be putting sand down. The road is still open but please use caution.
The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY for Montgomery County until 10 PM EST. Measurable snowfall finally arrives over Montgomery County with 1-2" possible by this evening.
Satellite images indicate a low pressure system approaching the County. This system is expected to continue to produce light snowfall over the afternoon and evening hours. Travel may become hazardous in some areas and caution should be used during travel.
A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY is issued when frozen precipitation is expected which may impact travel. Caution should be used during any travel.
On January 18, 2009, Takoma Park Police responded to the 6300 block of New Hampshire Avenue for reports of an armed carjacking/kidnapping that occurred earlier in the evening. At approximately 9:30 p.m., the victim parked his vehicle in the 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue and was approached by three black males; one displaying a handgun. The suspects demanded property and the victim complied. The suspects then demanded the victim’s vehicle. The suspects ordered the victim into the backseat of the vehicle. After demanding and taking more property, the suspects demanded the victim tell them his PIN number and they then drove to the Wachovia Bank ATM located on New Hampshire Avenue at University Boulevard East. The victim was ordered to keep his head down while the suspects drove the vehicle. After leaving the ATM, the suspects drove southbound on New Hampshire Avenue and then made a right on to Poplar Avenue. After entering the residential area, the suspects ordered the victim out of the vehicle and the suspects continued to flee in the victim’s vehicle.
The suspects are described as:
(1) black male, approximately 22 years old, approximately 6’0, 200 pounds, muscular build, dark complexion, last seen wearing a black hood, sweatshirt and black three-hole mask, carrying a silver revolver.
(2) black male, approximately 18 years old, approximately 5’9, 150-160 pounds, dark complexion, last seen wearing black jeans, coat and skull/knit cap.
(3) black male, approximately 18 years old, approximately 5’1 - 5’2, 130-140 pounds, light complexions, last seen wearing a brown sweater and black skull/knit cap.
The stolen vehicle is described as a 2004 white Isuzu Ascender, Maryland Tag #A177370.
There were no serious injuries to the victim.
Investigation continues under case #09003233. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
On January 17, 2009, at approximately 11:55 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 900 block of East-West Highway to Jason’s Sub Shop establishment for reports of an armed robbery. Four black males wearing all black clothing and ski masks entered the establishment by breaking down a rear door leading to the rear of the counter and kitchen area. The suspects, one displaying a handgun, ordered two of the victim’s to lie on the floor. After taking property, the suspects fled out of the establishment in an unknown direction. There were no serious injuries to either of the victims.
Investigation continues under case #09003100. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
Chief Ricucci would like all residents of Takoma Park to know that the Takoma Park Police Department will be fully staffed during the inauguration activities occurring through January 20, 2009. The department is working with Metro Transit and Montgomery County Police departments to ensure the safety of all of our residents. The department will be a part of the Emergency Operational Group in Montgomery County throughout these events. We are also a part of the Council of Government’s Police Chiefs Group and will be receiving updated information throughout the weekend.
Chief Ricucci urges all residents who will be attending activities to check websites, local TV and radio stations and newspapers for information on activities, traffic and public transportation. Members of the department will be deputized on Monday, January 19, 2009, to assist Metro Transit Police at the Takoma Park Metro Station. Residents are urged to report any suspicious persons or activities or any traffic-related problems at 301-270-1100.
On January 20, 2009, we expect there will be very heavy traffic on all commuter routes into Washington, D.C. Your patience and cooperation is most appreciated during these historic events.
T1 Beat:
Larceny-From Auto
7100 block Cedar Avenue, between Saturday, January 10 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, January 11 at 8:00 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
6500 Allegheny Avenue, Wednesday, January 14 between 5:00 p.m. and 8:09 p.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
T2 Beat:
Robbery
An armed robbery occurred Friday, January 9 at 10:00 p.m. in the 8600 block of Flower Avenue. The victim was walking to his residence when a Hispanic male wearing an orange shirt with a dark colored jacket approached. The suspect threatened the victim with a knife and demanded property. A second suspect, a Hispanic male wearing a dark jacket and maroon knit hat, emerged from between two vehicles in the parking lot and joined the first suspect in the robbery. Suspect two grabbed the victim’s property and both suspects fled on foot.
Auto Vehicle Theft
7600 block Maple Avenue, between Wednesday, January 14 at 4:15 p.m. and Thursday, January 15 at 8:45 a.m. ’96 Honda Accord
8200 Roanoke Avenue, Thursday, January 15 between 10:15 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. ’95 Chevrolet C/K 2500
T3 Beat:
Robbery
An armed commercial robbery occurred Saturday, January 10 at 3:30 p.m. in the 6800 block of New Hampshire Avenue. Three armed gunmen entered the La Fonda Chiquita restaurant during regular business hours and overtook the restaurant. One of the suspects grabbed an employee and forced her at gunpoint to the rear of the business and demanded that she open the cash register. After taking money, the suspect then assaulted the employee by striking her with the firearm. The other two suspects robbed both employees and customers of property. As they were leaving, one of the suspects raised his firearm and fired a round into the air. Suspects: H/M, 18 to 25 years of age, wearing black jackets and jeans.
Burglary-Commercial
1000 block University Boulevard, Family Friendly Dentist, between Sunday, January 11 at 5:30 p.m. and Monday, January 12 at 8:00 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Larceny-From Auto
Eight thefts from vehicles occurred between Thursday, January 8 at 8:00 a.m. and Monday, January 12 at 8:00 a.m.: 8000 block Carroll Avenue, (3) 1000 block Hopewell Avenue, and (4) 8100 block Carroll Avenue. Seven of eight incidents entailed forced entry and suspect(s) took property from four vehicles.
Arrests:
On Friday, January 9 at 9:30 p.m. in the 7400 block of Hancock Avenue, a juvenile male was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. An adult male was also arrested and charged with Possession of an Illegal Weapon.
On Saturday, January 10 at 2:30 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, two adult males were arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On Saturday, January 10 at 6:00 p.m. in the 900 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On Sunday, January 11 at 1:20 a.m. in the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, and adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Sunday, January 11 at 3:00 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On Monday, January 12 at 10:28 a.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult female was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On Wednesday, January 14 at 2:06 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On January 12, 2009, at approximately 8:00 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 1000 block of University Boulevard at the Family Friendly Dentist office for reports of a burglary that had occurred some time between January 11, 2009, at 5:30 p.m. and January 12, 2009, at 8:00 a.m., when the victim arrived at his place of business. The office window had been smashed out. Property was taken. There were no injuries. There is no suspect information available. Investigation continues under case #09001968. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
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
January 11, 2009 (12:45 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On January 10, 2009, at approximately 3:29 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6800 block of New Hampshire Avenue to the La Fonda Chiquita restaurant for reports of an armed robbery. Three armed gunmen entered the restaurant during its regular business hours and overtook the restaurant, pointing their handguns at the employees and patrons making demands. One of the suspects grabbed an employee and forced her at gunpoint to the rear of the business and demanded that she open the cash drawer. After taking money, the suspect then assaulted the employee striking her with the firearm. The other two suspects in the front of the store robbed the employees and customers of personal items, wallets, cell phones and jewelry. As they were leaving, one of the suspects raised his firearm and fired a round into the air.
The suspects are described as all wearing the same type of clothing: black jackets and jeans. They did not attempt to hide their identities. They were described by the victims as being young, ranging in ages from 18 to 25, Hispanic males. The suspects had been in the business earlier in the day.
There were no serious injuries to any of the victims.
Investigation continues under case #09001704. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
On January 9, 2009, at approximately 10:15 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 8600 block of Flower Avenue for reports of an armed robbery. The victim was walking to his residence when he was approached by a Hispanic male wearing an orange shirt with a dark colored jacket. The suspect threatened the victim with a knife and demanded property. A second suspect, a Hispanic male wearing a dark jacket and a maroon knit hat, emerged from between two vehicles in the parking lot and joined the first suspect in the robbery. Suspect two grabbed the victim’s property and both suspects fled on foot on Flower Avenue, making a right on to Domer Avenue heading towards Sligo Creek Parkway. The victim was not harmed and there is no further suspect information at this time. A K-9 track was conducted with negative results. Investigation continues under case #09001596. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
T1 Beat:
Burglary - Residential
7400 block of Piney Branch Road, Monday, January 5, 2009 between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
T2 Beat:
No reported incidents.
T3 Beat:
Robbery
An attempted armed robbery occurred Friday, January 2, 2009 at 8:22 p.m. in the 7200 block of 14th Avenue. Victim advised that he was walking home from the 1300 block of University Boulevard when two subjects approached and demanded property. Suspect 2 grabbed victim from behind and Suspect 1 punched him in the face. Suspect 1 produced a knife and attempted to stab the victim. Victim was able to break free and fled. Suspect 2 fled to white, 4-door vehicle with Suspect 1 following on foot. S1: H/M, 25-30, 5’11, medium build, curly black hair, wearing blue sweatshirt. S2: H/M, 25-30, 5’6, medium build, short black hair, wearing black sweatshirt.
A commercial strong-arm robbery occurred Saturday, January 3, 2009 between 10:50 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue. Two subjects entered the victim’s store, forced her to open cash register, then made the victim wait in the bathroom as they fled on foot to a 4-door, silver/gray vehicle (possible Mitsubishi Mirage). S1: B/M, wearing hooded black North Face jacket and dark pants. S2: B/M, wearing black mask and brown/dark coveralls or snow pants.
An armed robbery occurred Saturday, January 3, 2009 at approximately 10:55 p.m. in the 1000 block of Anne Street. Victim advised that he was walking from a residence to his vehicle when two B/M approached from behind. Suspects had handgun and demanded property. Victim complied and both subjects fled to a 4-door, dark blue vehicle.
Arrests:
On Sunday, January 4, 2009 at 1:15 a.m. in the 600 block of Houston Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On January 5, 2009*, at approximately 3:10 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 7400 block of Piney Branch Road for reports of a burglary that had occurred earlier in the day some time between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when the victim arrived home. The unknown suspect threw a rock through the rear sliding glass door to gain entry. Property was taken. There were no injuries. A K9 track was conducted with negative results. There is no suspect information available. Investigation continues under case #09000713. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
* The receipt of the report was delayed.
HIGH impact Winter Weather event possible Tuesday through Wednesday.
The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER STORM WATCH for Montgomery County from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. A low pressure system is expected to developed over the Tennessee valley and move through the region Tuesday into Wednesday.
Current indications suggest significant amounts of sleet and/or freezing rain is possible. Ice accumulations may exceed 1/4". Residents should begin Winter Storm preparations which should consider the potential for significant ice accumulations within the next 48 hours. Please remain alert for the issuance of additional Warnings.
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is the potential for significant Winter weather within 48 hours.
On January 3, 2009, at approximately 11:02 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 1000 block of Anne Street, Takoma Park, Maryland, for reports of an armed robbery. The victim advised that as he was leaving the doorstep of a residence at approximately 10:55 p.m., and nearing his vehicle, two subjects approached him from behind. They had a gun and demanded property. The victim complied and both subjects fled to a vehicle that was parked at the intersection of Anne Street and Wildwood Drive. The subjects were last seen driving on Anne Street towards Carroll Avenue. The victim was not injured. Both subjects can only be described as black males driving a dark blue four-door vehicle. Investigation continues under case #09000477. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
T1 Beat:
Larceny – From Auto
200 block of Ethan Allen Avenue, Tuesday, December 30 between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
T2 Beat:
No reported incidents.
T3 Beat:
Larceny – From Auto
Two thefts from vehicles occurred between Sunday, December 28 at 9:30 p.m. and Monday, December 29 at 11:30 a.m.: 7300 block of Wildwood Drive and 8100 block of Carroll Avenue. Forced entry. Property taken.
Arrests:
On Wednesday, December 31 at 12:00 a.m. in the 7400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult female was arrested and charged with 2nd Degree Assault.
On Wednesday, December 31 at 11:44 p.m. in the area of Roanoke Avenue and Houston Avenue, a juvenile male was arrested and charged with Theft over $500, Possession of Marijuana, Fleeing and Eluding, Child in Need of Supervision, and several traffic offenses.
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
January 2, 2009 (10:45 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of a 17 year old juvenile of Takoma Park, Maryland, for Theft over $500, Fleeing and Eluding Police, possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS), and traffic violations. On December 31, 2008, at approximately 11:44 p.m., during routine patrol, a Takoma Park police officer observed a vehicle without taillights at Roanoke and Houston Avenue. A record check indicated that the vehicle was listed as stolen through Montgomery County. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, however, the driver of the vehicle refused to stop and fled from police, eventually crashing the vehicle into a retaining wall at the end of the 1000 block of Kennebec Avenue in Montgomery County. The driver bailed out of the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. The driver was apprehended by Montgomery County Police at Prospect Street and Garland Avenue. The juvenile was transported to the police station and charged with the above referenced offenses. After consultation with the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS), the juvenile was released to the custody of his parents. Chief Ricucci would like to thank the Montgomery County police for their assistance in this apprehension and arrest.