Armed Robbery Safety Tips for October 2, 2012
October is Crime Prevention Month
Since 1984, the National Crime Prevention Council has designated October as crime prevention month. To raise awareness for the month of October, the Boston Police Department will have 31 days of crime prevention tips. Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for your tip of the day.
For more information please visit the National Crime Prevention Council at
http://www.ncpc.org/programs/crime-prevention-month/about
October 2, 2012 Armed Robbery Safety Tips
Armed Robbery
Most robberies are crimes of opportunity. Being a victim of Armed Robbery can be very traumatic.
An Armed Robbery occurs when force or a weapon is used to obtain a victim’s personal property.
Materials such as money, cell phones, credit cards, jewelry are often desirable items for an armed robber. A robber is oftentimes a male with a criminal record but an increasing number are female.
Most are nervous and will imply they have a weapon or will display a weapon.
Prevention Tips
By observing some basic precautionary measures, chances of becoming a robbery victim are greatly reduced.
- Travel on well-lit streets, avoid dark corners, alleys and building entrances.
- Try to walk on the side of the street nearest oncoming traffic.
- Safety in Numbers! If possible walk with a companion or group.
- Never carry large amounts of cash.
- Don’t carry expensive personal property, and do not advertise your personal property.
- Carry a second wallet that has a few $1 bills and some old credit cards, so if confronted by a robber, hand over the second wallet instead.
- Do not use ATM machines at night or use machines that are visible.
- Cell Phones: Activate the GPS tracking device on your cell phone. This allows the cell phone to be located and to have the suspect caught.
- Avoid carrying a handbag or purse, or if you do so, then carry it in front of your body and ensure it is closed.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- If you think you are being followed, walk to an occupied place e.g. restaurant, bar, gas station. If there are none, cross the street in the middle of the block. If there is traffic, try and stop a car for help.
What to Do During a Robbery
To reduce risk of injury, comply with the robber’s demands. Make a mental note of as much descriptive information as possible.
What to look for:
- Facial Features
- Clothing & Jewelry
- Skin, Hair & Eye Color
- Age, Height, Weight, Sex
- Scars, Tattoos, Marks
- Speech, Accents
What to Do After a Robbery
Do Not Chase the Robber!
Observe & remember:
- Direction of travel
- License plate number
- Type & Color of vehicle
- Type of Weapon displayed
- CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY
October is Crime Prevention Month
Since 1984, the National Crime Prevention Council has designated October as crime prevention month. To raise awareness for the month of October, the Boston Police Department will have 31 days of crime prevention tips. Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for your tip of the day.
For more information please visit the National Crime Prevention Council at http://www.ncpc.org/programs/crime-prevention-month/about .
October 1, 2012 Prevent Student Street Robberies
With school back in session, Boston Police is offering tips to parents and teens on how to avoid becoming a victim of robbery, a crime frequently targeting youth.
These robberies typically happen in secluded areas. One or more suspects approaches a victim and uses violence, the threat of violence or intimidation to rob them of jewelry, cellular telephones, mp3 players and portable gaming systems.
To reduce your risk of becoming a victim, always conceal what you have to steal, such as money or a cell phone. Cell phones are just like cash — when thieves see one, they want it. To be safe, treat your cell phone like your cash: don’t let anyone know you have it!
If you have been the victim of a crime, or know of a crime that has happened or could happen, you can report it anonymously by calling CrimeStoppers at 1-800-494-TIPS or texting the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463).
Remember, if you have an emergency, or there is a crime in progress, dial 911 immediately.
Police offer these tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of a robbery:
While out walking:
• Leave electronic devices at home, if not needed.
• Keep electronic devices out of sight.
• Never walk with earphones showing, or in your ears.
• Pay attention to your surroundings; even while texting or talking on the phone.
• Be aware of who is around you. If someone looks suspicious or makes you feel uneasy, avoid that person. Go inside a store or business if necessary.
• If you must make a call while you are walking, go to a safe, public place, like a store, make your call, and then conceal your phone the way you would conceal your cash before going back to the street.
• Walk in groups as much as possible, staying in well-lit and busy areas.
• Be aware that a common ruse used by robbers is to ask for the time. When the victim produces a cell phone to provide the time, it is taken from them. If you are not wearing a watch, do not check your phone; Also be aware of strangers asking to “borrow” your phone to make an emergency call.
• If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, make some noise and draw attention to yourself.
• If you are a victim, call police first and then let your service provider know if you lose your phone.
For parents, police recommend you know what your children have and write down all serial numbers for your electronics. This will help police identify and verify property.
Increasingly, people are buying electronic items from “friends” or second hand stores. Many of these items are stolen. Knowingly or not, being in possession of stolen property is a crime.
CrimeStoppers1-(800) 494-TIPS
CALLERS REMAIN ANONYMOUS
or TEXT the word “TIP” to CRIME (27463)
(Messaging and data rates may apply.)
Community Alert Update: Boston Police Investigate Three Incidents of Indecent Assault and Battery in East Boston
Boston Police are investigating three incidents from Area A-7 in East Boston.
Two incidents occurred shortly after 6:00 AM on 9-26-12. The first female victim was approached from behind at approximately 6:15 AM in the area of Lexington and Putnam Streets. The suspect engaged her in a brief conversation and indecently assaulted the victim and fled down Putnam Street towards Day Square.
The suspect is described as a black or black Hispanic male, dark complexion approximately 30 years of age, approximately 5’7”, approximately 150 pounds, medium build, wearing a black “hoodie” “turned up” and black pants.
The second incident involved a female victim who described a similar incident which occurred several blocks away at the corner of Brooks and Paris Streets. The victim was approached from behind by a suspect who indecently assaulted her and after a struggle the victim fought off her attacker who fled on Brooks Street towards Day Square. This incident occurred at approximately 6:17AM.
The suspect is described as a black non Hispanic male, dark complexion approximately 25 years of age, approximately 5’9”, approximately 180 pounds, with a medium build and brown eyes wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and a black baseball cap.
The third incident assault occurred at Princeton and Putnam Streets at approximately 11:45pm on 9-25-12; the female victim describes the suspect as a black Hispanic or Mediterranean male with a dark complexion, approximately 5’6”, stocky build, wearing jeans and a light grey sweatshirt with the sleeves rolled up. The suspect fled down Putnam Street and possibly entered a grey van or SUV traveling on Princeton Street towards Bennington Street.
Boston Police encourage any witnesses or victims to contact the Sexual Assault Unit at 617-343-4400.
Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those who wish to remain anonymous.
Community Alert: Boston Police Investigate Three Incidents of Indecent Assault and Battery in East Boston
In the late evening of September 25th and the morning of September 26th, 2012, in the area of Putnam, Bremen and Lexington Streets in East Boston; three women reported being the victims of indecent assault and battery. The first incident occurred at 11:45pm the other two occurred around 6:00am.
Starting tonight, Boston police along with the MBTA Police, and Massport will have extra patrols out in the area during the evening hours. The incidents are under investigation by the Boston Police Sexual Assault Unit. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at (617) 343-4400.
Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those who wish to remain anonymous.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a sexual assault and is in need of helpful resources, please contact the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center 24 hour hotline at 1-800-841-8371.
Women walking alone in the area at night should observe these personal safety tips:
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. 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 you feel threatened, use the whistle to signal residents that you need assistance.
• Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” and/or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on your way. Make sure they expect you at a certain time, so that in the event you fail to show up, they’ll know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Be assertive. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts. Know this: anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Don’t assume, “IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME.”
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to scare, distract or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant or residence.
Norton Street Neighborhood Watch participates in Clean-up
On Friday, September 21, 2012, the Norton Street Neighborhood Watch took part in a neighborhood cleanup organized by Bowdoin Geneva VIP coordinator.
About twenty residents participated in the effort to sweep up and clean up the area, sparking interest from curious neighbors who pitched in to help! The project is part of the Bowdoin Geneva NRT, helping residents work together to make their community a safer, better place to live.
Community Alert: Boston Police Investigate Armed Home Invasion and Attempted Rape in East Boston
At about 10:58pm, on Wednesday, September 19, 2012, officers from District A-7 (East Boston) responded to a report of a woman screaming in the area of Coleridge Street.
On arrival, officers spoke with two female victims who said an armed suspect broke into their home. The victims told police the suspect held them at gunpoint, demanded money, attempted to rape them and then viciously beat one of them with his hand gun. One of victims managed to escape and ran for help. The suspect fled the area in an unknown direction.
The suspect is described as a white Non-Hispanic male, approximately 6 feet tall, medium build, 180 pounds, appeared to be in his late 20’s to mid-30’s, clean shaven and was wearing a black knit hat, a short sleeve grey t-shirt and dark shorts..
The Boston Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sexual Assault Unit detectives at (617) 343-4400.
Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of those who wish to remain anonymous.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a sexual assault and is in need of helpful resources, please contact the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center 24 hour hotline at 1-800-841-8371.
Personal Safety Tips:
• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. When parking, walking or returning to your car, remain in well-lit and populated areas.
• Wear sneakers or shoes that allow for added mobility.
• Be watchful and aware. Keep your head up. 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 you feel threatened, use the whistle to signal residents that you need assistance.
• Yelling “Fire!” “Help!” and/or “Rape!” are ways of drawing attention and alerting people that you need help.
• Hold your car keys in your hand to use as a weapon against an attacker.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Call ahead to your destination to alert them that you’re on your way. Make sure they expect you at a certain time, so that in the event you fail to show up, they’ll know enough to begin looking for you.
• Walk with confidence. Be assertive. Don’t let anyone violate your space. Trust your instincts. Know this: anyone at any time can be a victim of crime. Don’t assume, “IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME.”
• If an unarmed attacker confronts you, believe in your ability to scare, distract or even incapacitate the attacker enough to escape.
• If you think that someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. Walk toward an open store, restaurant or residence.
Annual Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial this Friday, September 21, 2012
On Friday, September 21, 2012, The Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial will hold its annual memorial service at the State House at 11am. In honor and memory of their heroic sacrifices and service to the city and citizenry of Boston, the three fallen officers will be added to the memorial this Friday.
• Reserve Officer Michael Brennan was killed in the line of duty on July 7, 1918, when he fell while investigating a premise.
• Captain Hugh J. Lee was killed in the line of duty on May 2, 1919, when he suffered a heart attack during the May Day Riot.
• Patrolman John Condon was killed in the line of duty on October 7, 1927, when he was shot with his service weapon during an arrest.The public is welcome to join families and police in honoring these heroes.
The Hero Signs – honoring the following officers – can be viewed at the following locations:
• Reserve Officer Michael Brennan, 302 Warren Street, Roxbury
• Captain Hugh J. Lee, 409 Dudley Street, Roxbury
• Patrolman John Condon, 543 Tremont Street, Boston
Boston Police in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is participating in Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
The Boston Police Department in partnership with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is participating in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, September 29, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity for those who missed the previous events, or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of medications.
The Boston Police Drug Control Unit and Community Service Officers in the following districts will participate in this initiative.. This year’s drop off sites are:
Area A-15
20 Vine Street
Charlestown, MA 02129
Area B-2
2400 Washington St
Roxbury, MA 02119
Area C-6
101 West Broadway
South Boston 02127
Area E-5
1708 Centre Street
West Roxbury, MA 02135
Sullivan’s Pharmacy
1 Corinth Street
Roslindale, MA 02131
Walgreens Pharmacy
757 Gallivan Blvd.
Dorchester
http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html
