BOSTON BALLERS YOUTH BASKETBALL AWARDS CEREMONY

WHO: Boston Police Officer and League President Fred Lane.

WHAT: The Boston Ballers is a non-profit youth basketball league that has been in existence since 2004. Boston Police officer Fred Lane is the league founder. On Saturday, August 1, 2009, the league celebrates the end of its summer season with trophy presentations and championship games.

WHERE: Iacono Park, Readville Street, Hyde Park, Mass

WHEN: Saturday, August 1, 2009 from 9:00am – 12:00pm.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:35 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, July 30, 2009 through 10am, Friday, July 31, 2009. (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: 6
Commercial Break-ins: 1

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

Posted by Media Relations at 02:46 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE SEEK PUBLIC ASSISTANCE IN EFFORTS TO LOCATE MISSING PERSON

The Boston Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in their efforts to locate a person who has been missing since July 23, 2009. The missing person in this case was last seen leaving his home in the area of 266 Seaver Street in Roxbury.

The missing person is described below:

Name: Juan Figueroa
Sex: Male
Age: 20
Race: Black Hispanic
Height: 5’9”
Build: Slim
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Special Characteristics: Victim has a goatee and tattoos on both his right hand (‘BM’) and right forearm (‘PAPO’).

Incident Description:
At about 12:56pm, on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) took a report for a missing person. According to the missing person’s mother, her son was last seen near their home, in the area of 266 Seaver Street, on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at approximately 10:00pm. The missing person’s mother says that her son, Juan Figueroa, suffers from a mental illness, possibly schizophrenia.

Anyone with information regarding this person or her whereabouts is asked to please contact Area B-2 (Roxbury) detectives at (617) 343-4275. Community members who wish to remain anonymous can either call CrimeStoppers at 1(800)494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 01:37 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, July 29, 2009 through 10am, Thursday, July 30, 2009. (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

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

Residential Break-ins: 5
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 03:38 PM | Permalink

On Sunday, July 26th around 6:10AM, officers from District A-7 (East Boston) responded to 75 Marion Street in East Boston for report of a man bleeding.

On arrival, officers were met by EMTs who were already on scene attending to the victim who was suffering from an undisclosed injury. The victim, a 27-year-old Hispanic male was rushed to Massachusetts General Hospital via ambulance for further medical attention. The victim, after arriving at the hospital, was stabilized for some time but succumbed to his injuries last night , July 29, 2009 and was pronounced.

The Boston Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident and urges anyone who may have information to contact the Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470. Individuals who wish to provide information anonymously 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 all who wish to remain anonymous

Posted by Media Relations at 03:05 PM | Permalink

No Curfew but a Warrant Will Keep You in the House

Last night, Wednesday, July 29, 2009 around 10:44PM, officers from District D-4 (South End) were on patrol in the area of Newbury Street when they observed an individual standing in front of 73 Newbury St. pressed up against the glass.

As officers approached the individual, he appeared to become alarmed and immediately started walking away from the window. Officers made note of the suspect’s behavior due to a number of burglaries that had occurred in the area by virtue of the front windowpane glass being broken. Officers circled the block to continue to monitor the area and again observed the same suspect standing again in front of 73 Newbury St. pressed up against the window. Again, the suspect became alarmed when e observed officers and attempted to walk away.

Officers then stopped their cruiser and approached the suspect to conduct a threshold inquiry. The suspect, when officers approached him, asked officers if there was a curfew in the area. Officers told him that there was not a curfew but due to several recent breaks in the area and his behavior, they’d be remiss in their duties if they didn’t conduct at least a threshold inquiry. Officers requested identification from the suspect and ran his information on the MDT (Mobile Data Terminal). The information revealed that the suspect, Peter A. Escott, 36, of Medford had an outstanding warrant for Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime, and as such was arrested and transported to the district station for booking.

Another Firearm Recovered

Around 11:04PM last night, officers from District B-3 (Mattapan) arrested suspect, Dana C. Sams, 32, of Dorchester and charged him with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, Possession of a Loaded Firearm and Operating a Motor Vehicle after Revocation.

Officers were on patrol in the area of 1583 Blue Hill Ave. when they responded to the rear of the Avenue Tavern as part of their patrol duties. There, officers observed a car with its engine running with someone inside. Aware of complaints of drug use in the area and the fact there are posted “no trespassing, no loitering” signs posted in the back of the building, officers approached the car to conduct a threshold inquiry. As officers approached the suspect immediately tried to get out of the car and walk away. Officers stopped the suspect and immediately detected a strong odor of marijuana on the suspect and emanating from the car. During the stop, officers could clearly observe that the suspect was shaking and demonstrated other signs of nervousness. Based on the smell of marijuana, the suspect’s location and his conduct, officers asked him if there was anything on him that he should not have. The suspect answered officers’ question and told them that he had a bag of marijuana on his person. Officers then asked the suspect id he had anything else on his person and he did not respond. At this same time, officers checked on the suspect’s information and determined that his license was revoked. Officers then conducted a cursory check of the suspect’s motor vehicle which revealed a loaded firearm.

The suspect was then arrested and charged with the above offenses and issued a citation for the marijuana.

Late Night Fireworks Lands Two in Jail

This morning around 2:09AM, officers from District D-4 (South End) responded to the area of 233 West Newton St. for a report of fireworks. Boston Police Operations had received numerous calls regarding fireworks along with several ShotSpotter notifications.

On arrival, officers were greeted by several people who complained about people “putting on their won fireworks show.” Officers were then directed to the rear of West Newton St. and there saw three spent fireworks tubes laying on the ground along with two live tubes on a table in the rear of 233 West Newton Street. Officers then knocked on the rear door of the basement apartment to further investigate, and received no answer. Officer then felt the doorknob and discovered the door to be open and unlocked. When the door opened officers noticed a male and a female on a couch surrounded by fireworks similar to the ones that had been observed outside.

Officers then entered the apartment and asked the occupants who had been setting off the fireworks. One of the two individuals replied and exclaimed to officers, “Fireworks? No fireworks here.” Officers then attempted to obtain information from the suspects in order to issue a city ordinance violation for disturbing the peace, but the suspects then became belligerent and refused to provide their information to officers. One of the suspect s then fled inside bathroom and attempted to lock herself in her bathroom. Suspect, Kai Zimmerman, 42, of Brunswick, NJ was arrested and charged with Disturbing the Peace and Possession of Fireworks while suspect, Suzanne Stuhler, 31, of Boston was arrested and charged with Disturbing the Peace, Possession of Fireworks and Resisting Arrest.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:41 PM | Permalink

News Conference on July 30, 2009

Thank you all for being here today. We are also joined by several guests and I would like to thank them for their continued support and participation. Joining us here is Minister Don Muhammad, Karen Payne from the NAACP, Michael Kozu from Project Right and Detective Larry Ellison from MAMLEO.

On Tuesday July 28th the Boston Police Department placed Officer Justin Barrett on administrative leave pending the outcome of a termination hearing. On that day I was made aware that this officer admitted to being the author of correspondence which included repulsive racial slurs.

At that time and after a meeting with command staff, I moved immediately to take action and the officer was stripped of his gun and badge.

I was presented with a set of facts and believed that the appropriate and only response was to place the officer on administrative leave and set the wheels in motion for a full investigation. The officer is entitled to his due process and we will see that process through. There will be a thorough internal affairs investigation and hearing process which will lead to a termination hearing scheduled in the next week to ten days.

The Boston Police Department has a top to bottom commitment to community policing. Community Policing is based on trust. This type of venomous rhetoric is severely damaging. Maintaining our community relationships is paramount to our mission to serve the citizens of Boston.

We all work with the community and have made great strides to earn their trust. We must not allow this action to affect those relationships that have been forged and the progress we have made over the years.

The Boston Police Department is committed to a standard of excellence. Our community rightly has high expectations for us. It is a standard that the community deserves and we are required to meet. Officer Barrett’s actions do not comply with those expectations.

Barrett’s email was racist and inflammatory. These racist opinions and feelings have no place in this department or in our society and will not be tolerated.

Barrett’s comments were directed at Harvard University Professor Henry Louis Gates. I regret the direct insult toward Professor Gates and have personally reached out to him to apologize for this offense and inform him of the Department’s immediate efforts to make this officer accountable.

I have also asked that in the coming days, members of the department reach out to those in the community that we serve, and extend ourselves to others, to reiterate our commitment to them, our citizens and to improving relations at all levels.

As I have stated in the past, I am very proud of the Officers and civilians of this Department who carry out their duties in the finest traditions of the BPD. We will not allow the unacceptable actions of one member to define who we are as a police organization. This Department has over 2,000 uniformed officers and 700 civilians who conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism. I applaud your integrity and continued hard work.

As a department, we must learn from this most unfortunate incident and move forward.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:41 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, July 28, 2009 through 10am, Wednesday, July 29, 2009. (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: 5
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 11:54 AM | Permalink

Scooter Robbery Suspects Don’t Get too Far

Around 2:47PM yesterday, an officer performing a detail near the intersection of Dudley and Magnolia Streets was approached by the victim of a robbery who told the officer that he was just assaulted and his scooter taken from him by three males.

The officer immediately broadcast the information given to him along with the descriptions of the suspects to Operations and other assisting units. Officers were able to gather from the victim that he was riding his scooter on Dudley St. when he was stopped by three black males two of who are known to him. The victim told officers that one of the suspects approached him from behind and punched him in the head then the two others joined in the assault and punched all over. The victim then provided officers with names and descriptions for the two suspects known to him and a description for the third suspect.

Officers searched the area for the suspects and while doing so came upon and individual matching one of the suspects riding the described stolen scooter. Officers topped the suspect, Tyson Jenkins, 20, of Dorchester and arrested him charging him Unarmed Robbery, and Assault and Battery after he was positively identified by the victim. The second suspect, a 16-year-old male juvenile from Dorchester was subsequently located and arrested and charged with Unarmed Robbery, and Assault and Battery. Officers were unable to locate the third suspect but were able to get identification on him and as such will seek a warrant for his arrest.

Attempted Bank Robbery Suspect Arrested

Yesterday afternoon around 5:00PM, officers from District A-1 (Downtown Boston) arrested suspect, Joseph Campbell, 45, of Boston and charged with Attempted Bank Robbery.

The incident started around 3:59PM when officers responded to the Sovereign Bank at 125 Causeway St. for a report of a silent bank alarm. On arrival officers learned that the suspect had walked in the bank and approached a teller and demanded money by exclaiming, “This is a robbery, g give me $2,000.00 in large bills, no alarm and no police!” The teller reported to officers that she pushed the panic alarm and told the suspect that she did not have that large of an amount of money in her drawer. According to the victim, the suspect then fled the bank on Canal St. in the direction of Haymarket Square.

On arrival, officers received a description of the suspect from the victim teller and from a customer who witnessed the suspect leaving the bank. A description of the suspect was broadcast along with his clothing and direction of flight. Based on further information officers were able to develop evidence leading them to believe that the suspect lived in the area. Around 4:30PM, officers were able to get video surveillance from the bank and determined from speaking with nearby security officers that the suspect may live at 25 Staniford Street.

Officers and detectives then went to 25 Staniford St. to further investigate found the suspect who told officers that he was sorry for scaring the teller and that he would have given back the money if the teller had given it to him. While still there, officers recovered both the hat and shirt that the suspect had worn during the attempted robbery.

Bad Behavior Lands Two in Jail for Lewd and Lascivious Conduct

This morning around 1:20AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to 1127 Harrison Ave. for an alarm call.

On arrival, offices observed an individual from the side door area of the building. This individual was stopped and questioned as to what he was doing there. The man informed officers that while walking by the building he had observed a man and woman by the side by the side and ramp door. Officers then went and investigated the man’s story and there observed an unclothed woman engaged in sexual activity with a man on the ground.

The two parties, Delma Walters, 47, of Dorchester and Willie Mack, 53, of Boston were arrested and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Behavior.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:44 AM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - July 26th, 2008 vs. 2009.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 11:40 AM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE APPEAL TO THE COMMUNITY FOR INFORMATION

On July 27, 2009 at approximately 8:30pm, officers were called to 32 Whitman Street in Dorchester (District B-3) for a report of a person shot. There officers located a 12 year old female child suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. She was sitting inside her home when a stray bullet pierced the wall and she was struck. The victim was rushed to Boston Medical Center and was treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis stated, “I am outraged by the cowardice demonstrated by the violent individuals responsible for this senseless act. Their total disregard for human life resulted in a tragic injury to a child. As a community, we must have no tolerance for this. We must work together to hold these suspects accountable and remove them from our community.”

Simultaneously officers responded to Shotspotter activation in the area of Edson Street. Community members from that area informed officers that they witnessed a group of males run from the rear parking lot of Dorchester High School. Community members further stated that these males entered a late model brown Cadillac and fled on Edson Street toward Norfolk Street.

The location of Edson Street and Whitman Street are in close proximity to each other and are both connected to the rear parking lot of Dorchester High School.

Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to the area to gather additional information and process the scene. Several vehicles and residences were also damaged due to ballistics.

The Boston Police Department urges community members to come forward with any information related to this incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Area B-3 detectives at (617) 343-4712. Community members who wish to assist the investigation in an anonymous manner should call CrimeStoppers at 1(800) 494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police will stringently protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:03 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, July 27, 2009 through 10am, Tuesday, July 28, 2009. (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).
Homicides: 1
Non-fatal Shootings: 1
Non-fatal Stabbings: 3
Street Robberies: 4
Commercial Robberies: 0
Bank: 0
Other: 0
Vehicle Thefts: 2
Vehicle Recoveries: 1
Breaks: 14
Residential Break-ins: 8
Commercial Break-ins: 4
Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events. Some of the incidents included may be covered in more detail in other blog postings

Posted by Media Relations at 11:58 AM | Permalink

Man Arrested For Attempting to Break Into Cars

On Monday, July 27, at approximately 1:40am, officers assigned to Area C-6 (South Boston), responded to the area of 36 Roseclair Street for a breaking & entering into a motor vehicle in progress.

Officers learned that the owner of a black Infiniti was in his residence when he head a loud noise coming from outside. He then proceeded to his balcony and observed a male attempting to open his driver’s side door. Another witness observed this same male walking down the street checking car doors.

The vehicle’s owner was able to give officers a detailed description of the suspect and he was located nearby. The vehicle’s owner was able to positively identify him and the suspect was placed into custody.

Officers arrested Jonathan Hookom, 29, of Boston on the charges of Attempted Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

Verbal Altercation Leads to Home Invasion….Two Arrested

On Monday, July 27, 2009, at approximately 11:17pm, officers assigned to Area B-2 (Roxbury), responded to the area of 42 Hartwell Street for a report of a fight.

Officers arrived on-scene and spoke with the victim / caller who stated that a group had just broken into his house by kicking his front door down and threatening to kill him and his friends. He went on to state that earlier in the day he had several people over the house for a small party. A verbal altercation ensued between two black females, one black male and the occupants of the house. The three parties were asked to leave and they did so. Shortly thereafter, the occupants of the house heard their front door being kicked down. Two black females and a black male then entered. The occupants of the house fled and hid within the house. The intruders ran about the house looking for the residents. The black male continued to gesture towards his waistband as if he had a firearm and stated, “We’re going to shoot and stab everyone in here.” The resident of the house was able to call 911 which forced the intruders to flee when they heard the arrival of the officers.

The victims were able to supply officers with a description of the suspects and two of them were located nearby. They were placed into custody after being positively identified.

Officers arrested Asya Marve, 23 of Boston and Paulette Elder, 23 of Stoughton on the charges of Armed Home Invasion.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:47 AM | Permalink

At about 6:20pm, on Monday, July 27, 2009, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a person stabbed in the area of Dearborn and Dudley Streets. On arrival, officers located a 49 year-old male suffering from what appeared to be multiple stab wounds. The victim, suffering from life threatening injuries, 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 encouraged to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at (617) 343-4470.

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

** This marks the City’s 28th homicide of the year (2009), as compared to 37 homicides at this same time last year (2008).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:03 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST TWO FOR THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A FIREARM IN HYDE PARK

At about 1:45am, on Monday, July 27, 2009, officers from Area E18 (Hyde Park) responded to a radio call for a person with a gun in the area of 1184 Hyde Park Ave (the Hyde Park Pub). On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that a black male opened the pub door and yelled, “Wait ‘til you guys come out. I’m gonna shoot up the bar.” According to bar employees, the suspect was known to them because he had been barred from the establishment months earlier. Witnesses further stated that the suspect then entered a silver-colored Volvo and was seen circling the establishment. Officers promptly broadcast a description of the suspect and his motor vehicle over the police radio.

Approximately an hour later, officers observed a silver-colored Volvo travelling at a speed greater than reasonable along Fairmount Ave. Specifically, officers estimated that the motor vehicle was travelling in excess of 50 mph in an area where the speed limit was 35 mph. As a result of their observations, officers activated their emergency equipment (lights & sirens) in an effort to stop the motor vehicle. With the motor vehicle stopped, officers approached the motor vehicle.

Due to the severity of the earlier incident, officers instructed the operator, as well as, his front seat passenger to exit the motor vehicle. With both individuals out of the car, a search of the motor vehicle was conducted by an officer and his K-9.

In short time, the K-9 was able to detect the presence of either an explosive device or firearm. Officers were able to locate and take possession of a black firearm and two large capacity ammunition feeding devices. When both suspects were asked to produce a license to carry, both were unable to do so.

Officers arrested Freddy Jean, 26, of Boston and Andrew Driscoll, 22, of Marlborough and charged both with the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:52 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, July 24, 2009 through 10am, Monday, July 27, 2009. (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: 9

Residential Break-ins: 19
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 11:51 AM | Permalink

BOSTON UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE IN NEED OF REPAIR

At about 11:22pm, on Saturday, July 26, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a report of objects falling from a building, believed to be pieces of the building, in the area of 660 Beacon Street. On arrival, officers observed pieces of cement and mortar resting on the sidewalk in front of the Boston University Bookstore. On closer inspection, it became readily apparent that the pieces of cement and mortar had, in fact, fallen from façade of the bookstore. Traffic, for a short time, was diverted from the area, as the area in front of the building was closed off. No injuries were reported or observed as a result of the incident. City of Boston Building Inspector also responded.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:09 AM | Permalink

RETURNING TO THE SCENE OF THE CRIME PROVES TO BE JUST THE KEY IN THE CAPTURE OF PURSE SNATCHING CRIMINAL

At about 6:15pm, on Friday, July 24, 2009, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a larceny in progress at 1626 Tremont Street, the Fridays Restaurant. On arrival, officers learned that a family from Mexico (in town with a child being treated at the Children’s Hospital) was having dinner in the restaurant when a purse was stolen from a person at their table. According to a witness, she observed an individual walk by the family’s table, reach into a woman’s hand bag (which was draped over her chair) and pull out a black purse. The witness further stated that she observed suspect leave his keys on a table before exiting the restaurant. While officers were speaking to the witness, the suspect apparently re-entered the restaurant an in effort to retrieve his keys.

When the suspect re-appeared, the witness stated, “That’s him.” Officers approached the suspect and began questioning him. While questioning the suspect, officers observed and took note of a purse-shaped object protruding from the suspect’s waist area. A frisk of the suspect enabled officers to take possession of the victim’s purse. Specifically, while officers were in the process of frisking the suspect, the victim’s purse fell down the suspect’s right pant leg.

Officers arrested Thomas Stevenson, 51, of Boston and charged him with Larceny from the Person (Over $ 250.00).

The purse, complete with the victim’s money, credit cards and personal id’s, was returned to the family.

Posted by Media Relations at 01:01 PM | Permalink

At about 12:47am, on Saturday, July 25, 2009, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a person stabbed at the intersection of Commonwealth and Harvard Avenues. On arrival, officers observed and located an unconscious male (in his 50s) lying on the ground suffering from what appeared to be multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported to the Beth Israel Hospital where he’s being treated for 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 D-14 detectives at (617) 343-4256.

Community members wishing to assist this investigation in an anonymous manner 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 remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:15 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, July 22, 2009 through 10am, Thursday, July 23, 2009. (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: 12
Commercial Break-ins: 0

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 11:50 AM | Permalink

Robbery Suspect Located & Arrested by C-11 Officers

On Wednesday, July 23, 2009, at approximately 5:26pm, officers assigned to Area C-11 (Dorchester), responded to the area of the Ashmont MBTA station for a report of a robbery.

Officers spoke with a male victim who stated he was walking in the area of Dorchester Avenue when he felt someone grab him from behind and spun him around. A tall, black male then threatened him with a 40 ounce beer bottle and stated, “Give me your money.” The victim handed over his money and the suspect fled on Fuller Street. The victim was able to give the officers a detailed description of the suspect and a search was then conducted.

Shortly thereafter, a tall, black male, fitting the description given by the victim, was observed sitting in the parking lot of Dunkin Donuts on the corner of Bailey Street and Dorchester Avenue. As the officers approached, he stood up with raised arms and stated, “I give up.” The victim then traveled to this location and positively identified the suspect as the person who robbed him.

Officers arrested Geroad Lovett, 20 of Dorchester on the charges of Armed Robbery.

Firearm & Crack Cocaine Located During Search Warrant

On Wednesday, July 23, 2009, at approximately 5:00pm, officers assigned to the B-3 (Mattapan) Drug Control Unit, set up pre-raid surveillance of 849 Blue Hill Avenue in anticipation to executing a court ordered search warrant.

Officers observed the target of the investigation arrive and enter the residence. He quickly exited and walked to the corner store. Officers confronted the suspect and he was informed of the search warrant. The suspect was accompanied back to 849 BHA and a search of the property was conducted.

Officers located a Taurus .38 revolver within the apartment and Sixteen (16) bags of crack cocaine on the target. Officers arrested Raoul Desgrottes, 24, of Dorchester on the charges of Illegal Possession of a Class B Substance (crack cocaine) With Intent to Distribute and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Man Arrested for Possessing Counterfeit Money

On Thursday, July 23, 2009 at approximately 4:20am, a Boston Police K-9 unit was patrolling the area of 469 Blue Hill Avenue when he observed three individuals in the park. There are several city signs that clearly depict the closing time to be 11:00pm. Anyone in the park after closing time is considered to be trespassing. The officer then turned his cruiser around in order to speak with the individuals. While doing so, the men began walking out of the area. One of the individuals was observed placing an item into the rear of his pants. When the officer approached this individual he immediately reached towards his front pants pocket. The officer stopped him from doing so and conducted a pat-frisk. The individual stated, “I have a knife and I was going to give it to you.” The knife was secured and the officer continued the pat-frisk to his rear waistband. The officer then located thirty-five paper currency bills. Upon further inspection, it was determined these bills were counterfeit. The suspect was then placed into custody.

Officers arrested Bobby Mccoullum, 37 of Boston on the charges of Possession of Counterfeit Money (ten or more bills).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:39 AM | Permalink

Home Owner Chases Down and Captures Suspect Found in his Home

On Tuesday, July 22, 2009, at approximately 1:52am, officers assigned to Area C-11 (Dorchester), responded to the area of Sudan Street for a report of a man being held on the ground.

Officers arrived on-scene and located two men standing over a male on the sidewalk. The two standing males informed officers that they just chased down the male on the ground after he broke into their house. Officers learned that the homeowner was sleeping when he was awakened to a loud noise. The homeowner initially thought his vehicle was being broken into and got out of bed to go downstairs. While descending the staircase he observed an unknown male standing in his house. The homeowner yelled to the suspect and asked what he was doing. The suspect then attempted to flee the house but had difficulty opening the locked front door. He then smashed out the glass portion of the door and fled. The homeowner called to his son and they both gave chase and caught up to the suspect in the area of Sudan Street.

Officers arrested Kevin Murphy, 27 of Boston on the charges of Breaking & Entering (nite) and Willful & Malicious Destruction of property.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:58 PM | Permalink

ARREST TWO SUSPECTS ON GUN CHARGES
Halloween Mask and Bullet-Proof Vest among Seized Items

On July 21, 2009 at approximately 7:57 pm, members of the B2 (Roxbury) and C6 (South Boston) Drug Control Unit along with members of the Boston Police SWAT team made two on-site arrests for weapons violations. Members of the B2 Drug Control unit received information that lead to the arrest of drug and firearm offenders that included the seizure of illegal narcotics and illegally possessed firearms.

Information was provided to police that suspect Joseph Nolan may be in the possession of firearms. Information was also received that Nolan along with his vehicle and a passenger may be in the area of the back of Franklin Park near Forest Hills Street and Rossmore Street. The B2/C6 DCU squads along with the Boston Police SWAT team responded to the area and set up surveillance. Officers then located the suspect vehicle on Rossmore Street in Jamaica Plain. Officers were able to stop the vehicle at Rossmore Road and Steadman Rd. When the car was stopped, uniformed Officer observed the front passenger (Osorio) bend forward and reach toward the floor of the vehicle-a loaded pistol was later found at his feet. With the nature of this investigation and the threat of weapons in the vehicle, the Boston Police SWAT team removed both the white male operator from the vehicle and the black male front passenger. Officers read the operator his rights per Miranda, to which he stated he understood. Officers asked the operator (Nolan) if there was anything in the vehicle that he should not have. Nolan responded "I have some guns that I found in the car". Officers read the passenger, Marquis Osorio, his rights per Miranda. He stated he understood his rights. Once the suspects were secured, Officers located the following items in the vehicle:

• 2 AK-47 assault style rifles believed to be automatic
• 3 large capacity feeding devices, three loaded and one empty
• 2 bayonets
• 2 green ammunition pouches
• Bullet Proof Vest
• Halloween mask
• 1 black pistol

Joseph Nolan, 28, of Lynn and Marquis Osario, 29, of Lynn were charged with numerous weapon violations that included 2 counts of Possession of a Machine Gun, Possession of a Loaded Firearm, three counts of Possession of a High Capacity Feeding Device, three counts of Improper Storage of a Firearm, two counts of Possession of Ammunition, as well as additional crimes.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:45 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST ONE FOR ARMED ROBBERY ON NEWBURY STREET

At about 12:22am, on Tuesday, July 21, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery in the area of Mass Ave and Boylston Street. On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated that he was walking down the street when a bald white male approached him from behind, stuck an object in his back (believed to be a knife) and demanded money. According to the victim, the suspect specifically stated, “Give me your money and credit cards.” The victim then stated that the suspect instructed him to walk with him in the direction of an MBTA Station. While waking in the direction of the MBTA station, the victim says the suspect walked behind him, all the while, holding the object to his back. The victim says he walked the suspect to the entrance of the Back Bay MBTA Station. Once there, the victim says he was able to make good his escape.

While officers were responding to the station, a cab driver approached and said, “I noticed a suspicious looking bald man running towards the ‘T’ station.” Upon entering the station, officers observed an individual who fit the description of the suspect. When officers approached the suspect, the suspect stated, “I have the guy’s stuff on me.” When asked if he had the suspect’s wallet, the suspect motioned to a trash barrel inside the station. Upon looking inside the barrel, officers were able to locate and take possession of the victim’s wallet.

Officers arrested Chris Iandolo, 38, of Revere and charged him with Armed Robbery and Kidnapping.

IF YOU’RE GONNA TAKE THE RIDE .. YOU GOTTA PAY THE FARE

At about 1:25am, on Monday, July 20, 2009, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a call for a passenger refusing to pay his fare to a cab driver. On arrival, officers spoke to the driver who stated that the passenger/suspect gave him a cancelled credit card. When the cabbie informed the passenger that his card was cancelled, the suspect refused to provide another form of payment. Upon speaking to the suspect, officers learned that the name on the credit card was different from the name of the suspect.

Officers arrested Simao Glison, 21, of Boston and charged him with Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card, Fraud and Taxi Fare Evasion.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:42 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, July 20, 2009 through 10am, Tuesday, July 21, 2009. (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

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

Residential Break-ins: 6
Commercial Break-ins: 0

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 12:40 PM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - July 19th, 2008 vs. 2009.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 05:19 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Friday, July 17, 2009 through 10am, Monday, July 20, 2009. (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: 4
Street Robberies: 6
Commercial Robberies: 0
Bank: 0
Other: 1
Vehicle Thefts: 13
Vehicle Recoveries: 12
Breaks: 45
Residential Break-ins: 4
Commercial Break-ins: 8
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 12:06 PM | Permalink

Robbery Victim Drives Armed Suspects to Police Station…Two Men Arrested

On Sunday, July 19, 2009 at approximately 8:08am, officers exiting the D-4 (Lower Roxbury) station, observed a vehicle travel onto Plympton Street the wrong way from Harrison Avenue continuously blowing its horn. Officers proceeded towards the vehicle to investigate the matter further. While doing so, they observed a black male jump from the sliding door while the vehicle was still moving. The unknown male fell to the ground but quickly got up and began walking away from the officers. This individual was stopped as well as the vehicle.

Officers spoke with the male operator who informed them that he was just robbed at knife point by the two men in his vehicle. He went on to state that he picked them up in the area of Albany Street when the backseat passenger held a knife to his throat and stated, “Get your money.” The victim then handed over Sixty-dollars and observed the suspect place it in his back right pants pocket. The victim then noticed the police station and attempted to get the officers attention by blowing his horn.

Officers located the victim’s currency in the suspect’s rear pocket as well as a knife. The victim was able to identify the knife as the one held against his throat.

Officers arrested Paul Leshore, 47, of Boston on the charges of Armed Robbery and Assault & Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (knife) and Franco Simmons, 26 of Boston on the charges of Armed Robbery.

Three Arrested for Breaking into Cars

On Sunday, July 19, 2009 at approximately 2:24am, officers assigned to Area C-11 (Dorchester), responded to 17 Rosselerin Road for a B&E motor vehicle in progress. Officers arrived on-scene and located the caller who informed them that three males were observed walking up the street checking cars doors. The caller confronted the suspects and they fled the area. A description of the suspects was then broadcast to responding units.

Officers observed one of the vehicles to have its passenger side door wide open and the contents appeared to be rummaged through. The vehicle’s owner was located and stated it didn’t appear anything was missing.

A search of the general area produced three youths, fitting the description given by the caller, in the park on Adams Street. The witness was brought to the park for the purpose of identifying the suspects. All three suspects were positively identified and placed into custody.

Officers arrested a 14 year-old, Asian male from Boston, a 14 year-old, Asian male from Boston and William Le, 17 year-old, Asian male from Boston on the charges of Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle (night).

Posted by Media Relations at 10:57 AM | Permalink

Good Patrol Leads to Recovery of a Firearm

Early this morning around 12:04AM, officers from District B-3 (Mattapan) were on patrol when they observed four cars in the parking lot of Walgreen’s located at 825 Morton Street. Officers, knowing that the store was closed and that there are no trespassing signs posted, decided to further investigate. While approaching the cars, officers observed a male walking away from one of the cars putting his hands into his waist area.

Officers approached one of the cars and questioned the driver as to his purpose in the parking lot. The driver indicated to officers that he and the other cars were meeting there to go out. When officers asked the driver for identification, he stated that he did not have any identification on him and told officers that he thought that he had a suspended license. The driver provided officers a name and date of birth that showed no matching record with the Registry of Motor Vehicle. Again, when officers asked the suspect about his identity he insisted on the same name that he had previously given to officers. The driver continued to be evasive with officers as to his identity and purpose in the parking and after a while was asked to step out of the car.

Once out of the car, the operator was observed to have a wallet on his person despite his having told officers that he had no identification on his person. When asked about the wallet, the operator continued to be evasive and insisted that the wallet was another person’s who had no pockets. Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers asked the passenger to exit the vehicle to conduct a further investigation. Once the passengers were taken out of the car, officers conducted a cursory search of the car and discovered a firearm in the couch behind the driver’s seat.

None of the occupants possessed a license to carry and all told varying stories as to where they were in the car. Subsequently, officers arrested all three occupants. The driver who was later properly as identified as Frederick Knox, 21, of Roxbury was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, Failure to Submit to a Police Officer, and Trespassing. The other passengers, Chazreyl Francis, 20 and Edward Molyneaux, 20 both of Dorchester were also arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition and Trespassing.

After the operator, Frederick Knox was arrested he told officers he lied about his identity because he thought he had a warrant and that he lied because he really wanted to go to a party.

Call for Shots Fired Results in Recovery of Firearm

At approximately 1:12AM today, officers from District B-3 (Mattapan) responded to 71 Esmond St. in Mattapan for shots fired.

En route, officers were informed that three shots had been detected by Shotspotter, and that callers had described the suspect as a black male in his mid twenties with medium build wearing a white t-shirt with red designs on it. On arrival, officers a large crowd gathered around the house located at 71 Esmond St. filtering in and out of the first floor of the house. Officers started canvassing the area and went to the rear of the house where the suspect ran. While looking in the back yard, officers observed a male matching the suspect description standing on the third floor deck. Officers went to the third floor deck and spoke to the male up there. The male when questioned about what he was doing there told officer that he had been working the back door and ran to the third floor deck when the shots were fired. While conducting a threshold inquiry of this male, officers attempted to find the owner of the apartment to issue a civil citation for Keeper of a Disorderly. At this same time, officers found several shell casings and one live round in the alley next to the house. Based on everything that had preceded the officers’ arrival, and what they had discovered, they decided to do a cursory of the apartment to ensure that no one was hurt. Inside the apartment, officers found several individuals and detained them pending further investigation, included amongst those individuals was the male who matched the suspect description.

While officers were detaining this group, officers observed the same male matching the suspect description to be extremely nervous and sweating while seated on a bed waiting while officers checked his name. While watching the male suspect seated on the bed, officers noted that the mattress had a lump underneath. Based on the officers’ observations and the male’s nervous behavior, officers looked under the mattress and found a sawed rifle underneath the bed.

The suspect, Bell Kemp, 28, of Mattapan was arrested and charged with several outstanding warrants, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:00 PM | Permalink

FLAG FOOTBALL GAME BETWEEN OFFICERS AND DORCHESTER YOUTHS

B-2 Police Officers, District Attorney’s Office and DYS workers to
Play Uphams Corner/Dorchester Youth in a Game of Flag Football

WHO: Boston Police officers from District B-2, gang unit and other districts, member s of the District Attorney’s Office, and Department of Youth Services workers and local youths from the Dorchester/Uphams Corner sectors of the city.

WHAT: A flag football game between members of the above law enforcement agencies and youths from the Uphams Corner /Dorchester sector of the City. The event will be followed up by a cook-out at Brigadier General Edward O. Gourdin Park located at the intersection of Washington and Dudley Streets which will be taking place as part of B-2 Family Fun and Safety Day.

WHERE: Moakley Park located on Day Boulevard in South Boston near the Columbia Road rotary.

WHEN: Sunday, July 19, 2009 @ 11AM.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:25 PM | Permalink

19 Year-Old Arrested in Connection With Shooting Incident at 196 Blue Hill Ave.

On July 17, 2009 at approximately 1:58 am two uniform police officers working a paid detail at Packy Connors Pub (203 Blue Hill Ave.) heard multiple gunshots coming from across the street at 196 Blue Hill Ave. The officer observed a black male with dreadlocks wearing a black t-shirt, blue jeans and black sneakers shoot three black females and one black male. An off-duty Boston Police officer also made this observation at which time all three officers gave chase as the suspect began to run down Blue Hill Ave.

As the suspect continued to run from officers against their commands to stop, the fleeing suspect raised the firearm in the direction of the officers. At this time, officers discharged their department-issued firearms at the suspect in an attempt to stop him from shooting others. The suspect ran into Ingleside Street and then scaled a large fence ending up on Dewey Terrace. He then ran to Dewey Street where officers lost sight of him. With the assistance of multiple responding officers, the suspect was located in the rear of 16 Woodcliff Street hiding on a porch.

Officer then apprehended 19 year old Charkeem Hyatt of Dorchester and charged him with Unlawful Possession of Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Firearm Discharged within 500 ft. of Dwelling, Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon and Resisting Arrest. His arraignment is expected for later today at Roxbury District Court.

The four individuals that were shot sustained non-life threatening injuries and went to local hospitals. The one male victim, 23 years old, was treated by EMS and transported to BMC. Two female victims, 25 and 20, both self-applied to BMC. A third female victim, 22 years old, was treated and transported to Brigham and Woman’s Hospital.

The facts and circumstances of this incident remain under investigation. The Boston Police Firearm Discharge Investigation Team is also investigating this incident, which is standard practice when an officer-involved shooting occurs.

Police Commissioner Edward Davis sought an emergency hearing with the Licensing Board regarding Packy Connors Pub, which is scheduled for Monday.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:39 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, July 16, 2009 through 10am, Friday, July 17, 2009. (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 5
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1

Residential Break-ins: 4
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 11:32 AM | Permalink

Caught in the Act

At approximately 1:01AM, officers from District D-4 (South Boston) responded to a crime in progress inside the Fens at the Vietnam Memorial. The caller reported that four black males were trying to steal a scooter in front of the memorial.

At the scene, officers observed four black males around yellow moped. Officers turned off their cruiser lights and attempted to approach the suspects but the suspects detected the officers and attempted to flee toward Park Drive. Officers pursued the suspects and observed one throw a set of bolt cutters into the bushes. Officers, after a brief pursuit, were able to catch a 16 year old suspect from Roxbury who had discarded the bolt cutters, and charged him with Possession of Burglarious Tools, Larceny of a Motor Vehicle, and Malicious Destruction of Property over $250.

Officers returned to the scene and spoke to a witness who reported that he observed the suspects pick the moped off the sidewalk on the Fenway at Peterborough St. and walk it into the park. The witness reported that the suspects then tried to pick the lock off the moped while inside the park.

Vigilance Pays Off with Recovery of Firearm

This morning around 1:20AM, officers from District D-4 (South End) were on patrol in the area of 413 Massachusetts Ave. when they observed two males riding bicycles on the sidewalk.

As officers proceeded on Massachusetts Ave. one of the two bicyclists noticed the officers and bent down and threw an object into the front yard of 413/415 Massachusetts. Immediately after discarding the object into the front yard, the suspects increased their speed and started trying to pedal away from officers. Officers went to the area where they had noticed the bicyclist discard something and there observed a black firearm laying in the front yard.
Officers broadcast their findings and immediately started a pursuit of the two bicyclists and successfully stopped them in the Carter Playground. There, the lead male who had been observed discarding the firearm, Raphael Figueroa, 17, of Roxbury was placed under arrest and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.

Subsequent check of the firearm with a thermal imager clearly indicated that the firearm had recently been discarded based on the heat index reading.

B&E Suspect Arrested Trying to Get Away

This morning around 2:59AM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) arrested suspect, Alphonso Dawson, 42 of Boston and charged him with Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime.

Officers initially responded to a breaking and entering at the intersection of Quincy St. and Magnolia St. for the Quincy Variety store where a suspect was reported to be climbing into the rear window. On arrival, officers observed a male subject fitting the suspect description climbing over the fence adjacent to the store. Officers ordered the suspect to stop but he did not heed offices orders but rather opted to flee. Officers pursued the suspect across several streets and through a field where he was caught.

Officers returned to the store and found the rear window to the store forced open and an audible alarm sounding.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:21 AM | Permalink

19 Year-Old Arrested in Connection with Shooting Incident at 196 Blue Hill Ave.

On July 17, 2009 at approximately 1:58 am police received a report of four persons shot at 196 Blue Hill Ave., outside of Packy Connors Pub. The victims are reported to be one male and three females; their ages are not yet available. All injuries are considered non-life threatening.

Preliminary information suggests that immediately following the shooting incident several officers pursued the suspect on foot. During this time, there was an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and the officers. Officers then caught up to the suspect and placed him under arrest. 19 year old Charkem Hyatt of Dorchester is charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Firearm Discharged Within 500 ft. of Dwelling, Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon and Resisting Arrest. His arraignment is expected for later today at Roxbury District Court.

The facts and circumstances of this incident remain under investigation. The Boston Police Firearm Discharge Investigation Team is also investigating this incident, which is standard practice when an officer-involved shooting occurs.

Police Commissioner Edward Davis is seeking an emergency hearing with the Licensing Board to shut down the pub as soon as possible.

This is the extent of information available at this time. As details develop, Media Relations will continue to provide information.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:13 AM | Permalink

Media: Please note that this morning the stretch of road on Blue Hill Ave. from W. Cottage Street to Quincy Street will be closed to traffic for most of the morning. Please advise commuters to seek an alternative route. Boston Police will re-open the area as soon as possible and apologize for the inconvenience.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:24 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, July 15, 2009 through 10am, Thursday, July 16, 2009. (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: 0
Street Robberies: 4
Commercial Robberies: 0
Bank: 0
Other: 1
Vehicle Thefts: 6
Vehicle Recoveries: 6
Breaks: 16
Residential Break-ins: 6
Commercial Break-ins: 0
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 10:24 PM | Permalink

BPD Arrests Man Responsible for the July 4th Murder of David Brimley

Today, the Boston Police Fugitive Unit and officers assigned to D-4 (south end), arrested Charles Williams, 30 of Boston on a warrant charging him with the July 4th murder of David Brimely. Detectives conducted a thorough investigation leading to the issuance of the Roxbury District Court warrant.
On Saturday, July 4, 2009, at approximately 2:15pm, officers assigned to Area D-4 (South End), responded to 617 Shawmut Avenue for a report of a person shot.
Officers arrived on-scene and located a large group standing over a male lying on the ground. Officers and Boston EMS rendered care to the individual who was apparently suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. It was later learned the victim’s identity to be David Brimley, 24 of Boston.
The victim was transported by Boston EMS to Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced.
The suspect, Mr. Williams is expected to be arraigned on the charge of murder in Roxbury District Court on Friday, July 17, 2009.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:01 PM | Permalink

On Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at approximately 9:22pm, members of the Boston Police Fugitive and Apprehension Unit executed a court ordered search warrant at 10 Bickford Street in Jamaica Plain.

Earlier that day, officers from the Fugitive Unit traveled to 10 Bickford Street in order to affect an arrest warrant for an individual residing at this location. Officers arrived and were allowed into the residence. The target was located and placed into custody. While doing so, officers made notice of several items within plain view, including a large capacity rifle and numerous rounds of ammunition. Officer immediately secured the location in anticipation of obtaining a search warrant.

A search of the property was conducted once the search warrant was obtained. Officers located and seized a large capacity rifle, in excess of four-hundred rounds of ammunition, four large capacity feeding devices (magazines) and two digital scales, with what appeared to be, drug residue on them.

Officers arrested Giovanni Carrasquillo, 22 of Boston on the charges of Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Large Capacity Feeding Devices (four counts) and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition. Mr. Carrasquillo was also charged with two outstanding arrest warrants issued out of Dorchester District Court for Threats to Commit a Crime and Various motor vehicle charges.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:12 PM | Permalink

At about 8:08am, on Wednesday, July 15, 2009, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) responded to a radio call for a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian in the area of 533 Cambridge Street. On arrival, officers spoke to witnesses who stated that they observed a blue motor vehicle strike an individual and then continue driving. Witnesses say the suspect only stopped her car after a motorist driving behind her, pulled up next to her and told her to stop. The motorist says he kept blowing his horn until the suspect slowed enough for him to pull up next to her. The suspect stopped her car in the area of 581 Cambridge Street.

Upon locating and observing the suspect’s car, officers noted damage to the front end of the car, as well as, a smashed windshield. According to witnesses, the victim was in the process of putting an infant child into a car seat in the rear of the car when he was struck. The victim, a 35 year-old male, was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital where he’s being treated for life threatening injuries (severe head trauma).

The suspect in this case, Cathy Bergin-August, 47, of Watertown was arrested and charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Personal Injuries and Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:09 PM | Permalink

VICTIM IDENTIFIED

At about 8:00pm, on Wednesday, July 8, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a body found inside 1740 Washington Street. On arrival, officers spoke to the person who placed the call. According to the caller, she was conducting a room check when she discovered the victim lying in his room on his back motionless. Upon entering the room, officers located and observed a 37 year-old male, suffering from what appeared to be multiple stab wounds. The victim was pronounced on the scene. The victim has since been identified as Kevin Brown, 37, of Boston.

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

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous manner 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 remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:42 PM | Permalink

Leaky Ceiling Leads to Officers, Fire Fighters & EMT’s being assaulted by man with hypodermic needle.

On Tuesday, July 14, 2009, at approximately 11:35pm, a resident of 132 Myrtle Street, Boston discovered water leaking into her apartment from the ceiling. The resident proceeded upstairs to find out where the water was coming from. She went to the apartment directly above hers and noticed the door to be wide open. She yelled into the apartment several times without getting a response. She then entered the apartment, calling out the occupants’ name. She then heard water running from bathroom and proceeded in that direction. She then observed the male occupant of the apartment lying on the floor with the tub overflowing. She also noticed several uncapped hypodermic needles strewn about. She immediately called 911 for assistance.

Officers assigned to Area A-1 (Downtown) arrived at 132 Myrtle Street at approximately 11:45pm. Boston Fire & Boston EMS was already on-scene and was calling out for officers to assist them on the fifth floor. Officers learned that while they were attempting to render care to the unconscious male he awoke and took hold of an uncapped hypodermic needle and held them at bay. Officers quickly responded to the fifth floor apartment and placed themselves between the needle wielding man and the first responders. Officers ordered the subject to drop the needle several times but he continued to refuse. The male subject held the hypodermic needle in a threatening manner while taking an aggressive stance. The officers ultimately charged towards the suspect and wrestled him to the ground in order to place him into custody.

Officers arrested Ivan Melnychenko, 31, of Boston on the charges of Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (hypodermic needle).

Posted by Media Relations at 02:45 PM | Permalink

Yesterday afternoon around 3:30PM, officers received a report that a prisoner at Roxbury District Court had used a ruse to escape from the court. Officers learned that the suspect had answered to the name of another prisoner, went before a judge and as a result was released from the court on personal recognizance.

Shortly after escaping from custody, members of the Boston Police Fugitive Unit started an investigation into the whereabouts of the suspect who was to have appeared before the court on charges ranging from Unlawful Possession of a Firearm to Violation of a Restraining Order. As a result of an exhaustive and thorough investigation members of the Fugitive Unit learned of the whereabouts of the suspect and responded to 12 American Legion Highway this morning around 11:15AM. There, officers found the suspect, Charles Dixon, 24, of Boston hiding inside a coffee table and placed him under arrest after a brief struggle. The suspect was charged with several outstanding warrants for the previous offenses and an additional charge of Escape from a Penal Institution.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:01 PM | Permalink

On August 25, 2008, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a vandalism report in the area of 520 VFW Parkway (Hynes Field). On arrival, officers spoke to officials from the Boston Parks Department who stated that several trees in the park had been cut down and moved. Specifically, 10 trees (7 red maples and 3 honey locusts) had been cut and damaged. A search of the area enabled officers to locate and take possession of a hand saw. The hand saw was forwarded to the Boston Police Crime Lab for further analysis. Specifically, members of the Boston Police Latent Print Unit fumed the saw for latent print evidence. As a result of testing conducted at the lab, investigators were able to lift or recover a finger print belonging to the individual responsible for the damage done at the park. The prints were then forwarded to the AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) for a possible identification or match. However, no identification was forthcoming because the individual responsible for the vandalism likely had no criminal history or record.

Approximately, nine months later, on Saturday, May 2, 2009, officers from Area E-5 (West Roxbury) responded to a radio call for an individual or individuals breaking into cars in the area of 111 Willow Street. On arrival, thanks to assistance provided by an off-duty Boston Police officer, responding officers were able to locate the suspect. Officers arrested a juvenile and charged him with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle.

Shortly thereafter, investigators were able to match the print recovered from Hynes Field (520 VFW Parkway) with that of the juvenile arrested in connection with the above mentioned incident. As a result, the juvenile, a 14 year-old male from West Roxbury, was additionally charged with the Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property and the Destruction of Playground Equipment.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:34 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, July 13, 2009 through 10am, Tuesday, July 14, 2009. (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: 5
Commercial Break-ins: 3

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

Posted by Media Relations at 11:22 AM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - July 12th, 2008 vs. 2009.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 04:17 PM | Permalink

Tempers Boil Over In a Boston Restaurant Kitchen…Cook Stabs Fellow Cook

On Saturday, July 11, 2009, at approximately 2:41pm, officers assigned to Area B-3 (Mattapan), responded to the Flames Restaurant – 663 Morton Street, for a report of a person stabbed.

Upon arrival, officers were greeted by an individual who stated he was just stabbed. Officers observed blood on his clothes and an apparent stab wound to his abdomen. The victim further informed officers that he is employed as a cook for the restaurant and had an argument with another cook in the kitchen. He went on to state that the other cook retrieved a kitchen knife and stabbed him as he attempted to get away. He then informed officers that the suspect was still in the kitchen.

Officers entered the restaurant and located the suspect in the kitchen and placed him into custody after being identified by the victim. The kitchen knife was located and seized as evidence.

Boston EMS treated and transported the victim to Boston Medical Center with a non-life threatening stab wound to his abdomen. He is currently listed in stable condition.

Officers arrested Wellesley Clarke, 55 of Boston on the charges of Assault & Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (knife).

Officers Arrest Man in Possession of a Loaded Firearm

On Saturday, July, 11, 2009, at approximately 2:20pm, officers assigned to Area B-3 (Mattapan), responded to 44 Floyd Street for a report of a man with a gun. The caller described the weapon as “a big gun…a long barrel gun.”

Officers arrived on-scene and immediately recognized an individual known to them in front of the property. This individual appeared to be alarmed by the officers’ presence and immediately took hold of his waistband and began to flee. Through the officers training and experience, they recognized his behavior to be consistent with that of a person who may be in possession of a firearm. Officers gave chase and followed the suspect into the property through an open front door. The suspect ran by three small children playing on the front steps of the residence. Officers quickly caught up to the suspect and he was detained. Officers then discovered a loaded Smith & Wesson 357 caliber in one of the rooms the suspect ran into.

Officers arrested Abdel Amid JeanPaul, 18, of Boston on the charges of Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Possession of Ammunition and Disorderly Person.

Man Arrested for Robbing Girl on City Street

On Saturday, July 11, 2009, at approximately 3:47pm, officers assigned to Area B-3 (Mattapan), responded to the area of Trinity Terrace / Norwell Street for a report of a robbery.

Upon arrival, officers met the female victim who informed them she was standing on Washington Street when she was approached by a black male who grabbed her purse from her hand and fled. She monitored the suspect and watched him remove some of the contents of the bag before discarding it on the street. The victim was able to provide officers with the suspects name because he was dating one of her friends. She also supplied officers with a possible location of the suspect because she saw him at a cookout on Trinity Terrace earlier in the day and believed he would return.

Officers then traveled to 22 Trinity Terrace and observed a cookout taking place. Officers were then able to locate the suspect and he was placed into custody after a positive identification from the victim. Officers were able to recover an amount of currency from the suspect and other belongings that were within the victim’s purse. The suspect admitted stealing the purse and stated, “I was just playing.”

Officers arrested Sir Warrior Vincent Greene, 19 of Boston on the charges of Unarmed Robbery. The suspect was also found to be in possession of approximately six (6) grams of crack cocaine. He was additionally charged with Illegal Possession of a Class B substance (crack cocaine).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:48 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Thursday, July 9, 2009 through 10am, Friday, July 10, 2009. (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).
Homicides: 0
Non-fatal Shootings: 0
Non-fatal Stabbings: 1
Street Robberies: 6
Commercial Robberies: 0
Bank: 1
Other: 0
Vehicle Thefts: 11
Vehicle Recoveries: 3
Breaks: 16
Residential Break-ins: 3
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 06:29 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE ARREST MURDER SUSPECT IN CONNECTION WITH THE SHOOTING DEATH OF 16 YEAR OLD TOREY EVANS

Today the Boston Police Homicide Unit announces the arrest of Marques Kersey in connection with the shooting death of 16 year-old Torey Evans on January 16, 2009 in Dorchester.

An extensive and thorough investigation by the Boston Police Homicide Unit, C-11 (Dorchester) detectives and prosecutors from the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office identified Marques Kersey, 20, of Dorchester as the individual responsibly for the death of Torey Evans.

Detective sought and obtained an arrest warrant from Dorchester District Court on the charges of Murder and Illegal Possession of a Firearm. Mr. Kersey is currently being held at the Dedham House of Correction on an un-related charge.

On Friday, January 16, 2009, at approximately 3:30pm, officers assigned to District C-11 (Dorchester), responded to the area of 2092 Dorchester Avenue for a report of a person shot. Upon arrival, officers located Mr. Evans suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:22 PM | Permalink

Boston Police Report Increase in Theft from Motor Vehicles
BPD Offers Prevention Tips for Motor Vehicle Break-ins

From January 1, 2009 to July 1, 2009, statistics indicate that 5 out of 12 Boston Police Districts are reporting an increase in the number of Larceny from a Motor Vehicle. Seven districts have reported a decrease in the number of thefts from motor vehicles. This has resulted in a 6% increase of motor vehicle break-ins citywide. District D4 is experiencing the largest increase with a 52% increase.

Boston Police are increasing patrols to identified areas of concern. To address this issue, Boston Police Districts Commanders are also organizing sting operations utilizing decoy vehicles. In addition, the Boston Police ask community members to be mindful of safety tips listed below.

As stated above, five districts reported an increase in the number of thefts from motor vehicles. Citywide Larceny from Motor Vehicle Year To Date from January 1, 2009 – July 1, 2009 is available via media relations.

Boston Police reports indicate that the most common items stolen were left in sight and include: GPS Devices, lap tops, US currency (left on the dashboard or in an ash tray), stereos and stereo face plates, electronic devises (cell phones, ipods, blackberry’s and chargers), bags, purses and briefcases.

The Boston Police would like to take this opportunity to remind residents and visitors to our City that motor vehicle breaks are among the most easily preventable of crimes. They are typically crimes of opportunity, committed by thieves who look for valuables left unattended. Taking a few simple steps can often discourage these thieves. Here’s how you can protect yourself against motor vehicle breaks.

• DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR WHERE OTHERS CAN SEE THEM. Valuable items, such as your laptop, iPod, etc. should never be left in the front or back seat of your vehicle. Always take your valuables with you, or move them into the trunk.

• Lock your doors and windows. Even if your window is only slightly open, it makes your car an easier target for thieves. A thief will insert a wire into a slightly open window to pop up the door lock.

• Replace your standard door lock buttons with tapered ones. Tapered door lock buttons make it more difficult for a thief to hook a wire or device onto the door lock button to pop it open.

• Invest in an anti-theft device. When you buy a new or used car, checking to see if it has an anti-theft device is as important as checking the engine. If there isn't one, you should have one installed.

• If you observe any unusual activity or observe a car theft or a break-in, call 911.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:56 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, July 8, 2009 through 10am, Thursday, July 9, 2009. (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: 3
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 09:14 PM | Permalink

At about 8:00pm, on Wednesday, July 8, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a body found inside 1740 Washington Street. On arrival, officers spoke to the person who placed the call. According to the caller, she was conducting a room check when she discovered the victim lying in his room on his back motionless. Upon entering the room, officers located and observed a 37 year-old male, suffering from what appeared to be multiple stab wounds. The victim was pronounced on the scene.

As a result of further investigation and additional findings, the Chief Office of the Medical Examiner has determined the manner of death to be homicide.

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

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous manner 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 remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:16 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE SEEK PUBLIC ASSISTANCE IN EFFORTS TO LOCATE MISSING PERSON

The Boston Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in their efforts to locate a person who has been missing since March 26, 2009. The missing person in this case was last seen leaving her home in East Boston on Area A-7 (East Boston).

The missing person is described below:

Name: Katherin Argueta
Sex: Female
Age: 15
Race: Hispanic
Height: 5’9”
Build: Medium
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Clothing: Last seen wearing a black sweater, black jeans and white and blue sneakers.

Incident Description:
At about 11:33pm, on Thursday, March 26, 2009, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) responded to a radio call for a missing person at 790 Saratoga Street in East Boston. On arrival, officers spoke to the mother of the missing person who stated that her daughter, Katherin Argueta, 15, left the house for school but never made it to school. According to the mother, school officials from the Phoenix Charter Academy in Chelsea called her to notify and inform her that her daughter never showed up for school. According to the mother, her daughter left the house at approximately 7:00am. When asked where she may have gone, the mother stated that she believed her daughter may have run away, possibly, to be with her boyfriend.

Anyone with information regarding this person or her whereabouts is asked to please contact Area A-7 (East Boston) detectives at (617) 343-4234. Community members who wish to remain anonymous can either call CrimeStoppers at 1(800)494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

Posted by Media Relations at 01:51 PM | Permalink

At about 8:00pm, on Wednesday, July 8, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for a body found inside 1740 Washington Street. On arrival, officers spoke to the person who placed the call. According to the caller, she was conducting a room check when she discovered the victim lying in his room on his back motionless. Upon entering the room, officers located and observed a male, suffering from what appeared to be some degree of trauma, lying motionless on his back. Homicide investigators are awaiting the results of the medical examination before determining the cause of death. 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 encouraged to 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 remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:17 PM | Permalink

MAYOR MENINO AND COMMISSIONER DAVIS TO HONOR OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SAFETY EFFORTS AT COMMENDATION CEREMONY

WHO: Mayor Thomas Menino, Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis, Boston Police Superintendent-in-Chief Robert Dunford, Boston EMS Superintendent Richard Serino, Cambridge Police Department Chief Robert Haas, BPD Command Staff, award recipients and their families.

WHAT: Commendation ceremony to recognize exemplary work of members of the Boston Police Department as well as other public safety personnel including a Boston EMT, a Lieutenant from the Cambridge Police Department and an officer from the Tufts Medical Center Public Safety Division. Recipients will be presented a Commissioner’s Commendation and special recognition for their hard work and dedication.

WHERE: Ironworkers Union Hall
195 Old Colony Avenue, South Boston

WHEN: Thursday July 9, 2009 at 2:00pm

Posted by Media Relations at 11:22 AM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE APPREHEND SUSPECT WANTED FOR ROBBING A BLIND VICTIM AT LOCAL ATM

On Saturday June 20, 2009 at approximately 1:34pm, officers responded to a radio call for a robbery in progress at 1857 Centre St.(Sovereign Bank) in West Roxbury. On arrival the Officers spoke to the 59 year-old victim, who is blind. He stated that while at The Sovereign Bank inside withdrawing $50.00 from the ATM some person said to him “GIVE ME THE MONEY OR I WILL STICK YOU”. He then said that the person put him in a head lock and took his wallet that contained $24.00 and ran out of the bank.

The victim stated that he thought that he was alone in the bank. Due to the fact that he is blind he could not give a description of the suspect. Area detectives immediately responded to the bank and began an investigation.

Relative to the on-going investigation on July 08, 2009, detectives were able to identify the suspect in the surveillance footage. The suspect was identified as 47 year-old Jerome Tate of West Roxbury, who is known to investigators and has a history of larcenies in the area. Tate was also on surveillance video on a later date attempting to withdraw funds from the ATM using the victim's stolen credit card but was unsuccessful. A cooperative witness immediately identified the person in the pictures as Jerome Tate. The witness noted seeing Jerome wearing that distinctive fishing hat in the past with the word "Massage" embroidered on the brim. An arrest warrant was sought and secured for Tate in West Roxbury District Court for Armed Robbery (Knife) and Abuse of the Disabled. He was apprehended this afternoon by officers from District E-5.

Tate is expected to be arraigned tomorrow at West Roxbury District Court.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:49 PM | Permalink

ONE MAN’S CONVENIENCE INCONVENIENCES EVERYBODY ELSE

At about 6:45pm, on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, officers from Area B-3 (Mattapan) observed a motor vehicle illegally parked and obstructing traffic in the area of Morton Street and Blue Hill Avenue. Officers noted that traffic was being slowed and obstructed as a result of the illegally parked motor vehicle. As officers were approaching the car, the owner of the car appeared. Officers explained, given the operator’s poor decision and the safety issues created as a result of his decision, a citation would be issued. At this point, the operator entered his car, stated, “I aint staying here,” and proceeded to drive off. Officers quickly broadcast a description of the motor vehicle over the police radio.

In short time, officers were able to relocate and stop the car. With the motor vehicle stopped, officers arrested Joseph Edwins, 21, of Sharon and charged him with Refusing to Submit/Obey a Police Officer. Further, the suspect was issued a citation for Obstructing Traffic.

TWO ARRESTED FOR UNRULY BEHAVIOR AT THE SOX GAME

At about 9:22pm, on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, officers, performing a paid detail at Fenway Park for the game between the Red Sox and the Oakland A’s, observed two males yelling in the area of the beers stand near Gate C. As officers approached, they noted that the males were yelling at Fenway Park Security officials. According to the officials, the suspects were told to leave the park after disrespecting and disparaging the employees assigned to the beer stand. Officers heard the suspects yelling and swearing. As the suspects were being led out of the park, one of the suspects kicked over a table and yelled, “Get the (expletive) off me you (expletives).”

At this point, officers arrested David Kindler, 22, and Jacob Cecere, 22, both of Portland, ME and charged them with Being Disorderly.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:53 AM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, July 7, 2009 through 10am, Wednesday, July 8, 2009. (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: 4
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 10:42 AM | Permalink

Please click the links below to view updated crime data in the City of Boston for the time period of January 1st - July 5th, 2008 vs. 2009.

View Data on YTD Part One Crime

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

(Download Adobe Reader)

Posted by BRIC at 10:26 AM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST THREE FOR LOUD HOUSE PARTY IN BRIGHTON

At about 2:15am, on Monday, July 7, 2009, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) were dispatched to 16 South Street for a report of a loud party. On arrival (the first time), officers spoke to the occupants of the home who informed them that the party was over, the music would be turned down and all party-goers would be asked to leave. Upon receiving these assurances, the officers departed the location. However, before departing, officers spoke to the lease holders and warned them that arrests would follow if officers were called back to the location. Approximately two hours later, officers responded to a 2nd radio call for a loud party at the above-mentioned address. On arrival, officers observed a large number of people standing in the front yard of the premise. Officers instructed all standing in front of the location to vacate the premise. While standing outside the location, officers again were able to hear loud music. Upon entering the location, officers arrested the lease holders.

Officers arrested Marie Hannaffy, 21, of Boston, Nicola Hargen, 22, of Boston and Laura Walsh, 21, of Boston and charged all three with Being Keepers of the Disorderly House.

POLICE ARREST THREE FOR BREAKING INTO CARS IN BRIGHTON

At about 12:43am, on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, officers from Area D-14 (Brighton) were on patrol in the area of Matchett Street when an individual flagged them down. Upon speaking to the individual, officers learned that three Hispanic males were looking into cars with a flash light. In short time, officers located three males who matched the provided description. Officers noted that one of the males was carrying a flashlight while the other was in possession of a backpack. Officers further noted that the suspects were walking away from a car which had its interior dome light on. When officers got closer, the light went off signaling that the door had been recently opened. Upon closer inspection, officers observed that the glove compartment was open and various items were strewn about the car.

The suspect in possession of the backpack gave officers permission to look through his bag. Upon looking through the bag, officers located a GPS device. When asked if the GPS device belonged to him, the suspect stated, “I don’t know how that got into my bag.”

Officers arrested two 16 year-old males and one 15 year-old male and charged all three with Breaking & Entering a Motor Vehicle (Night time) and Receiving Stolen Property.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:39 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Monday, July 6, 2009 through 10am, Tuesday, July 7, 2009. (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: 2

Residential Break-ins: 6
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 12:33 PM | Permalink

617 Shawmut Avenue

At about 2:15pm, on Saturday, July 4, 2009, officers assigned to Area D-4 (South End) responded to 617 Shawmut Avenue for the report of a person shot. On arrival, officers located and observed a black male, in his 20’s, lying on the ground. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced. The victim has since been identified as David Brimley, 22, of Boston.

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

Community members who wish to aid this investigation in an anonymous manner 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 remain anonymous.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:30 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 72 hours in Boston, from Thursday, July 3, 2009 through 10am, Monday, July 6, 2009 (See recent Daily Incident summaries and earlier postings for more detailed descriptions of some of the incidents identified below).

Homicides: 1
Non-fatal Shootings: 6
Non-fatal Stabbings: 8

Residential Break-ins: 28
Commercial Break-ins: 8

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

Posted by Media Relations at 12:45 PM | Permalink

Shots Fired Incident Results in the Arrest of Two Suspects and Recovery of Two Guns

Last night around 10:27PM, officers from District B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a call for shots fired in the area of 8 Savin Street.

On arrival, officers received information that a white BMW X5 SUV had fled the scene after the shots were fired and heading in the direction of Blue Hill Avenue. Numerous units responded to the scene and while responding to the scene, officers observed a white BMW X5 heading down Blue Hill Ave. in the vicinity of the incident. Officers were able to follow and stop the vehicle after it pulled to the side of the road at the corner of Blue Hill Ave. and Winthrop Street. There, based on the nature of the incident and the fact that the car had very dark windows which prevented officers from seeing in the car, officers ordered the occupants out of the car.

The first occupant to exit the car, the rear passenger was very hesitant to get out of the car and when he did get out was walking stiffly ad appeared as if he was trying to keep his legs together. Once the rear passenger was out of the vehicle, officers ordered him to spread his legs in order to conduct a pat frisk. Once the suspect parted his legs, a firearm slid down the legs of his pants which was immediately recovered. The firearm, once recovered was determined to be loaded with a high capacity magazine. The suspect, Jermaine Fenton, 28, of Dorchester was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Ammunition, Providing a False Name at the Booking Desk, and Possession of a Counterfeit Bill for two fake $100 bills found on the suspect. In addition to the above charges, the suspect was found to have four outstanding warrants for various offenses.

After the first suspect was removed from the car, the driver was removed from the car in order to conduct a pat frisk. While he was being removed from the car, officers noticed the handle of a gun protruding from his pants pocket. The suspect was placed under arrest and a loaded semi-automatic firearm with a high capacity feeding device was taken from his person. The suspect, Rickardo Campbell, 31, of Hyde Park was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Ammunition, Discharging a Firearm within 500’ of a Dwelling, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device and Armed Career Criminal.

The victim of the shooting was found at Boston Medical Center suffering from non-life threatening injuries. Officers were able to recover ballistic at the scene of the shooting. The suspects will be arraigned at

Be Careful Who You Call a Friend

Early this morning, officers from District C-6 (South Boston) responded to Moakley Park at the Columbia Rd. rotary for an armed robbery call.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who told officers that she was set up by an ex-girlfriend and subsequently robbed. The victim reported that she was asked by a friend to meet her at the park so they could talk. The victim stated that while she was conversing with her “friend” she was attacked by two suspects from behind who kicked her and punched her to the ground and continued to assault her even after she was on the ground. After the victim was on the ground, the two suspects picked up her purse and stole her cell phone and some cash. The suspects then jumped in a car and fled the scene.

The victim was transported to Boston Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries after she provided officers with the suspects’ descriptions, and address. Based on the information provided to officers, officers from District B-2 responded to the victim’s friend’s house and there encountered one of the suspects. The first suspect denied having been at the scene of the incident, but when she was placed under arrest, a second suspect came running out of the house and exclaimed “Arrest me, I am the one that hit her!” At that time, the first suspect directed officers to where the victim’s phone was located inside the house. The victim’s phone was found inside the suspects’ house but her purse and money were not recovered.

Suspect, Danielle R. Flucas, 18, of Roxbury was charged with Unarmed Robbery and suspect, Shalane Parker, 17, of Roxbury was arrested and charged with Assault to Rob, and Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon. The third suspect was not found at the scene but detectives will further investigate to determine if charges will be filed against her.

Caught in the Act in the Wrong Place

This morning around 2:05AM, officers from District E-13 (Jamaica Plain) arrested suspect, Tammy L. Totten, 39, of Cambridge and Wilfredo Casillas, 35, of Dorchester and charged them with Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle in the Nighttime.

Shortly before the arrest, officers received a call for prostitution or lewd acts taking placed in a van in a parking lot across 3037 Washington Street. On arrival, officers observed the described white van in the parking with two individuals moving around the rear of the van. Officers ordered both occupants of the car outside the van, and spoke to them. Both occupants/suspects denied owning the car and stated that they had just entered the van to “relax and talk.” Since neither occupant knew the owner of the car nor had received permission to enter the van, they were arrested and charged with the above offenses.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:39 PM | Permalink

617 Shawmut Avenue – South End

On Saturday, July 4, 2009, at approximately 2:15pm, officers assigned to Area D-4 (South End), responded to 617 Shawmut Avenue for a report of a person shot.

Officers arrived on-scene and located a large group standing over a male lying on the ground. Officers and Boston EMS rendered care to the individual who was apparently suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. It was later learned that the victim was a Twenty-four year-old black male.

Several witnesses on-scene were interviewed as to their observations of the incident.

The victim was transported by Boston EMS to Boston Medical Center where he was later pronounced.

The Boston Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating the facts and circumstances of this incident. Anyone with information regarding this matter is urged to call the Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may due so by contacting CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS. You may also text “TIP” to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will protect the identity of those who wish to remain anonymous.

This marks the City’s Twenty-Sixth homicide of 2009. This time last year, Boston experienced Thirty-Two homicides.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:20 PM | Permalink

BOSTON POLICE SEEK THE PUBLIC’S HELP IN THEIR EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY ROBBERY SUSPECTS

On Thursday, July 2, 2009, officers responded to radio calls for three armed robberies in and around the Public Garden on Area A-1 (Downtown) and Area D-4 (South End). Given the proximity of the attacks to each other, as well as, similar suspect descriptions, investigators are looking into the potential or possibility that the robberies may be linked or connected. As such, the Boston Police Department is asking anyone with information relative to the enclosed incidents to contact either Area A-1 (Downtown) detectives at (617) 343-4248 or Area D (South End) detectives at (617) 343-4683.

The following is a brief description of the incidents from last night:

• At about 8:38pm, on Thursday, July 2, 2009, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery in the area of the Public Garden. On arrival, officers spoke to a victim who stated that he was walking in the area of the Public Garden when approximately four to five Hispanic males (in their late teens) approached him and demanded money. The victim says that one of the suspects showed a firearm. The victim says the suspects stole his Apple iPhone.

• At about 8:40pm, on Thursday, July 2, 2009, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a 2nd radio call for an armed robbery in the area of the Public Garden. Officers responded to 200 Boylston Street where they met the victim. Once on scene, officers spoke to the victim who stated that he was walking in the area of the Public Garden when a group of approximately four Hispanic males (in their late teens) approached. The victim says he was talking on his iPhone when one of the suspects ripped the phone from his hand and took off on foot in the direction of Beacon Street.

• About 8:45pm, on Thursday, July 2, 2009, officers from Area D-4 (South End) responded to a radio call for an armed robbery in the area of Berkeley and Arlington Streets. On arrival, officers spoke to a victim who stated that he was walking down Public Alley #421 when two Hispanic males (in their late teens or early 20’s) approached him. According to the victim, he was on his Apple iPhone when one of the suspects displayed a firearm and demanded his phone. The victim says one of the suspects (about 5’7”, clean shaven with a long dark pony tail and braids) was wearing a grey-hooded sweatshirt and baggy jeans.

The Boston Police Department continues to actively investigate these incidents. Community members who wish to assist or help this investigation in an anonymous manner are encouraged to 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 03:28 PM | Permalink

TO IDENTIFY SUSPECT OF POSSIBLE COMMERCIAL ROBBERY SERIES

Suspect Considered Armed and Dangerous

Overview : Boston PD, Somerville PD and Cambridge PD are investigating a string of commercial robberies involving a Black Male (BM) with a beard, who displays a firearm, and usually attempts to purchase something in order to get the clerk to open the register. There have been 8 incidents that are possibly related.

• Somerville – 5/27/09 at 11:06 PM. The LP Market at 97 Highland Ave. was robbed by a BM. The suspect used zip ties to tie up the clerk.
• Cambridge – 6/23/09 at 1:35 AM. The Tedeschi’s at 321 Broadway was robbed at gunpoint by a BM (facial hair, med build).
• E13 - Jamaica Plain – CC# 90345633: 6/23/09 at 3:32 AM. The 7-11 at 451 Centre St. was robbed at gunpoint by a BM (5’5”-5’8”, med build, full beard).
• D4 - Fenway - CC#90349583: 6/25/09 at 12:09 AM. The 7-11 at 508 Park Drive was robbed at gunpoint by a BM (5’7” medium build).
• Somerville – 6/25/09 at 10:22 PM. The Sunoco gas station at 434 McGrath Highway was robbed by a BM (5’8”-5’9”, full beard)
• Cambridge – 6/26/09 at 6:09 AM. The Shall Gas station at 820 Memorial Dr. was robbed at gunpoint by a BM (~25-30 YOA, 5’5”, thin).
• A15 – Charlestown – 6/26/09 at 10:49 PM. The Dunkin Donuts at 99 Cambridge St. was robbed by a BM (~23 YOA, 5’4”, with a beard).
• D4 – South End - CC#90355904: 6/27/09 at 7:00 PM. The Dunkin Donuts at 616 Mass Ave. was robbed at gunpoint by 2 BMs (~ 20 YOA).

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lt. Det. Charles Wilson @ (617) 343-4680, Cambridge PD Detectives @ (617) 349-3393, Somerville PD Detectives @ (617) 625-1212, or The BRIC @ (617) 343-4328.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:00 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Wednesday, July 1, 2009 through 10am, Thurssday, July 2, 2009. (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: 5
Commercial Break-ins: 0

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 04:45 PM | Permalink

Commissioner Davis Issues Multiple Suspensions

Today Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis announces the conclusion of a three year investigation into steroid use among officers. In August of 2006, Boston Police Anti-Corruption Division in conjunction with the US Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation developed information that launched a lengthy and in-depth investigation into this matter, which has resulted in multiple suspensions and several important departmental changes.

In addition to the conclusion of the steroid investigation, the Boston Police Internal Affairs Unit has completed the investigation into improper officer activity at 24 Factory Street in Hyde Park. Investigators identified 24 Factory Street as an after-hours party location which included allegations of officer misconduct. Evidence uncovered during the course of this investigation has also led to the suspension of several officers.

As a result of these investigations, Commissioner Davis has suspended seven police officers for steroid use, one police officer for being aware of steroid use by others and not reporting it and four police officers for issues related to 24 Factory Street.

Commissioner Davis stated, “I would like to commend the dedication and professionalism of the investigators in Anti-Corruption and Internal Affairs for the completion of this extensive and complex case. These investigators play a critical role in our promise to the community to provide an effective, credible and trustworthy police force,” Commissioner Davis added, “I am disappointed with the actions of the officers disciplined in this matter. With this chapter finally closed, the department will move forward with improved policies and practices resulting from difficult lessons learned. We remain steadfast in our dedication to preserving the integrity of our department by taking every measure to prevent and when necessary uncover officer misconduct.”

ACTION STEPS

The Boston Police Department has undertaken several initiatives to immediately address issues and concerns relative to steroid use by officers. The following actions have already been introduced into department practice and are currently ongoing:

• Enhanced ‘Reasonable Suspicion’ training for all supervisors. Every Supervisor (Sgt, Lt., Captain, Command Staff member) has received expanded ‘Reasonable Suspicion’ training. The curriculum includes recognizing and addressing the signs of substance abuse specifically steroids and also corruption indicators. Supervisors are trained and expected as part of their duties to recognize distinct changes in officers which would require ‘cause’ testing for steroids. Every newly promoted supervisor receives this training
• Enhanced ‘Integrity’ training for all supervisors. Every Supervisor (Sgt, Lt., Captain, Command Staff member) has received expanded ‘Integrity’ training. A curriculum was developed in conjunction with Federal authorities. Federal authorities also participate in the training and are present at the Academy to address supervisors. Every newly promoted supervisor receives this training.
• Enhanced ‘Health and Wellness’ training for every officer. Every officer is now required to receive enhanced ‘Health and Wellness’ training at the academy that focuses on the health risks associated with anabolic steroid use.
• Implementation of pre-employment steroid testing for recruits. Boston Police now include steroids in all pre-employment drug testing for potential recruits.
• Enhanced curriculum for Recruits at the Police Academy. All recruits now receive an improved curriculum that includes education on the dangers of steroid use as well as expanded teachings relative to integrity and ethics issues.
• Sought and secured ‘lifetime career’ testing for substance abuse police violation. Police Commissioner Davis sought to secure a contractual obligation of ‘lifetime career’ testing for any officer who violates the drug abuse policy. Commissioner Davis was successful through union negotiation to amend the policy to include this provision. Termination is the result of a second positive drug test.

PENDING STEPS

• Commissioner Davis continues to explore the possibility of including steroid testing in the annual drug testing policy. The department’s drug policy currently states the every officer receives an annual drug exam, which tests for almost every narcotic and controlled medication including cocaine, heroin and Oxycontin. The drug test uses a hair sample and has a 99% accuracy rate.
• Commissioner Davis supports the current bill before the legislation requiring the state to mandate drug testing for public safety employees. He encourages the Executive Office of Public Safety to include steroids as part of the testing mandate.
• The department continues to closely monitor the advances in science and technology relative to steroid testing.
• Staff at the Police Academy is developing a distance learning program for officers that will include curriculum devoted to the dangers of steroid use and also integrity and ethics issues.

DISCIPLINE

Contact Media Relations for more specific information.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:41 PM | Permalink

A look at the last 24 hours in Boston, from Tuesday, June 30, 2009 through 10am, Wednesday, July 1, 2009. (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: 6
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 12:11 PM | Permalink

POLICE ARREST ONE FOR DAMAGING A TOW TRUCK

At about 10:59pm, on Tuesday, June 30, 2009, officers from Area B-2 (Roxbury) responded to a radio call for a person with a knife in the area of 138 Blue Hill Avenue. On arrival, officers spoke with the caller, a tow truck driver who stated that he was in the process of towing a car that was illegally parked in a private lot when an individual approached and stated that the car belonged to him.

According to the tow truck driver, the owner of the car demanded that his car be lowered off the truck. The tow truck driver stated that he informed the owner that he could and would lower the car but, doing so, would require a payment. At this point, the tow truck driver states that the suspect entered his car and tried to drive the car off the truck. When this failed, the driver says the suspect exited the car with a knife in his possession. With knife in hand, the driver says the suspect attempted to cut his car down. Officers observed that the tow straps had been cut or severed. Officers were able to locate and take possession of the knife.

Officers arrested Erik Nixon, 21, of Boston and charged him with the Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property.

SCANTILY CLAD CROOK CAUGHT TRYING TO BREAK INTO A RESIDENCE

At about 2:25am, July 1, 2009, officers from Area E-13 (Jamaica Plain) responded to a radio call for a person breaking into a residence in the area of 288 Amory Street. According to the caller, a white male with brown hair (wearing a black jacket) was trying to enter her residence. On arrival, officers went to the rear of the residence. Once out back, officers observed and located a pair of blue jeans, a pair of white sneakers and a brown hat lying on the ground. Upon looking through the residence, officers located a suspect hiding on the 2nd floor porch. Upon locating the suspect, officer noted that the suspect was wearing boxer shorts, a t-shirt and a black jacket.

According to the victim, she was inside her residence when she heard someone or something on the back porch. Upon hearing the noise, she called police. Upon looking at the rear door, officers noted that the screen was torn. According to the victim, the screen was undamaged prior to the incident.

Officers arrested Frank Drago, 26, of Stoneham and charged him with Attempted Breaking & Entering a Residence (night).

Posted by Media Relations at 11:55 AM | Permalink

Shawn Pelley, 33, of Centerville, MA was arrested today, June 30, 2009 on outstanding warrants for Larceny Over $250 and Violation of Probation/Parole. Pelley was arrested by the Boston Police Fugitive Unit and United States Marshals after he opened a business bank account in early April, 2009 in the name of U.S. Re-Entry. He then deposited counterfeit checks totaling $48,134 into the account under the name of St. Bernard Catholic Church.

Pelley will be arraigned in U.S. Federal Court.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:40 AM | Permalink