16 December, 2008

MPD Posts Pictures of Stolen Goods Online

MPD Posts Pictures of $200,000 in Stolen Goods Online

Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier announced today that hundreds of items of stolen property will be posted online for owners to view and retrieve.

In January 2008, members of the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Burglary & Pawn Unit worked jointly with members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and discovered a large-scale fencing operation at Rosemar Liquors in the 1300 block of Good Hope Road, SE. The stolen merchandise is valued at more than $200,000.

In an effort to return the property to its rightful owners, the members of the MPD Burglary & Pawn Unit have coordinated with the DC Armory for owners to physically view the stolen property. The property will be displayed at the DC Armory from January 5, 2009 to January 7, 2009. The Armory is located at 2001 East Capital Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003. The hours for the public viewing will be from 12 pm to 7 pm on January 5th and 6th, and 10 am to 5 pm on January 7th.

To help expedite the retrieval of the items, the MPD will post the items on the MPD website at http://mpdc.dc.gov/stolenproperty for online viewing starting today until December 31, 2008. Individuals who have been the victims of crimes where property has been stolen can go to the MPD website and click on the link for the property viewing.

Once the property is viewed online and owners wish to claim it, they must use the links on the website to email the MPD Burglary & Pawn Unit and provide their name, address, contact telephone numbers, and the report number(s) for the stolen property. MPD detectives will then contact the owners and arrange to meet and physically inspect the property. At that time, owners must submit proof that they are the rightful owners.

If owners of the stolen items cannot view the items online, they may come to the DC Armory to recover their property. Report numbers taken at the time the items were stolen must be provided to enter the DC Armory to view the property. MPD officers and detectives will be on site to assist residents in identifying and retrieving their property.

To claim property, an individual must have:

* A Government Issued Identification Card and one of the following:
o The serial numbers of property stolen
o Insurance appraisals for stolen property
o Photographs of stolen property with copy of receipt and Police Report number

Any other proof of ownership will be considered on a case by case basis by the MPD investigators. Any property not claimed during this operation will be released to the Federal Government after 30 days to be sold at auction.

* View stolen property http://mpdc.dc.gov/mpdc/cwp/view,a,1242,q,566772.asp

09 December, 2008

Neighborhood Public Safety Meeting

REMINDER - PSA 102 MEETING - DECEMBER 9TH- SHERWOOD REC CENTER

PSA 102 Public Safety Meeting
Sherwood Recreation Center - 10th and G Streets NE
Tuesday 9 December 2008 7:00pm

DISCUSSION TOPICS:

- Community Updates on Pending Juvenile Justice Legislation and
Recent Prostitution Hearing
- Discussion and comments on DC Crime Omnibus Act
- Crime Statistics
- Community Safety Walk Announcements
- Your Comments and Concerns

FBI WARNS OF HOLIDAY SEASON CYBER-SCAMMERS

The FBI is reminding people this holiday season that cyber criminals continue to
aggressively seek ways to steal money and personal information. Scammers are using
several techniques to fool potential victims including sending unsolicited e-mails that contain attachments such as electronic greeting cards containing malware (malicious software), setting up spoofing websites that look like legitimate commercial sites, and unleashing phishing and vishing attacks where individuals receive e-mails asking for personal data.

In the greeting card scam, the cards are being sent via email. Like many other
Internet fraud schemes, the criminals use social engineering tactics to entice the victim, claiming the card is from a family member or friend. Upon clicking the link, the recipient is unknowingly taken to a malicious webpage.
Spoofing scams are when criminals create a false or shadow copy of a real website or
e-mail in a way that misleads the recipient. All network traffic between the victim’s browser and the shadow page are sent through the spoofer’s machine. This allows the spoofer to acquire personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, and account numbers. Even though the e-mail looks like the real thing, complete with authentic logos and working web links, it’s a fake; the website where you’re told to enter your account information is also fake. The information entered does not go to the legitimate site, but rather to the spoofer’s account. The information you entered will most likely be sold to criminals, who’ll use it to ruin your credit and drain your account.
In phishing and vishing attacks, individuals receive e-mails or text messages indicating a problem with their account. They are directed to follow the link provided in the message to update their account or correct the problem. The link actually directs the individuals to a fraudulent website that looks legitimate where their personal information, such as account number and PIN, is compromised.
Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of cyber fraud:
• Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) email.
• Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited email.
• Be cautious of email claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
• Avoid filling out forms in email messages that ask for personal information.
• Always compare the link in the email to the link that you are actually directed to.
• Log on to the official website, instead of “linking” to it from an unsolicited email.
• Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the email to verify if the email is genuine.

VIOLENT, PROPERTY CRIME DOWN IN NOVEMBER

Reported property crime was down 12% and violent crime was down 10% in DC compared to the same month last year, according to preliminary statistics from the MPD. For the month of November, property crime decreased in five of the seven police districts, with significant decreases in the First (-36%), Fourth (-29%), Fifth (-22%), and Seventh Districts (-28%). Violent crime also decreased in five of the seven police districts, with significant decreases in the First, Third, Fourth, Fifth and Seventh Districts.
Citywide, there have been two fewer Homicides compared to December 5, 2007. Year to date, as of December 1, there has been a five percent decrease in the number of Sexual Assaults. Robberies have remained statistically unchanged and Assaults are down 11 percent. Burglary was down by five percent, and Theft has remained statistically unchanged compared to the same time last year. Thefts from Vehicles increased 15 percent and Arsons were down 15 percent. Compared to the same time last year, property crimes decreased in the Fourth, Fifth and Seventh Districts. Violent crime decreased in six of the seven police districts; it increased in the Sixth District.

08 December, 2008

PSA 102 Public Safety Committee Meeting

REMINDER - PSA 102 MEETING - DECEMBER 9TH- SHERWOOD REC CENTER

PSA 102 Public Safety Meeting
Sherwood Recreation Center - 10th and G Streets NE
Tuesday 9 December 2008 7:00pm

DISCUSSION TOPICS:

- Community Updates on Pending Juvenile Justice Legislation and
Recent Prostitution Hearing
- Discussion and comments on DC Crime Omnibus Act
- Crime Statistics
- Community Safety Walk Announcements
- Your Comments and Concerns

29 October, 2008

Councilmember Wells Creates Ward 6 Juvenile Crime Task Force

Press Release: October 28, 2008Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy WellsImmediate ReleaseContact: Charles Allen1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Room 408Washington, D.C. 20004(202) 724-8072www.TommyWells.org

Councilmember Wells Creates Ward 6 Juvenile Crime Task Force On Tuesday, October 28th, Councilmember Tommy Wells announced plans to create a Ward 6 Juvenile Crime Task Force.
"While crime in the District and Ward 6 is generally decreasing, crimes committed by juveniles remain a significant problem and in some neighborhoods, appear to be growing in their intensity and violence," stated Wells.
The task force will be comprised of Ward 6 ANC leaders and non-profit community-based providers, as well as District agency representatives. The task force will be staffed by members of the Councilmember's office and their goal is to create a set of recommendations targeted to reduce juvenile crime in Ward 6 neighborhoods.
"This effort is to create a strategic approach to reforms and efforts that target juvenile crime," added Wells, "bringing some of the best thinking to the table to research, develop and propose various concrete recommendations to decrease juvenile crime in the Ward."
In addition to the research and information collected by the task force, Councilmember Wells wants the group to review recommendations from the community. To that effect, he has established a tool on his website where residents and neighbors can make suggestions for the task force to review and consider. The link to the submission form is featured on his website, www.TommyWells.org.
After the task force completes its recommendations, Councilmember Wells will host the group at three community meetings – each in a different neighborhood of the Ward – to present the findings and final recommendations and seek feedback and input to gauge whether the community should move forward with any of the ideas.
###

20 October, 2008

Fix It for 1000 Block of 6th Street NE

At PSA 102 Public Safety Committee Meeting in October residents complained about gun shots and trash accumulated in the alleys around this address. In response the PSAPSC has requested and received a Fix-It for this location on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 9:00AM.

Residents are asked to attend and point out problems that the entire DC Government can address. Persons wishing to attend should meet at 6th and K Streets, N.E. at 9:00AM

01 October, 2008

Prostitution Hearing

Prostitution

COUNCILMEMBER PHIL MENDELSON, CHAIRPERSON
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY AND THE JUDICIARY ANNOUNCES A PUBLIC OVERSIGHT HEARING

on

Strategies to Combat Prostitution

on

Friday, November 7, 2008
12:00 p.m., 5th Floor Chambers, John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20004

17 September, 2008

Senior Citizens Police Academy

Metropolitan Police Department
Senior Citizens Police Academy



In partnership with the DC Office on Aging, the Metropolitan Police Department established the Senior Citizen Police Academy. The inaugural class of the Senior Citizens Police Academy was created in June 2005 under the leadership of Chief Charles Ramsey. Since then, a class has been held each year. The purpose of the academy is to reach out to distinguished senior residents, who we believe can provide the District with a wealth of information and experience that can enrich and enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods around the city.

The next academy class will be held in the fall of 2008. Classes are compiled into a six-week curriculum, with 3-hour sessions held twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

The series of classes and the academy are designed to provide our seniors with additional education about the internal operations of the criminal justice system. Classes will focus on the following topics and areas on interests: the organizational structure of the Metropolitan Police Department and Citizen Advisory Council; the organizational structure of the DC Office on Aging; the process of the District of Columbia's Judicial System; Community Policing; Community Organizing; Community & Youth Outreach (Including volunteering); Homeland Security; Gun Laws; Financial Crimes, Fraud & Predatory Lending; Auto Theft & Crime Prevention; Homicides & Cold Cases; and much more.

At the end of the session, students will participate in a graduation ceremony and sign up for volunteer positions and/or community organizing around the city. The class is aimed at senior retirees who are looking to enrich their careers and embark upon the next journey in their lives.
Register for the Senior Citizens Police Academy*
For more information, contact:
Executive Office of the Chief of Police
(202) 727-4218 or (202) 727-8809
For information on the Senior Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, contact earl.wood@dc.gov.

Success Stories
Seniors Making a Difference

MPD and Federal Partners Reduce Violent Crime

MPD and Federal Partners Reduce Violent Crime
Contact

Traci Hughes (MPD), (202) 727-9346
Special Agent Jerome Sampson (DEA), (202) 305-8500

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty and Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier announced today that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has made significant strides in lowering violent crime in the District. Today, as part of MPD’s continuting operation with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Mobile Enforcement Team (MET), MPD made seven arrests, conducted five search warrants and seized crack cocaine, heroin and marijuana with a street value in excess of $12,000.

As announced last month, the DEA Mobile Enforcement Team (MET), a joint operation of MPD and the DEA, has been cracking down on drug related crimes, drug sellers and drug users in the Trinidad area and other neighborhoods. Last month the MET made 78 arrests and seized drugs with a street value of more than $125,000.

The takedowns are just one part of the way MPD is combating violent crime. Detectives are getting homicide suspects off the streets faster. Working in conjunction with the Homicide Intelligence Task Force, information about the homicide is immediately gathered, and sources are interviewed to prevent retaliation. The Homicide and Sexual Offenses Branch has a 60% closure rate, compared to 53% this time last year. Just in the month of August, MPD closed 15 homicides in less than 30 days.

As part of a multi-pronged approach to fighting crime in areas that have experienced an increase in violent crime, MPD, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATFE) and the US Marshal Service, violent crime in the District for the months of June through August has dropped by six percent. Historical crime trends show an increase in violent crime during the summer, and in 2008, violent crime in the District was at a five year low, dropping by as much at 16% since 2003.

“Our goal is simple: remove the gangs and crews by removing their drug territories, their sources of drugs and the weapons they use to commit violent crimes,” said Chief Lanier.

"This continued show of force and zero tolerance approach taken by DEA and our partners in the Metropolitan Police Department sends a strong message to those engaged in drug trafficking, violent crime, gun, and gang activity that this type of behavior will not be tolerated. Together, DEA and MPD will vigorously pursue these criminals and lock up those who engage in such violence and illegal conduct," said Mike Ferguson, DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Washington Field Division.

The reduction in violent crime is due in large part to the formation of Crime Suppression Teams in each police District, the creation of a Homicide Intelligence Task Force, and partnerships with our federal partners in targeting violent offenders and drug traffickers.

Our federal partners are playing an integral role crime reduction. The MPD Gun Recovery Unit has recovered 369 guns this year. MPD has worked with the ATFE Firearms Trafficking Task Force to trace some of those weapons to point of sale/distribution. Overall, more than 1,700 guns have been taken off District streets in 2008.

“This is a great achievement for the District by the Metropolitan Police Department, said Mayor Fenty. “I commend our hard working members of MPD who put their lives on the line everyday to reduce violent crime and keep residents safe.”

LOCAL BLOODS GANG SECT INDICTED

EIGHT MEMBERS OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA LOCAL BLOODS GANG SECT INDICTED ON FEDERAL RACKETEERING CHARGES
Blood Members are Charged with Kidnapping and Assaulting Young Female Gang Member who was Trying to Leave the Gang


WASHINGTON – Eight members of the 662 Boss Piru gang, which purports to be a sect of the notorious, nationwide Bloods gang, have been charged by a federal grand jury in a 19-count indictment with conspiracy to commit kidnapping in aid of racketeering activity, kidnapping in aid of racketeering activity and numerous local offenses, including kidnapping, assault with a dangerous weapon, six counts of sexual abuse and obstructing justice, U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Taylor, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Cathy L. Lanier, and Joseph Persichini Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Washington Field Office, announced today.
The eight defendants are: Albert M. Price, 31, also known as “Original Gangster” and “Hellmary,” the believed leader of the gang; Marisa R. Gibson, 31, also known as “Angel of Death” and “Lady 151,” the believed leader of the female members of the gang; Deandre R. Tolson, 22, also known as “Bloody Sniper” and “Hellmary Jr.”; Marlowe St. Claire, 20, also known as “Bloody Lo”; Ceasar M. Hall, 19, also known as “Bloody Banger”; Latoye S. Morrison, 19, also known as “Lady Wax”; Lewis E. Fields, 21, also known as “Little Psycho”; and Dimitri Hightower, 29, also known as “Miciyh Jenkins” and “Bloody Micky.”
The indictment was returned under seal on September 9, 2008, and unsealed on Friday, September 12, 2008, following the arrest of several of the defendants. The defendants are scheduled to be arraigned starting today in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. If convicted of the charges, the defendants face the possibility of life imprisonment without the possibility of release.
“The horrific and violent kidnapping and assault of a young female gang member in this case by her alleged fellow gang members is a prime example of why we must be vigilant in not allowing gangs to get a foothold in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Taylor. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we will use every tool in our arsenal to bring to justice those who engage in violent criminal conduct. This indictment sends a clear message to gang members who engage in such criminal activity that there are grave consequences for their actions.”

“The arrests of these individuals are a part of our continued law enforcement efforts to rid our streets of violent crime,” said MPD Chief Lanier. “The District of Columbia is not and will not be a place where individuals can engage in violent activity.”
"Today's announcement regarding the indictment and arrest of several members of the Bloods serves as a strong reminder that the FBI will continue to investigate reports of any violent or gang-related activity to ensure the safety of our community and its citizens," said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Perschini.

The indictment alleges that the defendants are members of a criminal organization known as 662 Boss Piru, a “set” of, that is, a sub-group of, or gang affiliated with, the Bloods gang, a violent, nationwide gang. The indictment alleges that the 662 Boss Piru gang is a criminal enterprise that has operated since at least 2004, and which engages in a variety of criminal activities including prostitution, narcotics dealing, assault, threats, witness intimidation, kidnapping and robbery in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and elsewhere. According to the indictment, members of the 662 Boss Piru gang use intimidation, violence and threats of violence, including assault and kidnapping, to discipline and punish enterprise members and associates who violate enterprise rules or were disloyal.
The indictment further alleges that on June 8-9, 2008, the eight defendants kidnapped and assaulted a fellow young female gang member who was attempting to leave the gang. The alleged assault occurred in the 4900 block of Astor Place, SE, Washington, D.C. Thereafter, in a secluded area in 4500 block of Grant Street, NE, Washington, D.C., five of the defendants, Gibson, Tolson, St. Claire, Hall, Morrison, and Fields, are alleged to have forced the fellow gang member to perform sexual acts with four men that she did not know.
In announcing the indictment, U.S. Attorney Taylor, MPD Chief Lanier, and FBI Assistant Director in Charge Persichini praised the efforts of the FBI Special Agents who are investigating this matter, and the work of MPD Detectives Ali Roberts, Thurman Stallings, Neil Jones and Derrick Bolding; MPD Sergeant Kevin Rice; MPD Officers Corey Perkins, Charles Monk, Sherrie Forester, Jeffrey Nassar and John Salamone; MPD Evidence Technicians Natasha Pettus, Tony Nwani, Carmen Pagan, Valerie Campbell, John Holder and James Holder; and Metro Transit Officer Lenny Smith. Also commended were U.S. Attorney’s Office support personnel Eugena Johnson, Nicole Lee, James Mazzitelli, Kim Hall and Teesha Tobias, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark O’Brien and Greg Marshall, who are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.

21 August, 2008

PSA 102 Next Meeting is Being Prepared!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008
7:00PM
Sherwood Recreation Center

Updates on
Request for A Speed Camera eastbound of Florida Avenue, N.E.
Request for Speed Camera on H Street East and West Bound
Legislation on Prostitution Offenses
Legislation on Juvenile Justice and When to Prosecute Juveniles as Adults
(Tentative) Guest(s) Council Member Tommy Wells and At-Large Council Member Phil Mendelson and Attorneys from the Office of the D.C. Attorney General and the United States Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia A discussion when to charge juveniles as adults and other crimes that impact the lives of neighbors

Double Homicide in the Unit Block of K Street, NW

Double Homicide in the Unit Block of K Street, NW

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating the fatal shooting of two people in the unit block of K Street, NW.

At approximately 10:07 am on Thursday, August 14, 2008, officers from the First District responded to the unit block of K Street, NW, to investigate the sounds of gunshots in that area. Upon arrival, officers discovered two male victims at that location suffering from apparent multiple gunshot wounds.

The first victim has been identified as 61-year-old Nolan Cooper of no fixed address. He was transported to an area hospital and pronounced dead at 10:58 am.

The second victim has been identified as 18-year-old JohnQuan Douglas Wright of the unit block of L Place, NW. He was pronounced dead on the scene by a representative from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the District of Columbia.

This case remains under investigation by members from the department’s Homicide and Sexual Offenses Branch. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099 or 1-888-919-CRIM [E]. Anonymous information may also be forwarded to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411.

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. In this case due to the fact that there were two homicide victims, the reward offered will be up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction for the person or persons responsible.

22 July, 2008

D.C. Emergency Management Agency Launches Blog

DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency Launches Blog and Facebook Group
CONTACT: Jo’Ellen G. Countee, (202) 727-2985

The District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) has launched its new blog, Be Ready DC, at http://bereadydc.blogspot.com and a Facebook group, Be Ready DC. The blog and Facebook group provide information about homeland security, emergency management and general preparedness.

Both of these sites give HSEMA the opportunity to use social media to reach thousands of citizens that it normally would not reach using traditional means. In addition, it provides citizens with greater access to the agency and an opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and make suggestions.

“The use of social media tools such as blogs and Facebook pages is becoming more common across all levels of government,” said HSEMA Director Darrell Darnell. “With about 57 million Americans reading blogs, it is obvious that this form of communication appeals to a wide range of people. We want to use this communication tool to help us push our message out to the widest possible audience.”

To participate in the blog, simply visit http://bereadydc.blogspot.com. To access the Facebook group, log on via www.facebook.com, click on "Groups" and enter “Be Ready DC” in the search box. HSEMA encourages residents, students, commuters, and visitors to visit the sites and actively participate.

Neighborhood Safety Zone in Trinidad

MPD Investigates Multiple Violent Crimes, Establishes Second Neighborhood Safety Zone in Trinidad City Administrator Dan Tangherlini and Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier announced today that the Metropolitan Police Department has established the second Neighborhood Safety Zone (NSZ) in the Trinidad Area.

The NSZ have been established as a result of seven people shot in five separate incidents resulting in the death of 13-year-old Alonzo Robinson in the 1500 block of Holbrook Street, NE, in the early morning hours of Saturday July 19, 2008.

“”We had another violent night in the Trinidad neighborhood. Over the course of last night, we had a group of brazen individuals that once again entered the Trinidad neighborhood in a vehicle and repeatedly approached groups of people on the street, robbing and shooting them,” said Chief Lanier.

Detectives assigned to the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide and Sexual Offenses Branch are investigating, and are on the look out for a 2002 gold Dodge Intrepid bearing Maryland paper temporary tags. The car was last seen in the Trinidad area, and is believed to have been used in the multiple violent crimes in the Trinidad area:

At approximately 1:07 am, in the 1200 block of 16th Street, NE, an adult male and a 13-year-old male were victims of a shooting. The adult male was suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the body and the 13-year-old male was suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the leg. Both complainants were admitted to an area local hospital.

At approximately 1:50 am, at the intersection of Trinidad Avenue and Mount Olivet Road, NE, an adult male was suffering from an apparent stab wound to the neck. He was taken to an area local hospital and admitted in critical condition.
At approximately 2:25 am, in the 1400 block of Staples Street, NE, an adult male was suffering from apparent multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He was taken to an area local hospital and admitted in critical condition.

At approximately 2:27 am, in the 1100 block of Holbrook Street, NE, an adult male was suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the leg. He was taken to an area local hospital for treatment.

At approximately 2:30 am, in the 1500 block of Holbrook Street, NE, 13-year-old Alonzo Robinson, of an unknown address, was the victim of homicide. He was transported to an area local hospital and pronounced dead. Two other victims sustained gunshot wounds and were admitted to an area local hospital.
The NSZ will be in effect from 7 pm tonight until 7 pm on July 24, 2008. Checkpoints will be placed at the intersection of Mt. Olivet Road, NE and Bladensburg Road, NE southbound, to the intersection of Florida Avenue, NE, proceeding westward on Florida Avenue, NE to the intersection of Trinidad Avenue, NE and then north on Trinidad Avenue, NE to the intersection of Mt. Olivet Road, NE, then east to Bladensburg Road, NE.

The primary purpose of the NSZ program, with its checkpoints, its brochure, its signage, and its attendant publicity is to discourage persons inclined toward committing acts of violence by using a motor vehicle to enter the Trinidad neighborhood. The goal is to “fence them out.”

Anyone who has information regarding the cases is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099 or 1-888-919-CRIM [E]. Anonymous information can also be sent to the department’s text tip line by text messaging 50-411.

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for this homicide.

Oasis Liquors Meeting

Oasis Liquors: Please join your neighbors at a meeting on Tuesday, July 22 at 7pm at Two Rivers Public Charter School (1227 4th St NE). Come and share your thoughts on the reopening of this liquor store and help shape the community's next steps. The owners have been invited to attend to share their plans and hear your concerns.

Special Community Meeting

Special Community Meeting hosted by Commissioner M. Tony Richardson



Who: All 6C05 residents, business owners, and community stakeholders

What: Special Community Meeting

When: Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008 at 7pm

Where: Senate Square, 3rd Floor Lobby
Senate Square 201 I st ne 20002

Why: To discuss pressing neighborhood issues, challenges, and solutions

PSA 102 Public Safety Meeting August 2008

PSA 102 Boundaries

17 July, 2008

Firearm Registration in the District of Columbia

Firearm Registration in the District of Columbia

On July 14, 2008, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, joined by members of the Council of the District of Columbia, Acting Attorney General Peter J. Nickles and Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier, unveiled legislation and regulations on the registration and storage of handguns for self-defense in the home. The bill and rulemaking are necessary because of the United States Supreme Court’s June 26 ruling in District of Columbia v. Heller, which invalidated the District’s 32-year ban on handgun ownership.

Separately, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) issued emergency rulemaking on firearms registration and the licensing of firearms dealers, to bring the District into compliance with the Heller ruling.

* Notice of Emergency and Proposed Rulemaking (Firearms Regulations)**
* Firearms Control Emergency Amendment Act*


Amnesty
Residents registering firearms during this 180-day period are granted amnesty from any gun possession charges that might apply. Amnesty for un-registered firearms begins on July 17, 2008 and will last 180 days. Residents will ONLY be permitted to transport the firearm from one’s residence to MPD Headquarters and back home again during the Firearms Registration Unit’s hours of operation.

Firearms Registration Unit Hours

* July 17-18, 2008
7 am – 3 pm
* Starting July 21, 2008
Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm

Location
Registration will take place at MPD Headquarters only. You may not register a firearm at any other MPD facility.

Metropolitan Police Department Headquarters (Main Entrance)
300 Indiana Avenue, NW, 2nd Floor
Washington, DC 20001
Nearest Metro Stop: Judiciary Square (4th Street Exit)

What Should You Bring?

* Your UNLOADED firearm (do not bring any ammunition)
* Payment for registration and ballistics testing

Cost
The cost to register any firearm is $13 per weapon. Fingerprint processing and ballistics testing — also required — cost $35 and $12 respectively. The registration process may take up to 14 days.

Who May Register a Firearm?
Only District of Columbia residents with proof of residency may register an approved firearm with the MPD.

Ballistics Testing
A ballistics test will be conducted on every firearm registered in the District of Columbia. Owners should bring their firearms, but NO AMMNUITION. Ammunition for ballistics testing will be provided by the MPD.

Frequently Asked Questions about Registering a Firearm


1. What types of firearms can I register
2. What types of things would cause me to be disqualified from being able to register a firearm?
3. What are the costs and how long does it take to apply to register a firearm?
4. Do I have to be fingerprinted?
5. What caliber weapon can I register?
6. Can I carry my firearm outside my home?

What types of firearms can I register?
Shotguns, rifles, and revolvers. However, a shotgun barrel cannot be less than 20 inches in length, and a rifle barrel cannot be less than 16 inches in length and must have a total overall length of 26 inches or more. No weapon can shoot more than one shot by a single function of the trigger, or semi-automatically shoot more than 12 shots without manual reloading or be readily converted or restored to do so.

What types of things would cause me to be disqualified from being able to register a firearm?
To qualify for registration of a firearm in the District of Columbia, you must meet all of the following criteria. You:

1. Must not stand convicted of a crime of violence, or have any prior weapons offenses.
2. Must not be under indictment for a crime of violence or weapons offense.
3. Must not stand convicted within the past five years for a narcotics or dangerous drug offense, threats to do bodily harm or for assault.
4. Must not have been acquitted of any criminal charge by reason of insanity or adjudicated as a chronic alcoholic by any court within the past five years.
5. Must not have been voluntarily or involuntarily committed to any mental hospital or institution within the past five years.
6. Must not suffer from a physical defect which would make it unsafe for you to possess and use a firearm safely and responsibly.
7. Must not be found negligent in any firearm mishap causing death or injury to another human being.
8. Must not be convicted of any felony, or prostitution-related offense

What are the costs and how long does it take to apply to register a firearm?
The cost to register any firearm is $13 per weapon. Fingerprint processing and ballistics testing — also required — cost $35 and $12 respectively. The registration process may take up to 14 days.

Do I have to be fingerprinted?

Yes.

What caliber weapon can I register?

Any caliber of weapon may be registered.

Can I carry my firearm outside my home?
No.

15 July, 2008

Parker Street Fix-It is a Resounding Success!

Today's Parker Street Fix-It at 2nd and K Streets and the Alleys to the north and south of Parker received a great deal of attention from city agencies that are charged with public health and safety. Neighbors cared enough not only to get involved but took time from their jobs to walk with city officials and point out what they wanted to be different.

This is another step in the right direction to make the problems of Parker and K Street go away and not return.

The pictures below show the Fix It and those who came to assist.












PSA 102 Meeting Minutes - July 8 2008

PSA 102 Meeting Minutes - July 8 2008


Robert Pittman Co-Coordinator of PSA 102 opened the meeting at 7:10pm. Pittman Introduced:

• Brandon Bies Co-Coordinator of PSA 102
• Lieutenant Kimberlee Williams PSA 102 Commander
• Officers Carver and Pitt

More than 40 residents joined the meeting already in progress which included ANC Chairmen from 6A and 6C and ANC Commissioner Tony Richardson (6C). Joining the committee were Caroline Jhingory of the Mayor’s Office of Community Relations and Michael Bonds of the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) and Carolyn Smith 1st District Community Relations Liaison for the Metropolitan Police Department. Also an additional six police officers were in attendance along with Linda Taylor Ward Six Manager for the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Lieutenant Williams began with a report of the crime statistics in PSA 102 for the last 30 day period.
• 12 Robberies
• 13 ADW (Assault w Dangerous Weapon (12 non-pistol)
• 9 Burglaries
• Union Station Robbery (Arrest made)
• Burglary Today (Arrest made)
• 400 H Street Recording Studio being used as a Club and hangout for juveniles. Owner/manager asked to attend this meeting (No-Show)
• Victim of Pepper Spray Incident is okay was defending his property (car)
• Juveniles are not from this area. 8th and H Streets is a major transfer point across the entire city with many juveniles and others transferring to the 90 bus or X Lines to far northeast or far southeast.
• Juveniles who are committing crimes are getting back on buses and getting away.
• Studio 400 does not have a business license to conduct entertainment venue related activities and it’s still unclear as to what and why they were granted a “One Day” ABC license. Internal investigation is underway with DCRA and ABRA to determine the status of the business.
• The success rates of PSA 102 Officers in apprehending suspects in robbery, burglary and assaults are high.

Problems presented by PSA 102 residents:

• Issue #1: Residents say they need more help with male transgender prostitution, drug dealing/use, alley overgrowth, and a feeling of unsafe environment.
• Response: MPD will create a prostitution free zone and anyone who enters that zone for the purposes of soliciting will be arrested. Both Bies and Pittman have discussed prostitution diversion and drug addiction programs included in any sentence that a judge may give to offenders. Bies and Pittman do not want arrests to occur simply to have people released and back on the streets to continue the same behaviors. Suggestion, have residents start a petition now to require or aid Judges in sentencing and diversion programs for drug addiction and help with other behaviors inconsistent with community norms.
• Issue #2: Studio 400 and underage kids has become a problem affecting the residents in the immediate area of 4th and H Streets NE. It’s a studio per its license so why would it apply for ABC licenses (One Day) and why would the intent seem to be to have kids attend weekly Go-Go’s?
• Response: Investigations have begun into the license and the issuance of a One Day ABC License. Studio 400 has been shut down as a result of its actions and failure to explain its practices to the Community.
• Issue#3 Assaults on Neighbors particularly white males by teenagers (some on bikes) between Union Station and 14th Street, N.E. south of H Street. These attacks are occurring in the evening, night and late night.
• Response: Police response is heighten patrols. Community Walks will begin in the area along with some other measures to regain control of our neighborhood and ensure the safety of our residents
• Issue #4: Residents raised concerns again that parking on G, 12th, 13th , Wylie and Eye Streets, Linden Place and Linden Court, N.E. is preventing them from being able to park when they come home because of the lack of city planning to ensure that the Bars on H Street had adequate parking.
• Response: Police and Parking enforcement is once again asked to step up enforcement in the area around these Streets and discourage double parking in front of the Atlas and other ABC establishments on H Street. Some Block members are petitioning DDOT for Residential Parking Permitted streets through to 12AM of each day with enforcement at night.
• Issue #5: Some residents raised questions about how to protect themselves.
• Response: Pittman reminded residents that speaking and knowing your neighbors will save you. Teenagers and other who are from the neighborhood act as a deterrent to teenagers who come from other areas looking to cause trouble. The police also reminded residents that talking on the cell phones or listening to other devices like mp3 players are a distraction and place you at increased risk of attack because you appear to others as a potential victim. Carolyn Smith, MPD1D Community Coordinator reminded residents that we are a community and that we all have a role in public safety.

Legislative or Procedural Changes Needed This Period

• Getting arrested is a revolving door. Juveniles who commit felony offenses should be held as adults with the option by the D.C. Attorney General and the US Attorney for the District of Columbia to charge juveniles who are repeat offenders as adults and incarcerate them as such.
• Consider repeat offender prostitutes a crime of a magnitude that destroys neighborhoods and creates excessive costs to correct; therefore offenders should face felony prosecution.

Many other comments ensued and wrapped up with Pittman and Bies reminding attended that National Night Out is Tuesday August 5, 2008 from 5-9pm. A community Walk will begin at 6PM at Senate Square and at the Argonaut. Both groups will meet at 10th Street and come to Sherwood Recreation Center to join the festivities celebrating fighting and deterring crime and public disorder. The meeting concluded at 8:30pm


Next Meeting Tuesday August 12, 2008 7PM

13 July, 2008

MPD Shuts Down Studio 400

The Metropolitan Police Department acting on complaints from the community has shut down Studio 400. More information will be posted when it comes available.

12 July, 2008

Mayor Fenty Schedules an Attack of Vacant Property, Prostitution, Drugs and Trashed Alleys at 2nd and K Streets

Ward 6 Core Team Fix-it
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
at 10am
Meeting at the Corner of 2nd and K Street NE

Neighbors Invited

We are visiting this area to resolve some of the public health and safety concerns that are a result of the alleged prostitution throughout the area. We visited the area yesterday, 07/10/2008 and walked throughout 2nd and 3rd and K and Parker Street NE with neighbors to survey healthy/safety concerns and take photographs, which are attached. Caroline is requesting a multi-agency response for the following:

Department of Health (DOH) – due to the excessive amount of used condoms, stagnant water, and fecal matter found throughout the alley We are requesting a survey the area for potential health concerns. Abatement for rodents and spraying for mosquito larva.

Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) – Evidence of illegal activity occurring behind 209 K Street NE, a vacant property, owner has failed to maintain, front side-window of property is broken out and according to next door neighbor prostitutes and “customers” enter through this window. Property owner(s) be fined cited for additional violations.

Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Urban Forestry Division – Survey of area for potential increase in street lighting and trimming of trees which according to residents shade illegal activity. Also, there were several large and deep potholes throughout the alley holding stagnant water with mosquitoes flying around it.

Department of Public Works (DPW) - Area be surveyed for abandoned/unregistered vehicles. SWEEP clean public space areas and alleys of debris, condoms, clothing, and liquor bottles. Property owners be fined/cited for additional violations.

Department of Human Services (DHS) – Even though we will be visiting during the day, I have run into these alleged “prostitutes,” during the day and we would like to have someone on board that could offer them some of the city’s social services. DC Fire Department (DCFD) – To view area for issues surrounding fire safety hazardous conditions.

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) – Lt. Williams and a few of her officers to join us to assure safety and provide perspective on issues in this community in addition to provide information on what MPD is doing to secure the area.

10 July, 2008

Prostitution Overwhelms Parker Street Residents

Caroline Jhingory the new Ward 6 Community Services Coordinator tackles male transsexual prostitution which has Parker Street and K Street residents fearing for their quality of Life. After residents complained about this problem at a recent PSA 102 Meeting, PSA Co-Coordinator Robert Pittman joined with Caroline Jhingory to get a first hand look with neighbors of 3rd, Parker and K Streets.

Parker Residents with Caroline

Residents say this area at 2nd and K Streets shields many transsexual prostitutes from detection. The pictures below show the area of around this block including the alleys between K and Parker and Parker and Eye Streets where overgrowth of vegetation in yads alleys, vacant properties some used for prostitution and drugs, crack bags and trees needing to be trimmed exist. PSA 102 Coordinators Robert Pittman and Brandon Bies are committed to working with the residents, ANC Commissioners and city agencies to clean up this drug infested area and ridding it of the prostitutes.



























09 July, 2008

Changing of The Guard


Brandon Bies PSA 102 Co-Coordinator welcomes Lieutenant Kimberlee Williams to the command of Patrol Service Area 102 in the 1st Police District of the Metropolitan Police Department while Robert Pittman PSA 102 Co-Coordinator and Lieutenant Barbara Hawkins outgoing PSA Commander look on.



Brandon and Robert present Lieutenant Barbara Williams with a certificate of distinguished service for her work and dedication to the residents, businesses and police officers of PSA 102.

Roger Mattoli of PSA 102 and the first PSA Coordinator when we were PSA 510 and then PSA 102 gives crime statistics and trends monthly at PSA public safety meetings.



Metro Police Commander for Metro Transit Police discusses with Lieutenant Hawkins strategies for dealing with the X2 and 90 bus lines along H and 8th Streets, N.E. and Benning Road N.E.


Lieutenant Hawkins gives final thoughts on her work as PSA Commander.

PSA 102 Coordinators walk with PSA Officers in the Community










PSA 102 Coordinators and Police are concerned with the blight along 4th Street, H Street and 6th Street. We have identified many problems and requested cleanups in many of the alleys and streets.