Chief Ricucci of the Takoma Park Police Department announces that, in keeping with the Police Department’s policy directives that require investigations of all complaints against the department or its employees, and that annual statistical summaries of such investigations by the internal affairs function be made available to the public, the following is the Takoma Park Police Department’s Summary of Complaints for calendar year (CY) 2008.
Fifteen formal complaints were recorded and all 15 were subjected to internal affairs investigations. Eight complaints were submitted by residents and the other seven were generated internally by the Chief of Police or the Command Staff. Subjects of the complaints included 22 sworn officers and two civilian employees. An additional complaint investigation, carried over from CY 2007, was closed out due to insufficient evidence.
Three of the 15 CY 2008 formal complaint investigations remained in a pending status at years-end, i.e., a disposition had not been made; five were completed with determinations that the complaints were unfounded; and two were closed out upon determinations of insufficient evidence to sustain charges.
Five formal complaint investigations resulted in findings of improper conduct by department personnel and disciplinary measures were taken in those cases. The disciplinary measures included five letters of reprimand, one written counseling and remedial training, two one-day suspensions from duty, and one two-day suspension from duty.
Residents are reminded that the process for making a complaint against a police employee is detailed on the City Police Web Page and in flyers available to the public in the Police Department lobby.
There will be two free open swims on:
Sunday, March 1
Sunday, March 8
from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
at the Piney Branch Pool, 7510 Maple Avenue(side door to Piney Branch Elementary School)
For more information please contact:
Veronica Barnaby
Aquatics Director
301-891-8017
PineyBranchPool@gmail.com
Sun. 8am - 8pm, Mon.-Fri. 6:30am - 8:30am, and Mon.-Thu. 4:00pm - 10pm
or
Vee Akehurst
Adventist Community Services
301-585-6557
VAkehurst@acsgw.org
Mon.-Thu 10am - 4pm
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
February 27, 2009 (11:45 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Jose Amaya Vasquez, 28, of no fixed address, for attempt 4th degree burglary and malicious destruction of property.
On February 27, 2008, at approximately 2:11 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, TJ Liquors, for a burglary alarm. The alarm indicated glass breakage. Upon arrival, officers observed the glass in the front of the store had been damaged/cracked, but it was unclear if the damage was old or new. The owner was notified and the officers went back into service. While waiting for the owner's arrival, an officer returned to the business to further investigate, at which time he found an intoxicated suspect emerging from a hiding spot near the business holding/carrying two large rocks. The amount of damage to the front glass door had also increased since the initial inspection.
Vasquez was arrested and transported to the Montgomery Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
T1 Beat:
No reported incidents
T2 Beat:
Robbery
A commercial armed robbery occurred in the 8000 block of Flower Avenue, PuebloViejo, on Saturday, February 21 between 3:00 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. A suspect, armed with a silver long-barreled handgun, entered the business when no customers were present and demanded property. Suspect took property and fled on foot towards the rear of the business. Suspect: B/M, 18-20 years old, wearing a black North Face jacket with hoodie, a black ski mask covering his face and brown pants.
Residential Burglary
8100 block of Flower Avenue, Monday, February 23 between 1:10 p.m. and 1:20 p.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken. Suspect: B/M, 35-40 years old, 5’10 to 5’11, approximately 180 pounds, medium complexion, wearing a green baseball cap, a green sweater-type jacket and possibly green pants.
Larceny – From Auto
7200 block of Hilton Avenue, Wednesday, February 25 between 12:00 a.m. and 8:04 a.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
Auto Theft
7600 block of Carroll Avenue, Washington Adventist Hospital, Saturday, February 21 between 1:01 a.m. and 6:13 p.m. ’02 Lexus ES300 DC tag: CJ2895
T3 Beat:
Robbery
A commercial armed robbery occurred in the 1100 block of University Boulevard, China Town, Thursday, February 19 at 11:53 p.m. Two B/Ms approached the business and banged on the door after hours. The victim denied the suspects entry and shortly after, the suspects returned, displayed a handgun, and forced their way into the establishment. The suspects demanded money and ordered both victims to wait in the restroom asa they left the scene. The suspects fled to a red vehicle and were later observed traveling southbound on New Hampshire Avenue by Prince George’s County Police at a high rate of speed without headlights off. A traffic stop was conducted in the 6400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, wherein the vehicle was positively identified by the victim as being the one involved in the robbery. All three occupants of the vehicle matched the descriptions previously given by the victims. Defendants: Rashawn Ikeya Johnson, 20; Jameise V. Christian, 17; and Tobias R. Dyer, 17, all of Washington, D.C., for armed robbery, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon, carrying or transporting a handgun, use of a handgun during the commission of a felony, theft greater than $500, first degree assault, second degree assault, false imprisonment and conspiracy to commit all of the above. The juveniles have been charged as adults.
A an armed robbery occurred in the 1100 block of University Boulevard, Chevy Chase Bank, Wednesday, February 25 at 4:49 p.m. The victim was at the ATM when approached by two B/M both wearing black sweatshirts with hoods, approximately 5’7 to 5’9. One of the suspects pointed a black handgun at the victim and demanded property, to which he complied. The suspects fled to a black, possible Ford SUV. A third suspect, unknown description, drove the suspect vehicle.
Commercial Burglary
6800 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Mercy Cleaners, between Friday, February 20 at 7:15 p.m. and Saturday, February 21 at 8:15 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Arrests:
On Friday, February 20 at 4:00 p.m. in the 7600 block of Maple Avenue, an adult female was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On Saturday, February 21 at 3:00 a.m. in the 8100 block of Roanoke Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with 8 counts of Malicious Destruction of Property Under $500 and 1 count of Malicious Destruction of Property Over $500.
On Saturday, February 21 at 2:20 p.m. in the 1000 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Marijuana.
On Saturday, February 21 at 10:11 p.m. in the area of Elm Avenue and Poplar Avenue, a juvenile male was arrested and charged with Possessing an Alcoholic Beverage Under the Age of 21.
On February 25, 2009, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Takoma Park police responded to the 1100 block of University Boulevard, Chevy Chase ATM, for reports of an armed robbery. The victim was at the ATM when he was approached by two black males both wearing black sweatshirts with hoods, approximately 5’7 to 5’9 in height. One of the suspects pointed a black handgun at the victim and demanded property, to which he complied. The suspects fled to a black, possible Ford SUV, and drove west on Kirklynn Avenue. There was a third suspect, unknown description, driving the suspect vehicle. There were no injuries. Investigation continues under case #09010326. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
The following alert was put out by the Small Business Administration regarding a scam to attempt to receive small business banking information. Please read the information and be careful with such fraudulent scams. It is very important to always check whenever any business or individual makes inquiries about your banking information, or other banking practices. If you have not generated the inquiry, please do not give out information.
SBA Warns of Fraudulent Attempts to Obtain Bank Account Information from Small Businesses
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Small Business Administration issued a scam alert today to small businesses, warning them not to respond to letters falsely claiming to have been sent by the SBA asking for bank account information in order to qualify them for federal tax rebates.
The fraudulent letters were sent out with what appears to be an SBA letterhead to small businesses across the country, advising recipients that they may be eligible for a tax rebate under the Economic Stimulus Act, and that SBA is assessing their eligibility for such a rebate. The letter asks the small business to provide the name of its bank and account number.
These letters have not been sent by or authorized by the SBA, and all small businesses are strongly advised not to respond to them.
The scheme is similar in many ways to e-mail scams often referred to as “phishing” that seek personal data and financial account information that enables another party to access and individual’s bank accounts or to engage in identity theft.
The SBA is working with the SBA Office of Inspector General to investigate this matter. The Office of Inspector General asks that anyone who receives such a letter report it to the OIG Fraud Line at 1 (800) 767-0385, or e-mail at OIGHotline@sba.gov.
On February 23, 2009, Takoma Park Police responded to the 8100 block of Flower Avenue, at approximately 1:45 p.m., for reports of a burglary in progress. The victim arrived home to find her rear basement door open. She went to her neighbors and called police. The suspect fled the residence on foot before police arrived. The suspect is described as a black male, 35-40 years old, 5’10 to 5’11, approximately 180 pounds, medium complexion, wearing a green baseball cap, a green sweater-type jacket and possibly green pants. 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
February 23, 2009 (10:30 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE
On February 21, 2009, Yoni Hedenilso Pozo, 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland, was arrested by Takoma Park Police for destruction of property.
On February 21, 2009, at approximately 3:13 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the area of Flower Avenue and Kennebec Avenue for the report of a male subject vandalizing vehicles. Upon arrival, officers located several vandalized vehicles, i.e., broken off side mirrors and windshield wipers. Pozo fled on foot when he saw an officer approaching. The officer apprehended Pozo on Maplewood Avenue. The vandalism began in the 8100 block of Roanoke Avenue (three vehicles), moving to the 700 block of Kennebec Avenue (three vehicles), moving into the 8000 block of Flower Avenue (two vehicles). Pozo also broke the charlie horse to a business sign which belongs to Vendemos Comida Latina.
Pozo was arrested and transported to the Montgomery Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
Takoma Park Police took 10 more reports on Saturday bringing the total to 18 vandalized vehicles and one business sign.
After a preliminary investigation by detectives, it is believed that these incidents are not related to the prior rash of vehicle vandalisms that occurred in late January.
On February 21, 2009, at approximately 3:13 p.m., Takoma Park police responded to the 8000 block of Flower Avenue, the Pueblo Viejo convenience store, for reports of a business armed robbery. The suspect entered the business when no customers were present and demanded property. The suspect was armed with a silver long-barrelled handgun. The suspect took property and fled on foot towards the rear of the business. The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 18-20 years old, wearing a black North Face jacket with hoodie, a black ski mask covering his face and brown pants. There were no injuries. Investigation continues under case #09009610. 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
February 21, 2009 (9:22 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Yoni Hedenilso Pozo, 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland, for destruction of property.
On February 21, 2009, at approximately 3:13 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the area of Flower Avenue and Kennebec Avenue for the report of a male subject vandalizing vehicles. Upon arrival, officers located several vandalized vehicles, i.e., broken off side mirrors and windshield wipers. Pozo fled on foot when he saw an officer approaching. The officer apprehended Pozo on Maplewood Avenue. The vandalism began in the 8100 block of Roanoke Avenue (three vehicles), moving to the 700 block of Kennebec Avenue (three vehicles), moving into the 8000 block of Flower Avenue (two vehicles). Pozo also broke the charlie horse to a business sign which belongs to Vendemus Comito LaTina.
Pozo was arrested and transported to the Montgomery Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
After a preliminary investigation by detectives, it is believed that these incidents are not related to the prior rash of vehicle vandalisms.
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
February 20, 2009 (4:30 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrests of Rashawn Ikeya Johnson, 20; Jameise V. Christian, 17; and Tobias R. Dyer, 17, all of Washington, D.C., for armed robbery, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon, carrying or transporting a handgun, use of a handgun during the commission of a felony, theft greater than $500, first degree assault, second degree assault, false imprisonment and conspiracy to commit all of the above. The juveniles have been charged as adults.
Since October 2008, the City of Takoma Park Police, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, the District of Columbia, and the City of Hyattsville Police have been investigating a series of robberies targeting Asian-owned businesses.
On February 19, 2009, at approximately 11:53 p.m. Takoma Park Police responded to 1163 University Boulevard East, Takoma Park, Maryland, China Town Carry Out business, for a robbery that had just occurred. Upon arrival, Takoma Park officers met with the victims who identified a red vehicle which fled towards New Hampshire Avenue. Patrol units canvassed the area, at which time a Prince George’s County police officer observed a red vehicle matching the description, traveling at a high rate of speed without headlights on, southbound on New Hampshire Avenue. A traffic stop was conducted in the 6400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, wherein the vehicle was positively identified by the victim as being the one involved in the robbery. All three occupants in the vehicle matched the descriptions previously given by the victims. Property, to include a .45 caliber handgun, a large amount of U.S. Currency and other items of evidentiary value, were also recovered from inside the vehicle, linking the suspects to the robbery that occurred at China Town, as well as others in surrounding jurisdictions.
Takoma Park Investigators are coordinating efforts with surrounding agencies to link additional Asian-owned establishments that were victims of robbery and to file charges accordingly.
The suspects were transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit. All three suspects are being held on a $250,000 bond.
On February 18, 2009, at approximately 10:24 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 7100 block of Poplar Avenue for reports of an attempt robbery. The victim was entering his residence through the side entrance when he was approached by four males (non-white), one who looked to be holding a handgun. The victim ran into his residence through the side entrance and then exited through the front door and observed the suspects exiting his driveway. The suspects ran east on Poplar Avenue towards Elm Avenue. No property was taken. There were no injuries. There is no suspect description. Investigation continues under case #09009047. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
* Delay due to technical difficulties.
On February 18, 2009, at approximately 11:55 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to Beech Avenue and Sycamore Avenue for reports of an attempt citizen armed robbery. The victim was walking home from the Metro, walking down Carroll Street to Carroll Avenue, turning right on to Sycamore Avenue and then left on to Beech Avenue. While on Beech Avenue, the victim was approached by two suspects in a vehicle. As the vehicle drove by him, the suspect in the passenger seat rolled down the window and pointed a shiny handgun, possibly a revolver, at him. The victim fled along Beech Avenue back to Sycamore Avenue where he turned right towards Carroll Avenue. The suspect vehicle continued to drive down Beech Avenue. The victim contacted the Takoma Park Police. The first suspect is described as a black male, 30-35 years old, 160-170 pounds, medium build, last seen wearing a black wool hat. The second suspect is described as a black male, 30-35 years old, 160-170 pounds, medium build, last seen wearing a black wool hat and armed with a revolver. The victim was not harmed and property was not taken. Investigation continues under case #09009054. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
* Delay due to technical difficulties.
T1 Beat:
Robbery
An attempt armed robbery occurred Wednesday, February 18 at 11:55 p.m. in the area of Beech Avenue and Sycamore Avenue. Victim walking home from Metro when suspect vehicle pulled up behind him and he heard someone say “Hey, come over here.” Victim turned and saw Suspect 1 driving a black 4-door vehicle and Suspect 2 in the front passenger seat pointing a shiny handgun out the window. Victim fled and suspects drove away on Beech Avenue. Suspects: B/M, 30-35 years of age.
T2 Beat:
Larceny – From Auto
100 block of Sheridan Avenue, Friday, February 13 between 1:01 a.m. and 5:55 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
T3 Beat:
Burglary – Residential
300 block of Ethan Allen Avenue, between Friday, February 13 at 12:00 a.m. and Saturday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken.
7900 block of Wildwood Drive, Monday, February 16 between 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
900 block of Sligo Creek Parkway, between Sunday, February 15 at 6:00 p.m. and Monday, February 16 at 9:00 a.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
900 block of East West Highway, between Monday, February 16 at 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday, February 17 at 7:25 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Auto Theft
700 block of Ethan Allen Avenue, between Monday, February 16 at 10:30 p.m. and Tuesday, February 17 at 6:40 a.m. 1997 Honda Accord.
Arrests:
On Friday, February 13 at 9:57 p.m. in the 7400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, two adult males were arrested and charged with Possession With Intent to Deliver – Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On Monday, February 16 at 11:51 p.m. in the 900 block of Merrimac Drive, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage in a Vehicle.
On February 13, 2009, a Takoma Park Police Officer took a theft scheme report from an elderly victim who resides in Takoma Park, Maryland. The victim received a letter from a fraudulent company called “IRG” which advised that he was the winner of a $1,605,578.67 sweepstakes. The victim telephoned the phone number provided and spoke with who he thought was a claim representative. The suspect instructed the victim to wire $350 via Western Union in order to qualify for the alleged lottery money. The victim sent the money but never received the alleged winnings. The victim called the number again and was instructed to send additional funds to qualify. The victim sent over $1,000 before realizing that he was the victim of a theft scheme. The money was sent to an address in Jamaica.
Many scams can include bogus prize offers, like the one referenced above, or phone travel packages, phony charities, or get-rich-quick investment schemes. Please take note of the following regarding lottery scams:
- You don't win lotteries you didn't enter.
- If lottery winnings seem "to good to be true," they probably are.
- Beware of lotteries that charge a fee or taxes that you must pay first before delivery of a prize, or any pressure to “act now” or the offer will expire.
- Beware of demands to send additional fees for future or additional winnings.
- Be cautious when dealing with persons from outside of the United States.
- Learn how to say NO. Ask that information be sent by mail to give you time to check it out.
- Appoint a friend or relative as your "financial adviser" and tell callers you have to run any opportunities by your adviser before signing up.
- Put your name on the national do-not-call registry. Telephone numbers placed on the National Do Not Call Registry will remain on it permanently due to the Do-Not-Call Improvement Act of 2007, which became law in February 2008. To register your phone number, go to www.donotcall.gov and follow the instructions.
Over the last three weeks, four attempt commercial burglaries occurred on Laurel Avenue and Carroll Avenue:
Polly Sue’s, 6900 block of Laurel Avenue
January 20-21, 2009
7:10 p.m. - 11:00 a.m.
TJ Food Market, 7300 block of Carroll Avenue
January 21, 2009
1:01 a.m. - 7:22 a.m.
Everyday Gourmet, 6900 block of Laurel Avenue
February 10-11, 2009
6:00 p.m. - 2:20 a.m.
Rerun Clothing, 7000 block of Carroll Avenue
February 10-11, 2009
7:00 p.m. - 2:17 a.m.
All four incidents occurred during the night/early morning between 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m. Suspect(s) attempted to gain entry in each incident by breaking a front window or glass door. No property was obtained in any incident.
Please report any suspicious activity to the police department at 301-270-1100.
T1 Beat:
Burglary – Commercial
6900 block of Laurel Avenue, between Tuesday, February 10 at 6:00 p.m. and Wednesday, February 11 at 2:20 a.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
7000 block of Carroll Avenue, between Tuesday, February 10 at 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday, February 11 at 2:17 a.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken.
T2 Beat:
Burglary – Residential
8000 block of Maple Avenue, between Saturday, February 7 at 1:01 a.m. and Monday, February 9 at 9:13 a.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
Four thefts from vehicles occurred between Monday, February 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Tuesday, February 10 at 6:35 a.m.
7300 block Garland Avenue, forced entry, property taken
600 block Houston Court, forced entry, no property taken
900 block Jackson Avenue, forced entry, property taken (2 vehicles)
Auto Theft
8200 block of Roanoke Avenue, Sunday, February 8 between 3:00 a.m. and 3:15 a.m. H/M entered a running vehicle and attempted to drive out of parking lot, but hit building and fled on foot. ’06 Toyota Corolla
T3 Beat:
Robbery
An armed commercial robbery occurred on Saturday, February 7 at 10:01 a.m. in the 1300 block of Holton Lane, ABC Tobacco Outlet. Two owners of the business were inside securing the entry door when Suspect #1 shoved the male victim/owner into the store and pointed a black semi-automatic handgun at him. The suspect proceeded to go through the victim’s pockets at which time two additional suspects entered the business. Suspect #2 approached the female victim/owner and ordered her to the back of the business demanding property. The suspects demanded more property from the female victim/owner and when she did not have what they demanded, they assaulted her and then fled the business on foot in an unknown direction.
Suspect #1: B/M, approximately 18-20 years old, wearing all black clothing, covering his face with the collar of his coat and armed with a black semi-automatic handgun
Suspect #2: B/M, 18-20 years old, wearing a green-hooded jacket (two tone), black jeans, black shoes and black gloves, hood tied tightly hiding his face and armed with a black semi-automatic pistol
Suspect #3: B/M, 14-16 years old, braids, brown jacket with a white hood attached to it, blue sweat shirt, black jeans, gloves and a black and white scarf used as a mask
Arrests:
On Thursday, February 5 at 6:59 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Theft.
On Friday, February 6 at 1:30 p.m. in the 6800 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana.
On Friday, February 6 at 5:44 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Fraud.
On Saturday, February 7 at 12:03 a.m. in the 7600 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Saturday, February 7 at 11:45 a.m. in the 7600 block of Flower Avenue, an adult female was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Tuesday, February 10 at 9:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of University Boulevard, two adult males were arrested and charged with Theft Under $500.
The National Weather Service has issued a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING for Montgomery County until 10:30 pm. At 9:27 pm, Doppler radar indicated a severe line of storms rapidly approaching the County. This line of storms will affect a majority of Montgomery County over the next hour and a half and has a history of producing damage with a report of winds near 92 MPH as this line moved through West Virginia. RESIDENTS SHOULD SEEK SAFE SHELTER NOW!
Significant cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. All outdoor activities in the following areas should be postponed until this storm passes.
Severe Thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no advanced warning. Residents are urged to seek safe shelter indoors until the storm passes and remain alert for any additional warnings. Any resident can report severe weather and damage by replying to this alert, and the public is encouraged to do so.
The National Weather Service has issued a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH for Montgomery County. At 8:20 pm, radar indicated a line of Severe Thunderstorms approaching the County. These storms have a history of producing damage with winds over 70 MPH reported. This is a potentially life threatening situation. Power outages will be likely.
The primary threat with these storms include extremely heavy rain, large hail, damaging winds over 70 MPH and isolated tornadoes. If you are outdoor and storm approaches, seek safe shelter indoors.
A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH means conditions are favorable for severe storms in and close to the watch area. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce tornadoes with little or no advanced warning. Residents should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Warning:
Go to a safe place, such as a building or car.
If no structure is available, find an open space and squat low to the ground as quickly as possible.
Avoid tall structures such as towers, tall trees, telephone lines or power lines.
Stay away from natural lightning rods made of metal such as golf clubs, fishing rods, bicycles or metal fences.
Stay away from bodies of water and flood-prone areas.
Avoid bathtubs, water faucets and sinks because metal pipes can transmit electricity.
Turn on a battery-operated radio or television.
Don't use a cell phone or land line phone.
Don’t use a computer, if possible.
The safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement. Fit under a work bench or other piece of sturdy furniture. If no basement is available, seek shelter on the lowest floor in a hallway or closet. Use blankets or pillows to cover your body and always stay away from windows.
Evacuate mobile homes and vehicles immediately. Do not use highway overpasses as shelters. If no shelter is available, lie flat in the nearest ditch or other low spot and cover your head with your hands.
Do not wait to hear or see this tornado before you take action. Tornadoes that form at night and those that are rain wrapped may not be visible.
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
February 11, 2009 (2:05 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of two juveniles (14 and 15 years old) for a citizen robbery that occurred on February 10, 2009, in the 6900 block of Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland.
At approximately 3:07 p.m., a Takoma Park Police Officer was flagged down by a motorist who saw several juveniles harassing a victim. When the suspects saw the officer, they started to flee on foot with property taken from the victim. Two juveniles were apprehended, arrested and charged with Robbery, Theft Under, Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit 2nd Degree Assault. They were both released to the custody of their guardians. Investigation and charges are still pending for other individuals involved.
The Takoma Park community is invited to a FREE SWIM OPEN HOUSE at the PINEY BRANCH POOL to celebrate the re-opening of this community resource.
Sunday, February 15, 2009 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Please use the side entrance to Piney Branch Elementary School, 7510 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland.
Questions? Contact: Vee Akehurst at Adventist Community Services phone: 301-585-6557 e-mail: vakehurst@acsgw.org
Piney Branch Pool, 7510 Maple Avenue (side door to Piney Branch Elementary School)
Re-opening to the public on Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Pay for pool admission and pool passes at the pool
Pool Hours:
Sunday - 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Monday - Friday 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Monday - Thursday 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
This schedule may change after six weeks, depending on pool usage.
Pass prices (12 swims for the price of 10) are as follows:
Under 18 years old
Montgomery County resident (regular price): $25.00
Montgomery County resident (low-income price): $12.50
Non-Montgomery County resident: $35.00
Ages 18 - 54 years old
Montgomery County resident (regular price): $35.00
Montgomery County resident (low-income price): $17.50
Non-Montgomery County resident: $50.00
Over 54 years old
Montgomery County resident (regular price): $30.00
Montgomery County resident (low-income price): $15.00
Non-Montgomery County resident: $40.00
Adventist Community Services (ACS) has contracted with Winkler Pool Management to schedule swimming lessons and other pool programs. Please contact us if you would like to conduct a program. We will contact you with the program schedules when they are known.
Contact person: Vee Akehurst at 301-585-6557, e-mail: vakehurst@acsgw.org
ACS is very pleased to be part of the partnership which is making this community resource again available to all of our community --- we look forward to working with each of you.
On February 7, 2009, at approximately 10:01 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 1300 block of Holton Lane, the ABC Tobacco Outlet, for reports of a commercial armed robbery. The two owners of the business were inside securing the entry door when suspect #1 entered the business. He shoved the male victim/owner into the store and pointed a black semi-automatic handgun at him. He then proceeded to go through the victim’s pockets. At this point, two other suspects entered the business. Suspect #2 approached the female victim/owner and ordered her to the back of the business demanding property. Suspect #1 ordered the male victim/owner to sit to which he complied. The suspects then demanded more property from the female victim/owner and when she did not have what they demanded, they assaulted her. The suspects took property and then fled the business on foot in an unknown direction. The victims were not seriously injured.
Suspect #1 is described as a black male, approximately 18-20 years old, wearing all black clothing, covering his face with the collar of his coat and armed with a black semi-automatic handgun.
Suspect #2 is described as a black male, 18-20 years old, wearing a green-hooded jacket (two tone), black jeans, black shoes and black gloves, hood tied tightly hiding his face and armed with a black semi-automatic pistol.
Suspect #3 is described as a black male, 14-16 years old, braids, brown jacket with a white hood attached to it, blue sweat shirt, black jeans, gloves and a black and white scarf used as a mask.
Investigation continues under case #09006829. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
* Delay due to technical difficulties.
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
February 6, 2009 (11:55 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of four juveniles for a residential burglary on July 20, 2008, on Jackson Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, and an attempted first degree burglary on July 28, 2008, on Wildwood Drive, Takoma Park, Maryland.
On July 20, 2008, Takoma Park Police responded to Jackson Avenue for reports of a residential burglary that had occurred earlier. Entry was gained through a back door. Property was stolen, including the victim’s vehicle, which was later recovered a short distance from the residence. One juvenile was identified through latent prints and is currently being held at a juvenile detention center. He is being charged with first degree burglary, attempted first degree burglary, malicious destruction of property, theft over $500 and conspiracy.
On February 2, 2009, Takoma Park investigators were notified by Montgomery County Police that they had a juvenile in custody who had been involved in several burglaries that occurred over the summer of 2008. He and three other juveniles, which includes the one referenced above, were involved in the Jackson Avenue residential burglary, as well as an attempted burglary in the 8000 block of Wildwood Drive. All four juveniles were charged with attempted first degree burglary and malicious destruction of property regarding the Wildwood Drive incident. One of the juveniles was released to the custody of his parents. Criminal charges were filed on the other two juveniles and forwarded to the Department of Juvenile Justice for prosecution.
Chief Ricucci would like to thank Montgomery County Police for their assistance in these apprehensions. Great teamwork by both jurisdictions.
On July 8, 2008, the Takoma Park Police Department arrested Antonio Lopez-Lopez, 24, of the 8200 block of 14th Avenue, Langley Park, Maryland, for the pedestrian hit and run that occurred on the morning of July 4, 2008, in the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland.
On July 4, at approximately 1:29 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, for reports of a female lying in the middle of the roadway. Officers arrived and located the victim who was unresponsive. The victim was transported to Suburban Hospital. Also located on the scene was the victim’s Dalmatian dog who eventually succumbed to his injuries and was transported by Montgomery County Animal Control Humane Society.
Investigators from the Takoma Park Criminal Investigation Division received a tip from Prince George’s County Police that they had towed the black Honda bearing the tag number reported. The vehicle had been towed from the 8200 block of 14th Avenue, Langley Park, Maryland. Detectives responded to the location and were unable to locate the vehicle. However, though investigation, detectives discovered that the driver of the vehicle did reside at the location. Detectives located the suspect and arrested him accordingly. The vehicle was located in Beltsville, Maryland, and was impounded. Lopez-Lopez was charged with (1) Failure to immediately return and remain at the scene of the accident involving bodily injury, (2) Failure of driver involved to render reasonable assistance to injured person, (3) Failure of vehicle driver in accident to report bodily injury to nearest police, and (4) Driver failure to notify appropriate police after motor vehicle strikes and injures domestic animal.
On February 3, 2009, Antonio Lopez-Lopez pled guilty to three counts of the nine count indictment: (1) hit & run resulting in serious bodily injury; (2) failure to notify police after vehicle strikes and injures domestic animal; and (3) driving without a license. Judge Terrance McGann of the Montgomery County Circuit Court sentenced Lopez-Lopez to 24 months incarceration, suspending all but 12 months, and sentenced him to 18 months of supervised probation. Lopez-Lopez will receive credit for seven months that he has served since his arrest. The victim was unable to attend court; she is still in a nursing/rehabilitation facility. A relative was in court on her behalf.
T1 Beat:
Residential Burglary
Unit block of Hodges Lane, Tuesday, February 3 between 8:50 a.m. and 8:58 a.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken. Suspect: Male, 30-35 years of age, 5’8”-5’10”, 160-180 lbs., medium build, wearing a black jacket and black knit hat.
Commercial Burglary
6500 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Jiffy Lube, Tuesday, February 3 between 12:35 a.m. and 12:41 a.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
T2 Beat:
Larceny – Auto Parts
Catalytic converters removed from two vehicles:
7700 block of Maple Avenue between Sunday, February 1 at 1:01 a.m. and Monday, February 2 at 12:30 p.m.
7600 block of Maple Avenue between Monday, February 2 at 12:01 a.m. and Wednesday, February 4 at 6:45 p.m.
T3 Beat:
Commercial Burglary
7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Sheila’s Unisex, Sunday, February 1 between 2:20 a.m. and 2:28 a.m. Attempt forced entry. No property taken.
Auto Theft
7800 block of Kennewick Avenue, Monday, February 2 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ’99 Honda Accord.
Arrests:
No reported arrests.
There is a lot of advice and laws for pedestrians on how to walk safely on busy roadways. Unfortunately, that advice is sometimes not taken, and the law not followed, and pedestrians find themselves in the path of a vehicle. It is imperative that pedestrians be aware of their surroundings and obey all pedestrian traffic laws. Drivers should also be aware that pedestrians at times will not, or cannot for a myriad of circumstances, follow that advice or law and thus they too should be aware of pedestrians in the roadways.
We want to remind pedestrians and drivers again to follow some safety laws/precautions:
- Pedestrians, do not begin crossing at a crosswalk if the red Don't Walk or upraised palm symbol is flashing or steady. Drivers should use caution when driving through crosswalks.
- Although the walk or walking person symbol is displayed, pedestrians should still look for vehicles before leaving the curb. Drivers should also look for pedestrians who may still be in the crosswalk or have begun to cross against the signal.
- Pedestrians, when possible, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
- Just because one lane of vehicles has stopped doesn't mean that the other lanes will. Pedestrians should continue to look for vehicles while crossing. Drivers should be aware that the possibility exists that a pedestrian will step out from behind a stopped vehicle. Use caution in those situations.
- Pedestrians should be especially careful of vehicles turning right on red or left with an intersection. Drivers may be busy looking out for other vehicles instead of pedestrians. Drivers should pay special attention to this demanding type of scenario.
- Pedestrians, crossing outside of a crosswalk makes you less visible to drivers, especially around a bend.
- Pedestrians, if a bus or other large vehicle is blocking your view, they are also blocking the view of drivers in other lanes. Consider waiting until it leaves before crossing. Drivers should also be cautious when driving behind a bus that frequently stops to pick up or drop off passengers. If pedestrians believe you are stopped behind the bus, they may step out without knowing you intended to drive around the bus or are in the other late that is not stopped. This is a dangerous situation where everyone should use caution.
- The law states that no pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield. This is also a dangerous situation where everyone should use caution.
- Pedestrians, being visible to drivers is important. Wear light colored clothing or reflective material if you are walking or exercising during hours of darkness. During sunrise and sunset, be aware that the sun in the eyes of drivers may affect their ability to see you.
The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY for Montgomery County until 10 AM. 1-2" of snow possible this morning.
At 6:15 AM, radar indicated a band of moderate snowfall moving South from Frederick Co. This band has snowfall rates that are near 1" per hour. The snowfall associated with this band will reduce visibility and may make travel dangerous in some areas of the county as roads quickly become snow covered.
A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY is issued when frozen precipitation is expected which may impact travel. Travel during this mornings rush hour may become hazardous. Caution should be used during any travel.
On February 3, 2009, at approximately 12:41 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6500 block of New Hampshire Avenue for an alarm call. Officers arrived at the Jiffy Lube business to find the front glass door smashed. Property was taken. There were no injuries. Investigation continues under case #09005936. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.