Wild Party Lands Several in Jail, One with a Gun

On Sunday, March 30, 2008, around 3:11pm, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury and Dorchester) responded to a radio call for an assault and battery in progress at the intersection of Warren and Gaston Streets.

There, officers met with the victim of the assault who reported to officers that she was attending a party at 5 Wellington Ct. when she was assaulted by a group of females because they didn’t like the way she was dressed nor the way she was dancing. The victim further reported that her cell phone was taken from her and a large black male threw her down a flight of stairs when she attempted to call the police.

The victim told officers that that she thought the suspects were still at the party and officers accompanied her back to the party to try to find the suspects. On arrival at the front door, officers observed several loud people making their way out of the party, and requested additional units to assist them in trying to locate the suspects responsible for the assault on the victim.

As officers approached the threshold of the apartment, officers observed an individual charging down the stairway of the apartment armed with a handgun yelling, “I’m gonna @%$? kill you mother $!*$!!!” while pointing the gun in the direction of the officers. At this time, officers yelled “Gun!” to alert other officers of the presence of an armed gunman. Officers quickly unholstered their firearm to engage the suspect. The suspect, who was only 8-10’ from the officers then quickly retreated back up the hallway and ran back up the stairs.

Officers then entered the hallway and attempted to pursue the suspect who was now making his way up the stairs. Officers encountered a large crowd in the hallway as they pursued the suspect. One individual in the hallway attempted to obstruct the path of officers and struck an officer with his elbow. Officers had to forcefully proceed past this individual as they continued their pursuit of the suspect. As officers neared the suspect, they ordered him to drop the gun but he ignored them and continued to try to elude capture. Officers, now on the heels of the suspect, pushed ascent up the stairs causing him to lose his grip on the gun and throw the gun in the air.

Officers along with the suspect then engaged in a battle for the gun. During this battle for the gun, another individual grabbed a hold of an officer to assist the suspect in his attempt to escape and regain control of the gun. The gun, still rendered loose, now fell started to fall down the stairway when a female suspect tried to gain control of the gun. The female failed in her efforts, and consequently the gun fell between some banisters and was recovered by an officer standing below.

Officers after a violent struggle were able to secure the suspect and place him under arrest. After the arrest of the main suspect, officers were able to locate the individuals that had attempted to prevent them from capturing the armed suspect, and placed them under arrest.

The armed suspect, Esteve Diaz, 26, of the South End was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, second subsequent offense, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm with Obliterated Serial Numbers, Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon: Gun, Resisting Arrest, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device, and Disorderly Conduct. Suspect, Juan Robles, 29, of Centerview who had assaulted officers while they were pursuing the armed suspect was arrested and charged with Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest. Suspect, Alexis Sanabria, 24, of Dorchester who grabbed officers to assist the armed suspect in eluding officers was also arrested and charged with Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, and Disorderly Conduct.

B&E Suspects Gets Arrested for “Looking Into a Car”

Yesterday, Sunday, March 30, 2008 around 2:23pm, officers from District D-4 responded to 190 Warren Street in the South End for a suspect breaking into a motor vehicle.

En route, officers were advised that the suspect was a black, non-Hispanic male wearing a black jacket. On arrival, officers observed an individual matching the suspect description at the intersection of Warren St. and West Brookline Avenue. Nearby, officers located a motor vehicle with the front passenger window smashed out.

Officers spoke to the individual matching the suspect description and he reported to officers that he had only looked through the window of the car. Officers then located the owners of the car who came and inspected the car. The owner noted a number of items missing from the car, which included a pair of sunglasses, a calculator, a stopwatch, some loose change and a Marriott Hotel rewards card with the owners name on it. The noted items were then located on the suspect’s person.

The suspect, John Williams, 44, of Roxbury was then placed under arrests and charged with Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle, and Receiving Stolen Property.

Victim from 29 Linden Street Identified

At about 2:02am, on Saturday, March 29, 2008, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a person shot in the area of 29 Linden Street in Brighton. On arrival, officers located a 25 year-old Hispanic male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Beth Israel Hospital where he was later pronounced.

The victim has been identified as Luis Ortiz, 25, of Brighton.

The Boston Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470.
Community members who wish to remain anonymous should either call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS (8477) or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:15 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, March 28, 2008 through 10am, Monday, March 31, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 1
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 7

Street Robberies: 9
Commercial Robberies: 1
Bank: 2
Other: 1

Vehicle Thefts: 10
Vehicle Recoveries: 9
Vehicle Breaks: 25

Residential Break-ins: 18
Commercial Break-ins: 2

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:34 PM | Permalink

Shoplifting Turned Armed Robbery

Last night around 8:28am, officers from District D-4 (South End) responded to 760 Boylston St./Lord and Taylor for a man with a gun. En route, officers were given the suspect’s description as a white male, in his early twenties, wearing a black coat and a gray hat. Officers were also advised that the suspect had been caught shoplifting, and when caught reached for a gun.

On scene, officers spoke to store security who reported observing the suspect on close circuit television shoplifting. Security officers followed the suspect, and attempted to stop him after he had passed all points of purchase. When officers stopped the suspect, he reached for his waist as if armed, and stated, “Don’t make me pull this out!” Store security personnel then backed away and the suspect fled.

Officers broadcast the suspect description, and a short while later were advised that a security guard had a person fitting the suspect description at Carleton and Yarmouth Streets. Officers responded to the security officers and located the suspect near the intersection of Clarendon and Stanhope Streets.

The suspect was returned to the scene of the incident and positively identified by store security. In addition, officers were able to get video surveillance of the incident. The suspect, Mark W. Coburn, 33, of Boston was arrested and charged with Shoplifting and Armed Robbery.

Disorderly Hotel Guest Spends Night in District Cell

Around 8:55pm, officers from District A-1 responded to the Liberty Hotel located at 215 Charles St. for an assault and battery in progress.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victim, who is security officer for the hotel. The victim stated to officers that a hotel guest who he was trying to escort, spit in his face several times. Officers also learned that the suspect had assaulted several hotel security staff, and threatened the general manager of the hotel.

Officers approached the suspect, who was visibly intoxicated and attempted to have a conversation with him. The suspect began yelling and causing a disturbance and swearing at the officers. The suspect caused such a commotion that individuals started gathering at the hotel entrance. The suspect continued to act in a disorderly manner after officers arrived and consequently was placed under arrest after resisting officers’ efforts to place him in custody. After being placed in custody, the suspect attempted to kick officers while being put in the back of the patrol wagon.

The suspect, Kevin P. Shaughnessy, 35, of Abington was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, and Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon.

It’s Too Late For T Rider to Stop

At approximately 9:35pm on Saturday, 3/29/08 officers arrested, James Mahan, 45, of Boston and charged him with Indecent Exposure, and Disorderly Conduct.

Officers were at the MBTA train at the Forest Hills MBTA station pursuant to an investigation when they had to board a train. Officers boarded the train that had numerous male, female and children occupants heading inbound when they observed an individual standing up and facing the door. Officers observed the suspect adjusting his zipper while standing and continued to monitor the suspect. Officers shortly thereafter observed the suspect removed his private parts from his pants, and ordered him to zip up his pants, and get off the train. The suspect stated to officers “It’s too late!” At this time officers observed the suspect start to urinate all over the floor of the train causing people to scatter and scurry away from the suspect.

The suspect was consequently arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct, and Indecent Exposure.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:00 PM | Permalink

MAN IN STABLE CONDITION AFTER FALLING OFF PORCH IN BRIGHTON

At about 1:20am, on Saturday, March 29, 2008, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to 33 Price Road in Brighton for the report of a man falling off a 2nd story porch. On arrival, officers located a white male already being treated by EMS. The victim, a 22 year-old white male, was transported to the Beth Israel Hospital where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries. According to witnesses, the victim was yelling to somebody when he lost his balance and fell.

LOUD PARTY LANDS LOUD MOUTH IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 12:18am, on Saturday, March 29, 2008, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a fight and loud party at 56 Cummings Road in Brighton. On arrival, officers observed several people standing and milling about in front of the above-mentioned address. The individuals were smoking, drinking, and talking in a loud and boisterous manner. When asked to explain their presence, several individuals stated they were attending the party in apartment #1. While standing outside the building, officers could easily hear loud music emanating from the apartment. When officers knocked on the door to the apartment, it took several minutes before the door was answered. Upon entering the apartment, officers observed 60 to 70 people drinking, yelling and screaming over the loud music. When officers attempted to locate the owner of the apartment, partygoers refused to provide any information. When asked to turn down the music, partygoers, again, refused to comply. An unknown white male approached officers and stated that he lived in the apartment. When told that there had been noise complaints and, because of the complaints, the party needed to end, the owner of the apartment began to verbally abuse the officers. When told a second time, the individual became even more agitated and, while pointing, struck an officer in the shoulder. At this point, officers arrested Chris Newsome, 18, of Brighton and charged him with Assault & Battery on a Police Officer, Disturbing the Peace, Being Keeper of a Disorderly House and Procuring Alcohol for Minors.

SEARCH WARRANT SENDS ONE TO THE SLAMMER

At about 9:00pm, on Friday, March 28, 2008, members of the Area D-14 Neighborhood Drug Unit executed a search warrant at 8 Ransom Road in Brighton. When officers knocked on the door, a white female answered. While speaking to the female, officers observed a white male run towards the bathroom. Officers immediately chased after the suspect. Upon entering the bathroom, officers observed the suspect flushing what appeared to be tan packets of heroin. Officers were able to recover one of the packets. During the recovery process, the suspect began punching officers. Officers arrested Owen Fiske, 28, of Wakefield and charged him with Possession and Possession with Intent to Distribute Class A Drugs (Heroin) and Assault & Battery on a Police Officer.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:48 AM | Permalink

At about 2:02am, on Saturday, March 29, 2008, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a person shot in the area of 29 Linden Street in Brighton. On arrival, officers located a 25 year-old Hispanic male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Beth Israel Hospital where he was later pronounced.

The Boston Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470.

Community members who wish to remain anonymous should either call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS (8477) or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:34 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, March 226, 2008, through 10am,Thursday, March 27, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 2

Residential Break-ins: 6
Commercial Break-ins: 1

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:11 PM | Permalink

Five Arrested for Alcohol and Marijuana

Last night around 8:58pm, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) arrested suspects, Patrick Wilson, 18, of Dorchester and charged him with Possession of Class D, Possession of Class D with Intent to Distribute, and Minor in Possession of Alcohol. In addition, officers arrested Julianne Scott, 17, of Milton, Nicholas Skinner, 17, of Dorchester, Patrick J. Fumarola, 18, of Dorchester, and Danika Schleehauf, 18, of Dorchester and charged them with Possession of Class D, and Minor in Possession of Alcohol.

The arrests of these individuals came about when officers on patrol observed a white Cadillac occupied by five individuals parked in the parking lot of the Dorchester Yacht Club on Playstead Road. Officers, having received complaints of drug use in the area, approached the car to further investigate. As officers neared the car, they observed the occupants moving as if to conceal something. Officers approached the car, and observed a bottle of Vodka in the rear seat, and a green bottle of beer in the front seat. Given the fact that none of the occupants of the car appeared to be of age to possess alcohol, officers questioned them about their age and confirmed that none were of legal age to possess alcohol.

Officers, based on their observations of the occupants moving in the car, and their recent knowledge about the occupants’ age asked them to step out of the car. As the occupants stepped out of the car, a small pink plastic bag feel out of the car, the kind generally used to package drugs. In addition, officers observed two cigar wrappers consistent with marijuana use, and green leaf like substance in the ashtray.

Further investigation resulted in officers recovering a paper bag containing 27 individually packaged plastic bags containing marijuana, plus a couple bottles of alcohol. As a result the above noted individuals were arrested and charged accordingly.

X Marks the Spot for B&E Suspects

About 10:56pm last night, Thursday, March 27, 2008, officers from District C-6 (South Boston) responded to a radio call for a breaking and entering to a motor vehicle in progress. While en route, officers were updated with a description of the two suspects: suspect #1 was described as wearing a multi-colored jacket with a large orange X on the back while the other suspect was described as wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

As officers approached the location of the incident, they observed two individuals walking in the opposite direction, specifically they noted an individual wearing a multi-colored jacket with a large orange X on the back. Officers turned around and stopped the two individuals for a threshold inquiry.

Other officers responded to the location of the incident, and there spoke to a witness. The witness reported hearing glass break, and looking out his window, and seeing suspect #1 leaning inside the passenger window of the vandalized car. The witness then reported seeing the suspect #1 remove what appeared to be a cell phone from the car. The witness also reported seeing suspect #2 leaning inside the car. Officers inspected the car and observed the passenger side window to be broken and the vehicle ransacked.

The witness was brought to the location of the suspects where he positively identified both as the individuals he had seen in the car. Both suspects were arrested and transported to the district station for booking. At the station, during the booking search, officers recovered a cell phone, a digital camera, digital audio recorder and a gold ring from the suspects.

Suspect, Carlos Ortiz, 18, of South Boston and a 16-year-old juvenile from Dorchester were charged with Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle in the Nighttime, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

False Alarm Lands Suspect in Jail

This morning around 1:51am, officers from District A-1 (Downtown Boston and Charlestown) were on patrol in the area of North and Union Streets when they observed a group of individuals running and yelling that appeared to be pursuing one individual.

The group, upon observing the officers, began to yell and direct officers toward the one individual that they were chasing telling officers that he had just pulled the fire alarm. Officers pulled up to the individual and ordered him to stop, which he did. The group then came up to officers and explained that the suspect had pulled the fire alarm at the Tap Bar located at 17 Union Street.

Officers attempted to speak to the suspect and noticed that he was unsteady on his feet, was slurring his speech, and had a strong odor of alcohol coming from his person. Officers further investigated what had occurred by going to the bar, and there spoke to an employee who reported standing by the door when the suspect was exiting the bar, and observed him pull the alarm and flee the scene.

While the suspect was fleeing the scene, he ran into the path of oncoming traffic forcing them to come to a screeching halt to avoid hitting him.

The suspect, Gary C. Henderson, 25, of Carlisle was arrested and charged with False Fire Alarm, and Disturbing the Peace. It should be noted that the fire Department had to respond to the scene after the alarm went off thinking that it was an actual fire.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:01 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - March 26th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime (through 3-23-08) (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Shootings (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 05:05 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, March 226, 2008, through 10am,Thursday, March 27, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 1
Non-fatal Stabbings: 3

Residential Break-ins: 8
Commercial Break-ins: 1

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:05 PM | Permalink

Got Away But Not Forgotten

On October 14 of 2007 officers from District D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a larceny in progress at the Solstice Sunglass Boutique located at 168 Newbury Street.

On arrival, officers spoke to store personnel who reported two individuals, not unfamiliar to them, walked into the store picked up two pairs of Gucci glasses and fled the store. Officers received, and broadcast a description of the suspects but a search of the area for the suspects was unsuccessful.

Yesterday, Wednesday, March 26, 2008, “walking beat” officers encountered an individual that matched the suspect description from the October larceny walking in front of 216 Newbury Street. Officers stopped this individual to determine if he was indeed the suspect from the larceny in October. A witness from the October larceny was brought to the suspect’s location and positively identified him. After positively identifying the suspect, the witness additionally provided officers a copy security photographs taken of the suspect during the larceny.

Suspect, Darrell Williams, 41, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Larceny over $250.00.

Domestic Incident Results in Gun Recovery

Last night around 6:36pm, officers from District B-2 (Dorchester and Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a threat report at 6 Chesterton St. in Roxbury.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who reported that his ex-girlfriend had come to his house screaming for him to come out and fight her. The victim further reported to officers that his ex-girlfriend threatened to come back with some other individuals to beat him up.

Shortly after leaving the victim, officers received another call for a breaking and entering in progress at the same location. En route, officers were updated that the suspect had come back with two individuals and they were banging on the victim’s door trying to get in. Officers arrived on scene and found the suspect walking from the back of the victim’s house yelling for him to come out. While walking the suspect from the back of the house, the victim and a witness came forth and told officers that the suspect had threatened to stab him and that he had had observed her with an unknown item in her hands.

The suspect who was carrying a backpack was placed under arrest for Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon to wit knife, and Threats under the Domestic Violence Law/209A. The suspect was transported to the district station, and during the booking process, officers found a loaded gun in her backpack.

The suspect, Rashida K. Rowe, 21, of Jamaica Plain was then further charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Possession Ammunition.

Don’t Run Into Police Cruisers Without Being Licensed

Last night around 10:56pm, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) were on patrol in an unmarked car stopped at the red light at the intersection of Columbia Rd. and Geneva Avenue. As the light turn green and the officers started proceeding forward, they were rear ended by a vehicle.

Officers stopped their vehicle and pulled over to exchange information with the operator of the other vehicle. The operator of the other vehicle told officers that her foot had slipped off the pedal causing her to hit the cruiser. The operator of the vehicle told officers that the car belonged to a friend, and that she did not have a license on her but that she was licensed to operate a motor vehicle in Massachusetts. The operator provided her personal information to officers, but query via the MDT (computer in cruiser) revealed that there was no license in the system for the name and date of birth given. The operator then gave officers her real information and told officers her license was expired. Check of the operator’s true information revealed that she was not licensed to operate a motor vehicle and that there was an outstanding warrant for the operator for Operating Without Being Licensed and Speeding.

The operator, Aja N. Hill, 30, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Operating Without Being Licensed and the outstanding warrant.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:00 PM | Permalink

THE VICTIM WAS FOUND LAST NIGHT, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2008 AROUND 11PM THANKS TO AN ALERT CITIZEN.

At approximately 2:30pm today, Wednesday, March 26, 2008, the victim was visiting the Boston Public Library in Copley Square with a group of other special needs individuals when he wandered from the group and never returned. The victim has very limited mental capacity and is mute.

Victim:
Name: Clinton Forbes
Age: 45 years old
Race: Black Non-Hispanic
Height: 5”8”
Weight: 180
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black
Complexion: Medium Brown

The victim, when last seen, was wearing a blue zip-up jacket, brown sweat-suit, and gray sneakers. The victim also wears a silver bracelet from the Lemuel Shattuck Hospital with his name on it.

If anyone saw this victim or comes in contact with him, please call 911 or District D-4 detectives at (617) 343-5619.

THE VICTIM WAS FOUND IN CANTON LAST NIGHT THANKS TO AN ALERT CITIZEN.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:25 PM | Permalink

The Boston Police Department is currently investigating four different bank robberies which have taken place between February 25, 2008 and yesterday, March 25, 2008. These bank robberies have occurred in both the South End and Downtown areas of Boston between the hours of 10am and 3pm. Based on a preliminary investigation, the incidents appear to be related.

Incident Description:

• 2/25/08 @ 10:55am, Sovereign Bank located at 67 Beacon Street
The bank is robbed by a suspect passes a note. The suspect is described as a white, non-Hispanic male with slim build approximately 30 years old with slim build about 5’10” in height who flees the bank in a blue sedan after getting an unspecified amount of cash..

• 3/14/08 @ 3:12pm, Citizens’ Bank located at 560 Commonwealth Avenue
The bank is robbed by a suspect who passes a note alleging that he has a gun. The suspect, similarly described as the above suspect, except for the fact that he is said to have clear tape on his fingers, receives money from the clerk and flees the bank.

• 3/22/08 @ 12:56pm, Citizen’s Bank located at 607 Boylston Street
The bank is robbed by a suspect described as a slim, white, non-Hispanic male in his late 30’s demands money from the bank clerk and threatens possession of a gun. The suspect receives an amount of cash and flees the bank.

• 3/25/08 @ 1:00pm, Mercantile Bank located at 1320 Washington Street
The bank is robbed of an unspecified amount of money by a suspect described as a white male, age 30-35, slim build, standing about 5’7” in height with fingertips covered with clear tape. The suspect robs the bank by passing a note suggesting that he has a gun and demands money. The suspect receives the money and flees the scene in a blue colored sedan.

The above noted incidents are currently under investigation by Boston Police detectives assigned to the FBI Bank Robbery Task Force. If you have any information regarding these incidents, please contact Detective Mark Coleman assigned to the FBI Bank Robbery Task Force at (617) 223-6407 or (617) 742-5533. For callers wishing to remain anonymous, please call the CrimeStoppers Hotline at 1-800-494-TIPS or text ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 07:51 PM | Permalink

Mayor Menino and Police Commissioner Davis
Honor Good Samaritan

Today Mayor Thomas Menino and Police Commissioner Ed Davis recognized the bravery of local citizen, Mr. Juan Santiago. Mr. Santiago’s invaluable assistance to the Boston Police Department and led to the quick capture of a dangerous suspect.

Mayor Menino stated “Mr. Santiago’s bravery and commendable leadership led to the safety of the victim and the capture of the suspect. His actions exemplify how a simple act can serve our city and today we are proud to honor him.”

Commissioner Davis commented “On behalf of the Boston Police Department, we are grateful for the courageous actions of Mr. Santiago. His heroism clearly demonstrates that Bostonians are willing to ‘get involved’ when they witness a crime and for that Mr. Santiago deserves to be applauded.”

Incident Description:
On Friday, March 07, 2008 at about 5:45 PM at West and Hyde Park Avenue, a local teen got off the MBTA bus alongside another passenger. At that time, the young teen was approached by the other passenger and asked to see the teen’s I-Pod. The victim said no, became suspicious and started to back up to leave. That is when the suspect made a motion lifting his jacket displaying what appeared to be a firearm.

Simultaneously stopped at a red light at the intersection of Hyde Park Avenue and West Street was Mr. Juan Santiago Jr. with his wife and young daughter in his car. Mr. Santiago was observing the two young men on the corner and stated to his daughter and wife that boy was being robbed. Mr. Santiago then observed the suspect grab the victim and go through his pockets. Mr. Santiago observed the victim trying to pull away and leave.

Mr. Santiago was about to exit his vehicle when he observed the suspect lift his coat and display what appeared to be a firearm. The suspect then took something from the victim and fled up Hyde Park Avenue towards Metropolitan Avenue.

Mr. Santiago pulled his vehicle with his family inside up to the young victim. Mr. Santiago asked the victim if he had just got robbed, to which he said yes. Mr. Santiago told the victim to get into his car with his family, which he did. Mr. Santiago then dialed 911 and attempted to try and follow the suspect with his motor vehicle but lost sight of the fleeing suspect.

Mr. Santiago contacted Boston Police 911 and relayed the information about the incident and the suspect’s description and direction of flight. Mr. Santiago maintained constant contact with the dispatcher in an attempt to locate the fleeing suspect.

Mr. Manuel and his family attempted to calm the young victim and had him call his parents and advise them that he was safe and in Mr. Santiago’s car at the corner of West street and Hyde Park Avenue.

Detectives from District E-18 arrived on scene and spoke with Mr. Juan Santiago and the victim. They gathered a good description and immediately broadcast the description over the police radio. Shortly thereafter additional officers observed the suspect fleeing up Hyde Park Avenue from Metropolitan Avenue.

Officers stopped the suspect who was found to have the stolen I-Pod. The suspect was then positively identified by the victim and he was subsequently placed under arrest.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:01 PM | Permalink

MAYOR THOMAS MENINO AND BOSTON POLICE
COMMISSIONER ED DAVIS TO HONOR LOCAL RESIDENT

WHO: Mayor Thomas Menino; Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis; Boston Police representatives from District E-18 (Hyde Park) and Boston resident Juan Santiago.

WHAT: Mayor Thomas Menino and Police Commissioner Ed Davis will commend the bravery of local resident Juan Santiago. Mr. Santiago was instrumental in assisting a local teen, who was a victim of an armed robbery. Mr. Santiago’s efforts led to the safety of the victim and the ultimate capture of the assailant. The city will take this opportunity to recognize this brave citizen for his courage and willingness to assist a neighbor in need.

WHERE: Boston City Hall
Eagle Room

WHEN: Wednesday, March 26, 2008
2:30PM

Posted by Media Relations at 11:44 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, march21, 2008 through 10am, Monday, March 24, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 8

Residential Break-ins: 20
Commercial Break-ins: 10

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:45 PM | Permalink

Heed the Warning Dude!

Yesterday morning, Sunday, March 23, 2008, around 10:48am, officers from District D-14 arrested suspect, Ismael Torres-Saes, 39, of Lowell and charged him with Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Being Licensed.

Officers initiated contact with this suspect in earlier incident that same morning around 9:50am, and warned him not to drive, as his license was not valid. The officers directed the suspect that he should park his car and refrain from driving until his licensed was valid or to have a licensed person respond and drive the car from the location.

Almost an hour later, as luck would have it, officers observed the suspect operating his motor vehicle in the area of 247 Cambridge St. in Allston. A traffic stop was conducted and the suspect placed under arrest and the motor vehicle he was operating towed. The owner of the car was also cited for Allowing an Unlicensed Person to Operate.

“Magic Trick” Lands Shoplifter in Jail

Last night around 7:00pm, an officer performing a paid detail at the Rite Aid Pharmacy at 1100 Dorchester Ave. observed an individual exit the store and activate the security sensor.

The detail officers stopped the individual and asked him if there was anything in his bag (a large brown paper bag) that could have activated the sensor. The officer peered into the suspect’s bag and immediately observed a Budweiser baseball cap with the tag still attached to it. Further inspection of the suspect’s bag revealed him to be in possession of four watches stolen from the store. In addition, the suspect had a pair of sunglasses on his head that still had the store tag attached to them. The officer then asked the suspect where he got the stolen items and he responded stating that he did not know how they got in his bag and that someone must have put them there. The items were recovered and identified by store personnel as store stock items.

The suspect, Pham V. Dung, 37, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Shoplifting.

OUI Suspect Caught After Fleeing Scene of Accident

This morning around 12:20am, officers from District D-4 were on patrol near the intersection of Haviland St. and Mass. Ave. when they heard aloud crash at the above intersection and observed a black SUV backing up from another vehicle that had severe damage.

Officers approached the vehicle and ordered the operator to stop the vehicle. The operator then shifted his vehicle into drive and fled the scene at a high rate of speed. Heading Haviland Street. A description of the suspect motor vehicle was broadcast along with its direction of flight. Other officers observed the suspect motor vehicle in the area of Haviland St. and Hemenway St. and again signaled the suspect to stop. The suspect continued to attempt to evade officers and sped off at a high rate of speed. The suspect finally came to a stop outside of 120 Ipswich Street. There, officers ordered all occupants outside the car. The passenger exited the car and stated to officers “I didn’t do anything, I told him to stop!” Officers then removed the operator of the car and questioned him about his actions. The operator told officers that he had just come from the “Saint” nightclub on Exeter where he had been drinking. Officers observed that the suspect’s eyes were glassy, and that he had a strong odor of alcohol about him. Further investigation by officers revealed that the suspect had only a license from Switzerland despite the fact he had been living in the U.S. for over three years.

The suspect, Matthias O. Kaindl, 21, of Boston was arrested and charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Property Damage, Failure to Stop for Police Officers, Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, and Operating a Motor Vehicle without Being Licensed. In addition, the suspect was issued a citation for numerous traffic violations.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:39 PM | Permalink

TWO GUNS RECOVERED IN ROXBURY

At about 1:07am, on Sunday, March 23, 2008, members from the Youth Violence Strike Force and State Police Gang Unit were on patrol in the area of Norfolk Avenue & Burrell Street when they observed two individuals holding and pointing what looked to be firearms. When the individuals saw the officers approaching, one of the suspects quickly dropped the object the he was holding, an object that later turned out to be a firearm, while the other suspect quickly clutched at his waist area and began to run. While pursuing the suspects on foot, officers observed the 2nd suspect discard a 2nd firearm. The discarded firearm was later recovered by officers. All in all, officers recovered two loaded firearms. Officers arrested Melvin Smith, 21, of Dorchester and James Deal, 27, of Roxbury and charged both with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm & Ammunition.

WANNA-BE CABBIE ARRESTED IN THE SOUTH END

At about 2:08am, on Saturday, March 22, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) observed a motor vehicle pull over and attempt to pick up several people hailing a cab. Since the motor vehicle did not appear to be a legal taxi, officers activated their emergency equipment (lights & sirens) and stopped the motor vehicle. Upon closer inspection, officers noted that the car was, in fact, an illegal taxi. Specifically, the car lacked the proper plates, as well as, a Boston taxi medallion. When officers approached the car, the operator attempted to drive off. Officers quickly issued verbal commands for the car to stop. Upon hearing the commands, the motor vehicle did stop. Officers arrested Tomas Jose, 40, of Lynn and charged him with Failure to Stop for a Police Officer and Being an Unlicensed Hackney Operator.

OVER THE LIMIT – UNDER ARREST IN DORCHESTER

At about 2:28am, on Sunday, March 23, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to a radio call for a hit and run incident in the area of 377 Adams Street. On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that they observed a motor vehicle hit a parked car. After striking the parked car, witnesses say they observed the motor vehicle turn the corner and park. Witnesses were also able to provide the first four numbers of the license plate attached to the suspect’s motor vehicle. A search of the immediate area enabled officers to locate the suspect’s motor vehicle. When officers approached the car, the operator of the car was sitting in the driver’s seat. When asked if she had been involved in an accident, the suspect stated, “Yes.” Officers noted that the operator appeared to have been drinking. When speaking to the operator, officers detected a strong odor of alcohol and the suspect’s speech to be slurred. Officers then conducted a field sobriety test. After failing the test, officer arrested Geraldine Mitchell, 53, of Dorchester and charged her with Operating Under the Influence (alcohol) and Leaving the Scene of an Accident (property damage).

Posted by Media Relations at 02:42 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, March 20, 2008, through 10am, Friday, March 21, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 1
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1

Residential Break-ins: 7
Commercial Break-ins: 3

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:50 PM | Permalink

On Wednesday, March 19, 2008 around 12:03am, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 3 Upham Avenue in Dorchester (Cataloni’s Bar) for a person shot.

On arrival, officers found a 22-year-old male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds outside of 3 Upham Avenue. The victim was transported to Boston Medical Center with life-threatening injuries where he was later pronounced. The victim has been identified as David Tyrone Williams, 22, of Dorchester.

The facts and circumstances of this incident are still under investigation. As such, we strongly encourage any members of the public who may have any information regarding this incident to contact the Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470. Members of the public wishing to remain anonymous may do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 06:30 PM | Permalink

Graffiti: How to prevent it and remove it
WHO: Host of ‘Call The Cops’, Boston Police Officer James Kenneally; Special
Guest: Boston Police Officer William Kelley.

WHAT: Tonight Officer Kenneally and Officer Kelley will discuss what communities can do to combat the graffiti taggers in their district as well as the removal of graffiti from their property.

WHEN: Wednesday March 19, 2008
8:00pm – 8:30pm

CHANNEL: Boston Neighborhood Network Television (BNN)
Comcast Ch. 9/RCN Ch. 15

Posted by Media Relations at 03:13 PM | Permalink

Early this morning around 12:03am, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 3 Upham Avenue in Dorchester/Cataloni’s Bar for a person shot.

On arrival, officers found a 22-year-old male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds outside of 3 Upham Avenue. The victim was transported to Boston Medical Center by ambulance with life-threatening injuries. The victim, some time after arriving at the hospital, was pronounced.

The facts and circumstances of this incident are currently under investigation. As such, we strongly urge any members of the public who may have any information regarding this incident to contact the Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470. Members of the public wishing to remain anonymous may do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 12:50 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, March 18, 2008, through 10am, Wednesday, March 19, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 1
Non-fatal Shootings: 2
Non-fatal Stabbings: 0

Residential Break-ins: 7
Commercial Break-ins: 4

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:03 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Friday, February 14, 2008 through 10am, Monday, February 18, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 1
Non-fatal Stabbings: 8

Residential Break-ins: 20
Commercial Break-ins: 7

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:06 PM | Permalink

Fight at McDonald’s Leads to Eight Arrests and Two Stabbings

Last night around 7:08pm, officers from District B-2 (Dorchester and Roxbury) responded to the McDonald’s located at 301 Warren St. in Roxbury for a fight in progress.

On arrival, officers found the victim of the assault who told officers that she had just been attacked a by a large group in front of McDonald’s. Officers spoke to an independent witness who also reported the same. Both parties reported that the suspects threw the victim to the ground, and assaulted her by kicking her while she was on the ground. The witness reported that the suspects fled when he came out of the McDonald’s to break up the attack.

Officers were given the direction of flight of the suspects, and located them a short distance from the scene of the attack. Three female juvenile suspects: two 15-year-olds from Dorchester and a 16-year-old from Roxbury were arrested and charged with Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon to wit: shod feet.

Almost and hour later, officers from District B-2 responded to 38 Julian St. in Roxbury for a person stabbed.

On scene, officers observed one of the victims of the stabbing bleeding profusely from two separate stab wounds. Officers then located another victim suffering from a stab wound with the help of a witness. That same witness explained to officers that this stabbing incident was a result of the incident that had taken place earlier in front of the McDonald’s located at 301 Warren Street. Officers learned that the same individuals that had been involved in the fight at McDonald’s had come to 38 Julian St. and resumed the fight, resulting in the stabbings.

Officers learned that while one of the victims of the stabbing was walking with her father, she was approached by a suspect who punched her in the face. The victim’s father, attempted to stop the suspect from assaulting his daughter, two suspects appeared on scene. One of the two suspects then took out a folding knife and passed it to the other who then stabbed the initial victim’s father several times. A witness observed the assault, and attempted to assist the stabbing victim when he was also assaulted. The victim, having been stabbed in the arm, engaged his attacker in a physical struggle. The witness turned victim, while engaged with the suspect, was then attacked by another stick wielding suspect trying to hit him. The victim was successfully in disarming the his second attacker but was subsequently knocked to the ground, and assaulted by both suspect who kicked and punched him.

After the assault of these victims, the suspects fled the scene in an attempt to evade capture for their crimes. Officers were able to broadcast the incident, give description of suspects and their direction of flight leading to the arrests of five individuals, one of who was the victim from the original incident in front of the McDonald’s. Suspects, Talia Lopes, 19, of Brockton, Jacqueline Phillips, 33, of Dorchester, Rakim Mendes, 17, of South Boston, Shellquon Marshall, 17, of Dorchester and a 14-year-old juvenile from Dorchester were all arrested and charged with various offenses ranging from Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon: knife, Armed Assault with Intent to Murder, Resisting Arrest, Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, Affray and Assault and Battery by Means of a dangerous Weapon: shod foot, Armed Robbery and Assault and Battery.

Officers recovered the knife used to stab one of the victims, and a phone taken from one of the victims while she was being assaulted.

Warrant Stop Leads to Recovery of Firearm

Last night around 8:49pm, officers from District B-3 (Dorchester and Mattapan) arrested suspect, Amilton Dossantos, 18, of Dorchester and charged him with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, and Possession of a Loaded Firearm.

Officers were on patrol in the area of Harvard St when they observed an individual know to them to have an outstanding warrant walking with several other individuals. Officers approached this individual, and stopped him to confirm the existence of the warrant through the Warrant Management System. While officers had the subject of the warrant stopped, his companions waited for their friend. During the stop, one of two officers engaged the companion of the suspect in conversation. While speaking to warrant suspect’s friend, officers noted that he was visibly nervous with hands shaking, breathing heavily, and failing to make eye contact with officers and looking from left to right. Based on this reaction, officers conducted a pat frisk for their safety, and during this pat frisk the suspect immediately tensed his body and turned his right side from officers.

Officers, based on the suspect’s actions, then continued their pat frisk and immediately felt the outline of a hard object in the suspect’s right front pocket. The suspect was secured after a violent struggle and a loaded firearm recovered from his person.

After being placed under arrest, officers heard the suspect utter to one of his companions, “…You were right, I should have kept my @#$ home. I’m *&^#!?@ stupid!”

Posted by Media Relations at 12:55 PM | Permalink

On Monday, March 17, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) and members the Area A Neighborhood Drug Units conducted Operation Common Cure, a police initiative designed to address and remedy various quality of life concerns (emphasizing drug-related activities) adversely effecting the Boston Common. As a result of today’s operation, officers arrested the following six suspects:

· Donald Hall, 37, of Dorchester for Possession & Distribution of Class B Drugs.
· Marques Brown, 32, of Roxbury for Possession & Distribution of Class B Drugs.
· Anthony Hill, 23, of New Bedford for Possession & Distribution of Class B Drugs.
· Khyeme Johnson, 20, of Dorchester for Possession & Distribution of Class B Drugs.
· Tyrone Bell, 40, of Boston for Possession & Distribution of Class B Drugs.
· Pedro Colon, 21, of Charlestown on an outstanding warrant for Assault to Murder (Armed).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:13 PM | Permalink

CAR BREAKER ARRESTED IN THE SOUTH END

At about 6:11am, on Saturday, March 15, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a black male breaking into motor vehicles in the area of 260 Beacon Street. On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that they saw a black male (wearing a dark jacket and hat, carrying a flash light) enter a red car and remove some items. As additional officers were responding, officers were able to locate an individual matching the description of the suspect. After a short foot pursuit, officers were able to apprehend the suspect. During a pat frisk of the suspect, officers discovered and seized two screwdrivers and a wire coat hanger fashioned in such a way as to aid in the removal of car stereos. During the foot pursuit, officers observed the suspect drop a bag. Upon recovering the bag, officers discovered three car stereos, two flashlights and a knife. Officers arrested Jose Santiago, 42, of Dorchester and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle, Possession of Burglarious Tools and Receiving Stolen Property.

HOW NOT TO BEHAVE AT THE PARADE

At about 3:00pm, on Sunday, March 16, 2008, officers assigned to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston responded to a radio call for a fight in the area of E. Broadway and I Street. On arrival, officers observed three individuals pushing their way through the crowd. Officers also observed several young children who had just been pushed to the ground. Officers promptly detained the three suspects. As officers were questioning the suspects, several witnesses approached the officers. According to witnesses, the suspects had entered a home uninvited, initiated a fight, stole a cell phone and then took off. A search of the suspects produced several beer cans and a weapon known as a weighted sap glove. Officers arrested Donald Maciejewski, 21, of South Boston, James Henson, 19, of South Boston, Kevin McDonald, 23, of South Boston and charged all three with Disturbing the Peace.

A FULL MOON OVER THE SOUTHIE PARADE LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 3:15pm, on Sunday, March 16, 2008, officers assigned to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston were approached by a concerned citizen who told officers that a man was exposing his rear end while standing in a 3rd floor window in the area of 37 Telegraph Street. After walking to the location, officers were able to observe the individual ‘mooning’ or exposing his buttocks to parade goers. Given the large number of children attending the parade, officers sought out and located the suspect. When officers told the suspect that he was being arrested for exposing himself indecently, the suspect became belligerent and began resisting the officers. Officers arrested Thomas Hennessey, 54, of South Boston and charged him with Indecent Exposure. During the booking process, the suspect stated, “I was just having a little fun .. there's nothing wrong with me showing my (butt) to people."

Posted by Media Relations at 04:40 PM | Permalink

PURSE SNATCHER ARRESTED DOWNTOWN

At about 1:13am, on Friday, March 14, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a larceny in progress at the corner of Tremont and West Streets in Boston. On arrival, officers spoke to the victims who stated, as they were entering the Boston Common, a white male approached them, snatched one of their purses and ran off. Victim described the suspect as a 5’9” white male, medium build, wearing a black jacket and a gray-hooded sweatshirt. A description of the suspect was promptly broadcast over Channel 2 of the police radio. In short time, officers located an individual matching the description of the suspect. While officers were speaking to the suspect, the victims were transported to the scene for identification purposes. After being positively identified by the victims, officers arrested Richard Imperato, 28, of Malden and charged him with Unarmed Robbery.

OVER THE LIMIT – UNDER ARREST IN SOUTH BOSTON

At about 8:06pm, on Friday, March 14, 2008, officers from Area C-6 (South Boston) responded to a radio call for a motor vehicle accident in the area of 124 W. 7th Street. On arrival, officers spoke to several witnesses who stated that they observed the operator of a red motor vehicle strike several parked cars along W. 7th Street. Officers observed damage to approximately 8 to 9 cars. When officers spoke to the operator of the red motor vehicle, the operator appeared to be intoxicated. Specifically, officers made note of the operator’s slurred speech and the fact that the operator smelled of alcohol and appeared unsteady on his feet. When asked about the accident, the suspect told officers that the axle broke on his car. When asked to recite the alphabet, the suspect was incapable of doing so. Officers arrested Joseph McDonald, 47, of South Boston and charged him with Operating Under the Influence (Alcohol).

OFFICERS CALL HOUSEBREAKER’S BLUFF IN DORCHESTER

At about 9:20pm, on Thursday, March 13, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to a radio call for a breaking and entering in progress in the area of 236 Geneva Avenue. On arrival, an individual, who stated that he lived in the 1st floor apartment, approached officers. The individual told officers that he had to break a front porch window in order to gain entry because he had misplaced his key. To verify the suspect’s story, officers contacted the owner of the building. When asked about the suspect, the building owner told officers that no such person lived in the apartment. Officers arrested Carlos Salazar, 41, of Dorchester and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Residence (nighttime). Officers located a 2nd suspect hiding in a closet inside the residence. That suspect, Eduardo Rivera, 22, of Chelsea was also arrested and charged with Breaking & Entering a Residence (nighttime).

Posted by Media Relations at 01:30 PM | Permalink

The Boston Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating an elderly female who has been missing since Tuesday, March 11, 2008. The victim, an elderly female, was last seen on Tuesday near her home at 20 East Lennox Street in Roxbury. The victim, according to family, has early signs of dementia.

Name: MAUREEN TALBERT
Sex: Female
Age: 73
Race: Black, Non-Hispanic
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 130 lbs.
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown

The victim, when last seen by family, was wearing a teal coat, and at times wears glasses. If anyone has information regarding this person, her whereabouts, or has seen her, please call the Boston Police Department by calling 911 or directly contacting District D-4 detectives by calling (617) 343-5619.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:39 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, March 13, 2008, through 10am, Friday, March 14, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 1
Non-fatal Stabbings: 3

Residential Break-ins: 5
Commercial Break-ins: 3

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:20 PM | Permalink

St. Patrick’s Day festivities are an exciting time for the City of Boston. It is always an atmosphere of festivity throughout the City for residents and guests. Mayor Menino and Commissioner Davis would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to celebrate responsibly to ensure a safe and trouble free environment.

Throughout the holiday weekend, the Boston Police Department will be taking steps to increase patrols, focusing not only on the parade route and calls for service, but also at drinking establishments. Our priority will be to ensure the safety of our community. Our intent is to encourage people to celebrate responsibly and while strictly adhering to all alcohol laws. We will not allow a few excessive revelers to ruin the festivities for those individuals celebrating responsibly.

Officers are working cooperatively with liquor establishments to be sure alcohol laws are strictly enforced. Detectives will be conducting walk-throughs of area bars to ensure compliance. Also remember that public drinking will not be tolerated.

Please be aware that parking along the parade route will be limited. Individuals are reminded to be mindful of street signs and to follow parking instructions.

Taxis and public transportation offer inexpensive and smart alternatives to drinking and driving. Please take advantage of them. A designated driver is also a smart alternative. DUI enforcement will be a priority and we will have officers on duty specifically focused on this effort. Do not ruin your celebration by hurting yourself or others.

It is our hope that residents and guests alike will enjoy themselves this St. Patrick’s Day. We expect that the City will be peaceful and without incident. Have fun and be safe!

Posted by Media Relations at 12:12 PM | Permalink

At about 8:14pm, on Thursday, March 13, 2008, officers from Area E-18 (Hyde Park) responded to a radio call for shots fired in the area of Hyde Park Avenue and Grantley Street. On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that they saw a kid, approximately 15 years old, lighting off fireworks. Witnesses further stated that they saw the juvenile run into a residence at 5 A Street. As a result, officers approached the residence and knocked on the door. In short time, a juvenile, matching the description provided by witnesses, answered the door. When asked if he had been setting off fireworks, the suspect stated, “Yes.” When asked if there were any fireworks on the premise, the suspect stated yes and, then, proceeded to lead officers inside the location. Once inside, officers were able to locate and recover the fireworks. While confiscating the fireworks, officers were able to hear the sound of babies crying. When asked about the crying babies, the suspect told officers, “I was supposed to be watching them.” A search of the residence enabled officers to locate five children. The children ranged in age from infant to 9 year-old. All of the children were ill clothed and smelled of urine. Further, officers observed feces on the children, on the floor and on the walls.

Boston EMS responded and transported the five children to Children’s Hospital for evaluation purposes. Officers also located a room full of cats. The cats were malnourished and the room was filled with animal feces. Animal Control responded and removed the cats.

Approximately 15 minutes later, the parents of the children showed up on the scene. When asked to explain their absence, the parents stated that they had left their 15 year-old son in charge of watching the children. Additionally, the parents stated that the children’s grandparents were also in the home to watch the children. Officers were able to confirm the presence of the grandparents. Due to the uninhabitable conditions of the premise, Inspectional Services responded to the scene and condemned the location. A 51A form (a report filed when officers encounter or observe neglected children under 18) has been filed with the Department of Social Services. While DSS conducts its investigation, the children will remain in DSS custody.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:34 AM | Permalink

On Thursday, March 13, 2008, around 4:20pm, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown/Beacon Hill) received a radio call for a stabbing at One Cambridge Street.

Upon arrival, officers observed a male in his late teens/early twenties with a stab wound to the arm being treated by EMS. The victim was transported to a local hospital with a non-life threatening injury.

Officers apprehended two individuals in conjunction with the incident. Taken into custody were Juan Chavez, 18, of East Boston and a 15 year-old juvenile. Chavez will be charged with Assault & Battery with a Dangerous Weapon and Affray. The juvenile will be charged with Disturbing the Peace and Affray. Both suspects to be arraigned tomorrow (Friday, March 14, 2008) in Boston Municipal Court.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:30 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, March 12, 2008, through 10am, Thursday, March 13, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1

Residential Break-ins: 4
Commercial Break-ins: 4

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:39 PM | Permalink

Search Warrant Yields Drugs and Guns

At about 11:55am yesterday, officers from the District B-2 armed with a search warrant responded to 109 Alban Street in Dorchester to execute the warrant. The warrant was issued by Dorchester District Court after an extensive investigation lead officers to believe that a known occupant was dealing drugs out of that location.

Armed with the search warrant and an arrest warrant, officers secured the individual who was suspected of dealing drugs from that apartment, Shawn Matthew Larts, 39, of Dorchester.

Officers entered the apartment and pursuant to execution of the warrant recovered the following items:

1. 118 grams of cocaine
2. Five bags of marijuana
3. $5, 345.00 US currency seized
4. A 40 caliber Sig-Sauer semi-automatic firearm
5. One digital scale
6. Baking soda
7. Plastic bags used to package drugs
8. Two high capacity .40 caliber magazines
9. One ammunition clip with 10 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition
10. Twenty three .22 caliber rounds of ammunition
11. Twenty four .40 caliber rounds of ammunition

The suspect, Shawn Matthew Larts, 39, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Trafficking Cocaine Over 100 Grams, Possession of Class D with Intent to Distribute, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, and Unlawful Possession of High Capacity Feeding Device.

Good Samaritan and Detail Officer Help Arrest Suspect

Yesterday, Wednesday, March 12, 2008, around 1:34pm, a detail officer performing a detail at the intersection of Arlington St. and Boylston St. arrested suspect, Ronald Harris, 46, of Mattapan charging him with larceny from a Person.

The incident originated when the victim observed the suspect inside her place of employment at 376 Boylston Street. The victim made note of the suspect, and realized that he did not work there, nor was he a customer. The victim then looked in her pocketbook and realized that her purse which had been inside her purse was now gone. The victim, feeling that the victim may be responsible for her missing purse, asked him if she could check his bag for her wallet. As soon as the victim directed her attention to the victim and asked him about her purse, he took off running.

A witness who was nearby, and heard what the victim had asked the suspect followed him as he fled the building. While being followed, and before exiting the building, the suspect discarded the victim’s purse. The witness continued to follow the suspect as he fled the scene and the detail officer observing the witness chasing the suspect, assumed the chase, pursued the suspect and caught him. Additional units thereafter responded and transported the suspect to District 4 for booking.

The victim recovered her purse at the door of the building with all its contents intact.

Just Pay Your Fare

This morning around 1:45am, a cab driver flagged own officers from District 1 (Downtown and Charlestown) in the area of Kneeland St. and Boylston Street.

Officers went to the cab driver and spoke to him and learned that the passenger was refusing to pay her fare. Officers spoke to the cab driver and he explained that he only wanted to get paid for the fare and wished no further action. Officers ascertained the identity of the passenger and learned that she was wanted on two outstanding warrants.

The suspect, Mary Mojave, 47, of Cambridge was arrested on the two warrants, one for Operating After Revocation or Suspension, and another for Operating Unregistered Motor Vehicle. At the booking desk, officers discovered that the suspect was in possession of prescription drugs not prescribed to her. She was subsequently charged with Possession of Class E.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:31 PM | Permalink

CAPTAIN FLAHERTY TO DISCUSS ST. PATRICK’S DAY
PARADE SAFETY PLAN
WHO: Host of ‘Call The Cops’, Boston Police Officer James Kenneally; Special
Guest: Captain Robert Flaherty Commander of Area C-6 (South Boston)

WHAT: Tonight Officer Kenneally and Captain Flaherty will discuss the St. Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday March 16, 2008. Captain Flaherty will remind viewers to celebrate responsibly, consider public transportation and comply with all alcohol laws.

WHEN: Wednesday March 12, 2008
8:00pm – 8:30pm

CHANNEL: Boston Neighborhood Network Television (BNN)
Comcast Ch. 9/RCN Ch. 15

Posted by Media Relations at 03:47 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, March 11, 2008, through 10am, Tuesday, March 12, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 0

Residential Break-ins: 2
Commercial Break-ins: 7

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:54 PM | Permalink

Traffic Stop Results in Recovery of Firearm

Yesterday, Tuesday, March 12, 2008, around 4:47pm, officers from District B-3 (Dorchester and Mattapan) arrested two suspects, Venus Fabiyi, 43, of Dorchester and charged her with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License, and Shurland Bootman-Knights, 18, of Brooklyn, NY charging him with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm as a result of traffic stop.

Officers initially were drawn to this car after it failed to yield at the intersection of Milton Ave. and Stockton Street. Officers conducted a traffic stop opposite 60 Rockwell St. after observing this violation. After stopping the car, officers approached the operator and requested her license and registration. During the conversation with the operator, officers noted that one of the rear seat passengers kept moving around in his seat. Officers retrieved the license of the operator and determined that her license was suspended and came back to inform the operator of her license status. Again, while speaking to the operator, officers noticed that one the same rear seat passenger kept moving about in the rear seat.

Officers, alarmed by the conduct of the rear seat passenger, and fearing that the rear seat passenger may be hiding weapons and or drugs, asked all occupants to exit the car. While removing the passengers and ‘pat frisking’ the occupants, officers felt something consistent with a firearm in suspect, Shurland Bootman-Knights’ pocket. Suspect, Bookman-Knight was secured and a firearm recovered from his person. The drivers was then arrested for having a suspended license, the rear passenger for unlawfully possessing a firearm, and the owner of the car cited for Allowing an Unlicensed Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle.

B&E Suspect Tracked But Found Without GPS

Last night around 9:37pm, officers from District B-2 (Dorchester and Roxbury) responded to 810 Huntington Ave. in Mission Hill for a larceny/breaking and entering in progress.

En route, officers were advised that the suspect, a black male about 5’9”-5’10” wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt was breaking into a silver SUV. While responding to the location of the incident, officers observed an individual matching the suspect description near the intersection of Huntington Ave. and Frawley Street, and stopped him for a threshold inquiry. Officers requested that the witness be brought to their location for a possible identification. While waiting for the witness to be transported to their location, the victim of the breaking and entering approached officers and advised them that his car had been broken into and his GPS system stolen within the last twenty to twenty-five minutes.

The witness subsequently positively identified the stopped suspect as the person he had observed breaking into the car. Suspect, Selemon Adhana, 20, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle, and Larceny from a Motor Vehicle. The stolen GPS, however, could not be located by officers.

OUI Suspect Arrested After Refusing to Stop for Officers

This morning around 1:59am, officers from District A-1 (Downtown and Charlestown) were on patrol in the Boylston St. area when they observed a vehicle fail to stop for a red light at the intersection of Charles Street and accelerate as it went through the light.

Officers attempted to affect a traffic stop after observing this infraction and turned on emergency light and sirens to stop the suspect. The suspect then failed to properly maneuver and control the car at the intersection of Beacon St. all the while not staying in the proper lane. Officers continued to follow the suspect observing numerous violations of the auto law from speeding to weaving.

At the intersection of Beacon St. and Arlington St., officers were able to affect an arrest of the suspect when he stopped for a red light. While at that light, officers removed the suspect from the driver’s seat, and found him to be unsteady on his feet, with glassy blood shot eyes, and a strong odor of alcohol ob his person. Based on this initial interaction, and observations made of the way that the suspect was driving his motor vehicle, officers formed the opinion that the suspect was operating under the influence of alcohol.

The suspect refused to perform any sobriety tests and was arrested. Suspect, John Psudoikonomou, 28, of Newton, was arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License, Failure to Stop for Police Officers, Operating a Motor Vehicle Negligently, and OUI, second subsequent offense. In addition suspect’s car, a 2007 Mercedes was found to be uninsured and unregistered, and thus towed and the suspect cited accordingly.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:40 PM | Permalink

Superintendent Daniel Linskey will be available to answer questions and discuss the incident this morning at Boston Latin Academy.

WHO: Boston Police Superintendent Daniel Linskey

WHAT: Superintendent Daniel Linskey will discuss the facts and circumstances surrounding this morning’s incident that occurred at Boston Latin Academy

WHEN: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 @ 3:00 pm

WHERE: Boston Police HQ - Media Room

Posted by Media Relations at 01:57 PM | Permalink

At about 7:10pm, on Monday, March 11, 2008, members of Area C Neighborhood Drug Unit executed a search warrant at 142 N Street in South Boston. During the search, officers recovered over 150 pills (white, yellow, blue, green, pink in color), over 200 grams of cocaine, an undisclosed amount of crack cocaine, an undisclosed amount of marijuana, 3 firearms (2 pistols and an AK-47 machine gun), ammunition and a stun gun. As a result of the items found, officers arrested Rick Joyce, 37, of South Boston and charged him with Trafficking Class B Drug, Possession with Intent to Distribute Class B, C and D Drugs, Possession of Machine Gun, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (2 counts), Possession of Ammunition and the Possession of a Stun Gun. Officers also arrested James Joyce, 44, of South Boston and charged him with Possession with Intent to Distribute Class C & E Drugs.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:39 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, March 10, 2008, through 10am, Tuesday, March 11, 2008 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1

Residential Break-ins: 5
Commercial Break-ins: 4

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:57 AM | Permalink

GUN-CARRYING SUSPECT ARRESTED IN THE SOUTH END

At about 1:20am, on Sunday, March 9, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) were on patrol in the area around the Cathedral Housing development after receiving information that an individual was carrying a weapon with the intent of carrying out a shooting. Officers received further information detailing the suspect’s physical description. Officers were told that the suspect, a black male, would be wearing a red baseball hat and a black hooded sweatshirt. While patrolling the development, officers located an individual matching the description of the suspect. Officers approached the suspect and, for officer safety, conducted a pat frisk of the suspect. A frisk is the patting down of the outer clothing conducted to determine the presence of a weapon. While frisking the suspect, officers discovered a loaded firearm. When asked to produce a license to carry, the suspect stated, “I don’t have one.” Officers arrested Carlos Sanabria, 17, of Jamaica Plain and charged him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm & Ammunition.

KICKING CARS LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 6:47am, on Sunday, march 9, 2008, officers from Area E-18 (Hyde Park) responded to a radio call for an individual kicking and trying to break into cars in the area around 69 Pierce Street. While en route to call, officers were told that the suspect was wearing a gray sweatshirt with a white hood and jeans. On arrival, officers located an individual matching the description of the suspect. While speaking to the suspect, officers observed that the suspect had cuts on his hands. Officers also noted that the suspect appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. When asked to explain the cuts, the suspect could not. While detaining the suspect, officers were approached by multiple witnesses who told officers that they observed the suspect kick the motor vehicle. After observing the damage to the car, officers arrested Matthew Pitt, 21, of West Roxbury and charged him with Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property

OFFICERS IN EAST BOSTON THWART ARMED ROBBERY IN PROGRESS

At about 11:05am, on Sunday, March 9, 2008, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery in progress in the area of Princeton and Marion Streets. As officers arrived on the scene, officers observed an individual holding what appeared to be a knife to the neck of another individual. When the man with the knife saw police, he threw the knife and began to run. After a short foot pursuit and brief struggle, officers arrested Jose Ramiro, 50, of East Boston and charged him with Armed Robbery. Officers spoke to the victim who told police that the suspect approached him, held the knife to his neck and demanded money.

LEARNER’S PERMIT LEAVES SUSPECT WITH A LOT TO LEARN IN JAMAICA PLAIN

At about 8:50am, on Sunday, March 9, 2008, officers from Area E-13 (Jamaica Plain) observed a motor vehicle operating with a failed inspection sticker in the area of Columbus Avenue and Centre Street. As a result, officers activated their emergency equipment (lights & sirens) and stopped the motor vehicle. When officers approached the car and asked the operator to produce a license and registration, the operator of the motor vehicle stated, “I’m sorry officers .. I only have a learner’s permit.” A check of the motor vehicle’s registration showed the registration to be revoked. As a result, the operator of the car was asked to exit the motor vehicle. Before towing the car, officers conducted a motor vehicle inventory search. While conducting the search, officers discovered an undisclosed amount of marijuana and a semiautomatic firearm. Officers arrested Jeffrey Medina, 17, of Roslindale and charged him with Operating Without Being Licensed (Learner’s Permit), Operating an Unregistered/Uninsured Motor Vehicle, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm & Ammunition and Possession of a Class D Drug (marijuana).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:12 AM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - March 9th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Shootings (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (2008 data only through 2/18/08) (PDF - Download Adobe Reader)