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
March 31, 2009 (1:00 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci reminds everyone that the City of Takoma Park, Maryland, working with ACS Solutions, has installed speed cameras; one in the 7200 block of New Hampshire Avenue (southbound) and the 7100 block of New Hampshire Avenue (northbound). Two cameras have also been installed in the eastbound and westbound lanes of the 500 block of Ethan Allen Avenue.
On March 16, 2009, the City of Takoma Park Police began issuing warnings to violators driving 11 miles over the speed limit. On Wednesday, April 1, 2009, the Takoma Park Police will go live and begin issuing citations. The Police Department issues citations and makes all decisions regarding citations. The speed camera fine is $40. There are no penalties or points assessed to your license or driving record.
This process began in March 2007 when the Mayor and City Council for Takoma Park requested that the Police Department explore the Speed Camera Program. This process involved examining the county program with the municipalities of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Chevy Chase Village.
The county contractor, ACS Solutions, agreed to conduct speed studies in the City. In October 2007, the police department reported to the City Council that the results at the time did not warrant a recommendation for cameras. The Council asked police to conduct another study on additional streets in the City. A second speed study was conducted and in March 2008, cameras were recommended for Ethan Allen Avenue and New Hampshire Avenue. Both roads have significant problems. New Hampshire Avenue has had a total of 413 accidents in 2007 and 2008. In 2008, police issued 501 citations for speeding with an average speed of 50 mph, which is 15 miles over the posted speed limit. In 2007 and 2008, 32 collisions occurred on Ethan Allen Avenue, which for a small road, is a large number. In addition, due to the nature of the road, radar is very hard to accomplish by police personnel. Speed studies showed Ethan Allen Avenue with the most violations after New Hampshire Avenue. New Hampshire Avenue has been undergoing various changes to make it safer for pedestrians and drivers. The State has redone lanes, lights and medians.
The Crossroads Development Authority (CDA), which are all the businesses in that corridor, unanimously voted on March 12, 2009, to endorse the speed cameras on New Hampshire Avenue. This road has been the scene of many tragic accidents involving pedestrians and drivers.
The ultimate goal is to reduce speeding and accidents. If we are successful, then the cameras will come down. The City of Takoma Park is the last municipality to participate, as this was a very slow and deliberate process. Montgomery County and the other municipalities have been very successful in reducing speed and accidents. We are very hopeful for that same success in Takoma Park. Takoma Park Police will be reporting to the Council and residents of the results.
The revenue from this program may be used for the following initiatives in the City:
- Contractual program staffing
- Sidewalk installation
- Trafficking calming measures
- Engineering assistance to help with sidewalk design and installation
- Engineering or planning assistance for bikeways in the City
- Traffic enforcement equipment, i.e., radar, radar display boards, etc.
- Traffic enforcement details
There are other areas in highway safety that these funds can be used.
Two police officers will be directing this program for the City. Anyone with speed camera questions can call our Safe Speed number of 301-891-7138 and leave a message and an officer will get back to you as soon as possible. Any further questions, please contact Chief Ronald Ricucci at 301-891-7104.
On March 29, 2009, at approximately 6:15 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6400 block of Sligo Mill Road for reports of an armed robbery of three citizens. The victims were changing the brakes on their car when a black Nissan Maxima, occupied by three black males, pulled up next to them. Two of the three subjects exited the vehicle with guns and demanded property. The third subject remained in the vehicle, however, he was also pointing a gun at the victims. Property was taken. The subjects returned to their vehicle and drove off towards Sheridan and New Hampshire Avenue. The victims were not injured.
The suspects are described as:
1. black male, wearing dark jeans and a dark hooded sweatshirt;
2. black male, wearing dark jeans and a dark hooded sweatshirt;
3. black male, no further description.
Investigation continues under case #09016430. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
The information disseminated on the Alert Takoma site is inaccurate. This incident was reported and shared with Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the District of Columbia. This is the standard procedure for the City of Takoma Park Police Department and is noted in our CAD system the date and times when notified. The Takoma Park Police Department has no control over Montgomery County, Prince George's County or the District of Columbia on whether they broadcast the lookouts for the City of Takoma Park. The Chief remains committed to working together with various police jurisdictions regarding crime bordering the City.
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
March 26, 2009 (8:07 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces that at 3:54 p.m. today, at 116 Lee Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, a Takoma Park police officer, enroute to assist another police officer on a call for service, struck a 10-year old female child as she was getting off of her school bus. The child was transported by her parents to the Washington Adventist Hospital and released. She was not seriously injured. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation.
T1 Beat:
No reported incidents
T2 Beat:
No reported incidents
T3 Beat:
Assault
An aggravated assault occurred Sunday, March 22 at 1:51 a.m. in the 8000 block of Carroll Avenue. Subjects fought in front of residence. Incident under investigation to determine charges and to identify the aggressors.
Larceny – From Auto
7600 block of Glenside Drive, Monday, March 23 between 8:45 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
Arrests:
On Friday, March 20 at 8:00 p.m. in the 7600 block of Maple Avenue, an adult male was issued a Criminal Citation for Trespassing.
On Saturday, March 21 at 4:44 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was issued a Criminal Citation for Possession of an Open Alcoholic Beverage.
Jaywalking is defined as walking across a street outside of marked cross-walks and not at a corner, and/or against a signal light. If there is vehicle traffic or clear markings of a place to cross, this is a traffic misdemeanor subject to fine, and may be (but not conclusively) contributory negligence in the event of injury to the jaywalker by a vehicle. Jaywalking is against the law and is punishable by a fine of $40 for pedestrians who don't obey the law in the State of Maryland.
According to the National Safety Council, approximately 5,900 pedestrians are killed by automobiles every year; 84,000 suffer nonfatal injuries. Almost one-third of these victims are children under the age of 15 yet they represent only about 15% of the United States population. By following the few safety tips listed below, you can protect yourself and your children from being a part of these statistics.
- It is critical to teach children to look left-right-left before crossing streets.
- Cross only at designated crossings. Entering traffic mid-block or from between parked cars is very dangerous.
- Teach children to never dart out into traffic.
The following represents pedestrian accident statistics for the United States according to the National Highway Traffic Association (NHTA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety:
- Pedestrian fatalities account for 11 percent of motor vehicle fatalities.
- Pedestrians comprise the second largest category of motor vehicle accident deaths following occupant deaths.
- On average, a pedestrian is injured in a traffic accident every 8 minutes.
- On average, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic accident every 111 minutes.
A pedestrian has an 85 percent chance of death when involved in a motor/vehicle collision at 40 mph, a 45 percent chance of death at 30 mph, and a 5 percent chance of death at 20 mph.
Young children and the elderly are the most vulnerable for pedestrian accident related injuries. Based on population, children under the age of 16 years are most likely to be struck by motor vehicles. Elderly pedestrians, although struck less frequently than children, are more likely to die after being struck by a vehicle. This group accounts for 16 percent of all pedestrian fatalities and 6 percent of all pedestrian injuries. Young children and the elderly have always held the highest risks of pedestrian death and injury.
When a pedestrian is involved in a motor vehicle accident they are at risk for countless serious injuries. Pedestrians’ head, legs, and arms are the most vulnerable in an accident. Often, pedestrians endure extreme bodily injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Paraplegia
- Quadriplegia
- Coma
- Fractured bones
Pedestrians who are jaywalking and are hit by a vehicle, regardless of their injuries, are, in some instances, at partial or complete fault. It is so important to use crosswalks and always follow the direction of the crosswalk lights. Special attention should also be paid to vehicles, as they may not always follow the rules of the road, but as a pedestrian, the highest burden is on you to protect yourself and to teach your children to protect themselves. Police can educate, but ultimately, you are responsible for your own safety - it’s called personal responsibility.
There are numerous common factors that contribute to pedestrian accidents. Negligence is one of the most common factors. Motorists have a responsibility to adhere to the laws of the road and drive in a safe and observant manner at all times. Pedestrians are killed every day due to a driver’s negligence.
Some common negligent practices by motorists include:
- Inattentive or pre-occupied drivers are potentially very dangerous for pedestrians.
- A driver’s failure to observe posted speed limits can add to the severity in a pedestrian/motor vehicle accident.
- A driver’s failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians at marked cross walks can increase the chance of being involved in a pedestrian/motor vehicle accident.
- A driver’s disregard for traffic control devices can also increase the chance of being involved in a motor/vehicle accident.
Some people get angry with the police when they are issued a citation for jaywalking. They wonder if the “police have better things to do with their time.” In fact, the police believe that jaywalking and protecting the citizens from possible fatal situations is just as important as a drug bust or a drunk driving arrest. In a time of cell phones and text messaging, drivers’ attention is not always on the task of driving safely. People are also busy and in a hurry to get to their destination. Pedestrian safety is of high concern for the police department.
One highly publicized legal case regarding jaywalking included the actress, Rebecca Gayheart. On the afternoon of June 13, 2001, Gayheart was driving northbound on Bronson Avenue in Hollywood, California. Nine-year-old Jorge Cruz, Jr., on his way home from nearby Grant Elementary School, was crossing the street in the middle of the block, jaywalking far from the nearest crosswalk. A number of cars stopped for him, but when Gayheart drove up behind them, apparently not understanding why the cars were stopped in the middle of the block, she pulled into the two-way left turn lane in the middle of the street to go around the stopped traffic. Furthermore, police estimated her speed at approximately 40 miles per hour, while the speed limit in the area was 25 miles per hour. She apparently never saw Cruz crossing, and her car struck the boy, who died the next morning of the injuries he sustained in the accident. Obviously, Gayheart’s speed played a factor, but if the little boy had been educated and not jaywalking, he may not have been in the middle of that block.
Jaywalking is dangerous, it interrupts traffic flow and potentially results in injury or death to the jaywalker. Don’t become a statistic. Don't let your children become a statistic. Be safe. Be responsible.
A special effects scene will be staged on Wednesday morning, March 25, 2009 between 9:30 AM and Noon, on the Potomac River, as part of a film production in the District. The controlled special effect, which will last for approximately 2 seconds (not 2 minutes as has been reported previously) is being staged as part of the CBS Paramount television pilot titled 'Washington Field' which will be filming at various locations across the city.
Contrary to reports, there will not be an "explosion," and no boat or any other object will actually "blow up." The contained-pyrotechnic effect will involve a brief flash and plume of smoke that will last for only a few seconds. The scene will be filmed out on the open water, at a safe distance from any roadway, bridge, or other structure.
For the filming of a TV pilot, there will be a simulated explosion on Wednesday, March 25, 2009, between 9:30 a.m. and noon near Key Bridge in the District. The explosion will produce a 20 to 30' fireball that will last for approximately two minutes.
The explosion will take place on the Potomac River just north of the Key Bridge and Jack's Boathouse (K/Water Street, NW under the Whitehurst Freeway). In the scene to be filmed, there will be six (6) sculling boats on the Potomac River and one of them blows up. CBS Paramount television is filming a pilot titled "Washington Field." This is a new television series about the elite Washington field office of the FBI and a team of agents with exceptional and diverse skills who are called together for only the most critical cases.
The Department of Homeland Security and D.C. Police and Fire departments have been notified, along with the Washington Airports Authority. The Virginia State Patrol and Arlington Police Department will also be contacted.
T1 Beat:
No reported incidents.
T2 Beat:
Robbery
A strong-arm robbery occurred Thursday, March 12 at 8:20 p.m. in the 600 block of Houston Avenue. Victim was walking when approached by a group of B/Ms. The males punched the victim and forced him to the ground. One of the suspects took property from the victim. A witness assisted the victim as the suspects fled on foot. An adult male was arrested shortly after the incident.
T3 Beat:
Aggravated Assault
An aggravated assault occurred in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Saturday, March 14 at 1:14 a.m. Victim walking through parking lot when black 4-door BMW occupied with five to six B/M pulled up alongside him. The suspects exited the vehicle and chased the victim. The suspects punched and kicked the victim, and one suspect threw a large rock at the victim’s head. The suspects entered the vehicle and fled.
Arrests:
On Monday, March 16 at 2:49 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Theft Under $500 and numerous traffic violations.
On Tuesday, March 17 at 3:53 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
NEWS RELEASE
* City of Takoma Park Police Department 7500 Maple Avenue * Takoma Park, Md 20912
**The below is a release that is being put out by all State of Maryland Chiefs.**
March 17, 2009 (4:00 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Chief Bernadette DiPino, President
Maryland Chiefs of Police Association
410-516-9896
Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk This St. Patrick’s Day!
Don’t Depend on Dumb Luck-Designate a Sober Driver Before the Party Begins
[Columbia, Maryland]-For many Americans, St. Patrick’s Day has become a popular night out to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, due to the large volume of impaired drivers, the night out has also become very dangerous.
Last year on St. Patrick’s Day, nearly half of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes nationwide had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above. Preliminary estimates show that there were 3 fatalities and almost 600 crashes on Maryland’s roads during St. Patrick’s Day weekend in 2008.
Traffic safety IS public safety and that is why the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association announced their joint efforts with federal, state, and local highway safety and law enforcement officials across the nation to remind all those who plan on celebrating during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities to drink responsibly and don’t drive after drinking alcohol. Maryland law enforcement will be conducting saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout the weekend leading up to and including St. Patrick’s Day.
“The wearing of the green is a time honored tradition, regardless of whether or not you’re Irish, but don’t let luck enter into your decisions while enjoying the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. If you plan on consuming alcohol, plan ahead of time for an alternative form of transportation - and never let your friends drive if you think they are impaired.”
“Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk.” said the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association president, and Ocean City Police Chief, Bernadette DiPino.
Drunk Driving Prevention
Following these easy steps, a driver can enjoy a safe St. Patrick’s Day without jeopardizing their life and the lives of the others who may be on the road.
Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;
If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
Utilize Baltimore’s free Tipsy?Taxi! service or DC’s Sober Ride program; more information can be found by calling 1-877-963-TAXI or by going to www.soberride.com.
If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement by calling 911 or #77;
And, remember, if you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
Impaired driving is one of America’s deadliest problems. In 2007, 41,059 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. Out of that number 12,998 people were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcyclist with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.
“The risks and the consequences far outweigh any perceived convenience of driving while impaired,” said DiPino. “Maryland’s law enforcement will be out all weekend leading up to St.Patrick’s Day to ensure the safety of all Maryland motorists.”
Don’t depend on dumb luck this St. Patrick’s Day. Designate your sober driver before the party begins.
For more information, please visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org
###
The Maryland Chiefs of Police Association is an alliance of executive law enforcement officers from State, Local and Federal Agencies dedicated to leading and supporting the efforts of police chiefs and sworn law enforcement executives in advancing the science and art of police services.
**This Release has been corrected as to where the speed cameras are located.**
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
March 16, 2009 (10:00 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci announces today that the City of Takoma Park, Maryland, working with ACS Solutions, has installed speed cameras; one in the 7200 block of New Hampshire Avenue (southbound) and the 7100 block of New Hampshire Avenue (northbound). Two cameras have also been installed in the eastbound and westbound lanes of the 500 block of Ethan Allen Avenue.
This process began in March 2007 when the Mayor and City Council for Takoma Park requested that the Police Department explore the Speed Camera Program. This process involved examining the county program with the municipalities of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Chevy Chase Village.
The county contractor, ACS Solutions, agreed to conduct speed studies in the City. In October 2007, the police department reported to the City Council that the results at the time did not warrant a recommendation for cameras. The Council asked police to conduct another study on additional streets in the City. A second speed study was conducted and in March 2008, cameras were recommended for Ethan Allen Avenue and New Hampshire Avenue. Both roads have significant problems. New Hampshire Avenue has had a total of 413 accidents in 2007 and 2008. In 2008, police issued 501 citations for speeding with an average speed of 50 mph, which is 15 miles over the posted speed limit. In 2007 and 2008, 32 collisions occurred on Ethan Allen Avenue, which for a small road, is a large number. In addition, due to the nature of the road, radar is very hard to accomplish by police personnel. Speed studies showed Ethan Allen Avenue with the most violations after New Hampshire Avenue. New Hampshire Avenue has been undergoing various changes to make it safer for pedestrians and drivers. The State has redone lanes, lights and medians.
The Crossroads Development Authority (CDA), which are all the businesses in that corridor, unanimously voted on March 12, 2009, to endorse the speed cameras on New Hampshire Avenue. This road has been the scene of many tragic accidents involving pedestrians and drivers.
The ultimate goal is to reduce speeding and accidents. If we are successful, then the cameras will come down. The City of Takoma Park is the last municipality to participate, as this was a very slow and deliberate process. Montgomery County and the other municipalities have been very successful in reducing speed and accidents. We are very hopeful for that same success in Takoma Park.
Takoma Park Police will be reporting to the Council and residents of the results. Beginning March 16, 2009, until April 1, 2009, the Takoma Park Police will be issuing warnings to violators driving 11 miles over the speed limit. On April 1, 2009, the Takoma Park Police will begin issuing citations. The Police Department issues citations and makes all decisions regarding citations.
The revenue from this program may be used for the following initiatives in the City:
- Contractual program staffing
- Sidewalk installation
- Trafficking calming measures
- Engineering assistance to help with sidewalk design and installation
- Engineering or planning assistance for bikeways in the City
- Traffic enforcement equipment, i.e., radar, radar display boards, etc.
- Traffic enforcement details
There are other areas in highway safety that these funds can be used.
Two police officers will be directing this program for the City. Anyone with speed camera questions can call our Safe Speed number of 301-891-7138 and leave a message and an officer will get back to you as soon as possible. Any further questions, please contact Chief Ronald Ricucci at 301-891-7104.
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
March 16, 2009 (9:35 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci announces today that the City of Takoma Park, Maryland, working with ACS Solutions, has installed speed cameras at 7400 New Hampshire Avenue; one in the northbound lanes and one in the southbound lanes. Two cameras have also been installed in the northbound and southbound lanes of Ethan Allen Avenue.
This process began in March 2007 when the Mayor and City Council for Takoma Park requested that the Police Department explore the Speed Camera Program. This process involved examining the county program with the municipalities of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Chevy Chase Village.
The county contractor, ACS Solutions, agreed to conduct speed studies in the City. In October 2007, the police department reported to the City Council that the results at the time did not warrant a recommendation for cameras. The Council asked police to conduct another study on additional streets in the City. A second speed study was conducted and in March 2008, cameras were recommended for Ethan Allen Avenue and New Hampshire Avenue. Both roads have significant problems. New Hampshire Avenue has had a total of 413 accidents in 2007 and 2008. In 2008, police issued 501 citations for speeding with an average speed of 50 mph, which is 15 miles over the posted speed limit. In 2007 and 2008, 32 collisions occurred on Ethan Allen Avenue, which for a small road, is a large number. In addition, due to the nature of the road, radar is very hard to accomplish by police personnel. Speed studies showed Ethan Allen Avenue with the most violations after New Hampshire Avenue. New Hampshire Avenue has been undergoing various changes to make it safer for pedestrians and drivers. The State has redone lanes, lights and medians.
The Crossroads Development Authority (CDA), which are all the businesses in that corridor, unanimously voted on March 12, 2009, to endorse the speed cameras on New Hampshire Avenue. This road has been the scene of many tragic accidents involving pedestrians and drivers.
The ultimate goal is to reduce speeding and accidents. If we are successful, then the cameras will come down. The City of Takoma Park is the last municipality to participate, as this was a very slow and deliberate process. Montgomery County and the other municipalities have been very successful in reducing speed and accidents. We are very hopeful for that same success in Takoma Park.
Takoma Park Police will be reporting to the Council and residents of the results. Beginning March 16, 2009, until April 1, 2009, the Takoma Park Police will be issuing warnings to violators driving 11 miles over the speed limit. On April 1, 2009, the Takoma Park Police will begin issuing citations. The Police Department issues citations and makes all decisions regarding citations.
The revenue from this program may be used for the following initiatives in the City:
- Contractual program staffing
- Sidewalk installation
- Trafficking calming measures
- Engineering assistance to help with sidewalk design and installation
- Engineering or planning assistance for bikeways in the City
- Traffic enforcement equipment, i.e., radar, radar display boards, etc.
- Traffic enforcement details
There are other areas in highway safety that these funds can be used.
Two police officers will be directing this program for the City. Anyone with speed camera questions can call our Safe Speed number of 301-891-7138 and leave a message and an officer will get back to you as soon as possible. Any further questions, please contact Chief Ronald Ricucci at 301-891-7104.
T1 Beat:
Robbery
A strong-arm robbery occurred in the 400 block of Boston Avenue Monday, March 9 at approximately 8:30 p.m. Victim was walking to residence when he noticed a brown sedan (vehicle tag 70880E) drive past him. Vehicle made a u-turn and drove past victim second time. Suspects exited vehicle and demanded the victim’s property. Suspect 1 simulated he had a handgun and Suspect 2 punched victim in the face. Both suspects ran toward brown sedan and fled. S1: B/M, 20-25; S2: B/M, 20-25; S3 (driver): B/M, no further description.
T2 Beat:
No reported incidents.
T3 Beat:
Larceny – From Auto
FOUR thefts from auto occurred between Tuesday, February 10 at 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, February 11 at 4:50 a.m.: 1200 block of Holton Lane, 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue (2), and 7400 block of New Hampshire Avenue. Forced entry, property taken.
Arrests:
On Saturday, March 7 at 3:46 a.m. at the intersection of University Boulevard and Carroll Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Saturday, March 7 at 12:45 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On Saturday, March 7 at 11:29 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of an Open Container of Alcohol.
On Tuesday, March 10 at 9:30 p.m. in the 7000 block of Carroll Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana.
T1 Beat:
Robbery
A commercial armed robbery occurred Monday, March 2 at 7:22 p.m. in the 6400 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Texaco. A male subject entered the establishment and stole merchandise. The suspect approached the teller’s booth, opened the door, demanded funds and became engaged in a physical confrontation with the victim. Suspect armed with unknown sharp object. During the struggle, the victim sustained minor non-life threatening injuries. The suspect fled on foot east across New Hampshire Ave to the rear of the commercial businesses into Prince Georges County. Suspect: B/M, 30-40, 6'0-6'1, medium build, wearing a dark North Face jacket and a black knit hat.
Vandalism to VehiclesBetween Thursday, February 27 at 9:30 p.m. and Friday, February 28 at 3:30 a.m. an unknown suspect(s) slashed the tires on TEN vehicles in the 6900 and 7000 block of Westmoreland Avenue, 100 block of Elm Avenue, and 6900 block of Allegheny Avenue.
T2 Beat:
Auto Theft
7700 block of Maple Avenue, between Saturday, February 28 at 10:00 p.m. and Monday, March 2 at 5:00 a.m. ’03 Range Rover
T3 Beat:
Assault
An aggravated assault occurred Tuesday, March 3 at 9:47 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue. Victim struck in shoulder by paintball shot from a moving vehicle.
Auto Theft
7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Monday, March 2 between 9:00 p.m. and 11:35 p.m. ’99 Ford Crown Victoria
Arrests:
On Monday, March 2 at 11:10 p.m. in the 900 block of East West Highway, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Cocaine.
On Tuesday, March 3 at 12:19 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On March 4, 2009, at approximately 3:43 a.m. Takoma Park Police received several calls from citizens reporting the sound of gunshots on Sligo Creek Parkway around Flower Avenue, Jackson Avenue and Heather Avenue. Officers responded to the areas, however, upon arrival, found nothing suspicious. During the morning sunlight hours, a citizen reported finding shell casings on Sligo Creek Parkway. The investigation has been turned over to the Maryland National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County, who has jurisdiction.