WHEN: Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 10:00am to 2:00pm

WHERE: Harborside Community Center, 312 Border Street, East Boston

WHAT:
• Be Heard: Voice your concerns about substance abuse issues in your community.
• Be Informed: Learn how to identify signs of substance abuse and addiction.
• Get Connected: Learn how to access and utilize the public health resources available in your neighborhood.
• Get Involved: Learn how you can make East Boston a drug free community.

*** Free H1N1 flu vaccinations are available for you and your family.

For more information, please call the Harborside Community Center at (617) 635-5114

Sponsored by Mayor Thomas M. Menino, the Boston Public Health Commission and the East Boston No Drugs Coalition

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

Residential Break-ins: 12
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.

The Boston Police Department arrested Raphael Cox, 17, of Roxbury in connection with a recent indecent assault in Jamaica Plain. Authorities released a surveillance image seeking his identification on Saturday February 6, 2010.

Yesterday detectives from the Sexual Assault Unit were contacted by the MBTA police, who believed they had recognized the wanted suspect at the Ruggles MBTA station. At that time, detectives responded to the scene and took Cox into custody. Cox was placed under arrest and charged with indecent assault and battery.

Cox has been identified as the individual responsible for indecently assaulting a woman at Seaverns Avenue / Centre Street in Jamaica Plain. He then fled on foot on Seaverns Avenue towards Green Street. The incident occurred on February 3rd at approximately 8:30am.

The Boston Police Department would like to take this opportunity to remind community members of important safety information:

PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS

• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• When parking, walking or returning to your car, travel in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles.
• Don’t become distracted by talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device.
• Avoid walking alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.

• Keep a whistle within reach. If threatened, use the whistle to signal residents for help.
• Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people of your situation.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone and call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on the way. Make sure you’re expected at a certain time, so in the event you fail to show up, those expecting you will know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts.
• Anyone at anytime can be a victim of crime so never assume, "IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME."
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to defend, distract, or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk towards an open store, restaurant or residence.

At about 4:55pm, on Sunday, February 8, 2010, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a report of an individual causing a disturbance in the area of the Finagle-a-Bagel at 129 Tremont Street. On arrival, officers spoke to employees of the establishment who stated that a man and a woman had fallen asleep inside the restaurant. When employees attempted to wake the couple, the couple got angry. So much so that when the male was told to leave, he began yelling, screaming and swearing at the employees. At one point, the male picked up a chair and threw it at a window. Officers were able to observe damage to the window and its frame. A search of the area enabled officers to locate the suspect sitting in the Burger King next door to the Finagle-a-Bagel.

Officers arrested Vincent Lomba, 18, of Boston and charged him with the Willful & Malicious Destruction of Property.

THREE ARRESTED FOR ARMED ROBBERY IN EASTIE

At about 10:34pm, on Saturday, February 6, 2010, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) received a radio call for an assault and battery in progress in the area of 43 Wordsworth St. While en route to the call, officers learned that the victims had been jumped by a group of kids who then ran towards the old Dom Savio High School.

On arrival, officers spoke to the victims who stated that they were hanging out in front of the White Hen Pantry when another group of kids (the suspects) approached and began harassing them. When the victims attempted to walk away, the suspects chased after them and began an altercation. During the altercation, three of the victims state they were punched and one of the victims says his wallet was stolen. Additionally, one of the victims says the person who hit him was wearing brass knuckles. Officers promptly broadcast a description of the suspects over the police radio.

In short time, officers located three individuals who matched the description of the suspects. After the suspects were positively identified by the victims, officers made three arrests.

Officers arrested Brandon Amodeo, 17, of Boston, John Franco, 17, of Boston and a 16 year-old male from Boston and charged all three with Armed Robbery and Assault & Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (brass knuckles).

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

Residential Break-ins: 18
Commercial Break-ins: 6

Note: the information above is preliminary information, and should not be considered official crime statistics. The information is based on an initial review of incident reports and may not be a comprehensive listing of events. It is not a statistical analysis, but rather an initial tally of significant events.

The Boston Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in their efforts to locate a person who has been missing since February 4, 2010.

The missing person is described below:
Name: Katie Garcia
Sex: female
Age: 25
Race: white
Height:
Build: medium
Hair: blond
Eyes: blue
Special Characteristics: The missing person is currently taking medications for schizophrenia. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a red shirt and white sneakers. She has a heart tattoo on her left hand. She’s known to frequent the Lynn, Lawrence and Peabody areas. She may also be operating a black Honda with tinted windows.

Incident Description:
At about 8:48am, on Sunday, February 7, 2010, officers from Area A-7 (East Boston) responded to a radio call for a report of a missing person in the area of 168 Cottage Street in East Boston. On arrival, officers spoke to the missing person’s family who stated that Katie Garcia went missing around 10:00pm on Thursday, February 4, 2010. According to family members, the missing person ran to the store and then never came back.

Anyone with information regarding this person or her whereabouts is asked to contact Area A-7 detectives (East Boston) at (617) 343-4234 or the Boston Regional Intelligence Center at (617) 343-4328. Community members who wish to aid this investigation in an anonymous manner can either call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).

View Data on YTD Part One Crimes

View Data on YTD Shootings

View Data on YTD Firearm Arrests

The Boston Police Department is looking for a suspect wanted in connection with two stabbing incidents. The first occurred on Wednesday, February 3, 2010 which resulted in three individuals getting stabbed, and one suffering minor cuts. Warrants have been issued charging the suspect, Darius D. Young, 15 of Dorchester with 2 counts of Assault with Intent to Murder, 4 counts of Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon and 4 counts of Assault and Battery. This is a domestic incident that resulted in the stabbing of three females ages: 17, 29 and 51 and a 6 year-old female suffering cuts. All victims were treated for non-life threatening injuries.

On Wednesday, February 3, 2010 around 8:18PM, officers from District C-6 (South Boston) responded to 21 Roseclair Street for a stabbing. On arrival, officers located four victims. Officers spoke to the victims and learned that the suspect who had committed the act had fled the scene. At that time, officers sought and obtained a warrant for Young’s arrest and have been searching for him since.

The second incident occurred today at 11:47AM in Revere when officers from the Revere Police Department responded to a residence at the Coolidge Street Housing Authority in Revere. Officers located a female juvenile and a 42 year old female suffering from injuries. A preliminary investigation has determined that the same suspect, Darius Young is responsible for physically assaulting the juvenile and stabbing the 42 year old victim. Both victims received medical treatment for their injuries. The stabbing victim suffered a more serious injury but is expected to survive. It is believed that Young was staying at this residence and is familiar with the victims.

The suspect, Young is described as a black male, 6’3” and 145 lbs with black hair and brown eyes.

This suspect is considered dangerous. Officers are making every effort to find and apprehend him. Anyone who comes in contact or knows of the suspect’s whereabouts is urged to contact District C-6 Detectives by calling (617) 343-4742 or the Boston Regional Intelligence Center at (617) 343-4328. Individuals wishing to provide information anonymously are encouraged to call the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police stringently protects the identity of all who wish to provide information. We are interested in the information you provide, not who you are.

At about 1:53am, Sunday, February 7, 2010, officers from Area E-13 (Jamaica Plain) responded to a radio call for a person stabbed in the area of 3055 Washington Street (Citgo Gas Station). According to witnesses, the suspect (described as a black male with a bald head wearing a yellow jacket) entered the station and began asking a customer for money. When the customer refused, the suspect stabbed the customer/victim in the leg. According to the victim, the suspect approached and began making demands. According to the victim, the suspect specifically stated, “Give me my money or I’m gonna stab you.”

After stabbing the victim, the suspect fled the store. As officers were arriving, they observed the suspect running away from the scene. While running behind the suspect, officers observed the suspect toss a silver-colored knife. That knife was later located and recovered. After a brief foot pursuit and ensuing struggle, officers were able to subdue and apprehend the suspect. The victim was transported to the Beth Israel with non-life threatening injuries.

Officers arrested Mark Stokes, 41, of Boston and charged with Armed Robbery, Assault with Intent to Rob while Armed, Assault & Battery by means of a Dangerous Weapon (knife) and Resisting Arrest. During the booking process, officers noted that the suspect had blood stains or blots on his clothing.

This individual has been described as a black male, approximately 5’8” tall, approximately 20 years of age, wearing light colored sweat pants, white sneakers and a multi-colored jacket, red on top with a blue/gray bottom, separated by a horizontal stripe running across his chest. The suspect was also observed wearing a blue hood or large hat that covered his neck. He was also observed carrying a black backpack.

Anyone who knows this individual or has been approached by him and has not reported the incident is asked to contact the Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit at 617-343-4400.

Community members who wish to assist this investigation in an anonymous manner can call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS (8477). You may also text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department is interested only in your information, not your identity.

If you or anyone needs support, please contact the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC.org). They can also be reached by telephone by calling 1-800-841-8371.

PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS

• always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• When parking, walking or returning to your car, travel in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. Make quick eye contact with those around you and be observant of passing vehicles. Don’t become distracted by talking on a cell phone or listening to an iPod/similar device.
• Avoid walking alone late at night. Walk with friends and people you know.
• Keep a whistle within reach. If threatened, use the whistle to signal residents for help. Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people of your situation.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone and call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on the way. Make sure you’re expected at a certain time, so in the
event you fail to show up, those expecting you will know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts. Anyone at anytime can be a victim of crime so never assume, "IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME."
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to defend, distract, or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk towards an open store, restaurant or residence.

Today Police Commissioner Edward Davis terminated Police Officer Justin Barrett for violating Department Rules when Barrett sent a racially offensive email to many individuals, including members of the Department and the Boston Globe, on July 22, 2009.

After a thorough internal affairs investigation, Barrett was afforded a disciplinary hearing before the Department Hearings Officer on January 19, 2010. As a result of the hearing, where Barrett was given an opportunity to present evidence on his behalf, five charges were sustained by the Hearings Officer. As a result, the Police Commissioner determined that termination was the appropriate disciplinary action, and Barrett was given notice of his termination.

The following violations were sustained against Officer Barrett: Rule 102, § 3 (Conduct), § 4(Judgment), § 9 (Respectful Treatment), § 23 (Truthfulness), and Rule 113, § 5 (Public Integrity/Cannon of Ethics-Number eight) of the Rules and Procedures of the Boston Police Department.

Police Commissioner Davis stated, “The Boston Police Department is committed to a standard of excellence. After a thorough investigation of this matter, it is evident that Officer Barrett’s actions do not comply with that standard. Given the egregious nature of his actions and its effect on our community, I strongly believe that the only appropriate discipline is termination. I commend the officers who voiced their disapproval of Officer Barrett’s actions. Our department has a top to bottom commitment to community policing, which is founded in trust. We will not allow the actions of one to damage the community relationships that are essential to our mission to serve the citizens of Boston.”

36 year old Officer Barrett was appointed to the Boston Police Department in June 2007. His termination is effective Friday, February 5, 2010.

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

Residential Break-ins: 7
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.

Boston Police Detectives are actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information regarding this matter is urged to call 617-343-4571.

Community members who wish to assist this investigation anonymously can call the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-(800)-494-TIPS. You may also text the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department is interested only in your information, not your identity.

In the Spring of 2009, as part of the Boston Police community outreach and enrichment efforts, the Boston Police Academy along with the Boston College High School Community Action Volunteer Program created this initiative to provide inner-city teens with the opportunity to become better and safer teen drivers. Research indicates that car accidents are a leading cause of teenage death and serious injury. This type of advanced training and sophisticated technology is an important step in training and protecting our youngest and newest drivers in a safe, structured and supervised learning environment.