A Boston Police officer is expected to be arraigned this morning in Suffolk Superior Court in connection with the shooting of a fellow officer that took place while both men were off duty this summer.

A Suffolk County grand jury late last week returned an indictment charging PAUL DURKIN, 49, with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon for allegedly firing his Glock .40-caliber service weapon at fellow officer Joseph Behnke outside Behnke’s West Roxbury home. The incident, which took place in the early morning hours of June 22, left Behnke with a wound to his hip.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 08:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Pedestrians and drivers are urged to take note that the direction of vehicular travel on High Street between Federal and Purchase Streets will be reversed beginning Saturday morning, September 30, 2006 to improve local traffic circulation.
High Street will also be extended across Purchase Street to Atlantic Avenue and will become one-way from Summer Street to Federal Street.
In preparation for the reversal and extension work, High Street will be closed from 3 AM to 9 AM on Saturday, September 30, 2006 and parking will be restricted from 10 PM Friday, September 29, 2006 through Saturday, September 30, 2006 at 10 PM.
Signs, electronic message boards and police officers will inform motorists of the change in direction on High Street.
This final configuration of High Street with traffic heading east towards the Rowes Wharf area on Atlantic Avenue in the path of the former elevated Central Artery allows the City of Boston to create a more grid-like traffic pattern in the Financial District.
In addition, Oliver Street will also be reopened from Purchase Street to High Street.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Boston Police Department will be speaking to media outlets at 1:30pm at the intersection of Medford and Terminal Streets in Charlestown regarding this morning’s incident.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A Boston Police Officer has been charged today with violating the rights of an unnamed female victim.

It is not unreasonable to expect that in a department this size – one of the 50 largest local Police Departments in America - there will be a few bad apples, a few officers who choose not to live up to the ideals of professionalism, service, and integrity that have been established over the past 152 years of this Department.

While this is to be expected, that does not mean that it has to be tolerated. I hold my officers to a higher standard than that of the general population. We consider any form of corruption to be repugnant, and a disgrace to the badge that so many officers have worked so hard to earn.

When we are made aware of any potential instances of corruption or police misconduct, we will aggressively pursue the investigation and go where the evidence takes us. Boston Police investigators have worked, and will continue to work with, our law enforcement partners such as the FBI and the US Attorney’s Office. Our willingness to investigate these matters underscores our dedication to integrity and service to the community.

Intentional police misconduct will not be tolerated. We will not allow a criminal to hide behind the badge. Officer Michael LoPriore has been placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings.

View the press release (PDF document)

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 04:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

North Beacon Street between Parsons Street & the Leo Birmingham Parkway has reopened to traffic at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

IACP Conference To Feature International Speakers, Latest Technologies, and Education Opportunities

Boston, MA: More than 14,000 law enforcement professionals will gather at the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s (IACP) 113th Annual Conference and Exposition in Boston, MA, October 14-18, 2006. This annual gathering features highly rated seminars, forums, and technical workshops. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Robert Mueller, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace, and Superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department Warren Riley are scheduled to address conference attendees during General Assembly sessions.

In addition to dozens of workshops covering a variety of topics from homeland security to identity crime, the conference will feature hundreds of exhibits and numerous demonstrations. Attendees will have the opportunity to test many of their products.

Only credentialed members of the media may register for a complimentary press pass. To receive a press pass, all registered journalists must show a government issued photo identification and their press credentials upon arrival at the convention center. For more information about exhibits and workshops and to register, please visit: http://www.theiacpconference.org/.

WHO: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace and Superintendent of the New Orleans
Police Department Warren Riley are scheduled to speak at the First General Assembly, Monday, October 16, 9:45-11:30 AM, Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Ballroom

Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and Federal Bureau of Investigation Director
Robert Mueller are scheduled to speak at the Second General Assembly, Tuesday, October 17,
10:00-11:30 AM, Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Ballroom

WHAT: IACP’s 113th Annual Conference and Exposition

WHEN: October 14-18, 2006

WHERE: Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
415 Summer Street

***Photo opportunities at exhibit hall, test products and equipment law enforcement officers use, opportunity to meet police executives from jurisdictions around the world***

Posted by Media Relations at 07:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A Level Three Hazardous Materials incident has occurred at 1800 Soldiers Field Road.

Soldiers Field Road is currently open, but expect traffic delays. Leo Birmingham Parkway is closed, as is North Beacon St.

The media staging area for this event will be on North Beacon and Parson Street, in the rear of the International House of Pancakes.

More details to follow as they become available.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 03:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Police from District 2 responded to 146 Calumet Street tonight at 9:35pm on a report of a person stabbed. On arrival they confirmed two people were suffering from stab wounds at that location. Victim #1 was transported to the Brigham and Woman’s Hospital while victim #2 was transported to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center where they were treated for what appears to be non-life threatening injuries. Preliminary information indicates that police have arrests seven juveniles in connection with these stabbings.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 4 responded to 10 Huntington Avenue at about 4:27pm on a report of a person stabbed. Prelimary information is that one person is confirmed stabbed and is being transported to Boston Medical Center with life threatening injuries. The suspect is under arrest. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On September 16, 2006 the annual Fall Freedom Rally (Hemp Fest) will be held on Boston Common.

In recent years, the Boston Police Department has arrested numerous people for Possession of Class D (Marijuana) at this event. Many of these people have stated that they were under the impression there was “amnesty” from arrest on this particular day.

Let there be no confusion or mistaken assumptions on the part of attendees Saturday: there is no “amnesty” or any relaxation of the Commonwealth’s drug control laws during of this event. The Boston Police Department will be enforcing the narcotics laws on the Boston Common, as we do in neighborhoods throughout the city on any given Saturday. Our officers will be making arrests for violations of the narcotics laws if they observe such behavior. Saturday will be no different than any other day.

Potential offenders should be aware that, if arrested, these arrests will become a permanent part of the individual’s criminal history and may affect their admissions to some colleges and/or future potential employment as well as may result in the suspension of the individual’s license to operate a vehicle in Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Many of the people who attend this festival are college-aged young people who are just starting out in life. We strongly encourage you to think twice on Saturday before you place yourself into a situation where you may be arrested. It would be a shame if you jeopardize your future over a single act.

If you are arrested, ignorance of the law will not be an acceptable excuse.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 3:40pm officers from District 6 responded to 170 "I" Street in South Boston on a report of a stabbing. On arrival officers located a victim suffering from a stab wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for what appears to be a life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The West Roxbury Bulletin profiles the new Captain for District 5, James Hasson.

From the look of things, West Roxbury and Roslindale should be in capable hands following the transfer to the neighborhood of 20-year Boston Police Department (BPD) veteran Captain James Hasson. Hasson, who recently served as a Captain in District B-2 (Roxbury and Mission Hill) is currently getting settled at his new District E-5 headquarters, located on the Holy Name Rotary at 1708 Centre St.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 11:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At about 12:21pm, officers from District 3 responded to a radio call for a person shot at 4 Glenarm Street in Roxbury. On arrival officers discovered a male suffering from what appears to be a non-life threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center to be treated for his injuries.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers assigned to the Youth Violence Strike Force found a victim of a shooting tonight at 9:35pm at Albion and Dudley Streets. Boston EMS responded and transported the victim to the Boston Medical Center. At this time the victim’s injuries appear to be non-life threatening.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Yesterday 36 students from the Boston Police-ManuLife Summer of Opportunity (SOO) had a chance to visit with Police Commissioner Al Goslin and Superintendent Paul Joyce and tour Boston Police Headquarters. This is the final week of the SOO's summer session, which started in early July. Students have spent the summer in work shops ranging from time management, communication, dressing for success, to name but a few. As this session concludes, students are currently interviewing for jobs for fall internships (the second phase of this program).

In Tuesday's session, youth learned about what it meant to be a law enforcement executive, asked questions about police procedures, innovative programs and learned about Boston's community policing philosophy. Students had a chance to meet the Police Commissioner and see personnel in action at the Operations Division and Crime Lab.

Last month marked the 13th Annual Summer of Opportunity program. Developed in 1994 by the Boston Police Department’s Youth Violence Strike Force, in partnership with John Hancock/ManuLife, to serve 40 of the city’s highest-risk youth and bridge the gap between the neighborhood and the world of work. Boston’s youth are recruited citywide and referred to the program by community organizations, criminal justice professionals and clergy, to learn job readiness and leadership skills in the private sector and earn a weekly stipend, over an six week period from June to August. Successful summer participants are then offered a chance in the Fall to participate in a 46 week internship putting what they learned over the summer into action in the workplace.

Quick Facts: As of June 2006:
· 480 youth have enrolled in the program
· 410 of these youth have finished Phase 1, and
· 351 have completed phase 2

Following the meeting, we asked several of the participants for feedback on their experience. This is what they had to say:

Ashley Coakley, 17 from Dorchester:
I basically learned that all police aren’t just about arresting but a lot of them want to help us and make our neighborhoods safe again. I also understand that stopping the increasing violence isn’t just a police job but the community’s job. Teens today tend to group all the cops together and don’t think too highly of them (not me though) and not all cops are the same and the meeting yesterday should go a long way towards convincing the teens in the Summer of Opportunity program that the police are trying to help.

Michael Lockley, 16 from Dorchester:
What I learned about community safety is that the police can’t do it all by themselves. The community needs to be involved too.

Tatiana Rodriguez, 16, Dorchester:
I learned things about the work that police do that I never knew about such as how many programs they have that give back to the community. I also learned that police don't only arrest people but they do things to prevent crime from happening for instance the Summer of Opportunity and the Mentor Program. After this presentation, Superintendent Joyce really convinced me that police are not what I thought them to be. I really felt the effort that Supt. Joyce, Blake Norton and Commissioner Goslin make to prevent the violence in my community and maybe one day I could give back to the community just like them. I also feel that the police understand how the violence in Boston has increased and they realized that arresting everyone is not going to help everyone. And the police seem like they are trying to look and prevent the roots of violence. I am definitely more informed about policing in Boston.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 10:37pm, officers from District 2 responded to Elm Hill Avenue and Seaver Street in Roxbury on a report of a person shot. On arrival the officers confirmed that one person was shot at 224 Seaver Street. Boston EMS treated and transported the victim to the Boston Medical Center. The victim’s condition is unknown at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (2)

Officers from District 5 are currently investigating a shooting that occurred at Grove Street and Jeshurun Street in West Roxbury tonight at 8:24pm. Police state that the victim, a male about 30-years-old, was shot multiple times. Boston EMS treated and transported the victim to the Brigham and Woman’s Hospital where he is being treated for what appears to be non-life threatening gun shot wounds.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

What: Flag Raising

When: Thursday, August 10th, 5:00 PM

Where: Intersection of South Huntington and Center Street, Jamaica Plain, MA

Who: Members of the Boston Police Department, Representatives of the E-13 District Police, Sgt. Michael O’Connor, and Neighborhood Crime Watch Coordinator, Joseph Porcelli; Lesley Delaney-Hawkins representing the Mayor’s Office; Owners of the Alchemist Restaurant Lyndon Fuller and Relena Erskine; and Jamaica Plain residents, Maryetta Dusourd and Michael Reiskind.

In late July, Lyndon Fuller, one of the new owners of the Alchemist Lounge, was complimenting Maryetta Dusourd, a resident who lives across street, on how nice the new garden looked that Maryetta had planted at the base of the flag pole. This flag serves as a memorial to William E. Canary, who lost his life in action during WWI in St. Mihiel France on September 12,1918. Maryetta told Lydon that she hoped to have the deteriorated flag replaced with a new flag. Maryetta said, “My mother was an Irish immigrant who loved the country. She told me as a child the greatest thing to keep in mind is what the flag means to immigrants. It means, hope, loyalty and service together. Seeing the flag in this shape makes me feel like we are not honoring those who have given their lives.”

A few days later, Lyndon told Joseph Porcelli, BPD Neighborhood Crime Watch coordinator, and a resident of Jamaica Plain, about his conversation with Maryetta. Joseph brought this matter to the attention of BPD Sgt. Michael O’Connor, who quickly secured a replacement flag.

The media is invited to view this shining example of community spirit as JP residents, business owners, the Neighborhood Crime Watch unit and other members of the Boston Police come together as neighbors, friends, and proud Americans.

Contact:
Joseph Porcelli
Civilian Community Service Officer
Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit
Boston Police Department

Office: 617-343-4779

www.BostonCrimeWatch.com

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This evening at 10:11pm, officers from District 18 responded to Rector Road in Mattapan on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers located a victim suffering from gunshot wounds inside an address on the Street. Further investigation revealed the victim was shot outside and then fled inside after the suspects began shooting. Boston EMS transported the vicitm to the Boston Medical Center where it is being tretaed for non-life threatening injuries. District 18 Detectives are on scene and investigating this shooting.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 3 responded to a radio call for a person shot tonight at 8:12pm, outside of 116 Ballou Avenue in Dorchester. On arrival the officers located a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where it is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The condition of the two individuals, a 20 year-old male from Dorchester and a 24-year-old male from Hyde Park, shot this afternoon on Geneva Avenue are listed as non-life threatening. Both victims’ were transported to the Boston Medical Center where they are being treated for their injuries. Detectives from District 11 will seek complaints against the 24-year-old male for Possession with Intent to Distribute Class B after being found to be in possession of Crack Cocaine at the time of the shooting.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This afternoon at 1:45pm, Officers from District 11 responded to 481 Geneva Avenue in Dorchester on a report of a person shot. On arrival the officers discovered two people were shot at that location and both transported to the Boston Medical Center. The victim’s conditions are unknown at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 02:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Boston's Top Ten Neighborhood Crime Watch groups will be honored tonight, Monday, July 31st, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the John Hancock Conference Center, 40 Trinity Place by Mayor Thomas M. Menino, Acting Police Commissioner Albert E. Goslin, and the Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit of the Boston Police Department. Photo Op and Interviews suggested time: 6:45PM to 7:15PM.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino will kick off the celebration by reading his proclamation designating Tuesday, August 1, 2006 as National Night Out in Boston. At the ceremony, which will be attended by crime watch activists from every neighborhood in the city, as well as by residents, police and elected officials, the Mayor and Acting Police Commissioner Albert E. Goslin will present the winners with their awards.

"National Night Out gives us the opportunity to honor the ordinary people of Boston who have done extraordinary things to make their neighborhoods safer. Neighbors must continue to work together in the fight to make our streets safer and better places to live, work, and raise our children. As Margaret Mead said, 'Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.' Working together, block-by-block, we will continue to build that safer city," stated Judith Wright, director of the Boston Police Neighborhood Crime Watch Unit. A list of the award winners is below

2006 Top Ten Neighborhood Watch Groups

Charlestown Substance Abuse Coalition

Mt. Pleasant/Forest/Vine Neighborhood Assoc

Colorado St. Crime Watch

Norton St. Neighborhood Group

South Boston Crime Watch Group

Faneuil Garden Tenants Association

West Canton/ Montgomery Sts Crime Watch

Dalrymple/Egleston/Boylston Group

East River St. Association Crime Watch

Lower South St. Crime Watch

Continue reading "Boston Police Honor Top Ten Neighborhood Crime Watch Groups of the Year" »

Posted by Media Relations at 03:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Boston Police Officers located at the Boston Medical Center this evening were alerted that a victim suffering from gun shot wounds was just transported to the Emergency Room. Detectives from District 2 have located a crime scene at 194 Humboldt Avenue in Roxbury. The victim’s injuries are considered life threatening at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight at 10:16pm, officers from District 3 responded to 1218 Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan for a report of a person shot. On arrival officers located a victim on the roof of that address suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Boston Red Sox today joined Mayor Thomas M. Menino to announce a $25,000 donation to the Boston Police Department’s 2006 Boston Gun Buyback “Aim For Peace.” The program has already taken more than 525 operational firearms off the street.

“This donation from the Red Sox will help continue this important program that is taking guns off our streets. Stopping the violence in our neighborhoods takes more than just a police response – it takes all of us working together,” Mayor Menino said. “Once again, the Red Sox have stepped up to the plate for the community.”

The gun buyback program is a proactive approach to reduce gun violence and signifies a movement to inspire a change in attitude and behavior. This “no questions asked” initiative seeks to take guns off the streets and send a clear message that encourages young people to reject a life of crime and violence and embrace a life of personal responsibility, hope and peace.

“We at the Boston Red Sox are committed to Mayor Menino’s initiative to stop violence and make Boston a safer place,” said Larry Lucchino, President and CEO of the Boston Red Sox.

The goal of this program is to prevent gun violence, particularly violence against Boston’s youth, by removing as many guns as possible from Boston streets and homes over the course of one month. As part of this revival initiative, officials are teaming up with the faith community in a special outreach and intervention effort for gang members and other young people who possess firearms.

When city residents “Aim For Peace” and trade in a gun they receive a $200.00 Target ® gift card. Firearms are accepted at various designated drop-off sites citywide Monday through Friday from noon to 7:00 p.m. Drop-off locations include every district police station and eight additional community sites.

A hotline, 1-888-GUNTIPS, has been established for individuals who do not wish to deliver a firearm to a designated location and would like to arrange for a private exchange. The hotline is also available for neighbors who wish to provide information related to criminal activity or can provide information leading to the whereabouts of a “community” firearm.

For a complete list of official drop-off sites as well as turn-in protocol, please visit www.cityofboston.gov/AimForPeace.


Community partners include:

Continue reading "City’s Gun Buyback Program Gets Major Boost by Boston Red Sox" »

Posted by Media Relations at 04:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (3)

Officers from District 4 responded to 139 Pembroke Street tonight at 9:52pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival police found a male victim shot. He was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated. The victim's condition is unknown at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On July 1, 2006 the International Lion’s Club will hold the annual Lion’s Club Parade. The parade is expected to start at 9:30am at Boylston and Exeter Streets and continue along Boylston Street ending at Charles Street on the Boston Common.

The Boston Transportation department will post “No Stopping, Parade 6:00 AM- 4:00 PM, Saturday” along both sides of the following streets:

• Arlington Street, (public garden side, from Beacon St. to Boylston St.)
  
• Beacon Street, (public garden side, from Charles St. to Arlington St.)
  
• Boylston Street, (from Massachusetts Ave. to Tremont St.)
  
• Dalton Street, (from Huntington Ave. to Boylston St.)
  
• Hereford Street, (from Newbury St. to Boylston St.)
  

View a map of the overall area

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 01:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In the posting entitled “AIM FOR PEACE” PROGRAM YIELDS OVER 380 FIREARMS AND COUNTING!” we listed an incorrect address for the Aim for Peace web site. The posting has since been changed to include the correct address. (www.cityofboston.gov/AimForPeace)

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At approximately 3:45pm today, an off-duty Boston police officer jumped into action at 45 Sierra Road in Hyde Park. A lifeguard was alerted to a teenager unconscious at the bottom of a pool. The off-duty officer called 911 while the lifeguard pulled the male teen out of the 14-foot deep end. A bystander initiated CPR and the officer assisted by performing chest compressions. Within a few minutes, the teen regained consciousness and was transported by EMS to Boston Medical Center.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Program Launches High Tech Initiatives to Maximize Participation

Today, Mayor Thomas M. Menino and Superintendent in Chief Al Goslin, in conjunction with the Boston Police Department and numerous community and faith-based organizations, is pleased to announce that the 2006 Boston Gun Buyback “Aim For Peace” is exceeding expectations. As of today, the program has netted 382 firearms.

“The gun buyback program is off to an encouraging start,” Mayor Menino said. “We are confident that this program is sending a strong message that violence on the streets of Boston will not be tolerated.I am pleased that the community is coming forward in this effort to get guns off the streets and I look forward to the continued success of the program.”

With two weeks remaining, program coordinators continue to seek new and innovative ways to heighten awareness, increase participation and continue to spread a message of peace. Fresh from the release of the City's first Podcast and the unveiling of 30 ClearChannel billboards, “Aim for Peace” is utilizing high tech outreach specifically geared to engage Boston’s youth.

One initiative includes the Boston Buyback blog at www.bostonbuyback.org. This website contains regular updates, announcements and photos about the progress of the Buyback, as well as related initiatives, such as the "Start Peace" hip hop campaign.

Similar to the Boston Police Department blog www.bpdnews.com, the Buyback blog allows for the rapid and easy sharing of information with the public and the many “Aim for Peace” volunteers. Users are allowed to post "blog comments", including questions, ideas, anecdotes and more.

A second internet initiative includes a profile on the popular social networking site MySpace.com. The page is located at www.myspace.com/bostonbuyback, and has already collected over 100 MySpace "friends" and has been viewed over 500 times. "Friends" of the Buyback on MySpace include local high school students, hip hop artists and community activists. “Aim for Peace” has joined MySpace because of its enormous popularity with young people and its force in youth culture.

"We hope to reach Boston youth on MySpace who have firearms or know someone with one," stated Jed Hresko of the Chops Porter Institute, a volunteer who is serving as web-master for both sites, "but we also want to reach a much broader community of supporters from Boston and the metropolitan area who can spread the message of nonviolence and generate donations. My personal hope is to replicate what happened in the 90's buybacks with grassroots donations, such as suburban kids on MySpace taking up a $200 collection to get one gun off the street."

“We are confident that the gun buyback message is resonating with the community. We know that Grandmothers and other family members have been inspired to turn in guns owned by their children,” commented Reverend Shawn Harrison, Youth in Crisis Ministry, “We must continue to do everything possible to end senseless gun violence and I encourage individuals to maintain the momentum of the program’s success.”

A hotline, 1-888-GUNTIPS, has been established for individuals who do not wish to deliver a firearm to a designated location and would like to arrange for a private exchange. The hotline is also available for neighbors who wish to provide information related to criminal activity or can provide information leading to the whereabouts of a “community” firearm.

For a complete list of official drop-off sites as well as turn-in protocol, please visit www.cityofboston.gov/AimForPeace. *

Community partners include: Target Corporation, Project RIGHT Inc., Boston Ten Point Coalition, Hyde Square Task Force, Katherine Mainzer-Bella Luna Restaurant, Lewis S. Dabney-Million Mom March, Bowdoin Street Health Center, Quincy Geneva Housing Corporation, Boston Center for Youth and Families, Dorchester Youth Collaborative, St. Catherine Rectory, Charlie Rose-City Year, Urban Youth in Leadership Program, Urban Edge, Hope Church, Ella J. Baker House, Mass Communities Action Network, Roxbury Multi-Service Center, Nuestra Comunidad Development Corporation, WinnResidential, Grove Hall Youth Workers Alliance, Michael Patrick MacDonald, United Church of Christ, Church of Scientology, Sandler Lacoste-Boogs Wear, Inc, Boston Housing Authority, City Links, Youth in Crisis Ministry, Inc, Streetworker Program, WFXT Fox 25, the Boston Herald, Community Newspaper Company, WILD 1090 AM, the Bulletin Newspapers, ClearChannel, the MBTA, the Dorchester Reporter, the Mattapan Reporter, the Charlestown Bridge

*NOTE: the original posting listed an incorrect address for the Aim for Peace web site. The posting has since been changed to include the correct address. (www.cityofboston.gov/AimForPeace)

Posted by Media Relations at 11:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Officers from District 2 responded to 36 Washington Street in Roxbury, a Boston Fire Department Building, at about 10:34pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers found a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the side area. The victim was treated and transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Police located a crime scene at Blue Hill Avenue and Supple Street. Preliminary investigations appear the victim was shot at this location and fled to the firehouse. No arrests have been made. Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact police at 617-343-4270 or remain anonymous by calling the Boston Police Crime Stoppers tip line at 800-494-TIPS.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from the Boston Police Special Operations Unit and District 11 responded to a radio call for a person shot tonight at 10:43pm at 6 Owencroft Street in Dorchester. On arrival officers observed a female suffering from a gun shot wound. She was treated by Boston EMS and transported to the Boston Medical Center where she is being treated for a life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Memebers of the Youth Violence Strike Force while on patrol observed a male at Lyndhurst Street and Washington Street tonight at about 8:52pm. Police confirmed this victim was suffering from a stab wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where his injuries are considered life threatening.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, MAYOR MENINO, D.A. CONLEY TO OFFICIALLY OPEN FAMILY JUSTICE CENTER OF BOSTON ON TUESDAY
BOSTON—Mayor Thomas M. Menino and Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley on Tuesday, June 13 will provide a tour of the new Family Justice Center of Boston for representatives from the federal Department of Justice, which awarded the grant to fund the establishment of the facility that serves victims of domestic and sexual violence and child abuse. Following the tour, federal officials will join the mayor, district attorney, and other local officials in officially opening the center, located at 989 Commonwealth Avenue in Brighton.

The media is invited to set up at 10:00 a.m. for the 10:30 a.m. ceremony, and at 11:00 a.m. the speaking program will open the Family Justice Center. Featured speakers will include Diane Stuart of the Office of Violence Against Women, the federal agency that oversees the FJC grant program; Mayor Menino, District Attorney Conley; Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey; Boston Police; and a domestic violence survivor. The latter will address how the consolidation of agencies and organizations housed at the Family Justice Center simplifies and streamlines the seeking justice and other services.

Numerous on-site partners will also be on-hand at tomorrow’s event to explain the specific services they provide. The FJCB will serve residents of Boston, Chelsea, Revere and Winthrop, and will offer as broad a range of services striving to meet the needs of victims of domestic and sexual violence and child abuse and to hold offenders accountable.

The new center will house advocates from community-based non-profit groups and victim services organizations; specialized detectives and prosecutors; governmental domestic violence specialists; forensic medical professionals; civil attorneys; chaplains; and volunteers. The secured facility, in which renovations are ongoing, was donated by the city through Mayor Menino’s leadership.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

2006 Boston Gun Buyback “Aim For Peace”
Begins Monday June 12th at Noon
Final Team Meeting to Kick-Off Buyback and Collect Gift Cards

WHO: Boston Police Deputy Superintendent Darrin Greeley; Boston Ten Point Coalition Executive Director Pastor Chris Sumner; Project RIGHT Executive Director Jorge Martinez; Boston Police Community Service officers, numerous community and faith-based organizations

WHAT: Tomorrow morning, the Boston Police Department and members of the community will gather one final time immediately prior to the official start of the 2006 Boston Gun Buyback, “Aim For Peace”. The buyback program begins tomorrow Monday, June 12th at noon. The group will meet to review turn-in rules and procedures. Official drop-off sites will also receive their Target® gift cards. This “no questions asked” program will allow individuals to dispose of firearms without fear of charges for illegal possession when turning in the gun. The one-month program that begins tomorrow asks city residents to “Aim For Peace” and turn in a gun at various designated drop-off sites citywide in exchange for a $200.00 Target ® gift card.

WHY: “Aim For Peace” is the latest action put forth by the Mayor’s Strategic Crime Council and it’s six-pronged crime strategy to aggressively address crime issues. Working closely with community partners, the development of this important program is intended to proactively take guns off the street and send a strong message to violent criminals that we will not allow our streets to be overridden with crime. Together, we are encouraging youth to reject a life of crime and violence and embrace a life of hope and peace.

WHERE: Boston Ten Point Coalition
215 Forest Hills St., Jamaica Plain

WHEN: Monday June 12, 2006
10:30 AM

Posted by Media Relations at 08:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

At 7:40pm, officers responded to 177 Bunker Hill Street on a report of a person shot. Officers on scene located a victim suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Massachusetts General Hospital where he is being treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

At 1:50pm, officers from District 11 responded to 189 Bowdoin Street in Dorchester on a report of two people shot. Both victim's were transported to the Boston Medical Center and treated for injuries that are considered life threatening. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Both parties invovled in the incident have been listed with non-life threatening injuries at Boston Medical Center. There wasn't a shooting at that location. The incident is under investigation.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 3:47pm, officers from District 2 responded to 344 Warren Street in Roxbury on a report of a two people shot and stabbed. On arrival officers located two victims who were transported to the Boston Medical Center. Preliminary investigations indicate one victim's injuries are considered life threatening, while the second victim's injuries are non-life threatening.

Note: The original posting indicated the victims were shot and stabbed. The change was made, the info posted above is now the correct info.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Since we launched BPDNews.com last November, we’ve heard from many other police departments who've asked us how they can start their own blog. One of those agencies was the Los Angeles Police Department. After some conversations with the people at BPDNews.com, the LAPD launched their own Blog a few weeks ago. Check it out. We think it’s very well done, and so do a lot of folks in the media, from the LA Times to the London Times.

Some of our readers have since informed us that various media outlets have been quick to anoint the LAPD blog as “the first to emanate from the police force of a major US city." To our amusement, this included one of our own local newspapers, who covered the LAPD launch and listed “Police from Karnataka, India, to Eden Prairie, Minn, (who) have started blogs and say they are happy with the results,” neglecting to mention the Boston blog in their very own backyard.

Which led to the question - who really was the first? For those of you keeping score, BPDNews was launched in November of 05. So far as we can tell, this makes us the first law enforcement blog anywhere (we apparently beat Mangalore, India, by a few weeks.) If you know of an official police blog that was launched sooner, please let us know. Till then, we’re happy to be known as the First in the Nation.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 04:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBacks (1)

At 9:21pm, officers from District 3 responded to 1216 Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan on a report of a person shot. On arrival the officers located a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center to be treated for his injuries. The condition of this victim is unknown at this time.

Motor vehicles traveling on Blue Hill Avenue (inbound) will be diverted at Woolson Street so police can investigate this shooting.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Officers from District 3 responded to a radio call at 4:13pm for a person shot at 939 Blue Hill Avenue in Dorchester. On arrival officers located the victim who was transported to the Boston Medical Center. Preliminary investigations reveal the victim's injuries are life threatening. Homicide Investigators are on scene.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight at 10:24pm, officers from District 18 responded to 83 Greenfield Street in Mattapan on a report of a person shot. On arrival the officers located a male suffering from a gunshot wound. Boston EMS responded and transported the victim to the Boston Medical Center where he is currently being treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 2 responded to Magnolia and Woodford Streets at 6:00pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival police located a male suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center. Preliminary investigations reveal the injuries are considered life threatening. Homicide Investigators are responding.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Police from District 5 are investigating a shooting that occurred at 27 Beechland Street this afternoon at 3:41pm. The victim was transported to the Brigham and Woman's Hospital where it is being treated for a non-life threatening injury.
One minute later, officers from District 13 responded to 1900 Columbus Avenue in Roxbury on a report of a person shot. On arrival the officers confirmed a male shot at that location. The victim is being transported to the Boston Medical Center. His condition is unknown at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 3 responded to a report for a person shot at 140 Harvard Street tonight at 10:22pm. On arrival, police discovered a male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is currently being treated.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On October 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 designating May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of those Federal, State and Municipal Police Officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.

In 1994, the 103rd Congress, as part of the Violent Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, amended Public Law 87-726. President William J. Clinton then signed Public Law 103-322, which directs that the American Flag on all government buildings be flown at half-staff on May 15 of each year.

On Monday, May 15, 2006, all Department Members are asked to reflect and honor the memory of all of our officers who have given their lives while protecting others.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

All three victims from tonight's shooting in Dorchester remain at the Boston Medical Center. The 16-year-old victim's injuries are considered non-life threatening. The other two victims, age 24 and 28 are listed in critical condition and are currently in surgery.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 11 responded to a report of a person shot at 760 Washington Street in Dorchester. On arrival the officers confirmed three people were shot at that location. All three have been transported to the Boston Medical Center where they are being treated for life threatening injuries.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 8:38pm officers from District 4 responded to 65 Hammond Street on a report of a person shot. On arrival, Officers discovered two people shot at # 62. Both victims were transported to the Boston Medical Center where they are being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This evening at 7:24pm officers from District 4 responded to the Boston Medical Center on a report of a person who entered the Emergency Room suffering from a gun shot wound to the buttocks. The 21-year-old male victim reported to police that he was shot at Dudley. Detectives from District 2 determined the victim was shot at Clifton and Burrell Streets where ballistic evidence was recovered. The victim is expected to survive his injury. Detectives from District 2 are currently investigating this shooting. They are asking for anyone with information about this shooting to call them at 617-343-4275 or the Crime Stopper’s tip line at 800-494-TIPS

Posted by Media Relations at 09:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Officers assigned to District 11 responded to Walton and Washington Streets tonight at 7:06pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival, officers located a 26-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was treated for a non-life threatening injury. Detectives continue to process the crime scene and investigate this shooting. District 11 Detectives ask anyone with any information about this shooting to call them at 617-343-4330 or the Crime Stopper’s tip line at 800-494-TIPS

Posted by Media Relations at 09:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This afternoon at 4:01pm, officers from District 3 responded to a radio call for shots fired in the area of 8 Fessenden Street. While officers were in route to the call they were notified that a person was shot at that location. On arrival witnesses informed officers that there was a victim inside a dwelling on Fessenden Street. The officers entered the house and found a 26-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. Boston EMS responded, treated the victim and transported him to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

While treating victim # 1, a woman approached officers and informed them that her son was inside an address on the Street and possibly shot. The officers entered the address and observed a 21-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the shoulder. Boston EMS treated and transported this victim to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Both victim’s were shot outside on Fessenden Street and fled to two different locations. Police were provided with a description of four people armed with firearms driving in a newer white S.U.V. wanted for the shooting. Anyone with information about this double shooting is urged to contact the District 3 Detectives at 617-343-4700 or the Crime Stoppers tip line at 800-494-TIPS.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Units from District 2 responded to 13 Wendover Street tonight at 10:22pm on a report of shots fired and then a person shot. On arrival officers located the victim of a shooting. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center. Preliminary investigations reveal that the victim's injuries are considered life threatening. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Boston Police Homicide Unit is still in the early stages of the investigation of the death of Dominique Samuels. The cause and manner of death is still undetermined. Today, Detectives obtained and executed a search warrant at 9 Woodbine Street in Roxbury. Investigators are not characterizing this location as anything more then a place of interest.

The department has received responses as a result of last nights appeal. We encourage people to continue to provide investigators with information. People are urged to contact the Boston Police Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470 or the Crime Stoppers tip line at 800-494-TIPS. Any information provided to police will be investigated.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Detectives from District 5 continue to conduct interviews into this mornings incident in Roslindale. The victim additionally reported to investigators that he left his black and gray backpack inside the van. This backpack contains the victim's school books and papers. The suspects could have possibly discarded this item. Anyone that comes across a backpack fitting this description is urged to call police.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last Wednesday, April 26, 2006, Mayor Menino and Police Commissioner O'Toole welcomed a group of Boston's youth traveling in eleven new vans recently donated by PAL to the Big Apple Circus on City Hall Plaza.

Each Boston Police District Station will receive a van that will be used to better serve Boston's youth and senior citizens. The donated vans provide the opportunity for community service officers to more effectively meet the recreational, social, cultural and educational needs of young people in our community. PAL also presented Mayor Menino with a contribution to benefit youth programs around the city.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In addition to the information provided at today’s press event, the Boston Police Homicide Unit states that there is no evidence to suggest that Ms. Samuels was the victim of a random attack that may have occurred within the area of her ultimate discovery. There is no information to suggest that the victim had been in the area prior to that general time period. Information known at this point in the investigation suggests that Ms. Samuels was deceased prior to the setting of the fire.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Investigators report the conditions of the three people shot at Lorne Street have been upgraded and appear to be considered non-life threatening. Two are being treated at the Boston Medical Center and one at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital for gun shot wounds. At this time no arrests have been made in connection with theses shootings. Detectives are currently processing the crime scene and continue to investigate the incident. Anyone with information about these shootings are urged to contact the Crime Stoppers Unit at 800-494-TIPS.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Investigators on scene have requested full notifications be made. The victim's injuries appear to be life threatening at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tonight at 8:36pm, officer from District 3 responded to a radio call for two people shot at 9 Lorne Street in Dorchester. On arrival, officer discovered three people suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim’s are currently being transported to local hospitals. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Armed Robbery Arrest

Darion Carrington, 17, of Dorchester was arrested after he struck a victim in the head with a baseball bat and then robbed him. The incident occurred at 4:45pm yesterday at Walnut Avenue and King Boulevard in Roxbury. Officers located Carrington on Dale Street (Roxbury) after witnesses provided a description of the suspect. Carrington will be arraigned in Roxbury District Court on Monday and charged with Armed Robbery.

Unregistered Sex Offender

At 5:55pm yesterday, while conducting an investigation at Morton Street and Evans Street in Mattapan, officers arrested Roy Irby, 34, of Mattapan for failing to register as a sex offender. Irby will be arraigned in Dorchester District Court on Monday.

Gun & Warrant Arrest

12:46am on Saturday, 4/29/06, officers pulled over a motor vehicle with inoperable brake lights on Franklin Hill Avenue at American Legion Highway, Dorchester. Officers discovered one passenger, James Prince, 24, of Brockton had a default warrant out of Brockton Court for Possession of Class B in a school zone. While placing Prince under arrest, officers observed a firearm under the drivers seat and recovered a loaded 45-caliber handgun. Stephen Gillis, 26, of Stoughton was placed under arrest for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm & Unlawful Possession of Ammunition. Both parties will be arraigned in West Roxbury District Court on Monday.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (2)

Yesterday at approximately 3:42pm, officers responded to 1518 Tremont Street for a report of shots fired. Witnesses at the crime scene gave police a description of the incident and police conducted a search of the area. Police officers found evidence that a shooting occurred and recovered a 9mm handgun. The suspect could not be located.
At approximately 2:00 this afternoon, detectives from District B2 interviewed a suspect who admitted to shooting a weapon at another individual at that location. Luis Perez, 20, of Dorchester will be charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm & Ammunition, Discharging a Firearm within 500 feet of a Dwelling, Assault by means of a Dangerous Weapon and Assault with intent to Murder.
Perez will be arraigned in Roxbury District Court on Monday. Detectives have identified other suspects involved in the incident and will continue their investigation to bring these individuals to justice.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

On April 29, 2006 six riders from the Boston Police Department’s Centurion Cycling Club will participate in the "Face of America 2006" ride from Gettysburg, PA to Washington, DC. Face of America 2006 is a two-day, 110-mile bike ride that teams able-bodied individuals with disabled individuals, including disabled servicemen and women returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Department members participating in the ride include Superintendent John Gallagher, Deputy Superintendent Dan Coleman and his son Danny, Police Officer Cecil Jones and his son Christopher, Frank McLaughlin and his wife Colette, LaTeisha Scales, and Ryan Mason. They will join 35 disabled military personnel from Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Medical Center participating in the ride.

The Boston riders will also honor all Boston Police Officers serving in the United States Armed Services as well as those who have served: Sgt. William Woodley, Police Officers Michael Brown, Terrence Burke, Christopher Colby, Bryan Dickson, Michael Fayles, Richard Litto and Daniel McMorrow who are all currently activated in various branches of the United States Military.

For the past ten years, members of the Boston Police Department and other law enforcement agencies from New England have participated in a bicycle ride to benefit the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. The ride was generally held in May to coincide with National Law Enforcement Officers Week in Washington, DC. Because of the enthusiasm generated by the DC ride, members of the Boston Police Department formed the Centurion Cycling Club, a club that includes benefit rides and special occasion rides.

For more information on the ride go to www.worldteamsports.org

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 08:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (2)

This evening at about 7:00pm, officers from District 11 responded to 474 Geneva Avenue on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers located a female victim in her late twenty’s suffering from a gun shot wound to the upper part of her body. Boston EMS transported the victim to the Boston Medical Center where she is being treated for a non-life threatening gunshot wound. Ballistic evidence has been recovered and Detectives continue to investigate this incident. At this time no arrests have been made. Investigators urge anyone with any information to contact them at 617-343-4330 or 800-494-TIPS.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On Tuesday, April 25, Members of the Youth Violence Strike Force fugitive apprehension team arrested wanted fugitive Curtis Porter at a Mattapan address. During the arrest, the suspect was found hiding in a bedroom closet under some clothing. He was wanted for assault with intent to murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, and assault with a dangerous weapon (firearm.)

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 12:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (47)

Today Boston Police Officers from District A-1 conducted a motor vehicle stop in front of 39 Boylston Street. The vehicle was reported stolen in Somerville, MA on April 15, 2006. As BPD uniformed officers approached on foot, the suspect fled driving over a sidewalk on Boylston St. and taking a right turn onto Washington St. and proceeded to travel against traffic. In the process, the suspect struck a parked and unoccupied State Police vehicle. Continuing down Washington St., the suspect struck an unmarked MBTA Transit police vehicle occupied by three MBTA Transit police officers and one Plymouth police officer.

Due to the imminent danger to the public, pedestrians and motorists, BPD and Transit police officers discharged their firearms striking the suspect in the abdomen. The suspect was transported to MA General Hospital * and is reported in stable condition. Three BPD officers and one Transit officer were transported to local area hospitals for well-being checks.

This incident remains under investigation by the BPD Firearm Discharge Unit in cooperation with Transit police and the District Attorney’s office. The suspect will be charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle, four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, operation to endanger and other motor vehicle violations. The Boston Police will continue to provide more information as the investigation develops.

*Note: The original version of this posting incorrectly reported that the suspect was transported to BMC. .

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 02:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In an article that was published in the Boston Herald on 4/7/06, it was incorrectly reported that “Capt. William Evans, the brother of former Commissioner Paul Evans, is a B.U. professor.”

Captain Evans, the District Commander for Allston-Brighton, has not taught at Boston University for four years, and is not currently affiliated with the University.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Boylston Street between South Charles Street and Tremont Street will remain closed until 5:00AM on April 4, 2006.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 1:17 PM, Boston officers responded to a radio call for a report of a structural collapse at 134 Boylston Street. Upon arrival, officers observed a crane/lift had fallen from a Boylston Sreet address onto a motor vehicle traveling in traffic as well as damaging numerous other vehicles.

Boston Police are confirming that 3 people are dead, and 2 others have been transported to local hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. OSHA , the Department of Public Safety, Boston Police Homicide investigators and District 1 detectives are currently investigating the incident.

Traffic in that area will be severely delayed for a significant amount of time.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 02:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Media Availability will begin at 2:30 Pm, on the corner of Tremont and Boylston Sts. Representatives from Boston Police, EMS and Fire will be on hand

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 02:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Boston Police Dept. is responding to 134 Boylston St. for a report of a fallen crane with multiple injuries.

Expect all roads around that area to be shut down for an extended period.

We will update you as more information becomes available.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Police were notified at 5:20pm that a victim suffering from a gun shot wound walked into the Boston Medical Center Emergency Room. Investigators are still interviewing the victim who reports to have been shot somewhere on Dudley Street. The victim's injuries appear to be non life threatening at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 2 responded to 256 Warren Street on a report of a person shot at 5:00pm. Officers on scene are confirming a victim was shot at that location. The vicitm's injuries do not appear to be life threatening. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This morning at 1:18am, officers from District 6 responded to a radio call for shots fired at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue. On arrival, the officers spoke with a witness who stated that three motor vehicles traveling on Massachusetts Avenue toward Melnea Cass Boulevard were screaming out the windows of their cars at each other. While stopped at a red light on Magazine Street and Massachusetts Avenue, a suspect exited one of the vehicles and approached one of the other vehicles while yelling at the occupants. The witness stated that he then heard multiple shots fired and all three vehicles fled the scene. While officers were on scene where ballistic evidence had been recovered, they were advised that two people had been transported to the Boston Medical Center suffering from gunshot wounds. Treated at the hospital was a 19-year-old male from Roxbury who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the face and a 19 year-old male from Roslindale was treated for a gunshot wound to the shoulder. Both injuries are considered non-life threatening. The investigation into this incident continues.

Posted by Media Relations at 11:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At about 10:45pm, officers from District 2 responded to 25 Supple Road in Roxbury on a report of a person shot. On arrival, officers observed a large group of teenagers in front of the address. The 18-year-old victim from Roxbury reported that while waiting to enter the party, he heard shots fired and then discovered he was shot. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center and treated for a non-life threatening gunshot wound.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Last night, officers from District 3 responded to 9 Norwell Street at 9:45pm on a report of a person shot. Police on scene discovered a male suffering from multiple gun shot wounds. When the victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center last night, his injuries were considered to be life threatening. This morning the victim is listed in critical/ stable condition. The investigation continues and investigators urge anyone with information about this incident to contact them at Crime Stoppers at 800-494-TIPS

Posted by Media Relations at 09:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (2)

Officers from District 2 responded to Holworthy and Harold Streets on a report of a person shot this afternoon at 4:19pm. On arrival officers discovered an 18-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is listed in critical condition. At this time, his injuries appear to be non-life threatening.

Detectives from District 2 are currently investigating this incident. Anyone with information about this shooting is urged to contact the Crime Stoppers Unit at 800-494-TIPS.

Posted by Media Relations at 05:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On Friday, February 24, two incorrect locations were listed in a chart illustrating several shootings that have occurred within a specific geographic area in District B-3.

Below is a listing of the locations in question, along with the correct locations

1/8/06 shooting listed as occurring at Hosmer St (victim residing at Clarkwood St).
There has been no shooting documented on Hosmer St or Clarkwood St on 1/8/06. The only shooting that has been documented as occurring that day is a triple shooting that occurred at 244 Kelton St, District 14.

A shooting that occurred on 2/16/06 is reported as taking place at Clarkwood St.
The incident took place at 60 Clarkson St in District C-11, placing it outside of the Triangle area mentioned in the accompanying article.

The Triangle area that is referred to in the article is indeed an area of the City that is among the hardest hit by violent crime, and we appreciate any effort to bring attention to the criminal behavior that is negatively impacting these residents. However, it should be noted that since 11/16/05 there have been no reports of people shot within that Triangle area.

UPDATE: For clarification, the issues identified above were limited to a graphic accompanying the referenced article.

While no shootings were documented on Hosmer Street or Clarkwood Street on 1/8/06, Boston Police did respond to a report of shots fired on Hosmer Street on that date that resulted in apparent ballistics damage to a motor vehicle.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 03:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

At about 8:10pm, officers responded to Harold and Hutchings Street in Roxbury on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers confirmed a male shot at that location. The victim is being transported to the Boston Medical Center. The condition of the victim is unknown at this time.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 2 responded to 1 Nazing Court in Roxbury tonight at 736pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers found a victims suffering from multiple gun shot wounds. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for what appears to be non-life threatening injuries.

Posted by Media Relations at 08:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Will work jointly on a pilot program to make GPS (Global Positioning System) bracelets available to track and monitor high risk offenders on probation or as a condition of release within in the City of Boston.

Read the press release

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 01:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 2 responded to One Greenwich Street at 6:46pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers found a 15-year-old male suffering from a non-life threatening gunshot wound. He was transported to the Boston Medical Center.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This evening at 5:52pm, officers from District 13 responded to a report of a person shot at 223 Centre Street in Roxbury. On arrival the officers found a 15-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the knee. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he was treated for a non-life threatening injury.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (2)

The Boston Police Department will be profiled on this weekend’s edition of "America’s Most Wanted." John Walsh and his crew at the nationally-renowned program will be profiling our fugitive apprehension efforts, unsolved cases, as well as our successful Operation Home Safe.

Saturday night, 9 Pm.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 09:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

The Boston Police Department is committed to complying with the law. The union petitioned the court to interpret the language of the applicable statute. Now that a decision has been made to require officer identification on Racial Profiling Forms, the department will move forward immediately with an implementation plan.

Posted by Media Relations at 04:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Commissioner Kathleeen M. O’Toole, BPD college liaison Captain William Evans, and members of the Boston Police Department met with representatives from student government associations and student media at Police Headquarters this past Monday afternoon. Among the schools represented: Boston University, MIT, Northeastern University, and Suffolk University.

Commissioner O’Toole and the students discussed topics such as: Operation Home Safe, the Family Justice Center, the new keg tracking ordinance, upcoming large events, the new laboratory about to be built in Boston, and safety tips for students to protect themselves against residential break-ins and property theft.

Continue reading "Thanks to everyone who attended yesterday’s Operation Student Shield meeting with Commissioner O’Toole." »

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 01:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The victim's from the shooting at 80 West Newton Street are described as males ranging in age from 18-20. They all remain at the Boston Medical Center being treated for multiple gun shot wounds. Their injuries are still considered non-life threatening. The suspects that fled the scene are described as four black male. The suspects fled the area in a white Ford station wagon with right front end damage. Police have recovered ballistic evidence and the investigation continues.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At about 7:19pm, officers from District 4 responded to multiple radio calls for reports of people shot in the West Newton Street area. Officers have confirmed that three people have been shot. All three victims were transported to the Boston Medical Center where they are being treated for what appears to be non-life threatening injuries. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 07:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This morning at 8:37am, officers assigned to "Operation Home Safe" responded to 5 Intervale Street on a report of a home invasion. Moments after the initial call, officers arrested 4 individuals and recovered two firearms at Devon and Warren Streets. More information will be released later........

Posted by Media Relations at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Pictured (l-r) the 2006 Pinnacle Awards recipients: Marianne Ajemian, Esq.Partner, Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP, Cheryl LaFleur, President of New England Distribution - National Grid, Julie Anne Smith, Vice President, Global Marketing - Genzyme Corporation, Cathy Minehan, President and CEO - Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Kathleen M. O’Toole, Police Commissioner - Boston Police Department, Libbie J. Shufro, President and CEO - Boston Center for the Arts and Donna Latson Gittens, Founder and CEO - causemedia, inc.

On Thursday January 26, 2006, more than 1,000 people turned out at the Westin Copley Plaza to attend the 12th Annual Pinnacle Awards. The event recognizes the accomplishments of women who have achieved excellence in business and management, and is one of the largest gatherings of the Greater Boston business community in honor of professional women. Among the honorees was Police Commissioner Kathleen O’Toole, who was applauded for her extraordinary dedication to the City of Boston and more than 26 years in Public Safety. In attendance with family, BPD staff members and special guest Mrs. Angela Menino, Commissioner O’Toole received the award for Achievement in Management, Government.

Continue reading "Commissioner Kathleen O'Toole among eight women leaders honored for professional excellence." »

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 02:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Police Officer's from District 4 in the South End arrested two suspects for car-jacking this morning at 11:00am. The suspects were arrested in the area of 400 Frontage Road. More details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Police have now determined that the injuries the 21-year-old male suffered from this afternoon are considered life-threatening. The incident occurred at 6 Dudley Tr., Roxbury at about 1:55pm. No arrests have been made, the investigation continues.

Posted by Media Relations at 03:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 2 responded to Dudley Street and Wendover Street this afternoon at 1:55pm on a report of a person shot. On arrival, officers confirmed that a victim at that location was shot multiple times. The victim was transported to the Boston Medical Center. The victim's injuries do not appear to be life threatening at this time. Details will follow.......

Posted by Media Relations at 02:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At 5:48pm, officers from District 3 responded to Ballou and Mascot Street on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers located a victim and confirmed that the person was shot. Boston EMS transported the victim to the Boston Medical Center. Details will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

At about 3:10pm on January 13, 2006 officers from District 2 responded to 218 Blue HIll Avenue for a person shot. An 18-year-old Hispanic male while walking along Blue Hill Ave was chase by a group of males. One of the males fired upon the victim striking him multple times. The victim was taken to Boston Medical Center and is listed in critical condition. No arrests have been made.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Boston Police Recruit Officer Patrick E. Byrne returns from active duty, and is sworn in as a new Boston Police Officer.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino and Commissioner Kathleen M. O'Toole conducted a special swearing-in ceremony for Boston Police Recruit Officer Patrick E. Byrne, an Iraq War Veteran. The ceremony took place on Monday, January 9, 2006 at 2:00 pm at Boston Police Headquarters. Members of Recruit Officer Byrne's family as well as classmates from his original Academy Class were on-hand for the special ceremony.

Continue reading "Special Swearing-in Ceremony Honors Returning Veteran" »

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 11:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Charlestown Dog Electrocuted

Last night at 18:28 hours a 28-year-old Charlestown resident was walking her 6-year-old dog in the area of Warren and Chelsea Streets when it stepped on a metal grate, fell and died. Animal control responded and took custody of the dog. Boston Public Works were notified, responded and repaired the wires that caused an electric current through the grate.

Two Suspects Arrested After Attack on Boston Common

Paul Bowders, 19, and Michael Lanagan, 23, both of Boston were arrested last night at 21:28 on the Boston Common. Both suspects were positively identified by two victims who reported that the suspects, armed with knives, attacked them. At the booking desk, the suspects were found to be in possession of cocaine and marijuana. They will both be arraigned in the Boston Municipal Court.

Victim Reports Being Shot at on Wilcock Street

A 26-year-old male from Dorchester reports that he was shot at in the area of 10 Wilcock Street last night at about 20:04. Officers from District 3 later found ballistic evidence as well as broken windows consistent with damage from bullets.

Suspect Operating With a Suspended License Arrested with Drugs

Officers from District 18 observed an occupied motor vehicle parked at 35 Fairmount Street in Hyde Park. Further investigation revealed the operator was operating after his license was suspended by the Commonwealth. The operator, James Bala, 22, of Foxboro was also found to be in possession of four bags of marijuana. He will be arraigned in Court today.

Posted by Media Relations at 12:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 14 responded to 244 Kelton Street at 21:23 on a report of a person shot. On arrival officers found three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Police on scene are requesting full notifications, the victim's injuries are considered life threatening.

Details to follow........

Posted by Media Relations at 09:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

From the AP

December 25, 2005 BOSTON --Days after she was named Boston's new police commissioner, Kathleen O'Toole was briefed on a troubling case: a man had been wrongly convicted because of a mistake in analyzing fingerprints.

Stephan Cowans had been freed from prison three weeks earlier after prosecutors acknowledged that police who analyzed a fingerprint left by the man who shot and wounded a police officer had wrongly pinned the crime on Cowans.

"I just remember having a sick feeling," O'Toole said. "I said to the people who briefed me, 'Are we talking shoddy work or police corruption?'"

O'Toole shut down the department's latent fingerprint unit while a grand jury convened by Attorney General Tom Reilly investigated. No criminal indictments were issued, and a separate investigation by a private consultant concluded that poor training of the department's fingerprint analysts was to blame for the blunder.

More than a year later, the unit is about to reopen. Six civilians with advanced forensic training will replace the six police officers who once analyzed fingerprints.

Continue reading "Boston police to reopen fingerprint lab after overhaul. --- By Denise Lavoie, AP Legal Affairs Writer" »

Posted by Media Relations at 12:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mayor Thomas M. Menino along with Police Commissioner Kathleen M. O’Toole will be present at tonight’s Operation Home Safe deployment. The scheduled time is 6:00pm at Boston Police Command Post located at Norfolk Avenue and Fessenden Street, Mattapan.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Officers from District 13 responded to 108 Chestnut Street in Jamaica Plain after a four-year-old boy called 9-1-1 for his mother on the floor tonight at 17:45. The four-year-old greeted officers at the door and brought them to his mother. Boston EMS responded and treated the mother for medical issues.

Posted by Media Relations at 09:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Boston Police are confirming a carjacking that occurred in Dorchester at 459 Columbia Road tonight at about 20:06. On suspect is at large, one has been arrested in Milton by State Police. The victim was not injured. Details will follow...

Posted by Media Relations at 09:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Firearm Found on Street in Dorchester

This morning at 06:15, a witness entered District 11 and turned in a firearm he found at Hallet Street and Gallivan Boulevard. The witness stated while getting his morning coffee, he observed the gun in the middle of the street. The firearm was found to be loaded with an obliterated serial number.

One Arrested after Motor Vehicle Stop

Members of the Youth Violence Strike Force conducted a motor vehicle stop last night at 21:55 at 14 Wayland Street in Roxbury. Officers discovered the 19-year-old driver was not licensed to operate a vehicle in Massachusetts. He will be summons into the Roxbury District Court for that violation. A passenger of the vehicle was arrested after being found to be in possession of a loaded firearm. Police arrested 17-year-old Antonio Llamas, of Malden. He will be arraigned in the Roxbury District court on Tuesday morning.

Laundry Robbed at Gunpoint

An unknown white male entered “Harry’s Laundry” located at 1866 Dorchester Avenue yesterday afternoon at about 16:46. The suspect, armed with a firearm, robed the victim of an undisclosed amount of U.S. Currency before fleeing on foot toward the Ashmont M.B.T.A. station.

Teen Arrested in Downtown Crossing

Officers from District 1 were approached by an employee of the Champs Sports Store yesterday at about 13:30 to report an incident that had just occurred at 425 Washington Street. The witness states that three males were purchasing items on a credit card. A 16-year-old male from Roxbury signed the credit card receipt and when the witness asked for identification, all three males fled the store. The suspects were later found in another store and the 16-year-old was arrested for Forgery of Records.

Posted by Media Relations at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

614 Blue Hill Avenue Shooting

Last night at 17:09 officers responded to the Hip Zepi Store on a report of a person shot. On arrival, officers found a 24-year-old white-hispanic male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to the Boston Medical Center where he is being treated for a non-life threatening wound. A vehicle has been towed and a search warrant is being executed on the vehicle and an address on Stanwood Street. Two individuals were taken to B-3 for questioning. No arrests have been made. The incident is still under investigation.

Five Arrested on Warrants and Firearms Charges on Dewey Street

Yesterday morning at 09:30 officers from District 2 responded to 6 Dewey Street on a report of an individual wanted on an arrest warrant. On arrival officers found a 16-year-old male with a Probation/Parole Warrant. In the same room was Donnie Reed, 23, of Roxbury who was also wanted on a Dorchester Court warrant for Destruction of Personal Property. He was also found to be in possession of a 40-caliber firearm with a loaded high capacity magazine. Also found in the apartment were a 14-year-old female from Mattapan wanted on two outstanding warrants for ABDW; a 12-year-old male from Roxbury wanted on five warrants for Armed, Unarmed Robbery and other charges. Octavius Maestre, 17, of Dorchester was also arrested on a DYS Probation/Parole warrant. All five were arraigned in various courts.

Two People Stabbed in East Boston

This morning at 03:30 officers from District 7 responded to the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center on a report of two people stabbed. A third victim was also punched and kicked. According to witnesses, Danillo Quintao, 21, of East Boston stabbed a 26, and 39 year-old, hispanic male from East Boston. He also punched and kicked a 39-year-old male from East Boston at Shelby and Princeton Street. All three were treated for non-life threatening injuries, and Quintao was arrested and will be arraigned in East Boston District Court on Tuesday.

Seaver Street Gun Arrest

Armed with information, members of the C-11 Drug Control Unit froze an apartment while applying for a search warrant at 286 Seaver Street in Roxbury. At about 19:30, officers entered the dwelling and informed Henry Jurdan, 47; of Roxbury that the apartment was being frozen while a search warrant was obtained. Jurdan asked officers if he could use the phone. The officers allowed Jurdan to use the phone at which time he attempted to open a bureau drawer where a firearm was located. He was placed under arrest and transported to District 2. He will be charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

Biker Arrested with Firearm

Members of the Youth Violence Strike Force arrested Grant Headley, 17, of Dorchester for firearms violations last night at about 22:30. Police observed Headley riding his bicycle on Harvard and Greenwood Street. When Headley observed the police he fell of his bike and began to flee on foot. Officers recovered the suspect and a loaded .38 caliber firearm.

Have a Safe and Happy New Year

Posted by Media Relations at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Boston Police responded to the area of Lenox/ Shawmut tonight at 18:01 on a report of shots fired. Police can confirm four people shot. All four have been transported to a local hospital. Police on scene have requested full notifications for one victim. That victim's condition is listed critical. Police have not made any arrests. We have no further information at this time. Detail s will follow.

Posted by Media Relations at 06:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

“The story appearing in the Boston Herald today under the headline, "Police Nab Two, Break in Massacre Mystery," is absolutely incorrect. The "sources" are not credible. THE STORY IS NOT TRUE.

While homicide investigators, working around the clock, try not to be distracted by rumors and speculation, a story of this nature is very damaging. Commanders and detectives must now spend the next several hours contacting the victims' families and other witnesses to set the record straight rather than following important leads in this case.

This type of false story could undermine the good progress made in this investigation. The Boston Police Department and the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office will continue to release accurate, official information in this case as quickly as possible, as occurred yesterday following the discovery of the vehicle. Detectives are proceeding in a professional and methodical way. We urge our partners in the media not to be distracted by the "sources" who could potentially jeopardize such an important investigation with grossly inaccurate information. Such reporting is hurtful and irresponsible. It is particularly unfair to victims' loved ones who are already devastated by this tragedy.”

Sergeant Detective Thomas Sexton, Commander
Office of Media Relations

Posted by Media Relations at 12:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (2)

From an article on underage drinking among college populations:

Forces such as Boston Police Department Captain William B. Evans, commander of the Allston and Brighton districts [has] made curbing underage and unruly drinking a personal crusade. Last year, when The Game was hosted at fair Harvard, Evans gave students and administrators football-sized headaches. Kegs, banned at the tailgates since 2002, made a slight return only as a controlled substance, IDs were checked at the gates, wristbands were required for revelers 21 or over, students and alums were forced to pick up separate tailgate tickets at the box office. And despite being lauded as a healthy success by most standards -- no near-death ambulance trips, no severe drop in fun levels -- Evans was irate.

''To me, that day was a disgrace," Evans later told The Harvard Crimson. ''Within a week I had three Harvard deans in my office, and I told them that that day will never go on like it did again."

And click here to read a letter to the editor on the subject by Boston Police Captain William Evans.

Posted by BRIC at 12:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Red Zone anti-violence project outlined.

Boston police, saying that one-fourth of the city's gun crimes happen in about 10 areas totaling half a square mile, said yesterday that they and federal agencies will flood those spots to remove criminals.

Walker convicted in 2000 murder.

Andre Walker, whom prosecutors described as a Franklin Hill gang leader, was convicted in the death of Francis Stephens and also found guilty of assault with intent to commit murder in the shooting of Stephens's friend, Jose Astacio, who was 19 at the time.

Suspect in Molotov attack arrested.

Mark Recupero of Medford pleaded not guilty in Roxbury District Court yesterday to the attempted arson charge and a charge of possessing a Molotov cocktail, said David Procopio, spokesman for Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley.

Red Line crime reports on the rise.

Reports of simple assaults on the Red Line have jumped every year since 1999, from 91 six years ago to 142 in 2004. Through October of this year, there were 133 such assaults reported, putting the Red Line on a pace for 160 by year’s end - which would mark the highest tally in nine years.

Residents offer help near T Station.

Shaken by the jump in muggings and assaults by thieves who lie in wait for Shawmut MBTA riders walking home at night, three Dorchester activists have volunteered to give residents free rides home.

Possible link seen in Boston, Albany thefts.

Police believe the men who swiped two rings worth $45,000 from a Western Avenue jewelry store [in Albany, NY] Monday are the same pair who hit a Boston department store four days earlier, absconding with a $17,000 diamond necklace.

(Click the underlined links to view the original media report.)

Posted by BRIC at 08:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

“This is a case about a handgun,” prosecutor David Meier told jurors yesterday, opening day of accused would-be cop-killer Jermaine Berry’s trial. “It’s a case about what one man did with a .357 revolver loaded with hollow-point bullets.”

Neighbors who said they were fed up with what police say was a sophisticated drug dealer on their street got action when officers raided a Dorchester apartment and seized surveillance cameras, OxyContin, crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, and a growling Rottweiler that the suspect had allegedly used to protect the stash.

Willie Bizzell, 19, was arraigned yesterday on manslaughter charges in connection with the death of a Dorchester man who was electrocuted during a struggle at the Fields Corner MBTA station in September.

Three armed security guards were arraigned yesterday on assault charges in connection with the gunpoint beating of a Dorchester man attacked in his home as his wife and children screamed.

Although the first half of this year got off to a rocky start, Brookline Police Chief Dan O'Leary is predicting this year's crime rate will be the fourth or fifth lowest in the past 10 years, with a small increase over last year's rate.

Posted by BRIC at 07:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

The Boston Police Department recently submitted a proposal to the US Department of Labor to fund the Boston Reentry Initiative. This proposal was ultimately not approved for funding. This rejection was the focus of an item in the 12/06/05 Boston Globe.

Until we receive official clarification from the DOJ, it is impossible to know for sure why we were not selected for funding. However, the BPD wants to make clear to our partners and the general public that our failure to secure funding was not due to either of the following factors: a) a proposal that was not well prepared or b) the BRI program being unable to demonstrate success.

The Dept. of Labor grant application required that eligible programs work with non-violent offenders. Boston’s BRI program focuses on the most violent offenders. Therefore, it was clear from the beginning that to receive funding for this grant was at best an outside possibility. Nevertheless, it was decided that we could adjust our program to fit their guidelines and submit. We knew going in that our chances for success were low, but given the serious need to fund BRI we went for it. In the end, we were unsuccessful, and the grant was awarded to SPAN, an agency with a long history of working with the non-violent population that the Dept. of Labor wanted to fund.

The Boston Police department will continue to pursue any and all appropriate funding opportunities, which means that there will be some rejections along the way. We nevertheless pride ourselves in our ability to obtain external funds for innovative programs and promote the BPD's national reputation for community policing.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 01:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The following is a transcript of a formal question and answer exchange between the Boston Globe and the Boston Police Department. The responses given to these questions were used to prepare an article that appeared in the December 6 edition of the Boston Globe.

The questions asked were submitted by the Boston Globe. The replies were provided by the Boston Police Office of Media Relations. This is a full and complete transcript. Neither the questions nor the responses have been edited.

Continue reading "Transcript: 12/02/05 Question and Answer Exchange" »

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 04:50 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (3)

On Saturday, December 3, it was incorrectly reported that a suspect taken into custody was in possession of a Boston Police Department document containing witness names in a homicide case.

The document in question was in fact related to a sexual assault investigation. The document, approximately one year old, contained the names of possible suspects, not witnesses.

Below is the correction, as published in the Boston Globe.

Boston Globe, 12/4/2005

For the record December 4, 2005 Correction: A Page One story yesterday on a police investigation of how a suspect had an internal Boston Police Department report incorrectly described the contents of that report. The department says the report was on a sexual assault case, not a homicide case. The department also says that it listed names of potential suspects who could also be witnesses, not any witnesses who were innocent bystanders. The incorrect information came from two anonymous police officials briefed on the investigation.

More information: Coverage of the press conference at which Police Commissioner O'Toole addressed the inaccurate report.

Posted by Commissioner's Office at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)