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
August 29, 2009 (4:40 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Sormujah M. Corneh, 30, of Takoma Park, Maryland, who was charged with 1st and 2nd degree assault. On August 29, 2009, at approximately 2:31 a.m., officers responded to a call regarding a fight in progress in the 100 block of Lee Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland. Officers arrived to find Corneh with a shovel swinging it at the victim. Corneh was arrested without incident and transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit (CPU) for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner. The victim was unharmed.
On August 28, 2009, at approximately 11:42 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to Lee Avenue for reports of a car jacking. The victim was exiting his vehicle when he was approached from behind by one suspect who was armed with a handgun. A second suspect took property from the victim, including his car keys. The suspects then fled in the victim’s vehicle toward Carroll Avenue. The vehicle is described as a gray 2003 Toyota Matrix SW, bearing a Maryland tag of #8ELP69. The first suspect is described as a black male, teens to early 20’s, approximately 5’10, dark complexion, last seen wearing a red baseball cap, white t-shirt and carrying a black handgun. The second suspect is described as a black male, teens to early 20’s, dark complexion, last seen wearing a red shirt with twists in his hair. The victim was unharmed. Investigation continues under case #09048266. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call the police at 301.270.1100.
On August 28, 2009, unknown suspects broke into, vandalized and stole property from six (6) vehicles from the following locations:
400 block of Boston Avenue
Two (2) in the 500 block of Boston Avenue
100 block of Hodges Lane
200 block of Hodges Lane
7200 block of 14th Avenue
All of the passenger-side windows had been smashed out and property stolen. Some of the items taken were GPS devices, sunglasses and other items in plain view.
At this time, there is no suspect information.
If anyone has any information concerning these thefts/vandalisms, please contact the Takoma Park Police Department at 301.270.1100.
The Takoma Park Police Department reminds citizens that if you leave valuables in your vehicle, they may not be there when you return. If they can see it, they can steal it. So, secure it!
Theft from auto can occur at any time, from any vehicle. Often, valuables left in a car are taken during the night, but daytime thefts can occur on busy streets, with nobody reporting any suspicious behavior.
What Property Is Stolen? The following items, although not all-inclusive, should be taken into your home, or you risk them being taken by thieves: cellular phones, money, purse, wallet, briefcases, CDs, iPods, portable GPS systems, laptop computers and sports equipment. Auto parts are also taken, including a vehicle’s license plate.
How? Method of entry varies too. Unlocked cars with valuables in easy reach are as common as a window or door lock broken to gain entry.
Deterrents:
Vehicle Theft: Many auto parts stores sell steering wheel locks which are inexpensive; these are a major deterrent to vehicle theft.
For License Plate Theft: a unique screw, which requires a special tool to release the license plate, is available from auto parts stores. The cost can be as low as $4.
What you can do:
Lock doors and close windows completely.
Remove valuables from the vehicle or lock them in the trunk where they are out of sight.
Do not leave electronic devices or accessories visible. (A cigarette lighter plug or cassette adapter are tell-tale signs of valuables in the car. Replace the lighter when exiting the vehicle).
Do not leave money in the car.
Park in your garage, if you have one, or in a well-lit area.
Install "tapered" door lock or an anti-theft device that has a visible indicator.
Aid to Recovery: Some valuables can't be taken out of the vehicle, such as a stereo or speakers. When installing custom sound equipment, record the serial numbers and/or engrave your driver's license on the items before installation. If stolen, those numbers could make a difference in locating and recovering the property, and prosecuting the thieves.
On August 27, 2009, at approximately 6:44 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 8000 block of Wildwood Drive for reports of a residential burglary that occurred earlier in the day. The suspect entered the residence through an unsecured rear sliding door. Property was taken. There is no suspect information. Investigation continues under case #09047979. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call the police at 301.270.1100.
The National Weather Service has issued a FLASH FLOOD WATCH for Montgomery County from 2:00 p.m. until midnight.
Residents should expect extremely heavy rain that will flood low lying areas, and streets with slow drainage. Do not try to cross flooded roads. Flooded areas may be harder to identify at night. Use caution while driving.
As you or your children head back to school, please be safe. Below are some tips to help you get the new school year off to a good start:
Tips to keep you safer:
1. Always let your parents know where you are.
2. Always try to play or walk with friends.
3. Say NO if a stranger offers you gifts or asks you to help find something, like a lost dog.
4. If anyone, even someone you know, tries to do something that makes you feel "funny" or unsafe, say NO. And always tell someone you trust about it, like your parents or a teacher.
5. Never get into a car with a stranger or with someone you don't trust.
6. Never go anywhere with a stranger or with someone you don't trust.
7. Never believe a stranger until you have checked what he or she has said with someone you trust.
8. Never open the door to a stranger when you are home alone or to someone you don't trust.
9. Never give any information to a stranger over the Internet or telephone.
Hopefully these are a few tips to help you stay safe.
Tips for School Bus Riders:
1. Do not play in the street while waiting for the bus.
2. Carry all loose belongings in a bag or backpack and never reach under the school bus to get anything that has rolled or fallen beneath it.
3. Line up facing the bus, not along side it.
4. Move immediately onto the sidewalk and out of traffic after getting off the bus.
5. Wait for a signal from the bus driver before crossing the street and walk at least 10 steps away from the front of the bus so that the driver can see you.
Tips for Pedestrians or Bike Riders:
1. Never walk alone - always travel with a buddy. Try to find a friend, or make a new friend in the neighborhood to walk to school or ride the bus with.
2. Wear reflective or bright color clothing to increase visibility.
3. Obey traffic lights and street signs as the law applies to you.
4. Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
5. Avoid loose fitting clothing that could get caught in spokes or pedals.
Tips for Car Drivers and Passengers:
1. Make sure young children are in safety seats at all times, and that the seats have properly been installed.
2. All children under 13 years should ride in the rear seat of vehicles.
3. Remember that many crashes occur while novice teen drivers are going to and from school. You may want to limit the number of teen passengers to prevent driver distraction. Do not allow your teen to drive while eating, drinking, or talking/texting on a cell phone.
Have a wonderful and safe new school year!
On August 20, 2009, Takoma Park Police responded to the 8100 block of Sligo Creek Parkway for reports of a burglary that occurred between 3:15 p.m. and 4:50 p.m. The suspect entered the residence by breaking the lock on a basement window. Property was taken. There is no suspect information. Investigation continues under case #09046425. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call the police at 301.270.1100.
T1 Beat:
Robbery
An attempt strong-arm robbery occurred Monday, August 17 between 10:30 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.at the intersection of Columbia Avenue and Carroll Avenue. Suspect approached victim from behind and demanded his property. Victim fled but was pursued by the subject. Suspect fled on foot when metro bus driver approached. No property taken. Suspect: B/M, early 20’s, approximately 6’0 with shoulder length black dread locks, last seen wearing oversized white t-shirt and dark colored pants.
Larceny – From Auto
7400 block of Baltimore Avenue, Sunday, August 16 at 3:18 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Auto Theft
6400 block of Kansas Avenue, between Tuesday, August 18 at 9:30 p.m. and Wednesday, August 19 at 8:30 a.m. 1991 Jeep Cherokee
T2 Beat:
Residential Burglary
300 block of Boyd Avenue, between Thursday, August 13 at 5:30 p.m. and Friday, August 14 at 8:50 a.m. Forced entry to shed and stole property.
8000 block of Maple Avenue, Sunday, August 16 at 2:00 a.m. No forced entry. No property taken. Victim home at time of incident. Suspect: Male, no further description.
300 block of Boyd Avenue, Sunday, August 16 at 2:37 a.m. No forced entry. No property taken. Victim home at time of incident.
7900 block of Sligo Creek Parkway, Tuesday, August 18 between 12:45 p.m. and 3:55 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
600 block of Kennebec Avenue, Tuesday, August 18 at 4:00 p.m. Forced entry. No property taken. Suspect: 2 B/M teens, on wearing light blue shirt.
Larceny – From Auto
Unit block of Grant Avenue, between Thursday, August 13 at 4:30 p.m. and Monday, August 17 at 10:30 a.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
7600 block of Carroll Avenue, between Sunday, August 16 at 6:35 p.m. and Monday, August 17 at 8:30 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
T3 Beat:
Larceny – From Auto
7500 block of Jackson Avenue, between Thursday, August 13 at 8:00 p.m. and Friday, August 14 at 8:30 a.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
Auto Theft
7500 block of Glenside Drive, Thursday, August 13 between 12:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. 2005 Dodge Caravan. Recovered: Friday, August 14 in Hyattsville, MD.
Arrests:
On Thursday, August 13 at 5:32 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Open Container.
On Friday, August 14 at 1:17 p.m. in the 7200 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Simple Assault.
On Friday, August 14 at 8:34 p.m. in the 1100 block of University Boulevard, a juvenile male was arrested and charged with Theft Under $500.
On Friday, August 14 at 11:38 p.m. in the 900 block of Merrimac Drive, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On Saturday, August 15 at 5:16 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Drinking in Public.
On Sunday, August 16 at 1:00 a.m. in the 7200 block of Flower Avenue, an adult male and a juvenile male were arrested and charged with Conspiracy to Commit Destruction of Property and Malicious Destruction of Property.
On Sunday, August 16 at 11:29 a.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Urinating in Public.
On Sunday, August 16 at 7:00 p.m. in the 7600 block of Glenside Drive, an adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving and several other traffic offenses.
On Monday, August 17 at 2:00 a.m. in the 500 block of New York Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Rogue and Vagabond.
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of a 14-year old juvenile, of Silver Spring, Maryland, who was charged with Children in Need of Services (CINS) and giving False Statements to a Peace Officer. On August 20, 2009, at approximately 4:18 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 8400 block of Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, Maryland, for reports of a suspicious person in a residential backyard. Through investigation, it was revealed that the juvenile had planned to steal a bike. The juvenile was charged and released to the custody of a parent.
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
August 20, 2009 (10:15 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Bryant Howard McLean, 37, of Washington, D.C., who was charged with possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) marijuana; possession of CDS paraphernalia and transporting a handgun in a vehicle.
On August 19, 2009, Takoma Park Police detectives conducted a routine vehicle stop at approximately 4:55 p.m. in the 7600 block of Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, and, through investigation, it was revealed that McLean was in possession of a .22 caliber revolver, as well as Controlled Dangerous Substance and paraphernalia. Bryant was arrested and transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit (CPU) for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
On August 18, 2009, at 4:00 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 600 block of Kennebec Avenue for reports of a suspicious person outside of a residence. Once on the scene, officers observed the suspicious person near a residence, and upon seeing the officer, disappeared behind the residence. A K9 track was conducted with negative results. No property was taken from the residence. The suspect is described as a black male, 16-20 years of age, approximately 5’10 - 6’0, approximately 145-160 lbs., short afro-style hair, medium brown skin, last seen wearing an aqua colored short sleeved t-shirt. Investigation continues under case #09045948. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
On August 18, 2009, Takoma Park Police responded to the 7900 block of Sligo Creek Parkway for reports of a burglary that had occurred earlier in the day between 12:45 and 3:55 p.m. The suspect entered the residence by forcing open the front door. Property was taken. There is no suspect information. Investigation continues under case #09045954. 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
August 19, 2009 (9:35 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Juan Carlos Vasquez, 18, of New Carrollton, Maryland, who was charged with armed robbery, use of a handgun during the commission of a felony, first degree assault, theft under $500 and theft under $100.
On August 14, 2009, Takoma Park Police received a warrant for the arrest of Vasquez in reference to an armed robbery that occurred in the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Sunoco Gas Station, on August 12, 2009. On that date, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, at the Sunoco Gas Station, for reports of an armed robbery. The victim was approached by two Hispanic males, both dressed in all black, armed with semi-automatic handguns, demanding property. The victim complied and was not harmed. Property was taken. The suspects fled on foot heading northbound on New Hampshire Avenue. On August 14, 2009, one of the suspects, Edgar Heng, 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland, was arrested.
Through investigation, and working in conjunction with the New Carrollton Police Department, officers were able to locate Vasquez and arrest him. At the time, Vasquez was in possession of the vehicle reported as stolen. Vasquez was taken into custody without incident. The vehicle has been impounded by the Takoma Park Police Department pending further investigation.
Chief Ricucci is pleased with the quick and swift action of detectives and patrol officers which led to this successful outcome. We also want to thank the New Carrollton Police Department for their assistance in this case.
On August 17, 2009, between approximately 10:30-10:45 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the intersection of Columbia Avenue and Carroll Avenue for reports of an attempted strong armed robbery that had occurred. The victim was walking down Columbia Avenue when he was rapidly approached from behind by a subject running towards him demanding property. The victim fled but was pursued by the subject. When the subject noticed a metro bus driver approaching he fled on foot towards Tulip Avenue. No property was taken and the victim was unharmed. The suspect is described as a black male, in his early 20’s, approximately 6’0 with shoulder length black dread locks, last seen wearing an oversized white t-shirt and dark colored pants. Investigation continues under case #09045817. 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
August 17, 2009 (12:35 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Dewayne Bartlette, 18, of Silver Spring, Maryland, for rogue and vagabond.
On August 17, 2009, at approximately 2:02 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 500 block of New York Avenue for reports of a suspicious individual in a residential backyard near a window. The victim saw the suspect which caused him to flee on foot through the backyard. The victim got into his vehicle and saw the suspect running through Jequie Park, to which he notified police. Units responded and located Bartlette at the corner of Albany and Takoma Avenue.
Bartlette was transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
On August 16, 2009, at approximately 2:37 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 300 block of Boyd Avenue for reports of a residential burglary. While the victim was sleeping, the house alarm activated. The window to the back of the house was open and the screen removed. Upon arrival of the police, it was also discovered that the back door was ajar. It is believed the suspect fled upon hearing the house alarm. There is no suspect information. Property was not taken. Investigation continues under case #09045453. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
On August 16, 2009, at approximately 2:10 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 8000 block of Maple Avenue for reports of a residential burglary. An unknown black male was found to be inside the victim’s residence. The victim confronted the suspect and the suspect fled out of the residence towards Maplewood Avenue. The suspect is described as a black male last seen wearing dark black slacks/pants and a dark blue collar shirt. Property was not taken. Investigation continues under case #09045451. 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
August 17, 2009 (9:20 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrests of Marcelles Queen, 19, of Takoma Park, Maryland, and a 16-year old juvenile of Takoma Park, Maryland, for vandalism to auto and conspiracy to commit vandalism to auto.
On August 16, 2009, at approximately 1:08 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 7200 block of Flower Avenue for reports of individuals who were breaking into a vehicle. Upon arrival, the officers interrupted the break-in and arrested two of the suspects. A third suspect is being investigated. Queen was transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit for an appearance before a District Court Commissioner. The juvenile was released to the custody of a parent.
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
August 14, 2009 (11:15 a.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chief Ronald A. Ricucci from the Takoma Park Police Department announces the arrest of Edgar Heng, 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland, one of the suspects involved in the armed robbery that occurred on August 12, 2009, at the Sunoco Gas Station in the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue. The victim, who was at the Sunoco Gas Station, was approached by two Hispanic males, both dressed in all black, armed with semi-automatic handguns, demanding property. The victim complied and was not harmed. Property was taken. The suspects had fled on foot heading northbound on New Hampshire Avenue.
Through investigation, Takoma Park Police detectives located Heng in Silver Spring, Maryland, and he was found to be in possession of property from the armed robbery. Heng was arrested and charged with Armed Robbery, Use of a Handgun in the Commission of a Felony, First Degree Assault, Theft Under $500 and Theft under $100. Heng was transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit where he is currently being held.
Chief Ricucci is pleased with the quick and swift action of detectives and patrol officers which led to this successful outcome. We also want to thank Montgomery County Police for their assistance in this case.
T1 Beat:
Nonresidential Burglary (Shed)
7100 block of Carroll Avenue, Thursday, August 6 between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
7000 Eastern Avenue, between Friday, August 7 at 3:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 8 at 5:30 p.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
300 block of Grant Avenue, between Friday, August 7 at 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 8 at 3:25 p.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
200 block of Grant Avenue, between Friday, August 7 at 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 8 at 8:00 a.m. No forced entry. Property taken.
T2 Beat:
Aggravated Assault
8600 block of Flower Avenue, Tuesday, August 11 at 2:32 a.m. Defendant used handgun to shoot into floor of his apartment to scare victim. An adult male was arrested and charged with 1st Degree Assault, 2nd Degree Assault and Reckless Endangerment.
Residential Burglary
8200 block of Roanoke Avenue, Monday, August 10 between 7:20 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
7600 block of Maple Avenue, between Sunday, August 9 at 9:00 p.m. and Monday, August 10 at 9:12 a.m. Forced entry. Property taken.
8100 block of Flower Avenue, between Monday, August 10 at 3:00 p.m. and Tuesday, August 11 at 2:50 p.m.
T3 Beat:
Robbery
8100 block of Hammond Avenue, Friday, August 7 at 8:15 p.m. Three unarmed suspects assaulted and attempted to steal the victim’s property. Suspects: H/M, 18-22, 5’8 to 5’10, 160 to 180 lbs., medium build.
6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Wednesday, August 12 at 11:00 p.m. Two suspects robbed the victim at gun point and stole property. S1: H/M, 19-25, 5’7-5’10, 130-140 lbs., short black hair, stubble, thin build, wearing black baseball hat. S2: H/M, 18-25, 5’8-6’00, 160-170, black ponytail, medium build, wearing black baseball hat.
Residential Burglary
1100 block of Holton Lane, Tuesday, August 11 between 9:00 a.m. and 11:31 a.m. Forced entry. No property taken.
Auto Theft
1000 block of University Boulevard, between Friday, August 7 at 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 8 at 4:00 p.m. 2004 Ford Crown Victoria. RECOVERED: Monday, August 10 in Allentown, PA.
Arrests:
On Thursday, August 6 at 6:00 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On Thursday, August 6 at 7:36 p.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Saturday, August 8 at 2:00 a.m. in the 1300 block of Erskine Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence.
On Saturday, August 8 at 4:07 p.m. in the 100 block of Lee Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Trespassing.
On Saturday, August 8 at 6:00 p.m. in the 100 block of Lee Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest.
On Monday, August 10 at 2:18 p.m. in the 1300 block of University Boulevard, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Open Container Alcohol.
On Monday, August 10 at 6:09 p.m. in the 7700 block of Maple Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On Wednesday, August 12 at 12:50 a.m. in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On August 12, 2009, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue, at the Sunoco Gas Station, for reports of an armed robbery. The victim was approached by two Hispanic males, both dressed in all black, armed with semi-automatic handguns, demanding property. The victim complied and was not harmed. Property was taken. The suspects fled on foot heading northbound on New Hampshire Avenue.
The first suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5’7 - 5’10, 130-140 lbs, wearing a black baseball cap, black long sleeve shirt, black pants, black shoes, and armed with a black semi-automatic handgun.
The second suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5’8 - 6’0, 160-170 lbs., black pony-tail, wearing a black baseball cap, black long sleeve shirt, black pants, black shoes and armed with a black semi-automatic handgun.
Investigation continues under case #09044825. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301.270.1100.
On August 11, 2009, at approximately 11:31 a.m., Takoma Park Police responded to the 1100 block of Holton Lane for reports of a residential alarm. Units arrived to find the rear door ajar. A K-9 track with conducted with negative results. The resident was contacted and she responded home. She indicated that there appeared to be nothing disturbed or missing. There is no suspect information. Officers believe that the alarm may have scared off the suspect(s). Investigation continues under case #09044470. 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
August 11, 2009 (4:15 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
** This is a Release put out by Montgomery County Police **
Police Remind Commuters “Don’t Forget” to Keep Any Items Left in Vehicles Out of Sight
Theft from vehicles continues to be the most common crime in Montgomery County, and yet it is a crime that many times can be prevented. After taking reports in July for approximately 56 thefts from vehicles parked in county public parking garages in Silver Spring, 3rd District officers developed a new initiative to again try to impress upon drivers and passengers the importance of not leaving items visible inside vehicles. The “Don’t Forget” initiative began yesterday. This morning officers were at the Wayne Avenue garage. Tomorrow they will be at the garage located at 8530 Cameron Street. There are nine county parking garages in or near the downtown area of Silver Spring. Officers will hand out “Don’t Forget” reminder flyers at a different garage each morning between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
While it is important to always lock your vehicle, if items are left in plain view, thieves will break into a car to get to them. Officers theorize that drivers may have a false sense of security about leaving items in their cars when they are in a public lot with so many people coming and going. Drivers may also have begun to consider their portable Global Positioning Systems as another part of their vehicle’s equipment and not realize that thieves continue to particularly target these devices. Even if the unit itself is stowed in a glove compartment, leaving a suction cup attachment or the cord in view alerts a thief that the car probably has a portable GPS unit tucked away inside. While not as common an occurrence in parking garages where more electronic equipment is currently being targeted, there have even been instances when vehicles have been broken into because a handful of coins could be seem inside the vehicle.
Last month vehicles in Silver Spring garages were targeted during both daytime and evening hours. Some of the vehicles were left unlocked, but the majority of vehicles were broken into when items were left in plain view inside the vehicle. The most common items taken other than GPS systems include: MP3 players, cell phones, satellite radios, and laptop computers.
The garages and number of thefts in July:
8700 Cameron St. 7 1000 Spring St. 9
8110 Fenton St. 0 1315 East West Hwy. 17
1101 Bonifant St. 3 9212 Wayne Ave. 7
8530 Cameron St. 6 801 Ellsworth Dr. 6
8040 Kenneth St. 1
Every person who parks a vehicle in the county can play a role in the reduction of this crime. Montgomery County Police warn drivers and passengers to remove electronics, their accessories, and other valuables from view or even better, take them with you. You’ve been warned, so please, “Don’t Forget”!
For More Information:
Media Services Division: 240-773-5030
It has recently been brought to my attention that some city residents believe it is legal to have unleashed dogs in city parks. The current city ordinances and county code require dogs to be on a leash. Please obey these laws as you may be cited by animal control officials or police officers for violating this law. Your cooperation is appreciated.
T1 Beat:
Nonresidential Burglary (Shed)
200 block of Spring Avenue, between Thursday, July 30 at 6:00 p.m. and Friday, July 31 at 1:00 p.m. Forced entry, property taken.
Larceny – From Auto
7300 block of Takoma Avenue, between Thursday, July 30 at 10:00 p.m. and Friday, July 31 at 10:00 a.m. No forced entry, property taken.
6400 block of Eastern Avenue, between Friday, July 31 at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 2 at 6:00 p.m. Forced entry, property taken.
7000 block of Sycamore Avenue, between Saturday, August 1 at 9:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 2 at 1:30 p.m. Forced entry, property taken.
6600 block of Eastern Avenue, Monday, August 3 between 7:0 a.m. and 7:10 p.m. Forced entry, property taken.
6600 block of Gude Avenue, between Monday, August 3 at 8:30 p.m. and Tuesday, August 4 at 5:30 a.m. No forced entry, property taken.
T2 Beat:
Residential Burglary
8000 block of Maple Avenue, Thursday, July 30 at 11:56 p.m. Attempt forced entry, no property taken. Residents home at time of incident.
100 block of Sherman Avenue, Wednesday, August 5 at 12:55 a.m. No forced entry, no property taken. Residents home at time of incident. Suspect: B/M, mid-to-late 20s, light complexion, wearing bright red t-shirt and hat.
Larceny – From Auto
700 block of Chaney Drive, between Wednesday, July 29 at 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 1 at 7:50 a.m. No forced entry, no property taken.
800 block of Davis Avenue, between Friday, July 31 at 3:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 1 at 8:00 a.m. Forced entry, property taken.
7600 block of Flower Avenue, Saturday, August 1 between 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Forced entry, property taken.
Unit block of Grant Avenue, between Saturday, August 1 at 11:00 a.m. and Sunday, August 2 at 10:00 a.m. Forced entry, property taken.
100 block of Grant Avenue, Sunday, August 2 between 12:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. No forced entry, no property taken.
7600 block of Carroll Avenue, Monday, August 3 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:06 p.m. Forced entry, no property taken.
Auto Theft
7200 block of Garland Avenue, between Thursday, July 30 at 11:00 p.m. and Friday, July 31 at 8:00 a.m. 1995 Subaru Legacy
T3 Beat:
Residential Burglary
7600 block of Wildwood Drive, Monday, August 3 between 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. Forced entry, property taken. Suspect: B/M, late teens, 6’0”, 170 lbs., wearing white t-shirt and blue shorts.
Larceny – From Auto
7000 block of Aspen Avenue, between Wednesday, July 29 at 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, July 30 at 7:30 a.m. Forced entry, no property taken.
1100 block of Kirklynn Avenue, Thursday, July 30 between 12:00 a.m. and 12:14 a.m. Suspect in area checking for unlocked vehicles. Suspect hit victim in arm with tire iron when confronted. Suspect: B/M, wearing gray t-shirt.
1300 block of Elson Street, Thursday, July 30 at 1:15 a.m. Forced entry, no property taken.
Arrests:
On Saturday, August 1 at 11:30 p.m. in the 7600 block of Maple Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On Sunday, August 2 at 12:45 a.m. in the 900 block of Merrimac Drive, an adult male was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct.
On Thursday, August 6 at 1:33 a.m. in the 7600 block of Glenside Drive, a juvenile male was arrested and charged with Possession of Burglary Tools, Possession of Dangerous Weapon and Conspiracy to Commit Rogue and Vagabond.