20 May, 2011

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Event

Another Huge Turnout At DEA’s
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Event
Two full candy containers with various types of medications collected in Arizona
Two full candy containers with various types of medications collected in Arizona
Drive-up collection site in West Seattle with drugs collected from three cars.
Drive-up collection site in West Seattle with drugs collected from three cars.
Delaware residents dispose of their unwanted, unused, and expired drugs at one of 29 drop off locations in Delaware, the Dover Downs Racetrack in Dover.
Delaware residents dispose of their unwanted, unused, and expired drugs at one of 29 drop off locations in Delaware, the Dover Downs Racetrack in Dover.
MAY 06 – (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Americans participating in the United States Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) second National Prescription Drug Take-Back event on April 30th turned in more than 376,593 pounds (188 tons) of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at the 5,361 take-back sites that were available in all 50 states. This is 55 percent more than the 242,000 pounds (121 tons) the public brought in during last September’s event.
Four days after last fall’s Take-Back Day, Congress passed legislation amending the Controlled Substances Act to allow the DEA to develop a process for people to safely dispose of their prescription drugs. DEA immediately began developing this process after President Obama signed the Safe and Secure Drug Disposal Act of 2010 on October 12.
“The amount of prescription drugs turned in by the American public during the first two Take-Back events is simply staggering—309 tons—and represents a clear need for a convenient way to rid homes of unwanted or expired prescription drugs,” said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart. “DEA is hard at work establishing a drug disposal process and will continue to offer take-back opportunities until the proper regulations are in place.
“With the support and hard work of our local law enforcement and community partners, these events have not only dramatically reduced the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse, but have also increased awareness of this critical public health issue,” said Leonhart.
“Responding to our Nation’s prescription drug abuse epidemic requires a sustained effort from government, the private sector, the medical community, as well as families and individuals,” said Gil Kerlikowske, Director of National Drug Control Policy. “The unprecedented amount of prescription drugs turned in by citizens last week will keep dangerous, addictive drugs from being abused. I commend the DEA for its successful nationwide prescription drug take-back day and for their work to make it easier for communities to stay healthy, while safeguarding the environment.”
Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high—more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined, according to the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Studies show that teens who abuse prescription drugs often obtain them from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards.
The DEA’s Take-Back events are a significant piece of the White House’s prescription drug abuse prevention strategy released last month by the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Purging America’s home medicine cabinets of neglected drugs is one of four strategies for reducing prescription drug abuse and diversion laid out in Epidemic: Responding to America’s Prescription Drug Abuse Crisis. The other strategies include education of health care providers, patients, parents and youth; establishing prescription drug monitoring programs in all the states; and increased enforcement to address doctor shopping and pill mills.
Numerous national organizations joined the DEA and its state and local partners in putting on last weekend’s Take Back Day, including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy; the American Association of Poison Control Centers; the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America; D.A.R.E. America; the Federation of State Medical Boards; the U. S. Health Resources and Services Administration; the International Association of Chiefs of Police; the National Association of Attorneys General; the National Family Partnership; the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives; the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy; the National District Attorneys Association; the National Sheriffs’ Association; and The Partnership at Drugfree.org.
###

06 May, 2011

Ward 6 Budget Town Hall Meeting

We are less than 24 hours from the Ward 6 Budget Town Hall Meeting, and Mayor Gray hopes to see you and hear from you!

Today's budget proposal fact: There will be a 8% reduction in funds for the Department of Health and Human Services. That is $113.4 Million. You can go to budget.dc.gov to read how the $113.4 Million is broken out across the department. Some residents want to see the taxes of the wealthiest residents increased further than what has been proposed (read my email earlier in the week) while a segment of people feel the government is already doing too much and should cut further.  It is very important that Mayor Gray hears the opinions of Ward 6 and here is the information for tomorrow's town hall meeting:

                                                                                     Ward 6 Town Hall Budget Meeting
                                                                                     Saturday, May 7, 3:00pm
                                                                                     Miner Elementary School
                                                                                     601 15th Street, NE
                                                                                      budget.dc.gov

Your Host Committee is:

Councilmember Tommy Wells

Capitol Hill North Neighborhood Association
Penn Quarter Neighborhood Association
Linden Neighborhood Association, Inc.
CHAMPS – Capitol Hill’s Chamber of Commerce

Commissioner David Holmes, Chair, ANC 6A
Commissioner Neil Glick, Chair, ANC 6B
Commissioner Rob McBee, Chair, ANC 6D
Commissioner Adam Healy, ANC 6A01
Commissioner Andrew Hysell, ANC 6A06
Commissioner Ivan Frishberg, ANC 6B2
Commissioner Brian Pate, ANC 6B5
Commissioner Jared Critchfield ANC 6B06
Commissioner Brian Flahaven, ANC 6B09
Commissioner Bill Crews, ANC 6C07
Commissioner Andy Litsky, ANC 6D04
Tom Madison, Capitol Hill North Neighborhood Association
Jo-Ann Neuhaus, Executive Director, Penn Quarter Neighborhood Association
Julia Christian, Executive Director, CHAMPS – Capitol Hill’s Chamber of Commerce
The Chairman of ANC 6D, Rob McBee

29 April, 2011

SECURE YOUR BICYCLE TO REDUCE THE RISK OF THEFT

Bicycling is a great form of exercise and it helps reduce pollution. It’s fun for both
adults and children. Weather you use a bicycle to get to and from school, for your daily
work commute, or for exercise, it is important that you always secure it when it’s not
being used. In an effort to prevent thefts and to aid in the recovery of stolen bicycles, the
MPD offers the following simple suggestions.
• Invest in a quality lock and use it whenever you are not riding the bicycle.
• Lock your bicycle in an area that is well-lit.
• If you are not going to use your bicycle for a significant period of time, locate a
place (preferably inside) where you can safely secure it.
• Document the following information about your bicycle: make, size and serial
number. Store this information in a safe place. The serial number is found
underneath the bicycle between the crank arms and the bottom bracket. Keep all
receipts for your bicycle, including the purchase receipt and repair receipts; these
will help provide proof of ownership if your bicycle is stolen.
• Register your bicycle with the National Bike Registry.

While bicycle registration is no longer required in the District of Columbia, the
District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the MPD strongly encourage
residents to register their bicycles with the National Bicycle Registry (NBR). NBR is a
service that allows you to register your bicycle by serial number in a national database. If
your bike is ever stolen, it can be identified and you can prove ownership. Law enforcement
anywhere can access this database. NBR also guarantees your registration. If your bike
is stolen and not recovered by police within six months, NBR will register your next
bike for free and the stolen bike information will remain in the database until the bike is
recovered no matter how long it takes.

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK TO BRING THOUSANDS TO DC
TO HONOR OFFICERS KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace
Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as “National Police Week.” Every
year since, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on
DC each May to participate in a variety of events to honor those who have made the ultimate
sacrifice and were killed in the line of duty. The 23rd Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held at
the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on Friday, May 13, 2011. Sponsored by the
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), at the Memorial grounds,
located at Judiciary Square, on the 400 block of E Street, NW, Washington, DC. Other Police
Week events include bicycle and motorcycle rides, wreath-laying ceremonies, the 14th annual
Blue Mass (May 3 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 10th and G Streets, NW), seminars by
Concerns of Police Survivors, a Pipeband March and Service, and the Police Unit Bicycle Tour.
Locally, the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary sponsors the 32nd Annual Memorial Service
for law enforcement officers from the region killed in the line of duty. The ceremony will take
place at 11 am on Monday, May 9, 2011, at the memorial fountain outside MPD Headquarters
at 300 Indiana Avenue, NW. This year, the service will honor six members of the community
who made the ultimate sacrifice in 2010.

Mayor Gray Announces Kickoff of the Metropolitan Police Littering Enforcement Pilot Program

Mayor Gray Announces Kickoff of the Metropolitan Police Littering Enforcement Pilot Program
RELEASE ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN THE NEWSROOM FOR THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Media Contacts
(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today announced that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) would begin a pilot project May 1 to enforce laws against littering by writing tickets and imposing penalties on pedestrians as well as motorists who litter.
“Clean cities are livable cities,” Mayor Gray said. “But the Department of Public Works can’t be expected to clean up after all of our residents. Sometimes we have to bring the force of law to bear to make sure our residents and visitors treat our city as they would their own homes. This program helps us do that.”
Throughout May, MPD will issue warnings to violators as they work with community partners to educate the public about littering enforcement. Beginning June 1, 2011, anyone violating the city’s littering law in the MPD’s Fourth District (which covers much of Ward 4 and part of Ward 5) may be issued an actual ticket or be subject to arrest.
If an officer sees an individual intentionally or carelessly dropping waste material of any source on public space, in waterways, or on private property not controlled by the individual, he or she may receive a $75 ticket for littering. Failure to properly respond by following the instructions on the back of the ticket will result in additional penalties.
Those cited are required to provide an accurate name and address to the issuing officer. Those who refuse or fail to provide an accurate name and address can be arrested. Upon conviction, non-cooperative litterers will be fined an additional $100 to $250 by the D.C. Superior Court.
While the pilot is in effect, MPD will continue citywide enforcement of the prohibition against disposing, causing, or allowing the disposal of litter from a vehicle on any public or private property, subject to a $100 traffic ticket.

Traffic Advisory: Weekend Events and Street Closures

April 29, 2011
Traffic Advisory: Weekend Events and Street Closures
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has provided the following information about events scheduled in the District of Columbia this weekend.

Avon Walk for Breast CancerThe Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1, from 7:00 am to 2:30 pm.  The walk will form on the National Monument Grounds and will proceed over the following route:
  • West on the gravel walkway along Constitution Avenue to Washington Memorial Driveway, continues around Washington Memorial Driveway to Jefferson Drive, SW
  • Southeast on Jefferson Drive to 14th Street, NW
  • North on 14th Street to Constitution Ave NW
  • The walk will disband on the grounds of the monument.
The participants of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer will be using the sidewalk as their path of travel.
However, motorists could still encounter possible delays if operating in the vicinity of this event and may wish to consider alternative routes.
Race for Hope 5KThe Race for Hope 5K walk/run is scheduled to be held on Sunday, May 1. In order to facilitate this event there will be no vehicular traffic allowed along the route of the race. The race will begin at 9:00 am and end at approximately 11:00 am.  The related street closures will begin at 5:00 am. All streets affected by this event are expected to be reopened at approximately 11 am, depending on prevailing conditions. Motorists should expect delays during the race.
Street Closings:
  • 13th Street between E Street & Pennsylvania Ave., NW
  • Pennsylvania Ave. between 14th & 3rd Streets, NW
  • 3rd Street from Pennsylvania Ave., NW to E Street, SW
  • E Street, SW from 4th to 3rd Streets
  • 4th Street from E Street to Independence Ave., SW
  • Independence Ave. from 4th to 3rd Streets, SW
  • Maryland Ave. from 3rd Street, SW to 1st Street, NW
  • 1st Street to Constitution Ave., NW
  • Constitution Ave., from 1st Street to Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Route
  • Starting at 12th & Pennsylvania Ave., NW heading east on Pennsylvania Ave
  • South on 3rd Street NW
  • West on Independence Ave., SW
  • South on 4th Street, SW
  • East on E Street, SW
  • North on 3rd Street, SW
  • East on Maryland Ave., SW
  • North on 1st Street, NW
  • West on Constitution Ave., NW continuing onto Pennsylvania Ave., NW
  • Finishing at 12th Street & Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Note: The surrounding areas and streets leading to this event may also be closed or affected starting at 5:00 am thru 11:00 am.
All street closures and listed times are subject to change based upon prevailing or unexpected conditions.  Motorists could encounter delays if operating in the vicinity of this event and may wish to consider alternative routes.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

Farewell from Commander Kamperin

Dear Community Members:

After 32 years in law enforcement (nearly 26 with MPD) I’ve decided to retire and pursue a career and other interests within the private sector and to spend more time with my family. This was not an easy decision to leave a career and agency that I love so much and am so proud to have been a part of. There is not much more in life that is more rewarding then being able to do what you love and are passionate about. During these past 26 years with MPD I have been blessed with many diverse professional opportunities and career advancements. I have enjoyed my opportunities to meet and work with great people; not only within MPD but also throughout the communities I have served. The 1D Community is in good hands with its dedicated public servants. Also, MPD is fortunate to have the talent level it does so that the transition of new leadership at 1D will be seamless. Rest assured I will work with my replacement and the Chief of Police to ensure this is accomplished.

Over the past nearly four years we have accomplished many things within the First District: increased foot patrols throughout the community, decreased response time for calls for service, improved customer service, enhanced Community Policing within the Patrol Service Areas and annual crime reductions. In 2010, through the dedication and efforts of the men and women of the First District, working closely with the community, 1D received the Department’s Crime Reduction Award.

I want to thank each of you who have assisted me and 1D in our successes- it’s impossible to reach these achievements without the strong support of neighbors and businesses that take the time and get involved with their local police. I also want to acknowledge our outstanding officials here at 1D who have worked diligently on strategic plans to enhance public safety and excelled in leading their teams to that end.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge Chief Cathy Lanier and Assistant Chief Diane Groomes for trusting in me and my abilities to lead the First District; their guidance and counsel; providing resources to accomplish our goals and for being available anytime to assist me. It is often that these qualities are not seen on the “front lines” as great leaders often remain in the shadows allowing their people to shine.

Although my last day is May 21st, the Citizen Advisory Council (CAC) for 1D is planning a public event at our next scheduled meeting Tuesday, May 3rd at 7pm here at 1D in our community room (additional information will be put out by them on this listserv). In addition I will be taking this opportunity to acknowledge some members for their efforts during 2010. I hope you can join us.

Again thank you for your involvement, support and encouragement over the past several years. I wish each of you prosperity, health, happiness and of course safety-stay involved YOU do make the difference.

David Kamperin

25 April, 2011

MPD POLICE RESERVE CORPS SEEKS NEW MEMBERS

MPD POLICE RESERVE CORPS SEEKS NEW MEMBERS

The Metropolitan Police Reserve Corps is a volunteer program that offers qualified
civic minded individuals the opportunity to assist the Metropolitan Police
Department (MPD) in carrying out its policing responsibilities.

Members of the Metropolitan Police Reserve Corps can make a volunteer public safety
contribution to their community in many ways.  Reserve Officer assignments are varied
 and range from administrative support to the broad duties of career police officers.
Reserve Officers are expected to volunteer a minimum of 16 hours per month, or 192
hours per year. Last year alone, Reserve Officers provided over 17,500 hours of
supplemental services to the department.

The application deadline for the next Metropolitan Police Reserve Corps class is May 16, 2011.

Citywide Information for DC Residents:

Citywide Information for DC Residents:

1) U.S. Atty's Office Court Reports: http://www.justice.gov/usao/dc/programs/cp/Court_Reports/court_reports.html

2) MPD & Neighborhood Watch Training: http://www.mpdc.dc.gov/NeighborhoodWatch

3) DEA's National Takeback Day (Safe Disposal of Old & Expired Prescription Drugs): http://www.nationaltakebackday.com/

4) DC Gov't - Make a Request for City Services: http://311.dc.gov/

5) Summer Jobs for Teens: Jr. Police Academy: http://www.mpdc.dc.gov/JPA

6) Summer Jobs for Teens: DC Department of Parks and Recreation: http://dpr.dc.gov/DC/DPR/About+DPR/Employment/DPR+Summer+Employment

Man Gets 33-Month Prison Term For Series of Vehicle Break-ins

Man Gets 33-Month Prison Term For Series of Vehicle Break-ins
- Broke Into One Vehicle While Police Were Staking Out the Area -
             WASHINGTON - Anthony David Wiley, 53, of Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to a 33-month prison term for breaking into vehicles, including one crime that took place near a police surveillance team, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
              Wiley pled guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to charges of unauthorized use of a vehicle and second degree theft. He was sentenced on April 19, 2011 by the Honorable Judge Florence Pan, who noted the effect of such crimes on the quality of life.
             As part of his plea agreement, Wiley admitted that, on October 12, 2009, near the 1300 block of New York Avenue NW, he punched the door locks of a Ford Econoline Van and attempted to steal tools from inside. At the time of this offense, Wiley was driving a Ford Ranger truck that had been stolen only days earlier. The passenger door lock on the Ranger truck also had been punched. Inside that truck was an IBM Think Pad that had been stolen from another vehicle, blocks away, less than an hour before Wiley broke into the van.
          Wiley also admitted that, on September 8, 2010, in the 200 block of Pennsylvania Avenue  NW, he attempted to break into another van. Due to many reports relating to thefts from autos, U.S. Capitol Police were conducting surveillance in the area at the time. Officers stopped Wiley before he entered the vehicle. He told the police at the time that he was using a screwdriver to break into the vehicle and that he intended to steal items from inside the van.
           Wiley additionally admitted that, on January 23, 2011, in the area of D Street and Indiana Avenue NW, he popped the locks of another Econoline van and stole a GPS system and cash. 

            In announcing the sentence,  U.S. Attorney Machen commended those who worked on the case from the Metropolitan Police Department, including Officer Terrence Welsh, of the First District, Crime Analyst Kelly Branthover, and Detective Chanel Howard. He also praised Special Agents Sean Camp, Dennis Holland, Jack Gibson, Lawrence Anyaso and Randall Hayden, and Crime Analyst Jerry Bell, all of the Capitol Police, and U.S. Park Police Investigators R. M. Abt and Monique Pettett. Finally, he recognized the work of Mark Crawford, formerly of the Capitol Police, who is now an investigator with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Worm, who investigated and prosecuted the case.


Commander David K. Kamperin
First District
101 M St SW
Washington, DC 20024

13 April, 2011

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

The following post appears courtesy of Joye E. Frost, Acting Director, Office for Victims of Crime

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) is being observed nationwide April 10-16, 2011. Every year during this week, cities, towns, organizations, and community members come together to honor crime victims and those who serve them. A local celebration with national support, NCVRW is firmly rooted in our nation’s communities. NCVRW is a time for every citizen to focus on raising awareness and promoting victims’ rights.

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) helps lead NCVRW efforts throughout the country and hosted prelude events in Washington, D.C., last week, including the Annual National Candlelight Observance and the Attorney General’s National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony. The events kicked off NCVRW and placed a national spotlight on what is ultimately a local observance.

To help communities plan and execute their own celebrations, OVC provides a variety of resource materials. The NCVRW Resource Guide features educational content, campaign materials, artwork, and a theme video. These tools make it easy for communities to plan local events and work with local media outlets to promote awareness. To provide national consistency, OVC selects a theme highlighting particular crime victims’ issues every year.

The NCVRW theme for 2011 – “Reshaping the Future, Honoring the Past” – acknowledges the contributions of victim service providers to meeting tomorrow’s public safety challenges and pays tribute to our nation’s crime victims. The theme also highlights the capacity of victim service providers to help mold the future of the crime victims’ services field. The amazing individuals who received awards during last week’s ceremony are just a few of the thousands of professionals throughout the country who are helping to make sure that victims are protected, acknowledged, and involved in every phase of the justice system – that justice for all always includes justice for victims.

As Attorney General Eric Holder said during the Candlelight Observance:

“As we join together to commemorate this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, it is clear that we are also bound by our common goals, by our shared concerns, and by our collective resolve to do more to protect those at risk and in need – and to support every person, every family, and every community now struggling to overcome the devastating effects of crime.”

During NCVRW and throughout the year, OVC acknowledges that our most vital partners are the providers in the field, the local policymakers who stand up for victims, the survivors who refuse to be silenced, and the victims whose memories will never fade.

For additional information about NCVRW, please visit http://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/index.html.

01 April, 2011

DDOT Headquarters Moving to 55 M Street, SE


Friday, April 1, 2011
Media Contacts: John Lisle – 202-671-2004
DDOT Headquarters Moving to 55 M Street, SE 
(Washington, D.C.) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will be moving its headquarters to 55 M Street, SE over the next two months.  The new office building is LEED certified and will house DDOT’s administrative offices and approximately 450 staff members. 
“The move is one strategic example of what we are doing as an agency to decrease our ecological footprint,” said Director Bellamy, “it will also make us a more efficient agency and will benefit our customers, the residents of the District of Columbia, because for the first time since the department was created, most of our offices will be housed under one roof.”  
DDOT’s Infrastructure Project Management Administration is scheduled to move first on April 22.  The Office of the Director, Policy Planning and Sustainability Administration, Progressive Transportation Services Administration, Transportation Operations Administration and the Urban Forestry Administration will follow and be in the new facility by mid May. 
The DDOT offices for the School Transit Subsidiary Program and public space permits will remain at their current locations.  The School Transit Subsidy Program will remain in the Reeves Center at 2000 14th Street, NW, and the Permitting Center will remain at 1100 4th Street, SW. 
Effective Monday, May 23, 2011 DDOT’s new mailing address will be 55 M Street, SE, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20003.  Office fax and telephone numbers will remain the same.   
Those visiting the new office will be required to sign-in at the main reception desk located on the 4th Floor to gain access to DDOT offices.  The entrance to the onsite visitor parking garage is located on Cushing Place south of M Street. 
The new office is accessible via the Navy Yard Metro station on the Green Line, and is directly above the station entrance at M and Half Streets.
DDOT’s main administrative office is currently located at 2000 14th Street, NW, 6th Floor and may be reached at (202) 673-6813.  For more information about DDOT visit http://ddot.dc.gov.
Monica Hernandez, Communication Specialist, District Department of Transportation - Office of the Director, 2000 14th Street, NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC, 20009, Direct: 202-671-2261  Mobile: 202-359-6647 Office: 202-673-6813 Fax: 202-671-0650, E-mail monica.hernandez@dc.gov, www.ddot.dc.gov
 

27 March, 2011

Safety Tips from MPD

Five Weekend Safety Tips.
 
You can:
 
1) Reduce 'Theft from Autos'- Report suspicious activity. If you observe anyone peeking in and out of vehicles; or acting suspiciously around the front and back of homes in your block, report it to 9-1-1. Tell your neighbors to conduct exit exams when they leave their vehicles. Walk around the car and peek into the windows. Make sure spare change, electronic devices, packages, shopping bags and charging devices are not in plain view. Use anti-theft devices for added safety.
 
2) Reduce ‘Bicycle Theft’ by securing your bicycles inside of your home, instead of outside; and by using anti-theft devices, even bike alarms to secure your bicycles in safe places you visit.
 
3) Reduce ‘Gas Station Robberies and Theft’ by planning to gas-up vehicles during daylight hours and by IMMEDIATELY locking your doors the moment you exit the vehicle (even while standing next to the vehicle to pump gas); keeping purses and other valuable items in the trunk of the car or a secured location in the back of the car; being as vigilant as possible (watching cars and people as they pull up near your vehicle).
 
4) Reduce ‘Street Robberies’ by staying FREE OF DISTRACTIONS. Make a habit of putting cell phones and music players away as you walk around. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, large purses and cards like Social Security Cards that would place you in jeopardy of being a victim of identity theft.
 
5) Travel in groups. Watch people around you. Some victims of crimes have reported being asked the time or for directions before a street robbery. Avoid using outdoor ATMs or machines that are not in areas that make you feel safe. In the District, some police stations house ATMs. Make plans to quickly secure items after leaving a store where expensive electronics are purchased. Certain stores will allow you to place a tracking device on your electronics immediately after purchasing.

24 March, 2011

Wallet Found

Today while walking home from Stuart Hobson, my 11yo found a wallet in Stanton Park with a plane
ticket to Tennessee and cash. The driver's license was
from Tennessee, so we are guessing that the woman is here visiting. My daughter
called the police and they came and took the wallet, but I wanted to let people
know in case they knew this woman. The wallet belonged to Heana Plank, from
Knoxville TN.

Man Pleads Guilty in Series of Assaults and Robberies

Man Pleads Guilty in Series of Assaults and Robberies
- Brandished Knife in Some of the Attacks -
        WASHINGTON - Samuel Eggleston, 19, of Bowie, Md., pled guilty today to charges stemming from a series of crimes that took place last year, including armed assaults, robberies, and an attempted burglary, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
        Eggleston pled guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to charges of armed robbery, robbery, assault with intent to rob, carrying a dangerous weapon, attempted second degree burglary and assault with intent to commit first degree sexual abuse.  The Honorable Ann O’Regan Keary scheduled sentencing for June 16, 2011.
        According to the government’s evidence, two of the incidents took place on April 7, 2010. In one, Eggleston entered a home on Ellen Wilson Place SE at about 6:30 p.m., was confronted by the woman who lived there, and left when told to get out.  Fifteen minutes later, he followed another woman into an apartment building in the unit block of I Street SE, and knocked on her door three times.  The first time, he asked her if he could use the bathroom and was turned away. The second time, he asked for a glass of water and the woman provided it.  The third time, he lunged at the victim with a knife.  The victim was able to safely close the door.
        In court, the defendant further acknowledged that on October 9, 2010, at approximately 1:25 a..m., he approached two women sitting on the front steps of a house in the 900 block of Constitution Avenue NE.  He asked them if they had a cigarette.  Eggleston then produced a large white-handled kitchen knife, and stated “Give me your purses or I’m going to cut you up.”  The defendant waved the knife in a threatening manner.  Each woman gave him about $40.
        Eggleston also admitted that on October 10, 2010, at about 1:15 a.m., he followed another victim into her apartment building in the 500 block of 13th Street NE.  When the victim tried to open the door to her apartment, the defendant said “Give me your money.”  She turned around and saw Eggleston pointing a large knife at her.  He took the victim’s iPod and then attempted to force her into a stairwell.  The victim grabbed the blade of the knife, and Eggleston eventually let go, and ran out of the building.
        Finally, on October 12, 2010, at about 2 p.m., Eggleston followed another victim into her apartment building in the 500 block of 12th Street NE.  As she was attempting to unlock her apartment door, he approached her from behind and stated “Where’s the money?”  The victim told him that she did not have money, but only credit cards.  The victim dropped her purse on the floor in front of her apartment door.  Eggleston was holding a large kitchen knife to her back.  He told the victim to go into her apartment and then followed her inside.  He ordered her to “bend over and lift her dress up.”  She fought and struggled with the defendant.  The defendant ran out of her apartment and took the victim’s wallet, house keys, and car keys. 
        Eggleston then drove away in the victim’s car.  On the following day, Prince George’s County Police stopped the defendant while he was driving the victim’s car.    

20 March, 2011

Dangerous Situations near H Street NE

Police Alert-Shooting  (Waiting for more information)

Shooting  0258 hours  1300 b/o H St NE (Sunday Morning) 
At 0300 hrs an ADW Gun occurred at 1300 H St NE south alley. Complainant states he was standing in the alley when a vehicle approached and shots were fired at him. He was struck in the groin. No additional info at this time.Robbery Gun_1538 hours (Saturday evening)_500 block 3rd St NE_Lookout for a skinny B/M on a bike armed with a gun

Gray Administration Opens MPD Evidence Warehouse

March 15, 2011
Gray Administration Opens MPD Evidence Warehouse
Today, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Chief Cathy L. Lanier and Department of Real Estate Services (DRES) Interim Director Brian J. Hanlon officially marked the opening of the new, state-of-the-art Evidence Warehouse. The facility handles all seized MPD property evidence and integrates advanced technology and best practices to ensure safe and responsible storage. The project was completed eight weeks ahead of schedule and is approximately $700,000 under-budget.

“On behalf of the Metropolitan Police Department, I am thrilled to announce the completion of the Evidence Warehouse,” said Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier. “This facility will serve as a national industry leader in the secure storage and management of evidence and property. It also allows for more efficient retrieval of items for laboratory testing and court proceedings.

MPD partnered with the Department of Real Estate Services (DRES), who managed the design and construction process for the Evidence Warehouse. The 30,000 square feet building is comprised of 10,000 square feet of administrative area for MPD and 20,000 square feet of storage space.

“I’m pleased to stand with Chief Lanier and announce the completion this mission-critical facility,” said DRES Interim Director Brian J. Hanlon. “DRES is especially proud of this collaborative effort because it was completed ahead of schedule and is significantly under-budget.”

The new Evidence Warehouse facility is located near the former DC Village emergency shelter at DC Village Lane, SW. As an incentive to the general contractor, the project included a shared savings and early completion clause. As a result, the general contractor will receive a bonus of approximately $200,000 and the District will keep the remaining $500,000 in savings.

16 March, 2011

Second Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back

DEA Announces Second Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back April 30

This spring, the Drug Enforcement Administration and its national and community partners will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Last September, Americans turned in over 242,000 pounds—121 tons—of prescription drugs at nearly 4,100 sites operated by more than 3,000 of the DEA’s state and local law enforcement partners. The agency hopes to collect even more this spring by opening the event to long term care facilities.

This year’s event will take place Saturday, April 30th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time when DEA and its partners will hold the second National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day at sites nationwide. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

The public can find collection sites closest to them by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and then following the links to a database, and entering their zip code.  Law enforcement agencies interested in operating one or more collection sites can register with the DEA by calling the DEA Field Division office in their area.  

1D PickPocket Pleads Guilty

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For Information Contact:
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 Public Affairs
(202) 252-6933
Pickpocket Pleads Guilty to Robbery, Theft
- Distracted Victims At Bus and Metro Stops, Then Stole Their Wallets -
WASHINGTON - Alexander Barnwell, 55, of Washington, D.C., pled guilty today to
charges of robbery and first degree theft in a pair of incidents that targeted bus and Metro
passengers, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced.
Barnwell pled guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia before the
Honorable Michael Ryan. He is to be sentenced on May 23, 2011. The robbery charge carries up
to 15 years in prison and the theft charge has a maximum penalty of 10 years of incarceration.
Barnwell was arrested after an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department
(MPD) and Metro Transit Police into a series of pickpocketing incidents that took place in recent
years in and around Metro stations and bus stops, including crimes at or near the Farragut North
Metro station, Union Station, and the bus loading area in the 1000 block of New York Avenue
NW.
As part of his plea agreement, Barnwell admitted to two incidents. In the most recent
case, he admitted that on January 14, 2011, at approximately 12 p.m., he and an accomplice
pretended to accidentally bump into a young woman who was attempting to board a charter bus in
the 1000 block of New York Avenue NW, throwing her off balance. While the woman was
distracted, one of the men reached into her bag and stole her wallet. Within an hour, the victim’s
credit card was used to purchase men’s apparel and other items at a department store in Arlington,
Va.
Barnwell also admitted that on August 18, 2009, at approximately 5 p.m., he and an
accomplice pretended to accidentally bump into a 90-year-old man who was entering the Farragut
North Metro station. The victim, who uses a cane, realized after the encounter that his wallet had
been stolen from his back pocket. Within 30 minutes of the incident, Barnwell used the victim’s
credit card to purchase $1,000 worth of gift cards from a department store.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Machen commended MPD First District Detectives
Page -2-
Thomas Smith, Dennis Myles, Gary Johnson, Andre Williams, and Raymond Stargel, and MPD
Officers Louis Schnider, Katrina Harrison, and Brett Bartholomew. U.S. Attorney Machen also
praised the hard work and dedication of Sergeant Vernon Clayton and Officer Bullock of the
Metro Transit Police. Finally, U.S. Attorney Machen recognized the work of paralegal Tameka
Garcia, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Josh Klein and Lara Worm, who investigated and
prosecuted the case.
11-101

14 March, 2011

“FAKE POT” UNDER FEDERAL CONTROL

“FAKE POT” NOW UNDER FEDERAL CONTROL AND REGULATION
On March 1, 2011, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) exercised its emergency scheduling authority to control five chemicals used to make so-called “fake pot” products. Except as authorized by law, this action makes possessing and selling these chemicals or the products that contain them illegal in the United States. This emergency action was necessary to prevent an imminent threat to public health and safety. The temporary scheduling action will remain in effect for at least one year while the DEA and the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) further study whether these chemicals should be permanently controlled.
The Final Order was published in the Federal Register to alert the public to this action. These chemicals will be controlled for at least 12 months, with the possibility of a six month extension. They are designated as Schedule I substances, the most restrictive category under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule I substances are reserved for those substances with a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use for treatment in the United States and a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug under medical supervision.
Over the past couple of years, smokeable herbal products marketed as being “legal” and as providing a marijuana-like high, have become increasingly popular, particularly among teens and young adults. These products consist of plant material that has been coated with research chemicals that claim to mimic THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, and are sold at a variety of retail outlets, in head shops, and over the Internet. These chemicals, however, have not been approved by the FDA for human consumption, and there is no oversight of the manufacturing process. Brands such as “Spice,” “K2,” “Blaze,” and “Red X Dawn” are labeled as herbal incense to mask their intended purpose.
Since 2009, DEA has received an increasing number of reports from poison control centers, hospitals and law enforcement regarding these products. At least 16 states have already taken action to control one or more of these chemicals. The Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 amends the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to allow the DEA Administrator to place a substance temporarily in schedule I when it is necessary to avoid an imminent threat to the public safety. Emergency room physicians report that individuals that use these types of products experience serious side effects which include: convulsions, anxiety attacks, dangerously elevated heart rates, increased blood pressure, vomiting, and disorientation.

07 March, 2011

Tommy Wells to Attend PSA 102 Meeting

Update on Homicide at 14th and H Streets NE 11/2009

7D Community Outreach Coordinator annouces: Third Arrest Made in Homicide of George Rawlings:

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch announced today an arrest has been made in the homicide of George Rawlings.

On Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at approximately 11:45 am members of the First District responded to the 1400 block of H Street, N.E. for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival on the scene, officers discovered an adult male suffering from gunshot wounds in the 1300 block of H Street, NE, lying on the step of a Metro bus. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he later died.

The victim was identified as 21-year-old George Rawlings of the 3900 block of Cole Boulevard, SE.

On Friday, November 13, 2009 a suspect was arrested and charged with First Degree Murder While Armed. On Friday, November 20, 2009 a second suspect was arrested and charged with First Degree Murder While Armed.

On Wednesday, March 2, 2011 arrested was 19-year-old Javoricle Moore of Southeast, DC, pursuant to an arrest warrant charging him with First Degree Murder While Armed.