BOSTON POLICE INCREASE EFFICIENCY AND QUALITY OF SERVICE WITH DISTRICT BOUNDRY CHANGES

Today the Boston Police Department announces plans to institute district boundary changes that will affect five of the city’s eleven police districts. Throughout the planning process, officers met with local residents and crime watch groups in affected areas to work collaboratively on the final plan. The new plan is intended to increase efficiency and quality of service. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2009.
Any police district that receives an increase in their geographical patrol area will receive additional officers to supplement the ones currently assigned to those districts. This will be done through internal transfers and utilizing new police recruits who have recently graduated from the Academy.

District changes include:

• Forrest Hills MBTA station which currently resides on District E-18 will now fall on District E-13. District E-18 had assigned a patrol officer as a walking beat in the area of Forrest Hills. After discussions with area community groups, the department seeks to continue the relationship that the officer has with the local residents and merchants. The officer, currently assigned to E-18 will be transferred to E-13 and will continue to serve the Forrest Hills neighborhood as its walking beat officer.
• The area around Morton St & Harvard St. which is currently being developed into multiple condominiums known as Olmsted Green, will no longer fall on District E-18, but rather District B-3. Until now, that land had been undeveloped and as such required few calls for police service. With the recent growth of multiple residential units located in close proximity to the District B-3 police station, the department and community members agreed that the emerging community would benefit most by changing districts.
• Lastly, there will be a change between Districts C-6 and C-11. Currently the peninsula that holds UMASS Boston, the JFK Library and the Harbor Point Housing community resides on District C-11. Geographically, this area is closer to the C-6 police station and South Boston in general. Therefore, it is considered more efficient to change the district assignment from District C-11 to District C-6.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:08 PM | Permalink

Be Careful of the Internet!

Yesterday morning around 10:23AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to 1441 Tremont St. in Roxbury, Western Union for a female attempting to cash a bad check.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who reported that on several occasions that she has cashed checks for the suspect, who was still in the store, and that these checks had come back as fraudulent. The victim then provided officers with the copies of the fraudulent checks that had been cashed in the past along with a copy of the check that the suspect was now attempting to cash.

Officers then spoke to the suspect who stated that she had answered an advertisement on Craig’s List job’s section, which had to do with a customer service survey involving Western Union. The suspect further explained that she was mailed six checks worth $500.00 each and told to cash the checks and keep $400.00 and mail back $100.00 to a person in California address. The suspect further stated that she received the information via e-mail.

The suspect, Kristen A. Solomon, 24, of Boston was arrested and charged with Uttering a False Check.

Vigilance Pays Off for Officers on Patrol

Yesterday evening around 5:33PM, officers from District D-14 (Allston and Brighton) were on patrol in the area of Commonwealth Ave. and Griggs St. when they entered an alley in the rear of 8 Griggs Street. While entering the alley, officers observed an individual exit the rear of 8 Griggs St. on a bicycle carrying large canvass bag on the handlebars and another large white store bag in his right hand.

Officers, knowing that there have been a number of burglaries in the area stopped this individual to conduct a threshold inquiry. During the inquiry, the suspect fled on his bicycle while being pursued by the officer on foot. The officer continued to pursue the suspect while broadcasting his description and direction of flight. During the pursuit, the suspect lost control of his bicycle and crashed near the intersection of Griggs St. and Brainard Road where he was detained pending the outcome of an investigation into his activities in the rear of 8 Griggs Street.

Officers returned to the rear of 8 Griggs St. where they made note that someone had attempted to enter that location. In addition, officers found numerous burglarious tools in the bags that the suspect had on his bag. The suspect, Jorge Ruiz, 41, of Allston was arrested and charged with Attempted Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime, Possession of Burglarious Tools, and several outstanding warrants from different courts with charges ranging from Receiving Stolen Property to Shoplifting.

Not Knowing Is No Excuse!

Yesterday afternoon around 3:13PM, officer from District B-2 (Roxbury) arrested suspects, Carlton C. Spence, 46, of Dorchester, Mildred Aubry, 55, of Roxbury and Alphonso J. Dawson, 42, of Dorchester and charged them with Larceny of a Motor Vehicle over $250, Possession of Burglarious Tools, and Trespassing.

Officers initially responded to a radio call for a crime in progress across from 6 Cleveland Street. On arrival, officer observed the above three suspects in the rear of 37 Winthrop Street with the suspects’ car parked next to an abandoned car with all four doors and trunk opened. Inside the suspects’ vehicle, there were miscellaneous items and car parts that had apparently been removed from the abandoned car. Further inspection revealed that the abandoned car had numerous engine parts that had been unfastened and several others that had been totally disassembled, and the car had been lifted on jacks. In addition, there was a 4-way lug wrench and vice-grip pliers on the engine block. The two male suspects were observed working on the abandoned car when officers first arrived.

Officers then spoke with the suspects who told them that they had driven to the location to get car parts for the female suspect’s car, and they had not known that it was a criminal offense to steal car parts from an “abandoned” car.

The suspects were arrested and transported to the station and their car towed.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:27 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE CONTINUE TO SEEK THE PUBLIC’S ASSISTANCE TO IDENTIFY ROBBERY SUSPECT
Starbucks Corporation Offers $1,000 Reward for Suspect’s Arrest

Boston Police investigators continue to seek the public’s assistance to identify a robbery suspect, who is responsible for multiple incidents that have occurred in the South End area. The suspect is believed to be connected to a robbery that occurred last evening at the Starbuck’s Coffee on Brookline Ave. The Starbucks Corporation has generously offered a $1,000 reward for anyone with information that leads to the arrest of this individual.

Incident Description:
At about 8:20pm on December 29, 2008, officers responded to a radio call for an armed robbery at 172 Brookline Ave (Starbucks). Upon arrival, officers received information that the suspect approached the counter and handed an employee a note, the employee assumed the note was a coffee order and read note aloud to her colleague. The note read "Give me the money and no one gets shot". A second employee handed the suspect money from the register (unknown amount of US currency was taken).The suspect took the note back from the employee and fled on foot up Brookline Ave. towards Kenmore Sq.

Background:
In the last two weeks, specifically on 12/18, 12/21, 12/23, and 12/24 of this year, four armed robberies have taken place in the area of Newbury Street. During these incidents, the suspect passed a note, threatening possession of a gun, in the process of robbing several businesses.

Contact Information:
Boston Police are looking for anyone who may recognize or know of the whereabouts of this individual to contact District D-4 detectives at (617) 343-4683. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department stringently protects the identity of those wishing to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:22 PM | Permalink

Homicide Victim Identified

At about 12:54pm, on Monday, December 29, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a person shot outside 7 Hosmer Street. On arrival, officers located a male suffering from what appeared to multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced. The victim has been identified as Jermaine Perry, 17, of Dorchester.

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

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:53 PM | Permalink

Homicide Victim Identified

At about 3:26am, on Thursday, December 25, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a person shot inside 646 Harvard Street. On arrival, officers located a black male suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was promptly transported to the Brigham & Women’s Hospital where he later was pronounced. The victim has been identified as Jason Durant, 33, of Providence, R.I.

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

According to witnesses, a large party was taking place at the above-mentioned address. As such, any person attending that party who wishes to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can either call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to help anonymously.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:43 PM | Permalink

Homicide Victim Identified

At about 10:35pm, on Monday, December 22, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to a radio call for a report of shots fired in the area of Brent Street and Melbourne Street. On arrival, officers located a male, lying outside 101 Brent Street, suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced on the scene. The victim has been identified as Terrence Halidy, 21, of Dorchester.

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 choosing to aid this investigation in an anonymous manner can call CrimeStoppers at 1(800) 494-TIPS (8477) or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:35 PM | Permalink

CAR THIEF ARRESTED IN MATTAPAN

At about 6:18pm, on Sunday, December 28, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) assigned to the Codman Square Safe Street Team were on patrol in the area of Millet Street and Talbot Ave when officers observed a black motor vehicle traveling along Talbot Ave without its headlights on. As a result, officers activated their emergency equipment (lights & sirens) and stopped the motor vehicle. As officers were approaching the car, the operator exited the car and yelled, “It’s stolen.” Officers arrested Pedro Marzan, 18, of Boston and charged him with Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle. A check of the suspect’s driving status through the Registry of Motor Vehicles showed that the suspect did not possess a license to operate a motor vehicle. As a result, the suspect was also charged with Operating Without a License.

ONE MAN’S BAD TIMING IS ANOTHER MAN’S GOOD TIMING

At about 12:23am, on Monday, December 29, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a person caught breaking into a car at the intersection of Beach & Knapp Streets. On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated that he was returning to his car when he heard his car alarm go off. Victim further says as he approached his car, he observed a black male breaking into it. The victim says he and his two friends then grabbed the suspect and detained him until police arrived. When officers arrived, officers arrested Albert Boynton, 41, of Boston and charged him with Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle. A search of the suspect enabled officers to locate and take possession of a screwdriver and a black folding knife. Suspect was subsequently charged with Possession of Burglarious Tools and the Unlawful Carrying of a Dangerous Weapon.

DETAIL OFFICER ARRESTS ONE FOR FIGHTING

At about 1:10am, on Sunday, December 28, 2008, an officer performing a paid detail in the area of 148 State Street observed two individuals engaged in a verbal altercation. As the officer was approaching the individuals, the officer observed one of the individuals punch the other in the face. Seeing this, the officer immediately instructed the aggressor to stand down. However, instead of stopping, the suspect continued punching the victim. At this point, the officer issued a short blast of his department issued OC spray in the direction of the suspect. With the suspect under control, officers arrested Albi Mezini, 23, of Millis and charged him with Assault & Battery.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:45 AM | Permalink

At about 12:54pm, on Monday, December 29, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a person shot outside 7 Hosmer Street. On arrival, officers located an 18 year-old male suffering from what appeared to multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced.

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

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:00 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, December 26, 2008 through 10am, Monday, December 29, 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: 3
Non-fatal Stabbings: 3

Residential Break-ins: 28
Commercial Break-ins: 16

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 04:59 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST ARMED ROBBER IN THE AREA OF FANEUIL HALL

At about 6:00pm, on Saturday, December 27, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a robbery in progress in the area of the Faneuil Hall Market Place (Crabtree Evelyn Store). On arrival, officers spoke to security officers assigned to Faneuil Hall who stated that they were able to detain the suspect (a white male in his 40's) as he was attempting to flee the area. With the suspect detained, officers spoke to store employees who stated that the suspect entered the store, walked up to the counter, gestured in such a way as to suggest that he had a weapon hidden in his jacket and stated, “This is a holdup.” The store employee says she then handed the suspect an undisclosed amount of money before the suspect fled the store. Officers were able to bring the suspect back to the store. Once there, the victim was able to positively identify the suspect. Officers arrested Glenn Kerivan, 49, of Weymouth and charged him with Armed Robbery. A search of the suspect enabled officers to confiscate and take possession of a knife.

FILING A FALSE FIRE ALARM NEVER A GOOD IDEA

At about 2:30am, on Sunday, December 28, 2008, officers from Area C-6 (South Boston) responded to a radio call for a fire alarm in the area of 404 W. First Street. On arrival, officers spoke to residents of the location who stated that they believed the alarm had been pulled in a deceptively inappropriate manner. One witness stated that he believed the person who pulled the ‘false’ alarm was still in the building. Officers were directed to a specific apartment inside the location. While standing outside the apartment, officers could hear voices and loud music coming from within the apartment. After knocking on the door for several minutes, officers were allowed entry into the apartment. Once inside officers observed an individual matching the description of the individual who pulled the alarm. Officers arrested Stephen Yeman, 22, of Boston and charged him with Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property and Making a False Fire Alarm.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:52 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - December 28th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (Through 10/7/08)

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 02:05 PM | Permalink

On Saturday, December 27, 2008, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for an assault and battery in West Roxbury. According to the victim, she and the suspect returned to her home after attending a nightclub together. Upon returning to the victim’s home, the victim says the suspect began to punch and kick her. By the time police arrived, the suspect was gone. The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Shortly after this incident, Dedham Police received a phone call from someone related to the suspect. According to the suspect’s relative, the suspect was acting strange and talked of hurting himself. The relative further stated that the suspect said he was not afraid if the police attempted to harm or hurt him.

Today, at about 11:30am, on Sunday, December 28, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) apprehended Hosea Richardson, 33, of Newton and charged him with Assault & Battery. Richardson was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Richardson will be arraigned pending his release from the hospital.

*** Note: The correct spelling of the suspect’s name should read: Hosea Richardson.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:35 PM | Permalink

On Saturday, December 27, 2008, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for an assault and battery in West Roxbury. According to the victim, she and the suspect returned to her home after attending a nightclub together. Upon returning to the victim’s home, the victim says the suspect began to punch and kick her. By the time police arrived, the suspect was gone. The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Shortly after this incident, Dedham Police received a phone call from someone related to the suspect. According to the suspect’s relative, the suspect was acting strange and talked of hurting himself. The relative further stated that the suspect said he was not afraid if the police attempted to harm or hurt him.

The suspect, Hosia Richardson, 33, of Newton is described as a 5’8”, bald, light-skinned black male with facial hair and a muscular or medium build.

The Boston Police Department is actively searching for this suspect. Anyone familiar with the suspect or his whereabouts is asked to contact Area B-2 detectives at (617) 343-4270. Individuals who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous manner should call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Click Here to See Picture of Suspect

Posted by Media Relations at 12:02 AM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE BICYCLE UNIT ARRESTS ONE FOR STEALING A PHONE

At about 813pm, on Saturday, December 27, 2008, officer assigned to the Boston Police Citywide Bicycle Unit were on patrol in the area of 330 Newbury Street when they observed one male chasing another. When officers ordered the individuals stop, the individual doing the chasing pointed to the man in front of him and stated, ”That guy stole my phone.” Officers quickly joined the chase and, in short time, were able to apprehend the suspect. Upon apprehending the suspect, officers were also able to recover the stolen cell phone (iPhone). Officers arrested Atif Ray, 28, of Cambridge and charged him with Larceny from a Person (Over $250.00).

SHIRTLESS SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR PUNCHING OUT CAR WINDOWS IN BRIGHTON

At about 12:50am, on Friday, December 26, 2008, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a person punching car windows in the area of Allston Street and Brighton Ave. On arrival, officers located and observed a white male, not wearing a shirt, punching a car window in front of 14 Allston Street. When the suspect saw the officers approaching, the suspect began to verbally abuse, berate and disrespect the officers. When officers attempted to handcuff the suspect, the suspect pulled away and fled on foot. After a short foot pursuit, officers arrested Santos Pava, 18, of Brighton and charged him with the Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property.

GRAFFITI VANDAL ARRESTED IN HYDE PARK

At about 5:20pm, on Friday, December 26, 2008, officers from Area E-18 (Hyde Park) were on patrol in the area of Cleary Square when they observed an individual defacing property with an ink marker. Officers quickly stopped their cruiser and approached the suspect in order to further investigate his activity. Upon seeing the approaching officers, the suspect fled on foot. In short time, officers were able to re-locate and apprehend the suspect. A search of the suspect enabled officers to seize a blue marker. The ink in the marker matched the ink used by the suspect to deface the property. Moreover, officers discovered a handwritten note in the suspect’s pocket. The words on the note matched the words written on the property. Officers arrested Evans Ampofo, 27, of Boston and charged him with Graffiti Vandalism.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:36 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 48 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, December 24, 2008 through 10am, Friday, December 26, 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: 3
Non-fatal Stabbings: 2

Residential Break-ins: 19
Commercial Break-ins: 5

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 11:38 AM | Permalink

Christmas Scrooge Arrested

Around 10:04PM on December 24, 2008, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 52 Church St. in Dorchester for an alarm call.

On arrival, officers observed a female in the front window who flagged officers down. Officers next observed a male in the front window of the second floor who immediately ducked away from view upon seeing officers and then re-appeared a few seconds later.
Officers then made entry into the building and while making their way to the victims encountered the same male that had been looking through the window in the hallway. Officers inquired of the male how long he had been there and he stated that he had been there for a long time but had not heard or seen anything relating to the breaking and entering to the upstairs apartment.

Officers then responded to the victim’s apartment and she reported to officers that she left her house around 9:35PM, and shortly after leaving received a phone call from her alarm company reporting an entry to her apartment. The victim then told officers that she has had problems with her downstairs neighbor in the past and that he may have had something to do with the break to her partment. Additionally the victim reported that her neighbor was sitting on the stairs when she left and when she returned her neighbor was still on the stairs. The victim then explained to officers that she never allows anyone with shoes and then pointed out footprints that had been left in her house by the intruder.

Officers then went back to her neighbor who they had earlier encountered in the hallway. While speaking to the suspect, officers looked at his shoes and they matched the prints in the victim’s apartment. While speaking to the now suspect neighbor, officers located a stolen GPS which he admitted purchasing from a drug addict.

The suspect, Joseph Escarraman, 18, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Receiving Stolen Property, and his sneakers seized as evidence for further investigation of the breaking and entry to the victim’s apartment.

Non-Fatal Shooting Incident at Columbia Road and Stoughton Street

Early this morning around 1:26AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to the Boston Medical Center for a report of two self-transported shooting victims.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victims who reported that they were shot while leaving a bar near the intersection of Columbia Rd. and Stoughton Street. The victim stated that they were walking out the bar at the above location when they heard three to four gunshots coming from an unknown direction. One of the victims, a 31-year old woman, then told officer that she next felt a burning sensation in her back and her suspicions were confirmed by her friend. The other victim, a 22-year old woman, reported the same facts except for the fact that her knee was grazed by a bullet.

The victims accompanied by a friend next reported that they got in their car and drove to the hospital. Both victims’ wounds were deemed non-life threatening.

This incident is currently under investigation by District B-2 detectives. Anyone with information is urged to contact B-2 detectives at (617) 343-4275. Those wishing to provide information anonymously may do so by calling the CrimeStoppers TipLine at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting TIP to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department stringently maintains the identity of all who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:30 AM | Permalink

At about 3:26am, on Thursday, December 25, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a person shot inside 646 Harvard Street. On arrival, officers located a 36 year-old black male suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was promptly transported to the Brigham & Women’s Hospital where he later pronounced.

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

According to witnesses, a large party was taking place at the above-mentioned address. As such, any person attending that party who wishes to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can either call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to help anonymously.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:53 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE CONFIRM SIGHTING OF SANTA CLAUS OVER THE CITY OF BOSTON

WHO: Santa Claus, a.k.a. Kris Kringle, a.k.a. Saint Nick, a.k.a. Saint Nicholas, a.k.a. Father Christmas.

WHAT: On several different occasions today, Wednesday, December 24, 2008, the Boston Police Department processed and received numerous phone calls to its Emergency 911 Operation’s Division concerning a man in a red suit flying over the city of Boston in a sled pulled by what appeared to be eight tiny reindeer. According to witnesses, the individual in the red suit, before driving out of sight, was heard exclaiming, “Merry Christmas to all!!! Merrrrrrr-y Christmas!!!” Upon investigating the large number of calls detailing the above-mentioned sighting, the Boston Police Department, after an extensive investigation, is pleased to report that the individual seen flying over the city in the reindeer-powered sled is, in fact, Santa Claus, a.k.a. Kris Kringle, a.k.a. Saint Nick, a.k.a. Saint Nicholas, a.k.a. Father Christmas.

WHERE: Boston Police Headquarters
Operations Division – 4th Floor

WHEN: Wednesday, December 24, 2008 @ 4:30pm

Posted by Media Relations at 01:48 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, December 23, 2008 through 10am, Wednesday, December 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: 0

Residential Break-ins: 12
Commercial Break-ins: 5

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 12:47 PM | Permalink

Celebrate the Holidays with Officers from District B-2

WHO: Officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury), residents from the St. Joseph’s Community Development and, possibly, Santa Claus

WHAT: Please join officers and families from the Area B-2 community for a holiday celebration. There will be refreshments, food, fun and presents for all attending.

WHERE: St. Joseph’s Community Development
90 Regent Street
Roxbury

WHEN: Tuesday, December 23, 2008
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Posted by Media Relations at 02:04 PM | Permalink

OFFICERS IN EAST BOSTON ARREST TWO SUSPECTS DIGGING OUT A CAR BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO STEAL IT

At about 4:29pm, on Monday, December 22, 2008, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) responded to a radio call for two males attempting to steal a motor vehicle in the area of 616 Saratoga Street. On arrival, officers located two individuals in the process of shoveling out a car. When asked who owned the car, one of the suspects stated, “I don’t know. Some guy paid us $10.00 to dig it out.” When officers looked inside the motor vehicle, officers observed damage to both the ignition and steering column. Officers noted that both of the would-be shovelers appeared to be nervous. When officers asked one of the suspects to explain his nervousness, the suspect stated, “I have an unloaded gun and some weed on me.” A search of the suspect enabled officers to locate and seize an undisclosed amount of what appeared to be marijuana and a firearm. Witnesses say they observed the suspects break into the car, start the engine and then attempt to free it from the snow. While still on scene, officers were approached by the true owner of the car. According to the owner of the car, no one was given permission to use the car nor did he pay anyone to dig it out.

Officers arrested Azer Sarotic, 18, of Melrose and charged him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Attempted Auto Theft and Possession of a Class D Drug (marijuana). Officers also arrested Luis Estrada, 18, of East Boston and charged him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Attempted Auto Theft.

CAR OWNER CATCHES CAR THIEF IN THE ACT IN ROXBURY

At about 6:19pm, on Monday, December 22, 2008, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a person breaking into a car in the area of 30 Waumbeck Street. On arrival, officers observed two individuals involved in a verbal altercation. Officers spoke to the victim who stated that he was walking towards his motor vehicle when he observed an individual, unknown to him, inside his car. When the victim approached the suspect, the victim says the suspect had in his possession several items that belonged to him including an expensive pair of sunglasses. Officers arrested Ron Willoughby, 47, of Dorchester and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

FAILURE TO EXCHANGE PAPERS LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 1:58am, on Tuesday, December 23, 2008, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a motor vehicle accident in the area of Stoughton Street and Columbia Road. On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that they observed one motor vehicle back up into another motor vehicle. According to witnesses, when the two parties attempted to exchange papers, the operator who caused the accident refused to do so, stating, “It’s only $500.00 worth of damage.” Officers observed damage to the hood and front end of the victim’s motor vehicle. Prior to driving off, the operator dropped off a passenger. When officers attempted to get information about the operator from the passenger, the passenger pretended not to know the suspect. A warrant check on the passenger showed that she did, in fact, have a warrant for her arrest. Officers arrested a 26 year-old female from Haverhill pursuant to the arrest warrant.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:45 PM | Permalink

DEATH INVESTIGATION AT 101 BRENT STREET

At about 10:35pm, on Monday, December 22, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to a radio call for a report of shots fired in the area of Brent Street and Melbourne Street. On arrival, officers located a 20 year-old male, lying outside 101 Brent Street, suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced on the scene.

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 choosing to aid this investigation in an anonymous manner can call CrimeStoppers at 1(800) 494-TIPS (8477) or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:50 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Friday, December 19, 2008 through 10am, Monday, December 22, 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: 2

Residential Break-ins: 27
Commercial Break-ins: 9

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 03:17 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST TWO SHOPLIFTERS DOWNTOWN

At about 12:00pm, on Sunday, December 21, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to 450 Washington Street (Macy’s Department Store) for the report of a shoplifting incident. On arrival, officers spoke to security officials who stated that one of their store employees was involved in the incident. According to store security, the employee was working the register when a family member approached her carrying several articles of clothing. Store security officials say the employee rang in all of the items and then proceeded to bag up all the merchandise. Store security officials say they observed the suspect fill up three bags of unpaid merchandise. Prior to handing the bags over to Suspect #2 (the customer), Suspect #1 (the store employee) voided the transaction meaning the clothes given to the customer were done so without an exchange of money.

Officers arrested the store employee, Ntabi Sanders, 18, of Boston and the customer, Glenda Sanders, 45, of Boston and charged both with Larceny (Over $250.00).

DETAIL OFFICER ARRESTS SHOPLIFTER IN DORCHESTER

At about 9:47pm, on Sunday, December 21, 2008, an officer performing a paid detail at the CVS at 703 Gallivan Blvd observed an individual taking items and then stuffing them into his coat. While the officer was monitoring the suspect, the officer observed the suspect take two electric razors and a hammer. Officers arrested Neil Connelly, 36, of Boston and charged him with Shoplifting.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:15 PM | Permalink

STABBING INCIDENT LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 1:24am, on Saturday, December 20, 2008, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a person stabbed in the area of 7 Fernboro Street. On arrival, officers located and observed a male victim suffering from an apparent stab wound. The victim was promptly transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. Officers spoke to multiple witnesses who stated that the victim was drinking inside his apartment when he ordered the suspect to leave the location. Witnesses say the victim then escorted the suspect out of his apartment. Once outside, witnesses say the two men began fighting. During the course of the altercation, witnesses say they observed the suspect pull out a sharp object (possibly a box cutter) and cut the victim. Officers subsequently broadcast a description of the suspect over Channel 3 of the police radio. In short time, officers located an individual matching the description of the suspect. As officers approached the suspect, officers noted the suspect had blood on his face and clothing. When asked about the stabbing, the suspect stated, “I was there but I didn’t stab anyone.”

Officers arrested William White, 27, of Boston and charged him with Assault & Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (knife).

POLICE ARREST ONE FOR BEING DISORDERLY IN DORCHESTER

At about 1:03am, on Sunday, December 21, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to a radio call for a person causing a disturbance in the area of 469 Neponset Ave (Ups & Downs bar). On arrival, officers spoke to bar employees who pointed to a suspect who had been starting fights and trying to break car windows in front of the establishment. Bar employees say they refused to allow the customer inside the location. When officers looked over at the suspect, the suspect began punching a window on a car. As officers approached, the suspect walked towards them, fell over a snow bank and into the side of a car. When officers helped the suspect to his feet, the suspect began yelling and screaming at the officers. Moreover, the suspect attempted to punch the officers.

Officers arrested Ryan Claire, 27, of Boston and charged him with Resisting Arrest, Assault & Battery on a Police Officer and Disorderly Conduct.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:30 PM | Permalink

Armed Robbery Suspects Caught

This morning around 12:32AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) were responding to an alarm on Tremont St. when they when they heard a broadcast of an armed robbery with one of the suspects armed with a gun at the intersection of Huntington Ave. and Tremont Street.

Officers quickly responded to the area and there observed a group in front of 1619 Tremont St. looking at two males across the street matching the description of the two suspects from the armed robbery. Officers approached the two males across the street and there noticed that one specifically matched the exact description broadcast of one of the suspects. That suspect was wearing a Yankee’s baseball cap and spoke with a foreign accent. Both individuals were detained pending further investigation after a pat-frisk revealed no gun.

Officers then returned to the location of the incident and spoke to the victim and witnesses. Officers learned that the two suspects had arrived at Flann O’Brien’s Pub in a cab and before they could go in the door got into a fight with someone outside. The victim then attempted to break up the fight between the suspects and a third party when the suspects assaulted him by punching about the face and chest and then grabbing a gold chain that the victim around his neck and ripping it off. During the assault and robbery, patrons and employees of the pub tried to intercede to stop the assault when the suspects gestured toward their pocket and waistband and stated that they were armed with a gun.

The victim and witnesses were taken to the suspects and positively identified suspects, Fuad A. Ali, 18, of Roxbury and Temesgen H. Kebedom, 22, of Boston who were arrested and charged with Unarmed Robbery and Assault and Battery.

Being Drunk and Doing Stupid Things= Arrest

Around 2:42AM today, officers from District D-4 (South End) responded to the corner of Mass. Ave. and Marlborough St. for a report of a robbery in progress.

On scene, officers poke to the victim, a cab driver. The victim reported to officers that he was stopped at the light at Mass. Ave. and Commonwealth Ave. when two suspects, opened the door to his cab and tried to get in the front set of his cab. The victim told the suspects to get out when they took his bag containing his personal papers from the front seat and punched him in the face causing him to bleed from the nose.

The victim then directed officers to a pizza shop at 49 Mass. Ave. where the suspects were found. Inside the pizza shop, officers found the suspects, one of whom was drunk and belligerent. Next to the suspects on the floor was the victim’s bag. The suspects denied knowing anything about the victim’s bag and refused to answer officers’ questions.
The victim positively identified the suspects, and his bag that was on the floor next to the suspects. Suspects, Ryan L. Walter, 23, of Somerville, and Timothy J. Butler, 24, of Concord were arrested and charged with Unarmed Robbery and Assault and Battery.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:52 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, December 18, 2008 through 10am, Frday, December 19, 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: 9
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 03:28 PM | Permalink

Fool Me Once, Shame on You…Fool Me Twice, Not Again!

Last night around 7:03PM, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) arrested suspects, Stevenson DeLucien, 20, Louidson Mondesir, 19 and Larry Ferdinand, 24, all of Dorchester and charged them with Armed Assault with Intent to Rob, Conspiracy to Commit a Crime, and Trespassing. Suspect Louidson was additionally charged with Carrying a long Knife in Public.

Officers were alerted around 7:03PM by Operations when a delivery driver received an order for 17 Argyle St., the location where a delivery driver had been robbed a few days earlier. Officers met with the delivery driver who told officers that he had received an order for 43 Edwin St. that was changed to 17 Argyle Street. Officers devised a plan to have a plain-clothes detective accompany the driver to the delivery site while other officers formed a perimeter in the vicinity of the delivery.

The driver accompanied by the plain-clothes detective arrived at the scene of the delivery where the driver encountered suspect Mondesir on the porch. The driver asked the suspect if he had placed an order to which he responded he had. The suspect when asked if he had the money for the order stated yes, reached in his pocket but did not produce any money. While speaking to the suspect Mondesir, the driver noticed two males hiding in the bushes located on the side of the house. The driver at this point pointed out the two other suspects in the bushes to suspect Mondesir who then started walking towards the driver.

The detective from the car at this time observed a bulge in suspect Mondesir coat pocket resembling a possible gun quickly exited the car. The suspect at this time turned from the victim and started walking away down the street. The suspect attempted to run when the detective got out of the car but the detective pursued the suspect. The suspect was pursued and apprehended by nearby officers along with the other two suspects who attempted to flee also upon realizing that the victim was accompanied by officers. All suspects were placed under arrest after brief foot pursuits due to the number of officers in the vicinity that had been strategically placed after the call was received.

This incident remains under investigation and the suspects in this incident have not yet been connected to any past incidents at the above location.

No Entry, No Exit! B&E Suspects Arrested Walking Out

Last night around 11:51PM, officers from District B-3 (Mattapan) responded to 25 Calder St. for a breaking and entering in progress with the caller reporting that it sounded like someone was trying to break into one of the back apartments.

On arrival, officers secured both access ways to the building in order to prevent possible suspects from escaping. Officers, while securing the rear entrance observed two individuals walking down the rear stairwell from a third floor porch area. Officers detained these two individuals pending further investigation of the incident. During further investigation, officers discovered that the back door was partially kicked in with the apartment door forced open. Based on the call and the evidence, officers arrested suspects, Michael A. Miranda, 20, and Jonathan P. Santos, 21, both of Dorchester and charged them with Breaking and Entering, and Malicious Destruction of Property.

Armed Robbery Suspect Flees but Doesn’t Get Far

This morning around 3:02AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) arrested suspect, Dennis Franklin, 19, of Dorchester and charged him with Armed Robbery.

Officers initially responded to the intersection of Dudley St. and Columbia Rd. to a call for an armed robbery. En route, officers were informed that the suspect the suspect had fled in a car with a given registration number heading towards Magnolia Street. Officers responded to the scene, and while there learned that other officers responding to the scene had observed the suspect motor vehicle being operated at the intersection of Dudley St. and Blue Hill Avenue. Officers followed the car until it stopped and the suspect was placed under arrest.

Officers spoke to the victim and she told officers that she was walking on Ramsey St. when the suspect asked her for a cigarette. The victim stated that she started looking through her bag for the cigarette when the suspect demanded her purse and grabbed it. After the suspect took the victim’s bag, he saw a crumpled twenty dollar ($20) bill in her hand and exclaimed to her, “Give me the money too before I pop you!” The victim reported that she asked the suspect to leave her bag and just take the money when the suspect reached into his sweatshirt and gestured as if he was about to produce a gun. The victim then told officers that she became frightened that she was about to be shot so she released her bag.

The victim was brought to the location of the suspect where she positively identified the suspect. The suspect was placed under arrest, and the crumpled $20 bill was found on his person. The victim’s bag was not recovered nor was a gun found on the suspect.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:20 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, December 17, 2008 through 10am, Thursday, December 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: 0

Residential Break-ins: 8
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 04:33 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE AND MBTA TRANSIT POLICE TEAM UP TO ARREST TWO SUSPECTS WANTED IN CONNECTION WITH SEVERAL AMRED ROBBERIES

On Thursday, December 18, 2008, members from both the MBTA Transit Police Department and the Boston Police Department served warrants on two juveniles wanted in connection with several armed robberies of various electronic devices (like iPhones) in and around the Orange Line and Downtown Crossing area. In addition to the armed robberies, the suspects were also wanted for their connection to a case involving the intimidation of a potential witness. Earlier today, officers arrested a 15 year-old male from Dorchester and a 16 year-old male from Dorchester as instructed by the arrest warrant charging both suspects with Assault & Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon, Intent to Rob while Armed and Witness Intimidation.

SNOWY FOOTPRINTS LEAD POLICE TO TWO SUSPECTS IN MATTAPAN

At about 1:30am, on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, officers from Area E-18 (Hyde Park) responded to a radio call for three individuals attempting to breaking into a car in the area of 52 Ralston Road in Mattapan. On arrival, officers spoke to a witness who stated that she was driving down the street when she observed three individuals leaning into a friend’s car. The witness says one of the individuals was wearing a camouflaged jacket. The victim further stated that when the suspects saw her pull up, they quickly walked away from the car and fled the area. Officers observed that the glove compartment and center console had been broken into. Officers further observed various items strewn throughout the car. Officers promptly broadcast a description of the suspects over the police radio. In short time, officers located the suspect wearing the camouflaged jacket. While officers were questioning the suspect, the witness was brought to the scene. Once on scene, the witness looked at the suspect and stated, “That is definitely him.” Officers arrested Chris Rodriguez, 18, of Boston and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle. Officers further observed freshly made footprints in the snow leading to the rear of 320 Wood Ave. Thinking the footprints may have been made by the other two suspects, officers followed the footprints to the rear of the location.

Once out back, officers observed Suspect #2 standing in the yard. When asked to explain his reason for being in the back yard, Suspect #2 stated that he was relieving himself. Officers arrested Jesus Ortiz, 17, Boston and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

Officers further observed Suspect #3 hiding behind a shed. Officers arrested Dominic Toledo, 18, of Boston and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

POLICE ARREST SUSPECT BREAKING INTO CARS IN THE SOUTH END

At about 3:05pm, on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, members of the Area D-4 Neighborhood Drug Control Unit were on patrol in the area of Tremont and Northampton Streets when they observed a suspicious looking male looking into motor vehicles in such a way as to suggest he looking to break into them. Officers further observed the suspect attempt to open car doors on several vehicles by checking to see if the doors were unlocked. Officers then closely followed and shadowed the suspect to Shawmut Ave. At this point, officers observed the suspect stop next to a car parked in the area of 580 Shawmut Ave. In short time, officers observed the suspect smash the driver’s side window, reach into the car and grab a black shoulder bag. At this point, officers converged on the suspect and place him under arrest.

Officers arrested Jean Vargas, 27, of Boston and charged him with the Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property (Over $250.00) and Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:28 PM | Permalink

Boston Police Area B-3 Christmas/Holiday Celebration

WHO: Officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan/Dorchester), members of the Dorchester-Mattapan Neighborhood Council, Boston Police Athletic League and, possibly, Santa Claus

WHAT: Please join officers, staff and members of the Area B-3 community for a holiday celebration. There will be refreshments, food, fun and presents for all attending. This event is designed for children between the ages of toddler to 10. Come in and mingle with the officers!!!

The Boston Police Department is teaming up with the Morton Norfolk Coalition and area residents to host the annual holiday party. Since 1995, Boston police officers have donated toys and gifts to hundreds of Boston families during the holiday season. This year, the Morton Norfolk Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Coalition, sponsored by the Boston Public Health Commission, will raffle store gift cards to help families purchase food. They will also provide information on city resources, such as after school programming and other opportunities.

WHERE: Mildred Ave Community Center
5 Mildred Avenue
Mattapan, Mass

WHEN: Wednesday, December 17, 2008
4:00 pm – 8:00pm

Posted by Media Relations at 12:17 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE INVESTIGATE
SEXUAL AND INDECENT ASSAULT INCIDENTS
Officers Remind Community Members to Be Vigilant and Aware of Surroundings

The Boston Police Department has identified recent incidents which involve allegations of sexual and indecent assaults committed by taxi, livery and gypsy cab drivers. The Sexual Assault Unit is working closely with the Hackney Carriage Unit to investigate the following incidents.

Investigators do not believe any of the below incidents are connected. However, the Boston Police would like to take this opportunity to remind females to always be vigilant and to take the appropriate safety precautions to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Incident Descriptions

• On October 4, 2008 at approximately 11:50 p.m., a female reports that she was a victim of an Indecent Assault and Battery inside a taxi cab in the area of Atlantic Avenue. The victim reports that she was assaulted by the cab driver. The suspect is described as a Middle Eastern male, in his 30s, 5’8”, 170 lbs. driving a white taxi with green letters. The incident remains under investigation by the Sexual Assault Unit.

• On October 11, 2008 at approximately 2:00 a.m. and in the area of 20 Park Plaza, a female reports that she hailed an unknown limousine. She got into the livery vehicle and she reports that she was indecently assaulted by the limo driver. She describes that suspect as a male, who is 5’8”, tan and speaks with an accent. The investigation into this incident is ongoing.

• On October 24, 2008 at approximately 3:00 a.m. in the area of Uphams Corner, a female victim reports that she was sexually assaulted by a taxi driver. The victim describes her attacker as a Haitian black male, 5’8” and 180 lbs. This incident remains under investigation.

• On November 1, 2008 at approximately 5:30 a.m. in the area of Park Plaza, a female victim reports that she hailed a livery driver. She reports waking up in the back seat of a town car. Her clothes were in disarray and the victim cannot provide further information.

• On December 7, 2008 at approximately 2:50 a.m., female victim reports being picked up in the Hemenway Street area by an off-duty taxi driver operating his personal vehicle. The driver drove her to Saugus and sexually assaulted her. The suspect was arrested and charged with aggravated rape, kidnapping and having an unregistered/uninsured motor vehicle.

TIPS FOR ENSURING YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY

• If you are in fear or feel in danger dial 911 immediately.
• Avoid walking or travelling alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.
• Consume alcohol responsibly and stay in the company of friends.
• Do not accept rides from out-of-town cabs or individuals in personal vehicles.
• Do not sit in the front seat of a taxi.
• Do not accept a ride locally for anything except a Boston Licensed Taxi. They all say “BOSTON LIC. TAXI” on both rear fenders.
• Make note of the taxi medallion number. It is located on both front fenders, the rear of the taxi and written on the rate card in the back of the taxi.
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Don’t become distracted by the use of cell phones or headphones.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If you feel threatened, use it to signal residents that you need assistance. Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” and/or “Rape!” are other ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on your way. Make sure that you’re expected at a certain time, so people will know to look for you in the event you fail to arrive at the designated time.
• Don’t assume, "IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME."

If you have a complaint regarding a taxi, contact 617-536-TAXI or email Taxi.bpd@cityofboston.gov.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:09 AM | Permalink

GRAND JURY INDICTS DORCHESTER MAN IN JANUARY HOMICIDE
AUTHORITIES SEEKING HIS WHEREABOUTS, PUBLIC’S ASSISTANCE

BOSTON, Dec. 15, 2008—Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley and Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis today announced that they are seeking a Dorchester man in connection with the Jan. 17 stabbing death of 20-year-old Daniel Yakovleff, a day after the Suffolk County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging that man with first-degree murder.

Members of the Boston Police Fugitive and Apprehension Unit today made a forced entry into the Dorchester residence of STEVEN ODEGARD (D.O.B. 8/5/67) but did not find him and could not locate him. Authorities are now urging anyone with information as to his whereabouts to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470, the anonymous CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS, or the CrimeStoppers Mobile Program by texting the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463).

“The tragedy of David’s death was felt throughout the community and it is vitally important that the person responsible be held accountable,” Davis said. “The Boston Police and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office have worked tirelessly on this investigation and will continue to be relentless in our efforts to locate and apprehend Steven Odegard.”

“Investigators never gave up on bringing Mr. Yakovleff’s killer to justice and we won’t give up now,” Conley said. “On the streets of Boston, in the sterile environment of a crime laboratory, and behind the closed doors of the Grand Jury, police and prosecutors worked hand in hand on a quiet, careful, methodical inquiry to build this case. We fully expect to hold him accountable for his actions.”

Shortly after 6:00 on the morning of Jan. 17, Boston Police responded to Odegard’s residence at the time, a third-floor Tuttle Street apartment, to find Yakovleff deceased in Odegard’s bed. The young man had suffered multiple and severe stab wounds and was pronounced dead on the scene.

In the aftermath of the incident, Boston Police conducted an exhaustive search for witnesses, canvassing the neighborhoods in which Odegard lived and in which Yakovleff was last seen. Meanwhile, Boston Police criminalists scoured the crime scene and its environs for forensic and biological evidence and Suffolk County homicide prosecutors led an extensive, 11-month grand jury investigation into Yakovleff’s grisly death, obtaining sworn testimony from 16 separate witnesses.

Evidence generated by all three modes of investigation indicates that Odegard retrieved a knife from his own kitchen and stabbed Yakovleff multiple times, killing him.

Early this morning, Boston Police seeking to execute a warrant for Odegard’s arrest entered his Dorchester Avenue residence. He was not inside. Prosecutors today notified his attorney, John Swomley, that the warrant had issued and his client was wanted for murder.

When he is arrested, Odegard will be arraigned in the Magistrate’s Session of Suffolk Superior Court on a single count of first-degree murder.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:08 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - December 15th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (Through 10/7/08)

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 10:50 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, December 12, 2008 through 10am, Monday, December 15, 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: 10

Residential Break-ins: 21
Commercial Break-ins: 9

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 01:38 PM | Permalink

Sleeping on the “Job” Never a Good Idea

This morning around 1:25AM, officers from District A-1 (Downtown) were on patrol in the area of 75 West School St. in Charlestown when they went around the back of the building. There, officers observed a man sleeping in the driver’s seat.

Officers checked the registration of the car and that checked revealed the car was stolen in the South End on 12/13/08. Officers woke up the sleeping suspect and placed him under arrest. During an inventory check of the car, offices recovered jacket with a plastic bag with several pieces of jewelry in a plastic bag with price tags along with a cell phone. When asked about the jacket, the suspect denied ownership of the jacket, however officers found pictures of the suspect in the cell phone.

The suspect, Richard A. McPherson, 31, of Charlestown was arrested and charged with Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle, and Receiving Stolen Property.

Community Tip Results in Firearm Recovery

Yesterday afternoon around 1:42PM, officers from District B-3 (Mattapan) responded to the Roberts Playground on Dunbar Ave. in Dorchester for a report of a male carrying a firearm. The suspects was described a light skinned black male with braids wearing a khaki hat, and jacket, and dark jeans. In addition, officers were advised that the suspect was walking with a female.

Officers responded to the location of the call and found a male matching the exact description of the suspect walking with a female near 25 Dunbar Street. Officers approached the suspect and explained that he matched the description of an armed individual. The suspect then raised both his arm at which point officers conducted a pat frisk. During the pat frisk of the suspect, officers felt a hard object consistent with the feel and shape of a firearm. Further check of the suspect revealed him to be in possession of a loaded firearm.

The suspect, Michael P. Fernandes, 25, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.

Training Results in Firearm Recovery

Last night around 8:42PM, officers from the Youth Violence Strike Force/Gang Unit arrested suspect, Raymond Jenkins, 24, of Mattapan and charged him with Unlawful Possession of a Loaded, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Officers from the Gang Unit were on patrol in the area of Fields Corner when they observed two individuals walking up Park St. toward Washington Street. Officers noted that one of the two individuals was walking securing his waist while the other had a normal gait and was swinging his arms. Having observed this, officers decided to further investigate. Officers then pulled up alongside the two individuals and engaged them in a conversation. While talking to the two, officers observed that the individual that had been holding his waist, stood sideways still holding his waist with the side he was holding facing away from officers. The individual holding his waist appeared nervous as officer spoke to him, continuing to look in different directions. Officers, trained in the characteristics of an armed gunmen, at this time decided to pat frisk the suspect for their own safety.

Officers then approached the suspect and asked of him if he had anything on him that he should not. The suspect did not answer officers but rather asked of them, “What’d I do?” Officers pat frisk the suspect starting with the side that he was holding and immediately by feel recognized the feel of a handgun in the suspect’s pocket. Further investigation revealed the suspect to be in possession of a loaded handgun. The suspect was arrested and charged accordingly.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:34 PM | Permalink

FIVE DOWNTOWN SUSPECTS GIVE NEW MEANING TO THE PHRASE: “IF YOU GO, WE ALL GO.”

POLICE ARREST FIVE FOR BEING DISORDERLY

At about 1:02am, on Sunday, December 14, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a fight in front of 180 Lincoln Street (District Night Club). On arrival, officers observed several individuals standing in the street causing traffic to slow. Specifically, officers observed one white female, standing in the street, yelling obscenities at a small group of people. Officers quickly instructed the woman to cease with the swearing and to exit the street. To which, the woman refused. Officers arrested Dawn Dutton, 32, of Haverhill and charged her with Disturbing the Peace. While officers were escorting Suspect Dutton to the police cruiser, officers observed a white male (Suspect #2) approach them. While approaching the officers, officers observed Suspect #2 flailing his arms and making aggressive gestures towards several people. Suspect #2 then proceeded to yell and scream obscenities at the officers. When instructed to stop, Suspect #2, instead, punched one of the officers in the arm. Given the suspect’s refusal to obey lawful instructions, several officers attempted to get this suspect into handcuffs. Officers eventually arrested Vincent Conte, 38, of Boston and charged him with Being a Disorderly and Assault & Battery on a Police Officer.

However, while officers were struggling with Suspect #2, officers observed a third individual (Suspect #3) walk over to the police cruiser, occupied by Suspect #1 (Dutton), and attempt to open the cruiser door in an effort to free Suspect #1. Suspect #3, Jennifer Fossarelli, 34, of Haverhill was arrested and charged with Being a Disorderly Person. While officers were attempting to escort Suspect #3 into a police cruiser, another individual (Suspect #4) attempted to interfere in the arrest of Suspect #3 by grabbing onto Suspect #3’s clothing in an effort to pull her away from the officers. Officers arrested Suspect #4, Brian Cormier, 35, of Bradford and charged him with Being a Disorderly Person and Assault & Battery on a Police Officer. (But wait .. there’s more.)

While officers were escorting Suspect #4 to a police cruiser, Suspect #4’s friend, herein referred to as Suspect #5, began assaulting officers in an effort to disrupt the arrest of Suspect #4. However, instead of stopping the arrest, Suspect #5 became subject to an arrest. Officers arrested Suspect #5, Jaclyn Cormier, 31, of Bradford and charged her with Being a Disorderly Person.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:08 PM | Permalink

BROKEN BRAKE LIGHT LEADS TO GUN ARREST IN ROXBURY

At about 9:37pm, on Friday, December 12, 2008, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) were on patrol when they observed a motor vehicle traveling along Glenway Street with a defective brake light. As a result of the defective light, officers activated their emergency equipment (lights & sirens) and stopped the car. Upon stopping the car, officers detected an odor of marijuana. When asked about the odor, the operator of the car stated, “We smoked some an hour ago.” When asked if there was any additional marijuana in the car, the operator stated, “A little bit.” At this point, officers asked all three occupants to exit the motor vehicle. While conducting a pat frisk of the rear passenger, officers discovered that the individual was in possession of a firearm. After seizing the weapon, officers asked the suspect if he had a license to carry. To which, the suspect stated, “I don’t have one.”

Officers arrested Wilton DePina, 21, of Boston and charged him with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and the Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.

BAD BEHAVIOR + BAD CREDIT LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY

At about 5:39pm, on Friday, December 12, 2008, detail officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a person threatening the store manager at the Symphony Market. On arrival, officers observed a highly intoxicated white male drinking a soda. According to store employees the suspect entered the store grabbed some items and, then, attempted to pay for them using a debit card that had no money on it. According to store employees, when they told the suspect that the card wasn’t valid, the suspect began yelling and swearing at them. Furthermore, the employees say, when they asked the suspect to leave the store, the suspect refused and even encouraged them to call police. While waiting for the police to arrive, the victim says the suspect grabbed a Starbucks cappuccino, drank it and then handed the empty can to the employee, saying, “Take the can (expletive)! It’s empty.”

Officers arrested Dan McLaughlin, 30, of Boston and charged him with Disturbing the Peace.

WINDOW-BREAKER ARRESTED IN THE SOUTH END

At about 1:16am, on Saturday, December 13, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for person breaking car windows in the area of 535 Harrison Ave. On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated that she observed an individual kick and punch the windows on her car. Officers observed broken glass strewn on the ground in the area of the car. In short time, officers located the individual responsible for breaking the windows. Officers observed that the suspect’s fingers and knuckles were bleeding.

Officers arrested Jose Juarbe, 19, of Boston and charged him with Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property (Over $250.00)

Posted by Media Relations at 03:54 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, December 11, 2008 through 10am, Friday, December 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: 2

Residential Break-ins: 16
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 12:43 PM | Permalink

Incident #1:
At about 10:13pm, on Wednesday, December 10, 2008, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery at 1991 Centre Street (Walgreen’s Pharmacy). On arrival, officers spoke to store employees who stated that a white female with blond hair entered the store just after closing, showed a firearm and demanded money and drugs. The store employee says the suspect didn’t get any money because he was unable to open the safe. Victim says the suspect then exited the store and fled the area in a silver-colored motor vehicle. Officers promptly broadcast a description of the suspect and motor vehicle over the police radio.

Incident #2:
Approximately 17 minutes later at 10:30pm, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for the report of an armed robbery at 1435 VFW Parkway (Dunkin Donuts). On arrival, officers spoke to store employees who stated that a white female with blond hair, driving a silver-colored motor vehicle, pulled up to the drive-thru window, showed a firearm and stated, “I wont hurt you. I just want the money in the register.” At this point, the employee says he stepped away from the window and, when he did, the suspect took off without getting any money.

Incident #3:
Approximately 21 minutes later at 10:51pm, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery at 1465 VFW Parkway (US Petroleum). On arrival, officers spoke to a store employee who stated that a silver-colored motor vehicle pulled into the gas station. A white female with blond hair then exited the motor vehicle and approached the attendant’s booth. Thinking the suspect was looking to buy cigarettes, the attendant says he opened the door to his booth. When he did, the attendant says the suspect showed a firearm and demanded money. After getting an undisclosed amount of money, the suspect fled the area in a silver-colored motor vehicle. A search of the immediate area by Boston Police, Dedham Police and Massachusetts State Police proved unsuccessful.

The Boston Police Department continues to actively investigate this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Area E-5 detectives at (617) 343-4566.

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion should call CrimeStoppers at 1(800)494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect and safeguard the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:05 PM | Permalink

WHEN BOOK SMARTS AND STREET SMARTS ALMOST BECOME ONE

At about 2:00pm, on Tuesday, December 9, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown), along with public safety officers from Suffolk University, responded to a radio call for a disturbance at 148 Cambridge Street (the Suffolk University bookstore). On arrival, officers spoke to store employees who stated that they observed an individual enter the store and grab three new textbooks off a bookshelf. After grabbing the new textbooks, store employees say the individual then attempted to re-sell the books back to the store thru the store’s book buy back program. When store employees confronted the suspect, the suspect became increasingly defensive and fled the store with the new books in possession. In short time, officers were able to locate the suspect and bring him back to the store. When asked to produce the stolen books, the suspect stated that he could not because they belonged to his friend. Store employees positively identified the suspect as the individual who exited the store with the new books. Moreover, store employees say this is not the first time the suspect has attempted to re-sell stolen books back to the bookstore.

Officers arrested Justin Quiles, 25, of Holbrook and charged him with Larceny Over $250.00.

POLICE DETAIL AIDS IN THE ARREST OF A SUSPECT WANTED IN CONNECTION WITH A CAR BREAK

At about 11:30am, on Tuesday, December 9, 2008, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a breaking and entering of a motor vehicle in progress at the intersection of Clarendon and Appleton Streets. While en route to the call, the police dispatcher informed officers that the suspect in this case was a hispanic male wearing a gray jacket with a stripe on it. Moreover, officers learned that the suspect was seen removing a red jacket from the car. In short time, an officer working a paid detail in the area of 303 Columbus Avenue observed an individual matching the description of the suspect. The detail officer stopped the suspect and detained him until additional units arrived. Officers noted that the suspect was holding a black duffle back. Sticking out of the duffle bag, officers were able to see a red jacket. When asked how he came to possess the jacket, the suspect stated, “I got it out of a car.”

Officers arrested Juan Rivera, 41, of Boston and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:25 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, December 9, 2008 through 10am, Wednesday, December 10, 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: 4

Residential Break-ins: 8
Commercial Break-ins: 5

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 12:21 PM | Permalink

STOLEN CHECKBOOK LANDS ONE IN POLICE CUSTODY IN SOUTHIE

At about 5:29pm, on Monday, December 8, 2008, officers from Area C-6 (South Boston) responded to the Best Buy located at 14 Allstate Road for the report a male customer attempting to pass a bad check. On arrival, officers spoke to store employees who stated that a customer attempted to buy an undisclosed amount of merchandise with a personal check. According to the store employee, she became suspicious of the suspect after asking him for identification. When the employee looked at the ID, she noted that the suspect appeared dramatically older than age listed on the ID. The store employee further stated that the suspect looked some 20 years older than the person pictured in the license. The store employee says the suspect simply didn’t look like the person in the picture. When officers questioned the suspect, they asked him to provide his Social Security number. After checking the number, officers learned that the suspect was not the individual he was claiming to be.

After seizing the stolen checkbook and ID, officers arrested Lamar Hackett, 42, of Boston and charged him with Uttering a False Check and Larceny Over $250.00.

WHEN IT COMES TO SOLICITING DONATIONS .. THIS APPROACH HAS A LOT TO BE DESIRED

At about 6:25pm, on Monday, December 8, 2008, officers were on patrol in the area of Copley Square when they were approached by a citizen who stated that an individual was threatening people. According to one witness, the suspect approached him and said, “Give me a dollar or I’ll punch you in the face.“ Officers soon located an individual matching the description of the suspect. While approaching the suspect, officers observed the suspect flailing his arms and yelling at people. When officers attempted to calm the suspect, the suspect threatened the officers, stating, “Come on (expletive)!!! I’ll mess you up!!!”

Officers arrested Adan Ibrahim, 21, of Boston and charged him with Being a Disorderly Person.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:11 PM | Permalink

About 11:03pm on Monday December 8, 2008, Officers responded to the area of McLellan and Page Street for a ShotSpotter notification for shots fired. While en route to the area, the call was upgraded by the dispatcher to a Person Shot at 111 Glenway Street in Mattapan. On arrival, Officers observed a 19 year old black male, lying on his back unresponsive, and suffering from what appeared to be several gunshots wounds. The victim was lying on the sidewalk in between 115 & 119 Glenway St. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Officers canvassed the area and spoke to a witness who stated to hearing several shots. A witness reported seeing a black male, in his 20's, wearing a dark black hooded sweatshirt, fleeing down Glenway. Another witness stated seeing a black male wearing a dark coat & dark jeans, place an object in to his waistband with his right hand, and then flee up Fowler St. Officers searched the area to no avail.

This marks the 59th homicide of the year. Last year at this time, there were 64.

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 assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion should call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:17 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - December 7th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (Through 10/7/08)

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 01:42 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, December 5, 2008 through 10am, Monday, December 8, 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: 4
Non-fatal Stabbings: 3

Residential Break-ins: 30
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 12:35 PM | Permalink

Vigilant Cops Capture B&E and Robbery Crooks

Last night around 9:51PM, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) arrested suspects, Lionel Ighodaro, 18, Angelo Pina, 17, and Jamayl E. Wilson, 17 all of Dorchester and charged them with Assault with Intent to Rob, and Breaking and Entering in the Night.

Officers were on patrol in the Savin Hill area of Dorchester when they observed the suspects running toward Dorchester Avenue. At about the same time, officers observed a distraught individual standing on a porch on Savin St. clutching his face. Officers asked the individual standing on the porch if he was alright and he responded stating, “No!” Officers feeling that the fleeing suspects may have something to do with the distraught individual decided to further investigate the fleeing suspects and stopped them on Dorchester Avenue and Savin Hill Avenue.

Officers then returned to the location of the distraught male and spoke to him. The male reported to officers that he was walking home from the Savin Hill T station when he noticed the three suspects following him. The victim further stated hat he made it home and was about to close his front door when he heard someone say, “Yo Yo!” The victim, thinking it was a friend, slightly opened the front door to the building when he noticed the same three suspects that had been followed him from the T station on his porch. The victim attempted to shut the door but was overpowered by the suspects who forced their way into the building. The victim reported that the suspects upon forcing their way into the building started punching him and knocked him to the ground. The victim reported that one of the three suspects held him while the others repeatedly assaulted him and went though his pockets. During the assault, the victim’s brother heard the commotion in the hallway, and came out and observed the suspects assaulting his brother. The male suspects then fled when they noticed that someone had come out of an apartment.

The suspects were detained pending identification by the victim and witness. The victim and his brother both individually identified the three suspects who then arrested and charged accordingly.

Gone But Not for Long!!

Yesterday evening around 6:44PM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to the intersection of St. Alphonsus and Tremont Streets for a robbery.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who told officers that she was walking up St. Alphonsus St. when she noticed a young black male walking towards her from Tremont Street. The victim stated that when the male got close to her, he grabbed her purse and ripped from her and fled up St. Alphonsus Street. Nearby witnesses, observing the incident pursued the suspect until he got a car and drove off. The victim and witnesses provided officers with a description of the suspect, and witnesses gave officers a description of the motor vehicle and registration plate.

Around 10:15PM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) were in the area of Robin Hood St. looking for the car that was broadcast as fleeing from the scene of the above robbery incident earlier in the evening.

While in the area, officers observed the broadcast suspect motor vehicle parked in front of 23 Robin Hood St., the registered address of the suspect motor vehicle. Officers went to the door, knocked and a male answered the door. Officers asked the male who owned the car and a voice from within the house answered and stated, “That’s my car!” A female then came to the door and invited officers in the house citing the weather.
Officers then asked the female who had the car earlier and she pointed at the male who had initially answered the door stating that he had only gotten home a little earlier. Officers then told the woman that the car had been identified as fleeing from the scene of a robbery earlier in the day. The male suspect was then read his rights and pat frisked for officer safety at which point a phone matching the description of a phone stolen the robbery was found on his person. The suspect stated that he had found the phone. Officers called the phone number that had been given by the victim of the robbery and the phone that the suspect had on his person rang. With the permission of the owner, officers, looked around and located a hat that the suspect of the robbery was wearing at the time of the robbery. In addition, officers found a camera card from a camera that the victim had reported stolen in her purse during the robbery.

The suspect, Jimmy L. Caldwell, 35, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Unarmed Robbery, and Concealing Stolen Goods.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:32 PM | Permalink

All Over a Parking Space!

Yesterday morning around 1:32AM, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 39 Sudan St. in Dorchester for a loud music call.

On arrival, officers not being able to find a parking space on the street, parked in a private driveway so as to block the street. Officers responding to the call started going up the stairway to the apartment when they heard loud male voice exclaiming, “Boston Police!! What the (expletive)!” Officers next heard a pounding sound coming from the direction of the parked cruiser, and looked outside and observed a male pounding on the hood of the marked department cruiser. Officers then went outside to determine what the cause of the male’s distress and to see if he needed police assistance.

Officers then went outside at which point the male confronted officers, got in their faces and exclaimed, “Get this piece of (expletive) out of my driveway, I will have you towed!” The male suspect continued to get in the officers face and was very confrontational even as officers approached the cruiser. Officers then noted that the suspect had a strong odor of alcohol emanating from his breath, and was unsteady on his feet. Officers attempted to explain to the suspect the reason that they had parked in his driveway but he continued to yell and berate officers causing sleeping neighbors to come outside to see the source of the disturbance.

Officers continued to try to explain to the suspect why they had parked in his driveway to no avail, only causing further anger and yelling on his part waking up more neighbors. After numerous failed attempts to calm the angry male, Raymond Tomlinson, 37, of Dorchester was placed under arrest and charged with Disturbing the Peace.

OUI Suspect Arrested after Hitting Pedestrian

Around 9:16PM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle.

On arrival, officers observed several security guards with the suspect. Officers then spoke to the suspect who was sitting in his vehicle with the engine still running. Officers approached the vehicle and immediately detected a strong odor of alcohol. Officers then asked the operator to turn off the car and step out of the car. He suspect had a hard time removing the key from the ignition, and after fumbling with the key for some time finally managed to get the key out of the ignition and handed it to officers. The operator then exited the car and officers noticed that his eyes were bloodshot, he was unsteady on his feet, and he slurred his words. Officers then explained to the operator that he was going to be administered some sobriety tests. The suspect agreed to take the tests but failed to recite the alphabet, and was unable to negotiate the nine-step walk and turn tests, stumbling numerous times. The suspect also denied having hit anyone with his car.

Officers then spoke to the victim and a witness who told officers that the suspect had hit the victim a short distance from where they had hit him stopped. Officers learned that the security guards had detained the suspect until their arrival. The victim sustained no serious injuries and refused medical attention.

The suspect, Darrell Daniel, 42, of Weymouth was arrested and charged with Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol.

One Crime Leads to Another!!

Early this morning officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) arrested suspect, Belal I. Ibrahim, 23, of Roxbury was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.

About 12:20AM, officers were off at a call at 1747 Dorchester Ave. that involved a stabbing involving three young male suspects dressed in all black. While officers were off at the location, they observed the suspect walk from Welles Ave. to Dorchester Ave. wearing clothing matching the clothing description of the stabbing suspects. Officers then observed that the suspect crossed the street when he saw the police cruiser. Officers, based on the suspect’s clothing, decided to stop him to conduct a threshold inquiry. As officers approached the suspect, they observed him to be slightly out of breath, and he immediately became agitated by the officers’ presence.

Officers explained their purpose in stopping the suspect but he was nevertheless agitated and told officers that he had just gotten off the bus. Officers asked the suspect for identification and again explained their reason for stopping him and noticed that he was sweating more so than before causing officers concern. Officers asked the suspect for identification and questioned him about whether he had any weapons on his person to which he responded that he did not. Officers performed a pat frisk of the suspect and noticed a hard object in the suspect’s jacket pocket. Officers questioned the suspect about what the hard object was and he told officers that it was a cell phone. After further feeling the object and not knowing what it was, the suspect told officers that it was a knife. Officers then concerned based on the feel of the object, removed it from the suspect’s jacket and found that it was a double-barreled handgun. Consequently, the suspect was arrested and charged with the above offenses.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:12 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE RELIEF ASSOCIATION TO HOLD 137TH ANNUAL AWARDS BALL

WHO: Mayor Thomas M. Menino, Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis, Boston Police Command Staff, Boston Herald columnist Joe Fitzgerald (emcee), honored officers and their families.

WHAT: This yearly event is designed to honor and recognize those members of the department who, through dedication and devotion to duty, have exemplified what it means to be a member of the Boston Police Department. The awards ceremony will commence at 5:00pm and will be followed by dinner and entertainment.

WHERE: Lombardo’s, Route 28, Randolph, MA

WHEN: Sunday, December 7, 2008 @ 5:00pm

** NOTE : The media is encouraged to attend this ceremony and should do so between the hours of 5:00pm and 7:00pm.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:47 PM | Permalink

POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOOTING AT 612 BLUE HILL AVE

At about 11:14pm, on December 5, 2008, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) responded to a radio call for a person shot in the area of 612 Blue Hill Avenue (Stash’s Restaurant). On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that the victim was shot while standing in line waiting for food. Witnesses say the victim was standing next to the suspect when the suspect’s firearm fell to the ground and discharged. When the firearm discharged, the victim was struck in the head. Seeing this, the suspect fled the establishment. Witnesses describe the suspect as a black male, in his early 20’s, with braided hair wearing a black jacket and blue jeans. The victim was immediately transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

The Boston Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact Area B-3 (Mattapan) detectives at (617) 343-4712.

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion should call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

SLEEPING BEAUTY: TAKE I

At about 6:15am, on Saturday, December 6, 2008, officers from Area C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 10 Harbor Point Blvd for a resident complaining about an unknown male sleeping on his couch. On arrival, officers spoke to the complainant who stated that his daughter discovered an unknown male sleeping on their couch when she woke for breakfast. Officers entered the location and observed the male still sound asleep on the couch. Officers woke the suspect and asked him to explain why he was sleeping on a couch in an apartment that didn’t belong to him. The suspect stated that he thought he was sleeping in his friend’s apartment. However, the owner of the apartment stated that he had no idea who the suspect was and they were definitely not friends. While the suspect was talking, officers noted that the suspect appeared to be intoxicated due to slurred speech and an odor of alcohol emanating from his person.

Officers arrested Dominic Dallesandro, 18, of Weymouth and charged him with Breaking & Entering (Nighttime).

SLEEPING BEAUTY: TAKE II

At about 1:45AM, on Saturday, December 6, 2008, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) responded to a radio call for a person sleeping in a motor vehicle in the front of 325 East Eagle Street in East Boston. On arrival, officers observed an individual sleeping or unconscious while seated at the wheel of a motor vehicle with its’ engine running. Officers quickly observed no damage to the car. Officers began knocking on the window, shaking the car and yelling at the operator in an effort to wake him. Despite all the noise, the operator remained sleeping. At this point, members of the Boston Fire Department broke the passenger-side window in order to gain entry to the car. Once inside the car, EMT’s attempted to evaluate and wake the operator. However, when the operator woke, he began to punch and slap the EMT’s. At this point, officers intervened and handcuffed the suspect. While attempting to speak to the suspect, officers noted that the suspect appeared to be intoxicated given his slurred speech and the odor of alcohol emanating from his clothes and breath.

Officers arrested Antonio Valdivieso, 28, of East Boston and charged him with Operating Under the Influence, Assault & Battery on a Police Officer and EMT.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:48 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, December 4, 2008 through 10am, Friday, December 5, 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: 8
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 05:44 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST FOUR SUSPECTS WANTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE BEATING OF TWO INDIVIDUALS

At about 2:15am, on Friday, December 5, 2008, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for to investigate a fight in the area of North & Union Streets. On arrival, officers observed and located two victims: (1) an unconscious male lying on the ground, (2) a conscious male with a bloodied, broken nose. Both individuals were transported to Mass General Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. According to witnesses, a white limo pulled up to the victims and five to six individuals exited the car and proceeded to punch and kick the victims. Witnesses say the suspects then re-entered the limo and fled the area. Witnesses were able to provide officers with the plate number attached to the limousine. Officers promptly broadcast a description of the limo and its plate number over the police radio. In short time, the car was located and stopped by an officer performing a paid detail in the area of Soldiers Field Road.

With the car stopped, officers asked the operator of the limo to explain where the car was coming from. To which, the operator stated, ”I was parked on Union Street. My passengers jumped into the limo and I drove off.” Officers instructed the occupants of the limo to exit the motor vehicle. Officers quickly noted that four of the occupants appeared as if they had been involved in some sort of physical altercation. Specifically, officers observed and noted that the suspects in question had among other things: bloodied, swollen knuckles, ripped clothing and clothing with blood on it. A search of the car enabled officers to locate a pair of brass knuckles.

Officers arrested James King, 26, of Middletown, RI; Chris Kilroy, 26, of Newport, RI; Dewey Guntar, 25, of Charlestown, RI and Jeremy Schmidt, 29, of Amesbury and charged all four with Assault & Battery by Means of Dangerous Weapon.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:42 PM | Permalink

Detectives Continue to Investigate Facts and Circumstances

About 1:56pm, Wednesday, December 3, 2008, Officers responded to a radio call for an armed robbery with a gun at 437 River St, Mattapan. The officers were quickly updated by the dispatcher that the suspects were holding a child hostage. At this time, numerous police units responded to the scene. On arrival the officers spoke to one, Carlos Perez. Mr. Perez informed the officers that his girlfriend's 9 year old child had just been held at gun point by two suspects. The two suspects are described as two Hispanic males 25-30 years of age. Suspect #1 was described as a dark skinned Hispanic male, wearing a grey hooded-sweatshirt with the hood over his head, black braids underneath, 5'8, about 150-160 pounds. Suspect #2 was described as a medium skinned male, short black hair, wearing a red hooded sweatshirt, about 170-180 pounds.

Mr. Perez stated that he and the child were sitting in a 2003 silver four door Honda Accord in the parking lot of 437 River Street. Mr. Perez stated that suspect# 2 was crouched down inside of the motor vehicle in the rear passenger side seat. As soon as Mr. Perez was seated in the front driver's side seat, suspect #2 appeared and put a firearm to Mr. Perez's head and demanded Mr. Perez to give them everything he had. As that was occurring, suspect#1 appeared from the rear of 437 River St, and also displayed a firearm as he approached the front driver's side seat. Mr. Perez informed the officers that out of fear for his life, he grabbed the child and exited the car and began to run down the driveway in front of 437 River St towards the street. Halfway down the driveway, Mr. Perez took a right, to run behind 437 River St building. At that point suspect #1 grabbed the child and stated he would harm them both if he did not return. The victim further stated, that the two suspects then kidnapped the child and left the scene in an unknown direction while operating Mr. Perez's motor vehicle.

Mr. Perez stated that he ran to a neighbor who was standing across from building 437 and asked her to call 9-1-1. The officers quickly gave a description of the suspects and the child to the dispatcher.

B-3 Detectives responded to the scene to further investigate. An Amber Alert was issued through The Mass State Police. As a result of the investigation, the victim's car was located on 79 Gladside Terrace in Mattapan. The kidnapped child was located at the Logan Airport by the Boston Police Fugitive Unit. The child was quickly reunited with his mother. Boston Health and Hospitals (EMS, A-17) responded to B-3 to further evaluate the child and speak with the child's mother. The child was then released to the custody of his mother.

Further investigation by the Boston Police revealed Mr. Perez has two other aliases. He is also known as Eddie Ortiz and Jose Rodriguez. Under the alias of Jose Rodriguez, officers discovered two outstanding warrants as listed below: a) issued out of Lawrence District Court for Distribution of a class B drug b) issued out of Salem District Court for Distribution of a class A drug, Drug violation near school / park, Use Motor vehicle in felony / larceny. In addition to the above two (2) warrants, through the investigation, Jose Rodriguez presented police officers with a Massachusetts Driver's license under the name Carlos Perez. As a result, Mr. Rodriguez is also being charged with possession of false / Altered Registry document.

Officers contacted the Department of Social Services and filed 51a report with them. The officers were unable to locate the two suspects. This incident is being actively investigated by the B-3 Detectives.

Anyone with information on this incident is encouraged to call B3 detectives at 617-343-4712.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:37 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, December 3, 2008 through 10am, Wednesday, December 4, 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: 12
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 01:35 PM | Permalink

On Monday, December 1, 2008 around 9:14am, Boston Police from District C-11 and B-3, responded to a radio call for a person shot at 554 Washington Street in Dorchester. Upon arrival, officers located a victim suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was rushed to Boston Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. The victim since that time remained at the Boston Medical Center in critical condition. However this evening, the victim, 17-year-old, Deandre Barbosa of Dorchester was pronounced as a result of the injuries suffered.

Homicide detectives continue to investigate the facts and circumstances of this incident. That same day, officers placed 20-year-old Patrick M. Grier and a 16-year-old female both of Dorchester under arrest and charged them both with Assault with Intent to Murder, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, and Discharging a Firearm within 500’ of a Dwelling.

The Boston Police Homicide Unit in conjunction with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office will now seek an upgrade in the pending charges against the suspects to Murder in the morning.

The Boston Police Homicide Unit continues to actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident and appeal to any and all individuals who may have information relating to this incident. Those with information are asked to contact Homicide Detectives at (617) 343-4470.

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 09:42 PM | Permalink

Boston Police are investigating a report of a nine year old boy who was kidnapped from 437 River Street in Mattapan. A victim/witness reports that he and 9-year-old David Encarcion were approached by two suspects at approximately 1:56pm. The two suspects then fled with the 9 year old boy in the victim’s vehicle.

Anyone who may have seen this vehicle or know the whereabouts of David are encouraged to dial 911 or call detectives at B-3 at 617-343-4712.

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION
Make: Honda
Model: 2003 Accord
Color: Gray
Other: 4 Door
License Plate: MA REG 25JN78

CHILD DESCRIPTION
Name: David Encarnacion
Age: 9 years old
Weight: 60lbs.
Height: 4 ft.
Hair: Dark hair with blonde streaks
LSW: Gray hooded sweatshirt

Posted by Media Relations at 04:42 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, December 2, 2008 through 10am, Wednesday, December 3, 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: 2

Residential Break-ins: 9
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 01:37 PM | Permalink

DETECTIVES CANVASS AREA SEEKING ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

On December 3, 2008, officers responded to 710 Hyde Park Avenue for a person shot at approximately 12:57am. Upon arrival, officers entered above address and observed a black male lying on his side bleeding from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was rushed to Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he was soon pronounced.

A preliminary investigation has revealed that the victim, a black male and 50 years old, encountered the suspect, who approached the victim’s front door. The suspect is described as a light skinned black male could possibly be black Hispanic or Cape Verdean, 15 to 18 years old and wearing a blue jacket with white on the sleeves.

At this time, detectives are canvassing the neighborhood for investigative leads. The Crimestoppers Unit has been deployed to the area to proactively engage community members by distributing anonymous Text-A-Tip pamphlets and keeping residents informed of ongoing efforts.

The Boston Police Homicide Unit 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 assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion should call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:26 AM | Permalink

At about 12:57am, on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, officers from Area E-18 (Hyde Park) responded to a radio call for a person shot in the area of 710 Hyde Park Avenue. On arrival, officers located a 50 year-old black male, inside the apartment, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was immediately transported to the Brigham & Women’s 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 assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion should call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:21 AM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE UNSOLVED CASE SQUAD
ARREST MAN IN 1984 HOMICIDE

Today Boston Police Commissioner Edward Davis and Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel Conley announce that the Boston Police Unsolved Case Squad has made an arrest in a decades old homicide case. A 60 year old Atlanta man is in custody and charged with the 1984 homicide of Elsie “Yolanda” Hernandez, then 18 and of Roxbury. Sultan Omar Chezulu, 60 of Georgia, was arrested this morning by the local authorities for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Yolanda Hernandez was 18 years old when she was found murdered on Ball Street in Roxbury on December 29, 1984. The investigation reveals that Yolanda Hernandez leaves work at her cashier's job on Washington Street in Roxbury at approximately 6:00pm on December 28, 1984. At approximately 2:45pm on December 29, 1984 Hernandez' remains are found in garbage-strewn lot between Shawmut Avenue and Washington Street. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled her cause of death to be blunt force trauma and ligature strangulation.

Mayor Thomas Menino stated, "I want to commend Commissioner Davis, District Attorney Conley, and the Boston Police Department's Unsolved Case squad for their relentless efforts to solve this tragic crime," Mayor Menino added, "Yolanda's family deserved to see this fugitive brought to justice, no matter how long ago the crime was perpetrated. The tireless work of our detectives and the DA's Office serves as a prime example that no crime should go unpunished.”

District Attorney Dan Conley stated, "Sultan Omar Chezulu has been on the run from Yolanda Hernandez’ murder for 24 years -- six years longer than Yolanda lived on this earth. His arrest today is proof that no span of years and no physical distance will deter us from bringing a killer to justice. Today’s developments speak volumes about the commitment that the Suffolk DA’s Office and the Boston Police Department demonstrate to victims, to their families, and to the cause of justice in our Commonwealth."

Police Commissioner Ed Davis stated, “With this arrest, I want the families of victims to know that the Boston Police Department will never give up in its efforts to bring criminals to justice, and they and their loved ones are never forgotten. I applaud the tenacity of the detectives and prosecutors who have been dogged in their pursuit of justice for Yolanda and their efforts to provide some sense of peace to Yolanda’s family and friends.”

The joint efforts of Boston Police detectives and prosecutors from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office ultimately led to Chezulu being arrested and charged. The Unsolved Case Squad took existing evidence from the crime scene and submitted it into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). A CODIS hit was confirmed to be Chezulu also known as Robert L. Scott. In 1990, Robert Scott was convicted of robbery and ABDW in Suffolk County. Scott was ordered to give DNA sample upon release in 2004. Robert L. Scott changed his name to Sultan O. Chezulu and had been living in Georgia.

Detectives recently travelled to Atlanta to continue their investigation into Chezulu. As a result, today a warrant was sought and granted at Roxbury Municipal Court. Chezulu was taken into custody by local authorities. He is expected to be returned to Boston tomorrow where he will face a murder charge.

Yolanda Hernandez was a graduate of Charlestown High School. At the time of her death, she was working at Robells Department Store in Roxbury. She was in the process of enrolling at Northeastern University and dreamed of being a veterinarian.

The Boston Police Unsolved Case Squad
The Boston Police Department revived a full-time unsolved homicide case squad in March of 2008. The Unsolved Case Squad is assigned to investigate homicide cases that remain unsolved after 5 years. The unit, who reviews cases from 2003 going back four decades, utilizes recent technological advances in the field of forensic evidence analysis and increases in the police department’s analytical capabilities to select cases for further investigation.

** Photos of Yolanda and Chezulu have been sent out via email. If you did not receive that email, then please contact media relations at 617343-4520 and we will email you the photos.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:15 PM | Permalink

POLICE COMMISSIONER ED DAVIS AND DISTRICT ATTORNEY DAN CONLEY TO ANNOUNCE MAJOR DEVELOPMENT IN 1984 HOMICIDE

WHO: Boston Police Commissioner Edward Davis; Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel Conley

WHAT: Today Police Commissioner Ed Davis and District Attorney Dan Conley will announce a significant development regarding the 1984 homicide of then 18 year old Yolanda Hernandez of Roxbury.

WHERE: Boston Police Headquarters, Media Room

WHEN: December 2, 2008
4:30pm

Posted by Media Relations at 03:20 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, December 1, 2008 through 10am, Tuesday, December 2, 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: 10
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 01:13 PM | Permalink

Armed Robbery Suspects Arrested

Around 7:49PM last night, Monday, 11/1/08, officers from District C-11 (Dorchester) responded to 820 Morrissey Blvd. for an armed robbery.

On arrival, officers were met by the victim and his father. The victim reported to officers that he was walking on Freeport St. when he noticed four Asian males following him. The victim stated that he attempted to escape from the suspects but they chased him, and surrounded him. According to the victim, once the suspects surrounded him, one of them pulled out a knife and demanded that he give them everything he had on him. The victim reported that the suspects went through his pockets after he gave them his cell phone then they fled on foot in the direction of Morrissey Boulevard.

While officers were on scene with the victim, they were notified by security at Boston Bowl that they might possibly have two of the suspects. Officers responded there and the victim was able to positively identify one of the two males as one of the suspects that robbed him. Officers then broadcast a description of the remaining suspects. A short time after the broadcast, officers located three individuals matching suspects’ description at the intersection of Victory Rd. and Everdeen Street. The suspects were transported to the victim’s location where they were all positively identified. Consequently, the suspects, two 16-year-old male juvenile suspects, a 13-year-old male juvenile, and a 15-year-old male juvenile suspect, all of Dorchester were arrested and charged with Armed Robbery.

Robbery Suspects Arrested

Last night around 9:06PM, officers from the District C-11 (Dorchester) Bowdoin/Geneva Ave. Safe Street Team were responded to a radio call to Bowdoin St. and Geneva Ave. for a robbery.

Officers responded to 218 Bowdoin St. and there met with the victim. The victim told officers that he was just robbed by a group of four males and a female who fled down Bowdoin St. after robbing him. The victim further elaborated by telling officers that he was walking on Bowdoin St. toward Geneva Ave. when he noticed the suspects approaching from the same side. The victim stated that when he got close to the group they demanded of him where he was from and what he had on his person. The victim stated that he responded that he was not from anywhere and that he had no money at which point the suspects surrounded him and started rifling through his pockets. According to the victim, the suspects then robbed him of twenty-five dollars ($25) and fled but not before the suspects exchanged comments exclaiming about the victim, “He’s broke as a joke!”

Officers placed the victim in their cruiser and drove around to see if they find the suspects. As officers drove on Bowdoin St., the victim indicated to officers that he could see the group of suspects walking further down the street. Officers stopped the group of individuals identified as the suspects and detained to see if the victim could individually identify them. The victim positively identified all five stopped suspects, Jeffrey S. Jones, 19, of Dorchester, Andre T. Love, 19, of Dorchester, Kamal M. Charles, 18, of Dorchester, Eugene Brown, 20, of Roxbury, and Kenya M. Blalock, 18 of Dorchester who were arrested and charged with Robbery.

Vandalism Just Doesn’t Pay!

At approximately 10:56PM last night, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded top a radio call for vandalism in progress at 151 Terrace Street. En route, officers were advised that the caller had observed cinder blocks being thrown off the roof and stated that two of the blocks had narrowly missed a woman pushing a baby carriage.

On arrival, officers went to the above address, and could hear someone trying to escape. Numerous units responded to the scene in order to “clear the building.” Once on the roof of the building, officers observed the suspect hiding on the roof. Officers gave numerous verbal orders to the suspect to get down from the roof which he refused until officers threatened to send the police canine to the roof.

The suspect, Jeremy Smith Dolan, 24, of Jamaica Plain was arrested and charged with
Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime, Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon and Trespass.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:03 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - November 30th, 2007 vs. 2008.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

View Data on YTD Recovered Firearms (Through 10/7/08)

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 11:36 AM | Permalink

Boston Police have arrested two individuals in connection with a shooting incident which occurred earlier today in Codman Square. The victim, a 19 year old male, is currently listed in critical condition.

About 9:14am, officers along with several units from C-11 and B-3, responded to a radio call for a person shot at 554 Washington Street in Dorchester. Upon arrival, officers located the victim suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was rushed to Boston Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.

Homicide detectives with the assistance of Districts C-11 and B-3 are investigating the facts and circumstances of this incident. This afternoon, officers placed 20-year-old Patrick M. Grier and a 16-year-old female both of Dorchester under arrest and charged them both with Assault with Intent to Murder, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, Discharging a Firearm within 500’ of a Dwelling..

The Boston Police Homicide Unit continues to actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident and appeal to any and all individuals who may have information relating to this incident. Those with information are asked to contact Homicide Detectives at (617) 343-4470.
Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous fashion can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 04:36 PM | Permalink

WEEKEND UPDATE: A LOOK AT THE LAST 72 HOURS IN THE CITY OF BOSTON
A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, November 28, 2008 through 10am, Monday, December 1, 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: 2
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1

Residential Break-ins: 31
Commercial Break-ins: 6

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 12:49 PM | Permalink

OUI Suspect Arrested after Fleeing Scene of Accident

Sunday morning around 4:10AM, officers from District E-13 arrested suspect, Ronald B. Holmes, 20, of South Boston and charged him with Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Property Damage, Operating a Motor Vehicle with an Open Container of Alcohol, and Being a Person Under 21 Years of Age in Possession of Alcohol.

Officers were alerted to this incident while they were checking the rear of 218 South Street and heard a loud crashing sound. Officers immediately went to the front of the location and there observed four cars that had sustained damage after the vehicle being operated by the suspect struck those cars. Officers spoke to witnesses who supplied officers with a description of the suspect motor vehicle, and its direction of flight.

A description of the suspect motor vehicle was broadcast and based on that information, the suspect motor vehicle was located a short time later in front of 13 Spauling Street. There, the suspect was observed standing outside the car speaking on his cell phone along with a passenger who appeared to be bleeding from the head. Officers there noted that the suspect had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath, and slurred speech. The suspect failed sobriety test and consequently was placed under arrest and charged with above noted criminal charges. The passenger was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. During an inventory check of the suspect’s car, officers discovered an open container of vodka that lead to further charges.

Suspect Arrested after Setting Fire to “Stay Warm”

Around 9:00AM on Sunday 11/30/08 officers from District C-6 (South Boston) responded to 50 West Broadway for a report of smoke coming from the construction site at this location.

On arrival, officers could detect the odor of burning from a trailer located inside the fence at the above location. Officers requested the Boston Fire Department to the incident location, and when BFD arrived, officers observed an individual inside the fenced area attempting to leave. The gate was opened and the suspect stopped. Once inside, officers questioned the suspect who told officers that he did not work there nor had he been given permission to be there. During further investigation, officers learned that the suspect had entered the trailer and lit a fire in a metal trash bin to keep warm.

The suspect, Stephen Shea, 46, of Boston was arrested and charged with Entry without Breaking and Trespass.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:42 PM | Permalink