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PSA 102 Public Safety Meeting

2008

7:00pm

Sherwood Recreation Center

Presiding: PSA Commander Lieutenant Barbara Hawkins

Citizen Co-Coordinators:

Brandon Bies
Bobby Pittman

Agenda

I. Introductions 2 min

II. Old Business 30min

a. Review of Last Month’s Minutes

b. Month’s Accomplishments

c. Crime Report/ Statistics-Roger Mattoli

d. Follow up on specific crime issues???

III. New Business 15min

IV. Special Guest –

V. Questions 20min

VI. Announcements 3min

VII. Adjournment 8:30pm

PSA 102 Meeting Minutes

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
7:00pm-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

640 Tenth Street, N.E.

Abbreviated MINUTES – available online

WELCOME –PSA 102 citizen co-coordinator Brandon Bies brought the meeting to order at 7:20pm. After a round of introductions

February Accomplishments

Lieutenant Hawkins began with the follow up of a citizen complaint on an assault around 7^th and J Streets, N.E. several months ago. The complaint to the PSA is that there had been no follow-up from police or detectives. The core of the discussion is centered on the victim not being able to identify the assailant(s) without that it is difficult for a detective to be able to put together a case.

Second issue is a follow-up on Gallaudet University (GU) student issues north of H Street. Officer Myra Jordan made several visits to the house where there were complaints. Lieutenant Hawkins stated that she wanted to get on top of high nuisance and crime issues now prior to the spring and summer months. The 1100 block of 8th Street is one of the primary blocks that students live on. Whenever the police have an encounter with Gallaudet students an incident report is generated and given to GU Security.

Arrests

17 year old arrested for burglary in the 1100 block of Eye Street, NE

Arrest from Theft from Auto 1100 Block of 5^th Street, NE

Arrest at 518 9^th Street, NE

400 Block of H Street, NE complaints of Go-Go and teenagers – issues being addressed

71 arrests between September and January from Narcotics and Special Investigations Division in PSA 102. 5 were possession to distribute cocaine

600 block of 11^th Street types of drug sold there is cocaine

1000 block of K Street cocaine

400 block of K Street Cannabis

Sex Offenders

Out of 88 in 1D only 19 of those live in PSA 102’s area???

Burglary

Of those 5 were reclassified to Theft. Sometimes the initial report will be modified when the detective reviews the scene and report.

Crime Report

a. Crime Report/ Statistics-Roger Mattioli - on travel statistics are available online

b. Follow up on specific crime issues – done –one-on-one

c. Community Questions

Special Guest – Detectives: Issues How Cases are handled once an investigation is in effect and what to do if you are not contacted after a crime

Gallaudet University Student issues: MPD Officer Myra Jordan of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Unit and the Director, Gallaudet Security will give advice to residents.

Brandon indicated that he sees an improvement with students in his immediate neighborhood with regards to how they conduct themselves. Pittman wanted to know if campus security responded to complaints off campus and if students were encouraged to get involved in neighborhood activities?

Gallaudet is more than just a university, there is an elementary school, art school, and yes students are encouraged to get involved in the community. Campus police are SPO’s (Special Police Officers) which gives them the same powers of police but they do not carry firearms as a result of university policy. Communication is different when dealing with the hearing impaired community and the focus is different. There is an initiative in the Florida Avenue Market area to engaged Gallaudet students in the redevelopment of that area.

The Lieutenant stated that a PSA 102 initiative will be to get more 102 officers trained in the use of Sign language. It was brought out that call 7-1-1 is a free call and will allow you to come online with the language interpreter.

Commissioner Raphael Marshal ANC6A01 stepped in to commend PSA 102 for its great work in cleaning up the neighborhoods and wanted to let police officers know that if they needed his support against any complaint filed personally against the officer he would be happy to write a note to support them.

An additional discussion ensued with the detective about what happens after the police officers submit their reports? The detective stated each detective has so many cases that it could be more than a month before you hear from a detective. He also said if you don’t hear from a detective it’s because they don’t have any leads on the case. Pittman asked if there were any standards for MPD detective workload? The response was that a detective works 20 days per month with a standard case load of 40 cases per month. He has almost 70 cases right now with 16 of those being burglaries for this month alone and it is only the 11^th day of March. A detective is responsible for entering data in multiple databases and checking monitoring systems including pawn shops and online stores like E-bay. E-bay does not require proof of ownership. The Lieutenant stated that anytime anyone is released from custody that CSOSA will notify PSA 102 when the person released was involved in a burglary, theft from auto etc.

A representative of Wylie Court was concerned about activity behind H Street in the 1300 block on the north side and what police were doing about it? Police informed her that an Operation Fight-Back has just occurred in that location by the church with abandoned vehicles being moved and the property owner being contacted. The Wylie representative wants the police to patrol Wylie Court and the church area more and address the drug problem in the area. She wants the church to do their part in keeping the area and parking lot clean and not allowing people to sleep or use drugs there.

The Wylie representative said that over the years residents have complained about the church and the way they keep their property. Resident will send a letter to the main church and they will then clean it up and after time will allow it to build up again and again. She wants to see a regular maintenance schedule for that area. She also said that even though the church has a parking lot that the parishioners do not use their own parking lot. They instead park on the public streets which creates additional parking congestion for the neighbors including the businesses. Both Master Patrol Officers present vehemently stated that the police do patrol that area frequently and cited arrests (including one arrest where an individual was charged with piracy and a street mechanic which took 3 years of hard work to get off the streets) and other interventions in Wylie Court.

Based on the comments, Pittman suggested that the minutes and notes on this issued be forwarded to Hiram Brewton in the Mayor’s office for a maintenance schedule. The Lieutenant added that it would become a Special Attention item for patrol officers.

Questions

Announcements

Requests

Who Should Be Our Special Guest Speakers?

Commissioner Ryan Velasco ANC 6C07 indicated that he wants us to assist him with better relationships with the US Capitol Police. The Lieutenant also indicated that we need to have Metro Transit Police come and update the community on patrols of the X2, D4, B2 and 90 lines. Commissioner Velasco is very concerned about tour buses and how the USCP ignore local laws and regulations, including the lack of communication with local residents and officials.

Take note – Robbery is increasing on H Street

NEW TIPS TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Gun Tip Line: 1-800-486-8477 (GUNTIPS)
Crime Solvers: 1-800-673-2777 (DC-MD-VA)
Tourist Line: 1-877-968-9282
In process of getting gang tip line.

BREAK OUT SESSION – residents meet with MPD officers

ADJOURNED at 8:55 p.m.

Next meeting is Tuesday 8 April 2008.

PSA 102 Public Safety Meeting

12 February 2008

7:00pm

Sherwood Recreation Center

Presiding: PSA Commander Lieutenant Barbara Hawkins

Citizen Co-Coordinators: Brandon Bies
Bobby Pittman

Agenda

I. Introductions 2 min

II. Old Business 10min

a. Review of Last month’s minutes

b. January Accomplishments

c. Crime Report/ Statistics

d. Status of 311/911 implementation

III. New Business 15min

a. Proposal to appoint Anne Phelps as Committee Secretary

b. Proposal to accept Calendar of events of PSA 102

c. Policing issues at Sherwood/Introduction of Sherwood Center staff and management

d. Theft from Auto/GPS thefts

e. Gang and Graffiti response

IV. US Attorney Report 5min

V. 1d Citizens Advisory Council Report 2min

VI. Community Recommendations 5min

VII. Problem Solving and Police Interaction time (?)

VIII. Adjournment 8:30pm

PSA 102 Meeting Minutes

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

640 Tenth Street, N.E.


MINUTES – Not available from last meeting

WELCOME –PSA 102 citizen co-coordinator Bobby Pittman as the new co-coordinator. Brandon Bies was on travel.

January Accomplishments

8 burglary arrest

Capitol Hill Arrest of Burglar - Detectives are looking at this person’s fingerprints and examining his profile which is consistent with burglaries in PSA 102 for a match. This burglar stole jewelry, entered apartment buildings and also had a Master Key.

2 Theft from Auto - Arrest

1 Robbery Arrest

Take note – Robbery is increasing on H Street

New Business

Lieutenant Hawkins announced that she is delighted to have met the new Sherwood Recreation Center manager Robert Washington. She indicated that Mr. Washington had shown excitement about working with the police in coordinated activities aimed at young people. She said that police officers will be volunteering to assist with tutoring as well as patrols in and around Sherwood.

Bobby Pittman stressed that Sherwood’s management, Recreation Advisory Council and the Police are well aware of the complaints and concerns of residents and visitors to the intersection of 10^th and G Streets, N.E. regarding some of the behavior of those who stand at or near the “tree”, by the House of Ruth and on G Street. He stated that all of the entities take these complaints very seriously and are addressing them through increase police patrols, the placement of “No Loitering” signs on private and government property and by collaborating on intervention and diversion programs. Pittman is confident of the management team in place at the Department of Parks and Recreation, Sherwood and the House of Ruth working in unison with the residents to have an impact of this situation by Spring and definitely working through the Fall of 2008 the minimize the disruption of the quality of life of our neighbors.

Linda Taylor, ward manager of Ward 6 for the Department of Parks and Recreation was introduced. Linda Taylor has worked in 7 of eight wards. She comes to Ward 6 from Ward 3 and has the experience of issues from across the city. Linda is most interested in working with everyone to ensure that recreation facilities in Ward 6 are meeting the expectations of the businesses and residents that use them. Linda stated that she and Mr. Washington are designing programs for the facility to be more in line with need while looking for community input on how to attract more people to use the facility.

A resident asked about a mugging which occurred last year at K and 7^th Streets, N.E. The victim was beaten badly and while a police report was taken by officers the resident did not understand why his calls to police were not answered. Lieutenant Hawkins explained that cases are handled by detectives. They are the personnel who follow-up and track leads. There was a consensus that the Committee needed to have Detectives come and explain why there is a lack of contact with our neighbors once a crime has occurred. The incident occurred on 17 November around 7:30pm. The resident was told to contact detectives at 698.0549.

Robberies have increased especially in the area from 7^th through 13^th on H Street, N.E. The increase of bars and intoxicated people leaving the bars has made them vulnerable to crime. Most of the robberies in PSA 102 are without a pistol or other weapon. They are categorized at F&V (fear and violence). The Lieutenant said that sometimes when people have been the victim of a crime and are being interviewed by the police, victims may not always provide the necessary details for Detectives to reach them in follow-up. She also said that cases remain open until the Detectives are able to close the case.

Pittman asked if Section and PSA Commanders can access case status from the computers that Detectives are working. The current answer is “No”.

In total, 45 officers are assigned to PSA 102: 10 on the midnight shift; 13 on day shift; and 22 on evenings.

CRIME STATS: Roger Mattioli said there is an increase in robberies over the last 5 or 6 months. The assaults are down. Roger looked at August of ’06 through now to reach the conclusions stated above. Looking at February 07 to February ’08 Roger saw in the last February, 1 robbery compared to this February (first 11 days) 4 robberies. That gives him an indication that we have a problem. There is a drop in stolen auto, and other crimes. Additional crime stats are available on MPD's website.

Lt. Hawkins reported a continuing trend of muggings in which perpetrators approach a distracted pedestrian (listening to headphones, on cell phone) from behind or the side and demanding money. It's happening most frequently during the evenings, Monday through Thursday.

Other main concern is thefts from automobiles, which continue to plague Capitol Hill and the city. The Lieutenant said make sure that you place ALL valuables, stereos, GPS units out of sight.

BURGLARY ARRESTS AND RELEASES:

Eight big (Big Eight) arrests in PSA 102 through the PSA 102 Burglary Tactical Team. Five undercover officers look for burglars in the PSA hot spots.
Out of the eight arrests, MPD was able to close 60 burglaries, of which all but 11 occurred in PSA 102. Some cases go back to 2006. Two new arrests may reveal others.

A separate arrest occurred outside the TAC team when a fingerprint was matched to a November burglary. Approximately 20-25 fingerprint requests out for the "Big Eight" arrests, since the print processing is behind.

A Burglary 1 (B1) is a burglary that occurs in an occupied house (someone is home at the time of the burglary).
A Burglary 2 (B2) is a burglary that occurs in an unoccupied house (nobody home at the time of burglary).

Many burglars are released back into the community pending court dates, etc. Many factors go into a judge's decision to release a suspect, but burglaries, while felonies, are low on the "public threat" barometer because they are property crimes. Community members can band together to make community impact statements about suspects who are released pending court dates.

U.S. Attorney's Office Community representative Carolyn Crank was unable to attend but reminded us that impact statements can help inform judges about the community's concerns with some individuals being re-released to the community either in halfway houses in the community or to other areas where they could potentially commit more of the same crimes.

Most of the robberies are occurring on H Street between the 800-1300 Blocks of H Street during the nightlife. We as a community may need to take additional steps to stop this now before the summer months and the possibility of a larger spike in crime than what Roger Mattoli has stated.

There was a concern by some of our residents that there appears to be little follow-up from detectives when a crime has occurred which may be considered low priority. It was stated that we would reach out to the officials charged with this to get input at our next meeting.

Lieutenant Hawkins has shared her concerns with CSOSA regarding those who are released into the community including the halfway houses here in PSA 102 and the greater community. As a result CSOSA will now place Valtrex systems on those what are returned to the community who have committed robberies. The Lieutenant reminded everyone of how much H Street has changed over the last 15-20 years. There was a time when no one would be out on H Street at night because of fear and the drug epidemic caused murders that often went unsolved. She also indicated that there are many conditions that have contributed to the betterment of H Street. She reminded residents that you have to lock your doors and gates. Not to display what you own in clear view for others to see from your windows, including your laptops, computers and other items that may entice people to steal or break into your home.

CURRENT PSA 102 HOT SPOTS, according to Lt. Barbara Hawkins. Every officer has a list of these and patrols not on assignment routinely check them out.

1100 H St NE, evenings and midnight (loud Gallaudet students)
1000 6th St NE
J.O. Wilson playground
Double-parking on H St (800-1300 blocks)
1300 block of Wylie (drug activity)
600 block of 10th St NE (aggressive teens)
900 block of Kent Place
200 block of K St (drugs)
1100 block of Abbey (gambling)
400-500 block of I St (drugs)?
600 block of Orleans Pl (drugs)
600 block of Pickford Pl
700 block of K St.

NEW REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER now living in the 1300 Block of Florida Avenue, NE. Twenty-five registered sex offenders currently live in PSA 102. Learn more online here.

There was a discussion about alarm systems and response times by the police. Pittman suggested that when we have Communications attend a future meeting that we discussion alarm response and the difference between police response in the big building downtown and in the neighborhoods and current laws about security alarms.

The Lieutenant informed everyone that the annual police MATRIX is in process that will decide police officers work shifts. Pittman asked if the business and commercial districts like China Town and H Street factor into increased patrols. It was stated that there is a strong commitment to retain foot beat officers on H Street through day and evening shifts. Midnights will also have an officer on or near H Street to respond to any problems. A focus on increasing manpower to H Street is a priority including Wylie Street, Wylie Court, Linden Court and alleys behind H Street. Most of PSA 102 burglaries occur during daytime hours.

Some community members also had concern with activity at 5^th and Eye Streets, N.E. with what appeared to be drug dealing and/or using at a location that is on or near federal property. In response the Committee will coordinate a response through MPD, the Neighborhood Services Coordinator and federal partners including US. Park Police to address issues in that area and to consider actions during the Spring and Summer in other parts of PSA 102.

The meeting ended with Lieutenant Hawkins presenting Dave Klavitter with a plaque for serving as PSA102 coordinator for 2 years and a certificate for Dave and Bobby for their involvement in National Night Out 2007 at Sherwood Recreation Center.

NEW TIPS TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Gun Tip Line: 1-800-486-8477 (GUNTIPS)
Crime Solvers: 1-800-673-2777 (DC-MD-VA)
Tourist Line: 1-877-968-9282
In process of getting gang tip line.

BREAK OUT SESSION – residents meet with MPD officers

ADJOURNED at 8:55 p.m.

Next meeting is Tuesday, 11 March 2008.

Individual charged with Assault with intent to Rape was released back into 102 on the northern most end of our community.

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

Special thanks to ANC6C Commissioner Anne Phelps for recording minutes.

MINUTES

WELCOME – Outgoing PSA 102 citizen coordinator Dave Klavitter introduced Brandon Bies and Bobby Pittman as the new co-coordinators.

Bies is a Morton Place NE resident and current PSA 102 block captain. He leads the community safety walk north of H Street NE. His email address is brandonbies@hotmail.com.

Pittman is a Linden Place NE resident, serves on the Sherwood Recreation Center Advisory Council and directs the Linden Neighborhood Association. His email address is robert_pittman@fundsherwoodpark.org.

The January meeting represents Lt. Barbara Hawkins one-year anniversary of leading PSA 102 officers.

In total, 45 officers are assigned to PSA 102: 10 on the midnight shift; 13 on day shift; and 22 on evenings.

CRIME STATS: Volunteer, Roger Mattioli said the MPD online mapping system was down for technical updates. He indicated his most recent reports indicate 29 burglaries in December--about 65% happened during the first two weeks of the month. Additional crime stats are availalbe on MPD's website.

Lt. Hawkins reported a continuing trend of muggings in which perpetrators approach a distracted pedestrian (listening to headphones, on cell phone) from behind or the side and demanding money. It's happening most frequently during the evenings, Monday through Thursday.

Other main concern is thefts from automobiles, which continue to plague Capitol Hill and the city. Place ALL valuables, stereos, GPS units out of sight.

BURGLARY ARRESTS AND RELEASES: Sgt. Richard Ehrlich is back in PSA 102 after training under a federal grant and has taught at the police academy.

Eight big (Big Eight) arrests in PSA 102 through the PSA 102 Burglary Tactical Team. Five undercover officers look for burglars in the PSA hot spots. This team captured Vasser, who has a long rap sheet for burglaries across the U.S. and Canada. Chief awarding two officers in this arrest.

Out of the eight arrests, MPD was able to close 60 burglaries, of which all but 11 ocurred in PSA 102. Some cases go back to 2006. Two new arrests may reveal others.

A separate arrest occurred outside the tac team when a fingerprint was matched to a November burglary. Approximately 20-25 fingerprint requests out for the "Big Eight" arrests, since the print processing is behind.

A Burglary 1 (B1) is a burglary that occurs in an occupied house (someone is home at the time of the burglary).
A Burglary 2 (B2) is a burglary that occurs in an unoccupied house (nobody home at the time of burglary).

Many burglars are released back into the community pending court dates, etc. Many factors go into a judge's decision to release a suspect, but burglaries, while felonies, are low on the "public threat" barometer because they are property crimes, according to Sgt. Ehrlich. Community members can band together to make community impact statements about suspects who are released pending court dates.

Community impact statements can help inform judges about the community's concerns, according to U.S. Attorney's Office representative Carolyn Crank.

CURRENT PSA 102 HOT SPOTS, according to Lt. Barbara Hawkins. Every officer has a list of these and patrols not on assignment routinely check them out.
1100 H St NE, evenings and midnight (loud Gallaudet students)
1000 6th St NE
J.O. Wilson playground
Double-parking on H St (800-1300 blocks)
1300 block of Wylie (drug activity)
600 block of 10th St NE (aggressive teens)
900 block of Kent Place
200 block of K St (drugs)
1100 block of Abbey (gambling)
400-500 block of I St (drugs)
1200 block of Linden (people lurking on vacant property)
600 block of Orleans Pl (drugs)
600 block of Pickford Pl
700 block of K St.

When drugs issues are discussed at PSA meeting, cannot disclose address because most likely undercover officers are operating, according to Lt. Hawkins.

NEW REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER now living in the 500 block of K St NE.
Released on 12/19/2007. His name is Osbey B Crider, Jr. Twenty-five registered sex offenders currently live in PSA 102. Learn more online here.

NEW TIPS TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Gun Tip Line: 1-800-486-8477 (GUNTIPS)
Crime Solvers: 1-800-673-2777 (DC-MD-VA)
Tourist Line: 1-877-968-9282
In process of getting gang tip line.

BREAK OUT SESSION – residents meet with MPD officers

ADJOURNED at 8:35 p.m. Next meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 12.

Eight big (Big Eight) arrests in PSA 102 through the PSA 102 Burglary Tactical Team. A Burglary 1 (B1) is a burglary that occurs in an occupied house (someone is home at the time of the burglary). A Burglary 2 (B2) is a burglary that occurs in an unoccupied house (nobody home at the time of burglary).

James Edward Roy, 50. Arrested 5/11/07 500 block “I” St, NE Burglary 2, released. Arrested 6/23/07 800 block Maryland Ave, NE, Receiving Stolen Property. Currently held. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Christopher Lamont Carpenter, 43. Arrested 06/28/2007 900 block 8th St, NE Attempt Burglary 2. Released. History of burglaries from 1995. Confined until August 2009 on a parole violation. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Antonio Ellis Jackson, 37. Arrested 09/09/2007 Unit block 10th St, NE Burglary 1. Released, court this month. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Ralph G. Reid, 50. Arrested 10/27/2007 800 block Florida Ave, NE Burglary 2. Arrested 11/27/2007 1300 block Childress St, NE Burglary 2. Held. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

John Thomas Holt, 53. Arrested 12/05/2007 (occurred 10/17/2007) 1100 block 6th St, NE Burglary 2. Arrested 12/20/2007 10th & F St, NE Possession of Heroin. Released. Court this month. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Keith Walter Vasser, 45. Arrested 12/18/2007 400 block 10th St, NE Burglary 2. Held. Long history from around the US, including burglaries. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Thavorn Hart, 39. Arrested 12/07/2007 1300 Block I St, NE Burglary 2. Arrested 12/24/2007 1600 Meigs Pl, NE Armed Robbery. Held. History including robberies and burglaries. Court October 2008. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

NO PHOTO: Jerome Wilkins, 39. Arrested 10/17/2007 200 block Constitution Ave, NE Burglary 2. In halfway house, court this month. Arrested in 2000 for a Burglary 2. (As of 1/8/08; provided by MPD)

Metropolitan Police Department Ofc. K. Fersner during the Oct. 9, 2007 PSA 102 meeting. (Photo Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

Labels: PSA102Blue

The following note is from MPD Sgt. Richard Ehrlich:

Good Day to Everyone!

Below is the agenda for Friday's meeting on pedestrian/cyclist/motorist safety. The meeting will be at 6:30 pm located at 415 4th Street, SW in the community room.

Although we will be focusing on traffic locations in PSA 102, anyone who is interested in learning more about the "rules of the road" for road users is encouraged to attend.

In regards to Skip Coburn's earlier discussion about bike lanes, I came across this website that discusses the cycling friendly city of Copenhagen, Denmark road system.
http://cycleliciousness.blogspot.com/2007/11/more-bikes-means-less-accidents.html

AGENDA:

Ø Greeting and welcome: Lieutenant Barbara Hawkins and Sergeant Richard
Ehrlich

Ø Introductions

Ø My ride through the city: Sergeant Richard Ehrlich

Ø Discuss the legal responsibilities of all road users and dispel some
myths. Eric Gilliland, Executive Director, Washington Area Bicyclist
Association (WABA)

Ø Identify areas that have a high risk of crashes, in addition to East
Capitol Street and H Street, NE

Ø Develop a list of possible solutions

Ø Discuss the need for follow-up meetings

Ø Closing comments

One final reminder; please email me at richard.ehrlich@dc.gov as reply emails through Yahoo are not very reliable.

Sincerely,

Sergeant Richard Ehrlich

Burglaries in and around the Capitol Hill area have recently increased around the Thanksgiving holiday, according to Lt. Barbara Hawkins. She has asked for additional manpower and a "burglary tactical" unit, but could not elaborate on operational details.

In the meantime, however, you can help reduce chances a burglar will target your home or neighborhood. According to MPD, take a look at your home from the outside, and keep in mind the following tips to help make your home as safe as it can be:

* Burglars hate bright lights. Install outside lights and keep them on at night. Motion-detector lights can be particularly effective.

* Keep your yard clean. Prune shrubbery so it doesn’t hide windows or doors. Cut back tree limbs that a burglar could use to climb to an upper-level window.

* If you travel, create the illusion that you are at home by getting timers that will turn lights (and perhaps a television or radio) on and off in different parts of your home throughout the day and evening hours. Lights burning 24 hours a day signal an empty house.

* Leave shades, blinds, and curtains in normal positions. And make sure you don’t let your mail and/or newspapers pile up. Call the post office and newspaper to stop delivery or have a neighbor pick them up.

* Make a list of your valuables, such as VCRs, stereos, computers, and jewelry. Take pictures of the items, list their serial numbers and description. This will help police if your home is burglarized.

* Ask your District police station for a free home security survey.

* When getting work done on your vehicle, leave only the vehicle key for the service personnel. The same goes for car park attendants and valets.

* If you are having work done on your vehicle, give the service station your business address – not your home address.

* Call 311 to report a description of any unfamiliar people or vehicles—even ones posing as workers.

For more safety tips, visit the MPD website.

MPD Lt. John Alter of the First District's Vice Squad speaks during the November 13, 2007 PSA 102 meeting. (Photo Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

Special thanks to Roger Mattioli for recording minutes.

MINUTES

A. Welcome – Dave Klavitter, PSA Citizen Coordinator and Lt. Barbara Hawkins, PSA 102, guests and officers.

B. Crime Stats: Volunteer, Roger Mattioli reviewed crime stats from last 30 days.
Lt. Hawkins Report:
• To date, five arrests for burglary; several good arrests in past week.
• Burglaries occurring in idle of week, breaking back doors and windows, taking laptops, etc.
• At least 20 burglaries have been closed over the past few months.
• Many officers were called in response to the IMF meetings and other such events.
• Lt says there is good communication between different shifts of MPD, U.S. Attorney’s offices and CSOSA.
• Lt. feels that good progress is being made re: robberies and burglaries.
• Orange hat patrols (groups of citizen walkers) on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
• Homicide on 900 block of 12th Street NE in alley. Gunshot wound in chest. Close to being closed. No apparent ties to the community.

C. Lt. Review of Hotspots (Reported problem areas from emails, phone calls, etc.)
• 1100 block of H ST; 1000 block of 6th ST; 800 block of 10th ST alley; 600 block of 10th ST; 1200 block of Linden; 600 block of Orleans; 600 block of Pickford Pl.; 900 block of 12th ST
• These problem spots are often drug related
• Among the sworn officers assigned to PSA 102, the following foot and bike patrols have been assigned to specific areas within our community. These beats are based on 30-day crime patterns and projected fall increases, and were revised on 10/20/2007.

D. Current Beats
800-1300 block of H ST NE:
• MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officers L. Cummings and K. McAbee
• DAY: Officers A. Williams and S. Ferris
• EVENINGS: Officers F. Caudle and K. Fersner
North side of H St. NE / 800-1000 block of 10th St NE, including I, K, L, and Kent Place NE:
• MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officer K. Johnson (mountain bike)
• DAY: Officers W. Hanbury and S. Brown (footbeat)
• EVENINGS: Officers I. Thermidor and R. Mazloom (mountain bike)
800-1300 block of Maryland Ave NE, including 600 block of 10th, 11th, and 12th St. NE:
• MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officers C. Harmison and O. Aremu (footbeat)
• DAY: Officer M. Creek (footbeat)
• EVENINGS: Officers M. Pitts and J. Knapp (footbeat)

E. First District Vice Squad Lt. John Alter
• MPD vice units target narcotics, alcohol, auto theft, weapons, untaxed cigarettes and other vice related offenses.
• Lt. Alter worked in PSA 102 area 20 years ago
• There is been a change in the way the vice unit is doing business. Focused mission has been replaced by the vice unit.
• In PSA 102 there have been 122 arrests this year. There is a five-year mandatory sentence if there is a weapon involved.
• The Lt. likes to review stats and plan accordingly, paying special attention to the close relationship between crime and drug activity.
• The vice unit has gone back to more traditional policing, gathering information, email and conversations with officers is helpful.
• Each PSA has 2 officers dealing with search warrants. In last three weeks, seven searches conducted in 1D.
• The vice unit power shift has a proactive approach.
• Residents are encouraged to call if they see anything suspicious (people coming/going frequently from home; suspicious car sitting in front of house, etc.). Don’t be afraid. Vice unit is looking for leads and needs the community’s help.
• There are six people in the 1D auto theft unit; 45 people in the 1D power shift.
• TAC unit to address particular type of crimes – burglaries, robberies, thefts.
• Residents expressed concern over prostitution at Parker Street NE. NSID group is responsible for handling prostitution issues.
• Residents expressed concern over inability of getting statistical evidence of drug and prostitution arrests in the PSA
• US Attorney’s Office distributed a report of papered cases of individual drugs, prostitution, etc.
• Lt. Alter provided contact information: john.alter@dc.gov; 1D vice unit phone # 202.698.0562

F. Break out session – residents meet with MPD officers

G. Adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Next meeting is Tuesday, Dec. 11.

Among the sworn officers assigned to PSA 102, the following foot and bike patrols have been assigned to specific areas within our community. These beats are based on 30-day crime patterns and projected fall increases, and were revised on 10/20/2007.

>>>>> 800-1300 block of H ST NE
MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officers L. Cummings and K. McAbee
DAY: Officers A. Williams and S. Ferris
EVENINGS: Officers F. Caudle and K. Fersner

>>>>> North side of H St. NE / 800-1000 block of 10th St NE, including I, K, L, and Kent Place NE
MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officer K. Johnson (mountain bike)
DAY: Officers W. Hanbury and S. Brown (footbeat)
EVENINGS: Officers I. Thermidor and R. Mazloom (mountain bike)

>>>>> 800-1300 block of Maryland Ave NE, including 600 block of 10th, 11th, and 12th St. NE
MIDNIGHT SHIFT: Officers C. Harmison and O. Aremu (footbeat)
DAY: Officer M. Creek (footbeat)
EVENINGS: Officers M. Pitts and J. Knapp (footbeat)

OCTOBER BURGLARIES (click to enlarge)

Crime statistics information provided by the Metropolitan Police Department website. Click here to map your own crime stats.

Monthly papered arrests for the First District also are compiled by the U.S. Attorney's Office in the District of Columbia. Click here to access those.

The Metropolitan Police Department is offering up to $25,000 reward for information related to a Thursday, Nov. 1, 2007 homicide. According to police, Alberta Dunton was killed in the rear alley of the 900 block of 12th St. NE.

Click here for more information.

This is the second homicide in PSA 102 during 2007. The first occured on Feb. 1, 2007, and is close to being solved, according to PSA 102 Lt. Barbara Hawkins.

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: Nov. 13, 2007 (2nd Tuesday of each month)
TIME: 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St NE

First District Vice Squad Lt. John Alter will be our guest. He will explain more about his unit and how it combats crime in the community. MPD vice units target narcotics, prostitution, weapons and other vice related offenses.

AGENDA:
* Welcome and overview

* PSA 102 representative at commander’s Citizen Advisory Council

* Review October crime stats / trends

* Homicide, rear of the 900 block of 12th St. NE on Nov. 1

* PSA 102 hotspots
- Officer beats on bikes, scooters, updated H Street NE footbeat patrol
- Aggressive juveniles clustering outside Sherwood Rec Center
- Update on shuttered nuisance property at 811 10th Street NE

* First District Vice Lt.

* Small group time with the officers
Group with those who reside in your immediate area. Discuss the crimes and safety issues in that area, specifically, descriptions of the person committing the act, vehicles, house numbers, time of day, etc. Discuss this with the officer(s). Think about any solutions to the current issues and consider which apply to neighbors, MPD, and/or other city agencies.

**** PSA 102 meetings enable residents and police to discuss, identify and take action against crime and other quality of life issues in the community. The meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at the Sherwood Recreation Center, 10th and G Streets NE. 7-8:30 p.m. The PSA 102 boundaries are (clockwise) the railroad tracks at Union Station, Florida Ave NE, Maryland Ave NE, 9th St, East Capitol St, 2nd St, Massachusetts Ave, and Columbus Circle.
****

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT PSA 102, photos, crime maps and more go to http://psa102.blogspot.com.

QUESTIONS? Contact:
David Klavitter
Volunteer PSA 102 Citizen Coordinator
202-547-5745
klav@questforquiet.org

Lt. Barbara Hawkins
Metropolitan Police Dept.
202-698-0380
barbaram.hawkins@dc.gov

Metropolitan Police Department patrol cars are getting outfitted with laptop computers to allow officers to perform local and national criminal record checks, receive dispatch calls and submit police reports, according to an MPD release.

MPD said locators are installed on each of the laptops, allowing dispatchers to locate officers anywhere in the city. The technology also gives officers the ability to receive and respond to calls for service without the use of a radio.

Currently, 10 cars have the new laptops. Approximately 200 patrol cruisers will be retrofitted per quarter with the new technology, ultimately installing the laptops in all 800 patrol cars. Cost is about $6,500 per car, said MPD.

With daylight growing shorter, it's a good time to check the streetlights in front and in the alley of your home. Ensure porch lights are on at dark. Use light sensors and motion detectors. Put inside lights on a timer.

For darkened or broken streetlights, call Mayor’s hotline at 727-1000 and the city will typically fix within 48 hours. You can also submit requests online. Click here to access it.

Police Service Area (PSA) 102 Meeting Report
October 9, 2007

(Thank you to ANC6C Commissioner Karen Wirt for taking notes and filing this report.)

Dave Klavitter, citizen coordinator, called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Lieutenant Barbara Hawkins and Commander Dave Kamperin and about 25 citizens from the community were in attendance.

REVIEW OF CRIME STATISTICS

Roger Mattioli reported the statistics for the past month. There were no homicides and no sex offenses. Burglaries were up from 10 to 18. Thefts were down from 24 to 13. Mr. Mattioli explained that the decrease in thefts was good news because the number had been high for the past six months. Crimes involving stolen autos and theft from autos were also down. These statistics are posted on the MPD listserv.

HOT SPOTS: LT. HAWKINS’ REPORT

Lt. Hawkins reported that in the last 30 days the majority of burglaries have occurred in the area of the 1200 block of Maryland Avenue NE. The pattern appears to be breaking windows to enter and stealing items such as laptops, jewelry, and money. Other hot spots have been on the 600 block of Orleans Place, H Street, and Morton Place between Fourth and Fifth Streets (two suspects were locked up in June regarding the last location).

The fall projection is for the robbery cases to be referred to detectives. About 20 burglaries are expected to be closed in the next two weeks; more than one suspect is involved. Officers on mountain bikes are making a difference.

The pattern of most robberies is that thieves come from behind and demand money, cell phones, and wallets. In a case at Second and F, the victim was talking on a cell phone, with a laptop in a shoulder bag. Two suspects were caught in this case. It is important to be alert while walking on the street.

In another case on the 700 block of H Street a laptop was stolen. It was sold to someone who was later charged with receiving stolen property. Always ask for and retain a receipt for purchases; without a receipt the purchase could be stolen property.

Drug areas have been active for years, with citizens providing good input on drug houses. Some of these locations are the 1000 block of Sixth St NE, Fourth and L St NE, 600 block of Orleans Place NE, 600 block of Morton Place NE, and the 1200 block of Wylie Street NE. NCIS, narcotics division, is working on these areas.

Be mindful of your surroundings during the holidays, including robberies at gas stations. Lt. Hawkins is working to obtain recruits from the police academies during the holiday season. She stated that with colder weather, robbers seem to favor North Face jackets in the 1D area.

COMMANDER DAVID KAMPERIN’S REPORT
(See Commander Kamperin's photo here.)

Commander Kamperin introduced himself as the new commander, promoted at the same time Diane Groomes was appointed Deputy Chief. He said he is happy to be back with PSA 102. Commander Kamperin has been on the police force for 22 years, serving in four of the seven MPD districts. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in public management and is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Police Academy.

The commander said he receives about 130 emails a day and is delegating some of the work to empower the PSA lieutenants. The focus in PSA 102 is on key arrests and the upcoming holiday season. He recommends having neighbors pick up packages delivered to doorsteps. Packages are an indication that no one is home. If citizens have alarm systems, make sure the company is licensed and bonded.

On November 2-3, an MPD project, “All Hands on Deck” will begin, in which the police will offer a proactive burglary assessment of homes. If homeowners don’t want an assessment, officers will provide pamphlets.

Commander Kamperin reemphasized Lt. Hawkins’ warning to be mindful of surroundings. People who walk down the street while multi-tasking (on ipods, cell phones, Blackberries) are especially vulnerable to robbery. Even contractors working on jobs who are not watching can be victims.

The commander spent two years working in the MPD narcotics division. He reported observations of drug activity between Seventh and Eighth Streets on H: heroin early, crack later in the day. A drug house at 811 10th Street is still active, although the house appears to be vacant. An ANC commissioner in attendance confirmed that the occupant is still there. MPD will follow up.

This fall MPD staff changes include two new captains, two lieutenants, five sergeants. The fall crime initiative is season-oriented. Each quarter the MPD tries to project areas of concern. Emergency team meetings are called so that all members know the strategy for the next season. Beat officers are kept informed of these strategies. Depending on the time of day of a particular crime focus, officers are reallocated.

Commander Kamperin’s plan for the seven different PSAs under his watch is to get them up to speed, deploy resources where needed. Power shifts are part of the plan, with 28 officers and an effort to keep the same officers in the same PSAs so that these officers “take ownership” in their own PSA. In an emergency, however, these PSA officers would be directed to the area of concern. The plan acknowledges that approximately 3/4 of crimes occur between 3 p.m. and 3 a.m.

The commander gave his email address as david.kamperin@dc.gov .

ANNOUNCEMENTS

* Officers Johnson, Coleman, and Ferguson arrived at the meeting late and introduced themselves. Master Patrol Officer Johnson, who has been with MPD for 17 years, announced that they were late because one arrest was made shortly before the PSA meeting’s start.

* On Saturday, November 3 there will be an open house at 1D to emphasize the “All Hands on Deck” project, 10 am to 6 pm. Inspector Kucik and new officials will be on hand.

* 1D will not move to Virginia Avenue. The MPD is looking for another location, possibly Logan School or the old DMV building behind Murrays Steaks. A location with parking for 80-100 vehicles is needed.

* Changes on H Street NE include plans for streetcars projected to run between Union Station and Minnesota Avenue.

* Hiram Brewton, the mayor’s Ward 6 representative was in attendance and introduced himself as available to assist with Ward 6 matters.

THE MEETING ADJOURNED at 8:25 pm, and officers were available immediately afterward to answer citizen questions.

Metropolitan Police Department First District Commander David Kamperin during the Oct. 9, 2007 Patrol Service Area (PSA) 102 community meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center in Washington, D.C. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

Labels: PSA102Blue

With the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Diane Groomes promoted to Assistant Chief of Patrol Services and School Security, we welcome Commander David Kamperin to the First District. Chief Cathy Lanier on Sept. 23 selected him to serve as the Commander of the First Patrol District.

A 22-year veteran of MPD, Kamperin has worked in four of the seven police districts, the Special Operations Division, the Homicide Branch and the Training Academy. He’s no stranger to the PSA 102 community--he served as the area’s PSA lieutenant several years ago.

Please join us Oct. 9 to meet Commander Kamperin and hear is perspective on community policing in the First District, including the Capitol Hill and H Street Corridor communities.

In which PSA do I reside? Click here to find out.

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 9 (2nd Tuesday of each month)
TIME: 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St NE

AGENDA:

* Welcome and agenda overview; greetings [5 minutes]

* Review June crime statistics, burglaries and hot spots [10 minutes]

* MPD First District Commander David Kamperin [40 minutes]

* Break into neighborhood groups to address specific issues through
Partnership for Problem solving; MPD officers and coordinator will help rotate to guide discussions, make plan. Meet with officers.
[30 minutes]

**** PSA 102 meetings enable residents and police to discuss, identify and take action against crime and other quality of life issues in the community. The meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at the Sherwood Recreation Center, 10th and G Streets NE. 7-8:30 p.m. Tell your friends and neighbors!

Access http://psa102.blogspot.com for more information.

****

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

Special thanks to Gwen Jenkins for taking these minutes.

AGENDA:
* Welcome and agenda overview; greetings [5 minutes]
* Review August crime statistics, burglaries and hot spots [10 minutes]
* Block captain recruitment [5 minutes]
* Gallaudet University's Dr. Richard Lytle to discuss off-campus code of conduct [35 minutes]
* Break into neighborhood groups to address specific issues through Partnership for Problem solving; MPD officers and coordinator will help rotate to guide discussions, make plan. Meet with officers. [30 minutes]

MINUTES
>>> Welcome – Dave Klavitter, PSA Citizen Coordinator and MPD Lt. Barbara Hawkins, PSA 102

>>> Crime Stats: Volunteer, Roger Mattiolli reviewed crime stats from last 30 days.
* Total crime for August is below average;
* Robberies down;
* Assaults up, especially on F Street;
* Burglaries, theft and theft from auto are all down;
* Stolen autos up, clustered near where the burglaries are happening.

>>> Lt. Hawkins Report:

* Lt. Hawkins remarked that the last 24 hours were good. MPD made an arrest on a theft from auto – the suspect was also held for 11 burglaries. Residents are still not securing property and they need to do so.

* Portable property is targeted – two additional arrests for robberies were made on 10th and H, approaching people from behind. Residents/walkers must pay attention to their surroundings at all times, but especially in the afternoons and through the evenings.

* PSA officers are back on their regular shifts. Fall Initiative plan (October) is to assign officers to beats with special focus on 8th and H streets.

* Lt Hawkins named “Hot spots” where officers pay special attention.

* Union Station causes concern over safety. MPD plans to add a beat officers.

* The crime camera at 4th and L streets was damaged, but is now fixed. 1000 block of 6th Street being evaluated for a camera

>>> Block Captain Recruitment
* One goal for the block captains is to help “get the word out” about the PSA meetings and the PSA network to residents without internet access.

* The goal is to have approximately 20-30 block captains for the PSA. If anyone is interested in being a block captain, please contact Dave Klavitter at klavitter@gmal.com

>>> Dr. Lytle from Gallaudet University.
* Dr. Lytle was present to set ground rules and expectations and to help all residents learn about the resources available to help mitigate and solve conflicts.

* New GU code of conduct has extended to off-campus students. The Office of Student Student Conduct can be found on the web: http://www.gallaudet.edu/x4419.xml.

* GU is trying to provide incentives for good behavior, but this is only effective if the rules are understood and enforced.

* The Policy is to take action against anything that affects the interests of the University or that demonstrates a flagrant disregard for others.

* If residents have issues with GU students, they should call MPD. MPD will make a report and it will be sent to the University.

* GU’s Off-Campus Housing Office is working on a comprehensive list of all off-campus students.

>>> Small group, neighborhood time with individual officers

>>> The next PSA 102 meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 9, 7 p.m. at Sherwood Recreation Center, 10th and G St NE. For more information, go to http://psa102.blogspot.com.

Voice of the Hill newspaper covered our Sept. 11 PSA 102 meeting where the topic was Gallaudet University's code of conduct for off-campus student behavior.

Read the complete story online.

MPD Lt. Barbara Hawkins asked me to post that Joe Simpson, a convicted sex offender, was released to 1100 block of K St NE. He is a 53-year-old black male. His date of birth is 12/23/53.

Please note that unless specifically indicated, these individuals are not wanted by the police at this time. A list of Class A and Class B registered sex offenders is provided by MPD as a service to the community.
Review the complete registry --with photographs--on MPD's website.

The Metropolitan Police Dept is looking for anyone who may know the identity of the person pictured in this still from a video camera. It was made at the 7-Eleven at Maryland and 8th St NE on Aug. 23. The person is wanted for questioning in the robbery of a citizen in the 1100 block of Maryland Ave NE. Any information, please contact MPD detectives at 202-698-0598. (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

PSA 102 August Meeting Report
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

Special thanks to Anne Phelps, ANC6C04 commissioner, for taking these notes!

AGENDA:
* Welcome and agenda overview; greetings
* August 7 National Night Out recap
* Review June crime statistics, burglaries
* PSA 102 hot spots
* Business emergency information/cards as backup to alarms
* Revert back to former staffing arrangements; summary of PSA 102 staffing levels
* Block captain recruitment
* Break into neighborhood groups to address specific issues through Partnership for Problem solving; MPD officers and coordinator will help rotate to guide discussions, make plan. Meet with officers.

MINUTES

* Welcome – Dave Klavitter, PSA Citizen Coordinator and Lt. Hawkins, PSA 102
Lt Hawkins’ Announcements:

- Reminder that there are no anti-loitering laws, so other than talking to youth hanging around outside, there is not a lot MPD can do.

- Remember to lock your doors. If you come home and find you’ve been burglarized, back out and call MPD. Most crimes appear to be happening late evenings and midnights, but daytime seems to be happening at shift change. Also be sure to repair and secure broken doors, windows, etc. because burglars will come back.

- Dave Klavitter reminded people that the MPD web site lets you see crime statistics in your neighborhood. View D.C. crime mapping tool online.

* National Night Out recap:

- Sherwood Rec Center was location for 1D’s main event
- Photos of the event were passed around including images of games, music, food, and PEPCO’s demonstration of power line safety
- PSA 102 officers did a great job.

* Crime Stats: Volunteer, Roger Mattiolli reviewed crime stats from last 90 days. PSA 102 had 40% of the burglaries. Roger is hoping additional resources are assigned to the PSA in response to the rise in crime. View D.C. crime mapping tool for crimes near your home.

* PSA 102 hot spots: Sherwood Rec Center representative voiced concern about the “entertainment” establishments on H Street, specifically between 8th and 15th Streets. Lots of young men are being seen circling the block to get in contact with inebriated customers hanging outside. Need to pressure owners too, it’s not just a residential issue; it is also economic viability, safety of patrons, etc.

* Business and Emergency Contacts: PSA 102, Dave Klavitter and others are going to work with H Street Main Street and businesses to make certain the emergency contacts for each business are updated. This was recently a problem for response to Sidamo Coffee and Tea (H St. btw 4th and 5th) when they were recently burglarized.

* PSA 102 Staffing: 10 hour shift for officers revealed fewer officers on the street. Chief Lanier immediately re-evaluated and returned back to 8 hour shifts on August 5th. Such changes in s short time did affect placement and patrols and limited effectiveness of burglary tack unit. Lt. Hawkins indicated that officers are back on track now.

* Block Captain Recruitment: Need more block captains for PSA 102. Dave is working to build a kit to hand out to new block captains. If anyone is interested in volunteering to be a block captain, contact Dave Klavitter at klav@gmail.com.

* Other:

* Public notice of application for new and renewed Alcoholic Beverage Licenses for:
- Beg Investment, LLC, “Twelve,” Retail Class “C” Tavern, 1123 and 1125 H ST, NE
- Spotlight Productions, LLC, “Spotlight Café,” Retailer Class “CX” Multipurpose Facility, 1333 H ST, NE
- Anais Bar & Lounge, LLC, “Anais Bar & Lounge”, Retail Class “C” Tavern, 1363 H ST, NE
- The 116 Inc., “116 Club” Class Retailer CX Club 01, 234 3rd ST, NE

Notices are provided so that any objectors are entitled to be heard before the granting of a license. Petition and Hearing dates vary. Hearings are at 10:00 a.m. on the 7th floor, suite 7200, 941 North Capitol ST, NE. Petition and /or request to appear before the board must be filed on or before the petition date. For more information, visit the ABRA website.

* Another sex offender is back in the PSA 102 neighborhood. The D.C. MPD sex offender registry also is available online.

* There is a solid lead on the Chrysta Spencer hit and run case.

Note: U.S. State Department attended with gentleman from South African to observe and learn about neighborhood policing so he can take information back to S. Africa.

Metropolitan Police Department Master Patrol Officer Leon Johnson (left) and Officer Charles Johnson handle barbecue duties during the National Night Out celebration at Sherwood Recreation Center on Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

Several hundred community residents attended the event, which provided adults and children an opportunity to interact with police officers who patrol their neighborhoods. Participants enjoyed free food, music, kids games, safety demonstrations and a police helicopter flyover at tree top level.

Attending officials included D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, Council Chairman Vincent Gray, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, MPD Assistant Chief Brian Jordan, and First District Commander Diane Groomes.

Thanks to everyone who volunteered their time and energy to ensure a successful event.

H Street Main Street Executive Director Anwar Saleem and Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells walk with community residents on H Street NE as part of National Night Out activities on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

It wasn't too hot to dance the electric slide, with music provided by a live DJ. It was part of the National Night Out celebration at Sherwood Recreation Center on Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

Washington, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty chats with a neighborhood resident during the National Night Out celebration at Sherwood Recreation Center on Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

Bobby Pittman of the Sherwood Recreational Advisory Council (right), thanks Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty for attending the National Night Out festivities at the Sherwood Recreation Center on August 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Brian Jordan (left) and First District Inspector Lamar Greene welcome everyone to the National Night Out event at Sherwood Recreation Center on August 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

A hot dog erupts in flames after it touches a live electrical wire. PEPCO utility workers provided an electrical safety demonstration during the National Night Out celebration at Sherwood Recreation Center on Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

Kids see up close what happens to a hot dog which comes into contact with a live electrical wire. PEPCO utility workers provided an electrical safety demonstration during the National Night Out celebration at Sherwood Recreation Center on Aug. 7, 2007. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter) (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW)

Join your friends, neighbors and businessowners for a 6 p.m.
community walk on H Street NE to celebrate National Night Out on
Tuesday, August 7.

National Night Out is an annual event designed to strengthen
neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. We will send
a message to criminals to let them know that neighborhoods are
organized and fighting back.

We start at the 1400 block of H Street NE and finish at the
Sherwood Recreation Center celebration at 10th and G Streets NE.

The details:

* Gather at the Argonaut Tavern outdoor patio at 15th and Maryland
Streets NE.

* Depart at 6 p.m. ET.

* Walk west on the south side of H Street NE to 8th St NE.

* Turn left on 8th St NE and walk one block to G St NE.

* Turn left on G St NE and walk two blocks to 10th St NE--the
location of Sherwood Recreation Center at 6:20 p.m.

Sherwood Recreation Center is the location for the First District
National Night Out Celebration. It's food, fun, and festivities for
the entire family!

Meet police officers who patrol your neighborhoods, First District
Commander Diane Groomes, elected officials and special guests. View
scenes from last year's event (including former Mayor Anthony
Williams doing the Electric Slide).

Learn more about National Night Out here.

MINUTES FROM PSA 102 MEETING
July 10, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.
(second Tuesday of every month)
Sherwood Recreation Center
10th and G St NE

Thank you to Donna Anaya, who volunteered to take meeting notes!

WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Volunteer PSA 102 Citizen Coordinator Dave Klavitter convened the meeting and asked everyone to introduce themselves. Officials and special guests present included Lt. Barbara Hawkins, MPOs Leon Johnson and James Burgess, and Ofc. Simmons from MPD; Michael Bonds w/ CSOSA; and Marius (Mike) Korwin w/ ADT.

Lt. Hawkins provided her new cell phone number (202-506-0683) to citizens and asked that they use it judiciously.

Klavitter announced that a closed circuit TV has been installed at 4th & L Sts. NE; a second camera installed at 8th & H Sts. has helped close several cases over the past year.

Hawkins informed citizens about two new sergeants in PSA 102: Sgt. Domas (on midnight shift) and Sgt. Jones who replaces Sgt. Washington.

The H Street Festival will be on Saturday, September 15.

BURGLARIES AND OTHER INCIDENTS

Hawkins reported that burglaries are continuing but that two arrests in PSA 102 have been made. She urged citizens to take act responsibly by locking all doors and windows.

Hawkins and Johnson discussed the shooting involving a Capitol Hill police officer and a suspect who subsequently died. The incident took place on July 9 in the 1200 block of 5th St. (at 5th & M), NE at 6:05 pm. They also reported on a stabbing on 5th St. between L & M Sts. NE on Sunday, July 8 at 2:00 am. The case, which appeared to be domestic violence, has since been closed. And lastly, they reported on a recent sexual assault case (at 3rd & I Sts. NE) in which a suspect has been arrested and the case remains open.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Hawkins and citizens discussed National Night Out on Tuesday, August 7, and various options to bring neighbors and police officers together. All agreed to meet on the patio of the Argonaut Tavern at 1433 H Sts NE at 6:00 pm (the patio sits on Maryland Ave. NE). Neighbors will then walk west on H Street to Sherwood Rec Center and be joined by 1D Cmdr. Diane Groomes who will address the group. Business owners along H Street will be encouraged to come out and meet and/or walk with the citizens.

ADT PRACTICES

Mike Korwin, a Senior Security Advisor w/ ADT (based in Springfield, VA), spoke to citizens to address complaints voiced about so-called ADT representatives who were knocking on residents’ doors. Korwin informed citizens about ADT’s practices with respect to calling on residents. He said it’s not all that common for ADT salespeople to go door-to-door; they generally rely on word of mouth, their website or relationships with retailers such as Home Depot or Best Buy.

However, those employees who may go door-to-door and any other ADT employees are required to wear ID badges and carry a license issued by ADT operations in either Maryland or Virginia. They also are subject to background checks. ADT does not use any contractors, nor does it have any control over authorized ADT dealers/representatives who may engage in door-to-door sales.

Citizens were advised to ask any persons for proper identification or, better yet, not to allow anyone to enter their home unless they initiated the visit. Call 311 and police will swing by neighborhood to verify representative’s legitimacy.

LET THERE BE LIGHTS

MPO Burgess, who works the midnight shift, asked citizens to help him do his job more efficiently. He said big, full grown trees often block street lights and he encouraged residents to keep outside lights on at night to help illuminate their houses.

If necessary, residents should report any non-working street lights by submitting a request for service to the city’s service center (202-727-1000 or online at www.dc.gov).

Burgess also asked residents to put a placard displaying their house number on the back of their houses so he can easily identify addresses while patrolling in alleys or driveways behind houses. He also encouraged citizens to email www.dc.gov to follow up on service requests for lights or tree trimming.

CRIME STATISTICS

Citizen Roger Mattioli reported on last month’s crime stats which generally showed downward trends. Specifically, burglaries were up and continue to be a concern; street robberies were down.

CITIZEN PATROLS

Mattioli invited citizens to walk with his Orange Hat patrol each Wednesday at 7:30 pm beginning at Stuart-Hobson Middle School at the 400 block of E St. NE. ANC 6C Commissioner Anne Phelps announced a one-hour Community Safety Walk (patrol) beginning on Thursday, July 12, and continuing each Thursday thereafter. Citizens should meet at 7:00 pm at J.O. Wilson Elementary School at 7th & K Sts. NE. (Block captain Brandon Bies is also helping to organize the patrol.)

Ofcr. Johnson offered to provide an officer to walk with each group as often as possible. He stated that Wednesdays are the best day to get officers to participate in community events because all PSA officers are on duty that day.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm. Next month’s meeting will be on Tuesday, August 14, 2007.

Officer Simmons during the July 10 PSA 102 meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

Labels: PSA102Blue

Master Patrol Officer Burgess during the July 10 PSA 102 meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center. (Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

Labels: PSA102Blue

Community walk on H Street NE, June 28, 2007. From left: ANC6C Commissioner Alan Kimber, First District Commander Diane Groomes, Ward 1 Councilmember Tommy Wells and H Street Main Street Executive Director Anwar Saleem. (David Klavitter photo)

MINUTES FROM PSA 102 MEETING
June 12, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.
(the second Tuesday of every month)
Sherwood Recreation Center
10th and G Streets NE

[Special thanks to Donna Anaya, who volunteered to take notes during the June meeting.]

I. Introductions, agenda

PSA 102 Citizen Coordinator Dave Klavitter convened the meeting, reviewed the agenda items and asked all attendees to introduce themselves. Officials attending included Lt. Barbara Hawkins and several of her officers (including Ofcr. Johnson and MPO Burgess); Carolyn Crank, 1D Community Outreach Specialist, US Attorney’s Office; Prosecutor w/ US Attorney’s Ofc. for 1D; first responder Jackie White from 911/311 of DC’s Unified Communications Center; and Maria Barner from Sherwood Rec Center.

II. Crime Stats/Burglaries

Citizen Roger Mattioli reviewed the crime stats which showed an increase in total crime in May, including burglaries, robberies and thefts. Lt. Hawkins said items being stolen include laptops, cell phones, iPods and CDs and are often carried in backpacks by the suspects. Assaults often involve domestic situations or people who know each other. Burglaries often occur during the day when most people are at work. Hawkins said she has a plan to combat burglaries and robberies but is unable to discuss it at this time. She reported on several arrests that have recently occurred, including those of juveniles. She stated that beginning July 18, MPD would start 10-hour shifts in 1D. Overall, such shifts will add 70-100 officers on the streets. She advised citizens to call ID Station to request “special attention” when you go on vacation and to leave point of contact info for someone close by who can reach you and secure your house if necessary.

A resident of Capitol Hill Towers asked what can be done to ensure safety of CHT’s seniors who walk in the neighborhood. MPD agreed to work with CHT’s security force.

III. Hot Spots

Lt. Hawkins noted various hot spots including: 6th & L Sts., 4th & L Sts., 1200 blocks of Linden and Wylie, and 10th & G Sts. including Sherwood Rec Center. Additional attention to these areas will continue for the next 30 days.

Klavitter asked citizens to call 727-1000 to report street lights that are out along w/ their identifying number on a band near the top of the pole and whether it’s a metal or wooden pole.

IV. Flyers

Klavitter acknowledged that this meeting had one of the largest turnouts ever. Flyers work well to supplement electronic communications to get the word out. Several volunteers handed out flyers regarding the meeting and the PSA102 brochure at nearby Metro stations. More volunteers are needed to continue the effort.

Special note of thanks to those who volunteered their time to distribute the information: Brandon Bies, Aimee Carter, Claudia Lawder, Roger Mattioli, John Wirt.

At PSA 102’s September meeting, Dr. Richard Lytle, Special Asst. to the President of Gallaudet University, will attend to discuss problems that neighbors have experienced with some of the students. Lt. Hawkins reiterated MPD’s interest in working with groups in the community, i.e., Gallaudet or Capitol Hill Towers, to help identify and resolve various issues of concern.

V. Ride Alongs

Klavitter shared his experience of doing a ride along with Ofcr. Michelle Ridlehoover and recommended others sign up for the same experience which he described as fascinating and worthwhile. Lt. Hawkins offered that any day was a good day to do them.

VI. Orange Hat Patrols

Mattioli explained how Orange Hat or citizen patrols worked and encouraged others to participate. The patrols walk with flashlights and cell phones; a police officer will sometimes join them. He walks year-round (weather permitting) with a group each Wednesday night for approximately an hour and a half, starting at Stuart-Hobson Middle School at the 400 block of E St. NE.

Klavitter stated that a similar patrol would be helpful on the north side of H St. NE if anyone was interested. Block Captain Brandon Bies is coordinating.

VII. Juveniles

Lt. Hawkins touched on the problem with juveniles, particularly during summer months after schools close. MPD is working with Sherwood Rec Center to develop activities that’ll attract youth and provide a positive influence rather than those involving crime. Hawkins believes juveniles can be changed with the proper support and encouragement.

Sherwood Rec Center’s Maria Barner spoke briefly about their summer programs including camps and DC’s summer job program for youth. She invited neighbors to volunteer to help staff the various programs.

Ofcr. Johnson encouraged neighbors to sponsor a child to send them to summer camp or at least help them with the application process. For more information, neighbors should contact Sgt. Johnson at 1D.

Carolyn Crank announced that an Asst. Attorney General will be making the rounds at PSA meetings to discuss juvenile crimes and associated problems. The first appearance will be at PSA103’s meeting on June 13.

VIII. Miscellaneous Items & Announcements

Reps from 911/311 spoke briefly and answered questions from neighbors. They stated that the best way to get a response to a call for service is to call 911/311 and beat officers directly who will likely respond to the dispatch. They also encouraged citizens (groups preferred) to visit the Unified Communications Center’s new facility at 2720 MLK Ave., SE, and see their operations.

Crank announced a city-wide event to kick off summer youth activities on June 14 at Hechinger Mall? from 12-4pm. Sponsored by the US Attorney’s Office and MPD, the event will include radio personalities from WPGC, giveaways and other celebrities.

National Night Out will be August 7.

In closing, citizens were invited to talk privately to MPD or other officials about individual concerns. The meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm. The next meeting is Tuesday, July 10.

MPD statistics show PSA 102 has experienced a spike in burglaries during the period May 1 through June 5, 2007. The geographic area reported 35 burglaries compared to 12 during the same period last year, according to MPD numbers.

The following maps from MPD classify the burglaries by location, as well as the method. According to MPD, these burglaries happened throughout the day. Some were reported as early as 5 a.m. and others as late as 1 a.m. Click to enlarge either map.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

CLICK TO ENLARGE

MPD says it is allocating appropriate resources to the address the trend. More will be discussed during the June 12 PSA 102 meeting (7 p.m. at Sherwood Rec Center, 10th and G Streets NE).

More importantly, however, you can help reduce chances a burglar will target your home or neighborhood. According to MPD, take a look at your home from the outside, and keep in mind the following tips to help make your home as safe as it can be:

* Burglars hate bright lights. Install outside lights and keep them on at night. Motion-detector lights can be particularly effective.

* Keep your yard clean. Prune shrubbery so it doesn’t hide windows or doors. Cut back tree limbs that a burglar could use to climb to an upper-level window.

* If you travel, create the illusion that you are at home by getting timers that will turn lights (and perhaps a television or radio) on and off in different parts of your home throughout the day and evening hours. Lights burning 24 hours a day signal an empty house.

* Leave shades, blinds, and curtains in normal positions. And make sure you don’t let your mail and/or newspapers pile up. Call the post office and newspaper to stop delivery or have a neighbor pick them up.

* Make a list of your valuables, such as VCRs, stereos, computers, and jewelry. Take pictures of the items, list their serial numbers and description. This will help police if your home is burglarized.

* Ask your District police station for a free home security survey.

* When getting work done on your vehicle, leave only the vehicle key for the service personnel. The same goes for car park attendants and valets.

* If you are having work done on your vehicle, give the service station your business address – not your home address.

* Call 311 to report a description of any unfamiliar people or vehicles—even ones posing as workers.

For more safety tips, visit the MPD website.

Join your neighbors and MPD officers in promoting the community policing process. We plan to distribute PSA 102 resource flyers and talk with residents about becoming more aware and involved in Police Service Area (PSA) 102 activities.

To participate, simply join us at the posted assembly locations anytime between the scheduled distribution times.

DATE/TIME: Monday, June 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (or until flyers run out)
TARGET AUDIENCE: New York Ave Metro station commuters who live in PSA 102
ASSEMBLY LOCATION: 3rd and M Streets NE
BLOCK CAPTAIN: Brandon Bies

DATE/TIME: Wednesday, June 13, 4:30-6:30 p.m. (or until flyers run out)
TARGET AUDIENCE: Union Station Metro commuters who live in PSA 102
ASSEMBLY LOCATION: 2nd St and Mass Ave NE
BLOCK CAPTAIN: Roger Mattioli

Plans also are to distribute flyers near 10th and K Streets NE. Contact PSA 102 Volunteer Citizen Coordinator David Klavitter (klavitter@gmail.com; phone: 202-547-5745) if you'd like to be a Block Captain and lead the communication effort in your neighborhood.

(CLICK TO ENLARGE MAP)

MPD First District Commander Diane Groomes reports several robberies occurred during the weekend. "We did have 15 robberies--four were closed out with arrests (the spree of 5 we had two weeks ago in PSA 107 were closed last week with two arrests of juveniles that lived on Bay St -also fyi)," according to Groomes.

Friday - May 18th

400 16th St NE at 0155 hours - two males walking home in blk were approached by group of young b/m who shouted out MS13, MS13 and struck the two victims in the head with 2 x 4s and took their wallets

1005 1st NE (greyhound bus station) at 1825 hours - male subject snatched 500 dollars out of cash register and ran through bldg - he was apprehended by MPD and placed under arrest for Robbery Snatch

7th and M ST SE at 2214 hours - female citizen walking on M ST Se was approached by male subject in his thirties who grabbed her purse - dragged her and then fled on foot - suspect dropped purse - recovered in 1100 blk of 7th St SE

600 Constitution AVe Ne at 2200 hours- male subject was approached by male subject (no lookout) who knocked him down and dragged him alley and took cellphone and wallet

Saturday - May 19th

400 L ST Ne at 0121 hours - male citizen was approached by three b/m (17-20 yrs old) and they demanded his money - he refused and they jumped him and went through his pockets and took money -- they fled West on L ST NE

51 N ST Ne at 0945 hour- male citizen was approached by two males in burgundy Ford Focus who approached him at gunpoint demanding his money -- he gave up money - police were called and stopped car in 600 blk of 3rd ST NE (got listserv question on this) - subjects placed under arrest for ARMED robbery

600 E ST NE at 1230 hours - female citizen had b/m in his twenties approached and grab her purse - he then fled East on E ST

1400 G ST SE at 1425 hours - male citizen reported that three b/m youth (12-16 yrs old) jumped him and took his money - they fled towards Kentucky Avenue

300 17th St NE at 2253 hours - female citizen reports two b/m about 16-17 yrs old approached at gunpoint and demanded her purse and cellphone - they threatened to shoot her if she didnt comply - they then fled onto East Capital St towards the Armory metro

**1200 East Capital St SE at 2330 hours - female citizen was approached by three males at gunpoint who jumped out of silver 4door car and robbed her of 20 dollars -they jumped back in car and fled sb on 12th to Independence Ave

**1600 Massachusetts Ave SE at 2339 hours- female citizen reports being approached by three males at gunpoint who pulled gun and demanded her purse and money -they then fled in silver 4d car with white tint and fled sb on 17th ST to Independence AVe

Sunday May 20th

**1200 G St SE at 0110 hours - a couple walking past the park at 1300 G ST SE rea reported three males approached at gunpoint and put gun to males head and told female to give up some money or they would shoot male - she gave up money and the suspects jumped into silver car that was parked in 1200 G st se

900 N Carolina Ave SE at 1505 hours - female citizen reports black male in his thirties snatched her purse from shoulder and fled in car that was parked (unk description per citizen???)

815 F St NE at 1840 hours - male citizens was jumped by three young males who was taking his money when neighbors intervened and called Mpd who responded and apprehended one fleeing youth --arrest was made in 900 G ST NE

500 14th ST SE at 1920 hours - female citizen was approached by another young female who beat her in the face and took wallet and ran down the street - officers responded and located the female suspect and placed her under arrest for robbery