PSA 102

PSA102 Public Safety Committee Has Moved

2008-07-17T08:03:00.001-04:00

The PSA 102 Public Safety Committee has moved.
The new address is MPD1DPSA102.BLOGSPOT.COM

March PSA 102 Meeting Agenda and Minutes

2008-05-22T21:58:00.003-04:00

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.

February Agenda and Minutes

2008-05-22T21:46:00.003-04:00

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.

Next meeting is Tuesday, 11 March 2008.

Charged with Rape Suspect returns to the Community

2008-02-14T12:46:00.002-05:00

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

January PSA 102 Meeting Notes

2008-01-15T12:32:00.000-05:00

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.

'Big 8' Burglary Arrestees

2008-01-09T22:36:00.000-05:00

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)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. K. Fersner

2008-01-09T21:46:00.000-05:00

PSA 102 Rules of the Road Safety Meeting: Nov. 30

2007-11-28T22:34:00.000-05:00

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

Deter Burglaries with These Tips

2007-11-27T12:22:00.000-05:00

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.

November PSA 102 Meeting Report

2007-11-25T12:49:00.000-05:00

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.

Foot and Bike Patrol Beats in PSA 102

2007-11-18T12:48:00.000-05:00

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 2007 PSA 102 Crime Stats, Burglaries

2007-11-18T12:39:00.000-05:00

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.

Nov. 1 Homicide Info: 900 block of 12th St NE

2007-11-18T11:29:00.000-05:00

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.

Vice Squad Leader to Speak at Nov. 13 PSA 102 Meeting

2007-11-07T22:32:00.001-05:00

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

MPD Launches New Patrol Car Technology

2007-11-07T21:46:00.000-05:00

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.

Shorter Days...Check Your Area Streetlights

2007-11-06T21:33:00.000-05:00

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.

October PSA 102 Meeting Report

2007-10-15T13:27:00.000-04:00

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.

PSA 102 Blue: Commander David Kamperin

2007-10-10T07:13:00.000-04:00

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)

New MPD Commander Kamperin at Oct. 9 PSA 102 meeting

2007-10-03T18:30:00.000-04:00

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.

****

September Meeting Report

2007-09-21T18:04:00.001-04:00

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 Newspaper Covers Gallaudet Issues at PSA 102

2007-09-16T15:54:00.000-04:00

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.

Sex Offender Released in PSA 102

2007-09-04T12:11:00.000-04:00

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.

Police Seek Suspect in Reported Robbery

2007-09-04T12:05:00.000-04:00

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

2007-08-19T21:02:00.000-04:00

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.

Really Cookin' During National Night Out

2007-08-09T09:11:00.000-04:00

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)

H Street Community Walk for National Night Out: Aug. 7

2007-08-02T09:51:00.000-04:00

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.

July Meeting Notes

2007-07-22T16:46:00.000-04:00

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.

PSA 102 Blue: Officer Simmons

2007-07-15T18:13:00.000-04:00

PSA 102 Blue: Master Patrol Officer Burgess

2007-07-15T18:08:00.000-04:00

June 28 Community Walk

2007-07-03T16:11:00.001-04:00

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)

Notes from the June PSA 102 Meeting

2007-07-03T15:38:00.000-04:00

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.

Burglaries Jump in PSA 102

2007-06-07T14:51:00.000-04:00

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.

Neighborhood PSA 102 Flyer Distribution Dates Set

2007-06-07T13:29:00.000-04:00

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.

Weekend Robbery Spree in First District (May 18-20)

2007-05-21T13:52:00.000-04:00

(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

PSA 102 Meeting Minutes May 8th 2007

2007-05-13T22:32:00.001-04:00

(Thank you to Pickford St NE residents Dave Lawder and Claudia McNamara for providing the May 8th meeting minutes.)

* Note: PSA 102 Citizen Coordinator Dave Klavitter requested official meeting minutes be recorded by a volunteer and those official notes will appear on the PSA 102 Blog: http://psa102.blogspot.com.

* PSA 102 Email network may be accessed at http://groups.google.com/group/NELink

* MPD First District news of recent crimes and responses to questions from the public may be accessed at the First District Listserv http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MPD-1D

* PSA 102 Citizen Coordinator Dave Klavitter may be contacted personally at 202.547-5745 or klavitter@gmail.com

* The next PSA 102 Meeting is June 12 at 7 p.m. at Sherwood Community Center located at 10th & G St NE. Subsequent meetings are the second Tuesday of each month.

GENERAL:
This meeting had a pretty big turnout. More than 17 residents of PSA 102 and approximately 8 MPD officers attended the meeting in addition to Lt. Barbara Hawkins and ANC Commissioners Raphael Marshall (6A) and Anne Phelps (6C). Hiram Brewton II, Mayor Fenty's Ward 6 Neighborhood Services Coordinator also attended the meeting as well as Carolyn Crank from the U.S. Attorneys Office (First District rep) who joins in on certain patrols and major operations such as drug busts. (DOJ handles prosecution duties in D.C.'s federally run courts system)

NOTES
Overall, crime is down in PSA 102, with 73 crimes logged in April versus about 118 in April 2006. The big drop was in car thefts, down to 6 from 37 last year. But there was an increase in thefts and burglaries. There have been a lot of break-ins involving houses under renovation. In many cases, the owners have left the property unsecured and the thieves have simply entered unimpeded to steal tools and construction materials. Lt. Hawkins' advice was to make sure your property is secure. Lock everything up when you are not around; don't make it easy for people. She cautioned all residents to be aware of their surroundings and crime. The most recent crime reports may be accessed at the links listed at the top of this email.

Lt. Hawkins said there have been a couple of bike patrols started up recently in the area and has plans to request more of these. We've seen some of them riding through alleys on Pickford. She also plans to launch a motor scooter patrol in the next month that would go up and down F Street from about 2nd Street all the way to Pickford, then circle back on G Street. She emphasized that the police want to make their presence known and "get in the faces" of drug dealers and would-be thieves. If they're hanging around looking like they're up to no good, they can expect the cops to come up to them asking questions like "what are you doing here, what's your name, where do you live?"

The bike patrols also are part of a PSA 102 action plan to address several recent burglaries--all details not appropriate to disclose at this time.

When residents do call the MPD at either 911 or 311, clear, accurate and detailed information is required. Details of personal or physical appearance, mode of transport and car tag number are best. Lt. Hawkins also suggested that residents notice and record details of the shoes worn by alleged suspect, because these are not usually changed following a crime.

Lt. Hawkins also asked that residents email the MPD in addition to their neighbors during/after noticing an incident or person of interest.

Regarding graffiti near 3rd/H NE and 4th/G NE, the gang intelligence unit will research and determine if District graffiti is the work of taggers or "graffiti artists", or by alleged gang members. Residents should call 911 if they observe person/s actively creating graffiti. Residents who would like to request that graffiti be cleaned or removed should contact the Mayor's hotline 202.727.1000 and record the tracking number.

GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY
Dr. Richard Lytle of Gallaudet University was unavailable and ANC6C Commissioner Anne Phelps attended the meeting in his place to announce that Gallaudet has recently enacted a Code of Conduct applicable to off-campus students This Code of Conduct is identical to that of students who reside on-campus and is meant to create improved, pro-active relations between students who live off-campus and their PSA 102 non-student neighbors. This off-campus code is similar to the practices followed by other universities in DC, such as Georgetown, Howard, American and GWU. Commissioner Anne Phelps will liaise with Dr. Lytle to add an e-link of the Code of Conduct to the PSA 102 website. American Sign Language interpreters were available during the meeting.
Learn more about the code here: http://www.gallaudet.edu/x1485.xml

MPD Officers Myra Jordan and Goldie Easterlin represent the MPD's Hard of Hearing Unit.

CITIZEN’S ACADEMY
Lt. Hawkins has suggested the formation of a Citizens Academy that would provide instruction and insights to the workings of the MPD so that resident citizens are better informed of procedures, appropriate responses and follow-through, as well as deciphering common acronyms used by members of the MPD. The Citizen Academy also fosters understanding of the MPD by resident citizens. Dave Klavitter and Lt. Hawkins will forward a survey to interested residents who contact them at the email address provided at the top of this email.

FLYER DISTRIBUTION
MPD PSA 102 flyers will be distributed at five locations in PSA 102. Distribution date to be announced. The five locations are: 8th/H Street NE; 14th/H St NE; 10th/K NE; Union Station/2nd Mass NE; New York Avenue Metro station. Please contact Dave Klavitter at the email provided above if you would like to participate.

This is an opportunity to meet fellow residents, foster cooperation with the MPD and to provide pertinent information to neighbors. Distribution will be assigned in one-hour shifts.

OTHER:
Approximately 20 residents participated in the April 19th Walk organized in response to the alleged sexual assault near the Checkers restaurant at 14th/Maryland NE. Lt. Hawkins said this case is still open and progress is being made.

A registered sex offender will take residence in PSA 102 and will join 27 other registered offenders in the Police Service Area; there are 682 registered sex offenders living in The District. A flyer with photograph and description of this individual was available at the meeting.

Gallaudet Rep's May 8 Appearance to be Rescheduled

2007-05-08T15:01:00.000-04:00

Dr. Richard Lytle, special assistant to the president of Gallaudet University, who was scheduled to address the school’s recently changed policy for off-campus student behavior, had to cancel his appearance at the PSA 102 May 8 meeting.

He said he would reschedule his appearance.

MPD Releases Images of Vehicle Suspected in Hit-and-Run

2007-05-04T07:44:00.000-04:00

The Metropolitan Police Dept. has released video camera images of the SUV that struck and killed 6-year-old Crysta Spencer as she was crossing the 6th Street NE on April 23. MPD has offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information about the driver.

Visit MPD's website for images and a description of the vehicle and its supsected route of travel.

Monthly Community Police Meeting is May 8

2007-05-01T11:35:00.001-04:00

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: May 8 (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 April crime statistics [10 minutes]

* Community walk on April 19; Checkers business response [5 minutes]
* Update on April 23 hit-and-run death of Crysta Spencer; traffic calming response [10 minutes]
* Incidents near 10th and H St NE [5 minutes]

* Dr. Richard Lytle, special assistant to the president of Gallaudet University will address the school’s recently changed policy for off-campus student behavior. [15 minutes]

* Determine additional locations, dates and volunteers for flyer distribution [5 minutes]

* Citizen Police Academy Update [5 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! ****

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

Community Walks Against Crime

2007-04-19T22:19:00.000-04:00

Residents, business, police and community leaders gathered at 13th and G Streets NE Thursday night and walked the H Street neighborhood. Among those who joined the walk: Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, ANC6A Commissioner Bill Schultheiss, MPD Commander Diane Groomes and PSA 102 Lt. Barbara Hawkins; Robert Pittman of the Linden Neighborhood Association; and Anwar Saleem of H Street Main Street.

A young activist prepares to tour the neighborhood as Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells welcomes the community to 13th and G Streets NE. ANC6A Commissioner Bill Schultheiss also coordinated the walk. CLICK TO ENLARGE Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

H Street Main Street Chair Anwar Saleem (center) walks with residents through the alley behind the Atlas Theater. (CLICK TO ENLARGE Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

In the alley behind Joy of Motion Dance, a detective from the MPD Sex Crimes Branch explains information surrounding a sexual assault reported on April 4. (CLICK TO ENLARGE Copyright © 2007. David Klavitter)

MPD: Sexual Assault Suspect Sought

2007-04-12T18:41:00.000-04:00

Drawing from a press release posted on MPD website today (CLICK TO ENLARGE).

At approximately 5 pm on Wednesday, April 4, 2007, an adult female was walking in the 1300 block of G Street, NE. It was at this time that she was reportedly approached by a male who produced a knife and forced her into an alley in the rear of 1336 G Street, NE. A second subject acted as a look out while the first subject sexually assaulted her before both men fled.

The first suspect in this case is described as a black male in his late thirties, medium complexion, 6'1" tall, 200 pounds with a mixed gray beard. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweat shirt and dark colored stone washed jeans. The second suspect is described as a black male in his twenties with a light complexion. He was last seen wearing a black baseball cap and black jacket.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099 or the department’s Crime Solvers Unit at 1-800-673-2777. All calls to Crime Solvers are confidential. If a caller provides information through Crime Solvers that leads to an arrest and indictment, he/she will be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Also, PSA 102 Lt. Barbara Hawkins reports two additional sex offenders have registered to live within the PSA 102 community. These men are NOT wanted by police, but the courts require them to be listed on the registry.

More information and mugshots are available on MPD's Sex Offender Registry.

MPD Sex Crimes Unit Addresses April 4 Reported Assault

2007-04-11T10:45:00.000-04:00

Several officers from MPD's Sex Crimes Branch attended the April 10 monthly PSA 102 meeting to brief residents and answer questions about an April 4 sexual assault reported in the alley near the 1300 block of G Street NE. MPD Sgt. Hill said officers were following several leads in the case, as well as reviewing the public sex offender registry.

No additional public safety issues exists at this time, said Hill, but pointed out residents must always be vigilant and aware of one's surroundings anywhere in the city.

MPD will communicate any additional developments in the case via listserv and during the May 8 PSA 102 meeting.

As of early April, 26 registered sex offenders were listed as living or working in PSA 102. Search the District of Columbia's Sex Offender Registry.

Reward Offered in April 4 Assault Case

2007-04-10T16:29:00.000-04:00

MPD First District Commander Diane Groomes distributed this information today:

UP TO $1,000 REWARD

AT APPROXIMATELY 5:45 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 2007, A WOMAN WAS SEXUALLY ASSAULTED BY ONE OF TWO MEN WHO FORCED HER INTO THE REAR OF 1336 G STREET, N.E.

THE FIRST SUSPECT IN THIS CASE IS DESCRIBED AS SUSPECT NUMBER ONE IS DESCRIBED AS A BLACK, MALE, 30’S, 6’1”, 200 LBS, MEDIUM COMPL, MIXED GRAY BEARD, BLACK HOODIE, STONE WASHED BLUE JEANS, BLACK TENNIS SHOES, ARMED WITH A KNIFE THAT HAS A WOODEN HANDLE AND A HOOK ON THE END. SUSPECT #2 IS DESCRIBED AS A B/M, LIGHT COMPLEXION, BLACK BASEBALL CAP, AND BLACK JACKET WITH A ZIPPER IN THE FRONT.

THE POLICE ARE ASKING ANYONE WITH INFORMATION TO PLEASE CALL THE DEPARTMENT’S OPERATIONS COMMAND CENTER AT 202/727-9099 OR THE DEPARTMENT’S CRIME SOLVERS UNIT AT 1-800-673-2777. ALL CALLS TO CRIME SOLVERS ARE CONFIDENTIAL. IF A CALLER PROVIDES INFORMATION THROUGH CRIME SOLVERS THAT LEADS TO AN ARREST AND INDICTMENT, HE/SHE WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR A REWARD OF UP TO ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS.

PSA Meeting is April 10

2007-04-10T00:02:00.000-04:00

Community concerns about crime and other current public safety issues also can be discussed during the regularly scheduled monthly Police Service Area (PSA) 102 meeting Tuesday, April 10, 7-8:30 p.m. at Sherwood Rec Center. Converse with MPD officers responsible for patroling the neighborhoods.

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. See the MPD website and map to determine your PSA.

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

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Thermidor

2007-03-04T19:38:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. Thermidor during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Delucca

2007-03-02T22:56:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. Delucca listens to a resident during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Oliva

2007-03-01T09:08:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. Oliva chats with Pickford Place NE residents during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Thomas

2007-02-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. Thomas during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Ridlehoover

2007-02-21T23:31:00.000-05:00

During the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting, MPD Ofc. Ridlehoover, who walks the H Street NE beat during the evenings, discusses recent crime issues. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Williams

2007-02-19T21:42:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. Williams during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting. Williams covers the H Street NE beat during the day shift, and often can be seen covering the area on his patrol bicycle. (Klavitter photo)

Feb. 13 Montly Meeting Minues

2007-02-18T15:25:00.001-05:00

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

PSA OFFICIALS ATTENDING (in addition to 16 PSA residents):
Lt. Hawkins
Sgt. Washington
MPO. Johnson
Ofc. Ridlehoover
Ofc. Oliva
Ofc. Delucca
Ofc. Thermidor
Ofc. Williams
Ofc. Thomas
David Klavitter (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)

MINUTES
*** Introduction of new PSA 102 Lt. Barbara Hawkins, other officers and community members

*** Shared information on the MPD First District Listserv as a good resource for posting and receiving timely information about neighborhood safety and crime issues:
First District listserv: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MPD-1D

*** Discussed PSA 102 program developments for 2007, including:
- Neighborhood block captains, who can serve as communication points for blocks throughout PSA.
- More effective us of Partnership for Problem Solving process.
- Lt. Hawkins discussed the process of: 1) identifying potential problems, 2) voting on priority projects and 3) as a community, focus on fixing that problem until it is completely resolved.
- Further discussion of the PSP will be continued at the next meeting.

*** Citizen Police Academy
- Lt. Hawkins described the Academy as a six week (one hour/week) training session in which a minimum of 10-15 people would be trained to better understand why and how MPD officers operate.
- Lt. Hawkins invited the PSA 102 meeting attendees to organize a group interested in participating in the Academy.

*** Meet and greets and distribution of safety information at foot traffic points (Metrorail stations/ Metrobus stops)
- Police and community members discussed distributing brochures/flyers to educate community members on the “Top 10 ways to avoid becoming a victim of crime”
- Community members encouraged representatives to remember New York Avenue Metro in addition to Union Station.

*** Reviewed January crime statistics
- All crimes are in a downward trend except burglaries, theft from auto and auto theft.
- PSA 102 has currently in operation a special task force (plainclothes, etc) to curb the trend. Complete D.C. crime maps can be accessed online at: http://crimemap.dc.gov/presentation/intro.asp
- Police encourage citizens to keep homes, front and back yards less inviting to strangers by:
- Keeping porch lights on or use motion lights
- Requesting the District to cut tree branches/shrubbery away from street lights
- Calling 3-1-1 if you see suspicious activity/trespassing. If a crime is in progress, call 9-1-1 and identify as many details about the suspect as possible (scars, voice, teeth, etc.)
- Get to know your neighbors and watch out for each other

*** Discussed community interests:
- Pickford Place NE – recent spike in crimes (armed robbery, prostitution, stolen car, etc.)
* Police repeated the recommendations listed above.
* Community discussed Multi-Agency Plan drafted by ANC 6A Commissioner Joe Fengler.
* Citizens have recently experienced firewood salesmen coming to the doors. Police encouraged citizens to NOT open the door.

- February 1 homicide at H and 10th ST NE
* Police reported this was the first homicide in the area in approximately two years
* While the case is still open and the police cannot discuss thoroughly, Officer Johnson assured citizens that the situation was not random and that there exists no public safety concerns related to this.

- Double parking at area churches on Sundays
* Citizen identified this as a health and safety issue, inquiring why cars are not ticketed.
* Lt. Hawkins indicated that this issue was a long-term challenge for the District and that it may be a good topic for the Partnership for Problem Solving.

- Gallaudet University
* Citizen raised concern over lack of officers that are proficient in Sign Language
* The group discussed options for training existing police officers and identifying the resources (within MPD) to enable them to do so.

ACTION ITEMS:
*** Develop ideas for greater participation in monthly PSA 102 meetings:
- Citizens Academy information
- Block captain organization
*** Procure MPD public safety flyers to distribute to pedestrians
- Locations: 1) Union Station near D, E, and F Streets NE; 2) neighborhoods near New York Avenue Metro Station; 3) People walking home from busy bus stops along H St NE; 4) Distribute to all businesses in PSA;
*** Review Pickford Place NE Multi-Agency Plan;
*** Find additional people or funding for Sign Language.

PSA 102 Blue: Lt. Hawkins

2007-02-17T23:09:00.000-05:00

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) PSA 102 Lt. Hawkins talks with a resident during the Feb. 13, 2007 monthly PSA 102 meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center. (Klavitter photo)

Thefts from Auto and Auto Thefts Trend Upward in PSA 102

2007-02-12T11:32:00.000-05:00

During monthly Police Service Area (PSA) 102 meetings, we track, over a two year period, crimes in several catagories reported to MPD each month. These catgories include: homicide, sexual assault, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, theft, theft from auto, and stolen auto (drug crimes are not yet factored in by MPD).

In PSA 102 (which includes H Street NE) during the two-year period ending Jan. 31, statistics show a downward trend in homicides, robberies, burglaries, assaults with deadly weapon, and thefts.

However, the two catagories with steep upward trends: thefts from auto and auto thefts.

Community Police Meeting is Feb. 13

2007-02-05T19:50:00.001-05:00

******************************
QUICK QUESTION: In which Police Service Area (PSA) do I reside?

ANSWER: 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. See the MPD website and map to determine your PSA.
******************************

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

AGENDA:
* Welcome; greetings [5 minutes]

* Meet new PSA 102 Lt. Barbara Hawkins; other PSA 102 officers [10 minutes]

* PSA 102 program developments for 2007 [15 minutes]:
- Establish neighborhood block captains
- More effective use of Partnership for Problem Solving Process
- Launch Citizen Police Academy
- Meet and greet, public safety information distribution at high foot traffic points
- Coordination with community on H Street nuisance crimes

* Proposed moratorium of single alcohol container sales on H Street NE; anti-litter campaign [10 minutes]
- ANC6C Commissioner Alan Kimber

* Summary of Feb. 3 First District Crime Summit [5 minutes]

* Review January crime statistics; police plan in response to increased burglaries [10 minutes]

* Issues discussion [25 minutes]:
- Pickford Place NE;
- Jan. 31 police chase and subsequent suspect apprehension by S.W.A.T.
- Feb. 1 homicide at H and 10th St NE
- Traffic sign on 2nd & F St NE
- New hotspots?

**** 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! ****

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

Best Wishes to Lt. McInnis, Coles, Lesnick; Welcome Lt. Hawkins

2007-02-04T11:25:00.001-05:00

With the retirement of Lt. Sharon McInnis from MPD in December, Lt. Barbara Hawkins has been assigned to PSA 102. She comes to the PSA from MPD's school security division.

On Thursday evening, Lt. Hawkins and I met for several hours to discuss PSA 102 issues and objectives for 2007. We walked H Street, met Kenfe Bellay at Sidamo Coffee, Clifton Humphries at the H Street Martini Lounge, and Shawn at the Argonaut. Lt. Hawkins has some terrific ideas and a ton of energy. Meet her and other MPD officers at the Feb. 13 PSA 102 meeting.

Also, I'm bummed to say that career obligations have moved my co-coordinator, Marc Lesnick, to San Diego, Calif. His dedication to the community will be missed. Also, MPD Community Outreach Coordinator Alphonso Coles has moved to new opportunities.

Thanks to Lt. McInnis, Marc, and Alphonso for their service and dedication.

Dave Klavitter

Commander at December Meeting

2006-12-14T21:38:00.000-05:00

Metropolitan Police Dept. First District Commander Diane Groomes is flanked by officers as she discusses crime issues with the PSA 102 community on Dec. 12. She said nine recruits will be walking footbeats throughout the First District during the holidays. She also said incoming MPD police chief Cathy Lanier is soliciting ideas and feedback from citizens about what MPD can do better. (David Klavitter photo)

Police Unveil New Interactive Crime Map

2006-10-26T10:01:00.000-04:00

Have you seen MPD’s new crime mapping available on their web site? "It is dynamite," says volunteer PSA 102 stats guru Roger Mattioli.

You can break it down by geographic area or PSA and by any dates that you want. It is exactly the mapping that we have been asking them to provide for years and just recently being provided by Commander Diane Groomes.

"Now if we can verify the accuracy and match to those on the monthly reports, we will be in much better shape to pin point crime areas and help MPD to address them," says Mattioli.

http://crimemap.dc.gov/presentation/intro.asp

September 2006 Crime Stats

2006-10-13T11:27:00.000-04:00

CLICK TO ENLARGE MAP

Survey Findings at H & 8th Street NE

2006-08-21T12:17:00.000-04:00

During our Aug. 8 Police Service Area 102 meeting, participating residents toured the sidewalks and alleys near the H & 8th Street NE intersection. As part of the community-policing concept of Partnership for Problem Solving, we identified a collection of quality of life issues to be addressed by all stakeholders (residents/customers, businesses, city agencies, Metro Transit) to create an environment which is both safe and clean for everyone. MPD was represented by PSA 102 Lt. Sharon McInnis, outreach coordinator Al Coles, and H Street Beat Officers Walsh and Nguyen.

One business owner from the Ohio Restaurant attended the meeting, and we welcome more input from H Street businesses and HSMS. The next step is to prioritize the issues and bring together all stakeholders to outline an action plan to rememdy the problems. Our objective is to expand the model east and west along the H Street corridor.

Our next PSA 102 meeting is Sept. 12, 7-8:30 p.m. at Sherwood Rec Center, 10th and G Streets NE.

SUMMARY FINDINGS:
Streets (general)
* Gum (black spots) on the sidewalks
* Unkempt tree boxes
* Trash bags outside of city trash containers
* Litter
* Street light out
* Overgrown weeds/shrubs in south alley of 700 block of H Street
* Urination/Feces behind the Foot Locker
* Trash dumped in alley behind Foot Locker
* Empty beer cans
* Rusty chain around base of street light/sign
* Graffiti

Businesses
* Hidden ATM (Bank of America), insufficient lighting
* Suntrust ATM, insufficient lighting
* Faded, torn, dirty, temporary (vinyl) signage displayed too long.
* Burned out lights on H Street Connection store signs.
* Unkempt bushes at H Street Connection.
* Scratched, clouded plexiglass windows in restaurant establishments.
* Blue tubs behind H Street Connection (Rite Aid)
* Mattresses behind H Street Connection
* Rent-a-Center trucks parked in H Street Connection, blocking view of interior sidewalks
* Signs of public urination and defecation inside H Street Connection, behind Rite Aid and behind Foot Locker
* Pouring grease down drain in alley (700 block of H, north side)

Other
* Overuse of truck Jake Breaks http://www.jakebrake.com/support/faqs.php#FAQ9
* Illegal Posters
* Open all window roll-down shutters when business is open (i.e. Sports Zone)
* Unlicensed vendors (CDs, singles, cigarettes, etc.)
* Assess the positioning of four bus stops. Could reduce pedestrian overcrowding in one area.
* Bus-stop shelter glass is shattered about once per month.
* Passed out men/drunk men corner of 7th and H/I (called D.C. Fire / EMS to assist)
* Abandoned call-boxes (candidates for artistic improvement)

Surveying H Street NE Issues

2006-08-08T21:17:00.000-04:00

Residents and MPD officers survey the intersection of H and 8th Streets NE for issues that can be addressed through the Partnership for Problem Solving process. (Kara Bunte photo)

Friends, Neighbors and the Mayor at National Night Out

2006-08-01T22:40:00.000-04:00

The heat didn't stop Washington D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams (right) and other neighbors from dancing the Electric Slide--led by MPD Sgt. L Washington (center)--during the PSA 102 National Night Out event at Sherwood Recreation Center. Among the festivities were a DJ, moon bounce, face painting, grilled food, and drinks. Click for a larger view. (Klavitter photo)

Children lined up for the always-popular face painting. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (David Klavitter photo)

MPD Assistant Chief Brian Jordan tries his hand at the hoops. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (David Klavitter photo)

Enjoying the moon bounce. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (David Klavitter photo)
Serving up grilled hot dogs and fried catfish. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (David Klavitter photo)

Cotton candy was a hit with children and adults alike. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (David Klavitter photo)

Dave and Al in a more serious moment during PSA 102's National Night Out. (CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW) (Kara Bunte photo)

National Night Out is Aug. 1

2006-07-24T16:25:00.000-04:00

Join your PSA 102 friends and neighbors Tuesday, Aug. 1 at Sherwood Recreation Center (10th & G St. NE) for a community celebration against crime. Among the festivities will be a live band, DJ, moon bounce, face painting, grilled food, and drinks. It all happens from 6-9 p.m.

National Night Out is an annual event, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, that takes place on the first Tuesday in August. Each year, the Metropolitan Police Department actively participates in National Night Out by rallying community members throughout the District of Columbia to join with neighbors and police officers in their PSAs to be a part of this annual event.

The National Night Out campaign involves citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from 9,500 communities from all 50 states, US territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide.

National Night Out is designed to:

* Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
* Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
* Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
* Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

See you Tuesday, Aug. 1!

MPD Wants Your Nuisance Issues

2006-07-17T15:04:00.000-04:00

MPD Police Service Area (PSA 102) Lt. Sharon McInnis is compiling a list of nuisance issues within PSA 102 that D.C. municipal serve agencies potentially could address during the current “crime emergency.” These issues could include, but are not limited to:

* Broken street signs and lights;
* Missing street signs;
* Abandoned cars;
* Broken sidewalks;
* Illegal posters;
* Broken windows;
* Piles of trash or debris in alleys or private property;
* Overgrown weeds or brush in alleys, or over sidewalks;

Please be as specific as possible about the issue and provide a precise address. No need to provide your name. The deadline is July 20. Please email them directly to Lt. McInnis at: Sharon.McInnis@dc.gov

July 11 PSA Meeting Continues H & 8th St PPS

2006-07-11T15:24:00.000-04:00

CLICK TO ENLARGE (SOURCE: Metropolitan Police Dept.)

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: July 11 (2nd Tuesday of each month)
TIME: 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Sherwood Recreation Center , 640 10th St NE

AGENDA:
* Review crime stats

* Notify community that the PSA 102 listerv on Yahoo no longer functions; identify NELink and First District listserv (MPD-1) on Yahoo as the alternatives

* Continue using the Partnership for Problem Solving process to identify and address the challenges to public safety on H St

* Review residents' PPS input from June 13 meeting;

* Discuss and create consensus on most pressing/resolvable problem(s) with residents and local business stakeholders;

* Begin discussion of strategies to reduce this problem and develop next steps plan.

* Open forum

June 13 Meeting to Focus on H Street Priorities

2006-06-13T15:44:00.000-04:00

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

AGENDA:

* Begin using the Partnership for Problem Solving process to identify and address the challenges to public safety on H St:

On June 1st, a core group of stakeholders (residents, police, business owners and city services) met to begin developing an integrated plan to address safety and quality of life issues on the entire H street corridor. This first meeting included:

MPD Assistant Chief Brian Jordan
1D Commander Diane Groomes
Mark Dixon from ANC 6C
Joseph Fengler from ANC 6A
Anwar Saleem, Chairman of H St. Main Street
Hiram Brewton from the Downtown BID
Other community, police and business stakeholders.

All agreed that that an integrated plan is needed to address the public safety issues that effect all residents and business on the H st. corridor. Further, all agreed that the PSA meeting is a good place to begin to develop this plan.

Therefore, the PSA meeting in June will be the first opportunity for feedback from the community on the issues they would like to focus our combined efforts towards improving. These issues might include:

* Alleys or streets with poor lighting that encourage illegal activities
* Thefts from vehicles
* Robberies
* Safety at bus stops
* Littering and overflowing receptacles
* Damaged storefronts that encourage loitering
* Public drinking and intoxication
* Drug dealing
* Public urination and defecation

Addressing any of these problems will not be easy, but the only chance for fixing them is for all of the stakeholders to work together to create a multifaceted solution.

Please come prepared to discuss the problems YOU see on H St., and ready to have productive discussions about using the resources of the city and the community to help improve these problems, for the benefit of all.

For this first meeting, we will try to focus on the issues facing the corner of 8th and H Street, and try to use the strategies we identity for this area to address the problems east and west down H St.

May 9 Meeting Minutes

2006-05-16T18:51:00.000-04:00

PSA 102 Meeting
Tuesday, May 9, 2006
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

In Attendance:

Lt. Tracie Simmons, Washington Metro Transit Police Dept. (WMATA PD)
Sgt. Sawyer, (WMATA PD)
Sgt. Washington – 1st District, MPD
Sgt. Mapp, MPD
David Klavitter (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Marc Lesnick (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Roger Mattioli (previous PSA Coordinator and Current PSA 102 Statistician)
Other Community Members and MPD Officers

MINUTES

* Discussion of Public Safety with Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Police Lt Tracie Simmons:
Lt Simmons and Sgt Sawyer from WMPD were present to describe the role of their force in protecting citizens, and to answer the community’s questions about what enforcement activities WMPD performs in our PSA.

- WMATA PD role is to police the metro trains, metro stations, buses, and bus stations that are part of WMATA PD in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia

- WMATA PD’s jurisdiction includes all bus-stops, and extends 150 ft from each bus stop

- WMATA PD tries to coordinate with other police jurisdictions on their activities, since they overlap with these other forces,

- One tool WMATA PD uses to deal with high crime areas are to organize “HITEs”: “High Intensity Targeted Enforcements”

- These events feature zero tolerance for minor infractions, and the use of both uniformed and plainclothes police to enhance safety.

- She stated that the bus stop on 8th and H St is a known high crime area, and that a HITE was performed there recently

During question and answer session, much of the questioning was about why Metro Transit Police presence was clearly evident at Gallery Place/Chinatown, but much less evident at 8th and H or at 14 and Benning Rd.--two well known crime hot spots. Lt Simmons answered that they had limited resources to cover a wide area, and that they place officers at the high volume Gallery Place area to protect the people there for all of the special events that occur there. This was not greeted with enthusiasm by the audience.

Another question about how WMATA PD plans to deal with the increase in evening passengers on H St as the new bars and theatres open, to address their safety. Her answer is that there currently is no unified plan, but that if special events occur, WMATA PD should be notified so that they can allot officers accordingly.

A community member brought up the problem of people using a bus stop at 10th and K as a convenient location for selling drugs. The Lt. thanked the citizen for this information, and promised to address the situation.

As a final follow up, Lt. Simmons stated that she would likely be able to get the community information monthly on the crimes that occur on transit and at bus stops within our area- this will be valuable, along with the other MPD crime reports, to allow citizens to be knowledgeable about crime trends in order to better protect themselves.

CRIME STATISTICS

Many types of crime were significantly down for the month of April, but there was a sharp increase in auto theft. MPD mentioned that the decrease in burglaries seen in the last two months was because of arrests that led to the closing of 74 open burglaries in our PSA. MPD’s Sgt Rogers is working on a plan to address the high rate of stolen vehicles, and in addition, officers from the MPD tactical group (plain-clothes) are taking voluntary overtime to patrol the PSA to combat this problem. Interestingly, this increase in auto theft correlates with a drop in theft from auto- it is possible that the thieves are opting to steal vehicles instead of merely stealing items form them!

H AND 8TH STREET PARTNERSHIP FOR PROBLEM SOLVING

The continuing problems of armed robberies, drugs, public drinking, public urination and public defecation at the corner of H and 8th have risen to the level where the neighbors in the vicinity believe that it is time for a concerted effort to decrease the level of crime in this well known hotspot. The PSA coordinators, along with Lt. Mcinnis, will work to get together all of the stakeholders in this area, including the citizens who live there, the businesses located near the corner, and the liquor stores that supply the alcohol that fuels many of these problems. Stay tuned for meeting info for this important event.

ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING

A Community member requested that we get speakers to address safety issues specific (and not so specific) to women. Marc and Dave, with the MPD, will try to find such a speaker!

April 2006 Crime Map

2006-05-09T12:00:00.000-04:00

CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW. Source: Metropolitan Police Department

Metro Transit Police Slated for May 9 Meeting

2006-05-08T14:52:00.000-04:00

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

AGENDA:
* Washington Metro Area Transit Authority Police Lt. Tracie Simmons will meet with residents and MPD to discuss crime issues related to bus and rail stations—especially on H Street NE. In addition to Metrorail stations, WMATA police have jurisdiction over most bus stops and buses.

* Assess results of MPD burglary and robbery focus. Review other statistics.

* Identify problem areas in PSA 102 which citizens can remedy through the Partnership for Problem Solving (PPS) process.

**** 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! ****

April 11, 2006 PSA Meeting Minutes

2006-04-30T10:43:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, April 11, 2006
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

>>> IN ATTENDANCE <<<
Sgt. Rice, MPD Sexual Assault Division
Lt. Ron Wilkins, MPD Focused Mission
Lt. Sharon Mcinnis, MPD, PSA 102 LT
Alphonso Coles (MPD Community Outreach Coordinator)
David Klavitter (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Marc Lesnick (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Roger Mattioli (previous PSA coordinator and current PSA 102 statistician)
Other Community Members and MPD Officers

* Meeting minutes, charts, photographs and more can be accessed on the PSA 102 website at http://psa102.blogspot.com.

>>> MINUTES <<<
* SEXUAL ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS posted on an online community listserv were addressed by MPD Sgt. Rice. He was sent by Commander Groomes to discuss community concerns about an alleged sexual assault that occurred in the 900 block of 8th ST NE the previous weekend. He stated that there are no other assaults that appear to be linked to this incident, and that the MPD would notify the community if there was any evidence that pattern of assaults was occurring.

He said because of the difficult nature of investigating sexual assaults, an investigation was ongoing to determine if a crime had occurred. If it is determined that a crime occurred, charges will be filed.

Lt. Mcinnis praised the online listservs and blogs as important communication tools for the community. However, she cautioned residents to be careful about posting allegations as factual information, especially when police investigations are not complete.

THE MPD FOCUSED MISSION TEAM IS THE MAIN ENFORCER OF VICE LAWS explained Lt. Ron Wilkins from First District Focused Mission. He said the goal of Focused Mission is the enforcement of vice laws, especially those relating to the sale and use of illegal drugs.

Lt. Wilkins

His group is comprised of 19 officers and two sergeants, and they work throughout the First District to make arrests at locations that have been referred to them by other officers, the community, or their informants. Because of the limited resources of the group, they must prioritize their operations to the areas/individuals that are most important.

Lt. Wilkins explained:

* Focused Mission makes about 100 arrests per month, and they obtain about four arrest warrants per month;

* He stated that he would consider using a community member's house as a base of operation to observe criminal activities only as a last resort;

* He recently lost the officer who specialized in working on nuisance abatement properties- he hopes to replace the officer soon;

* He reminded the attendees that there is no anti-loitering law in D.C., and that only individuals actually engaged in criminal activity are the focus of his group;

* His group was also the one responsible for parking the police van around different parts of the district. The van does appear to have a temporary effect on loitering and crime, but must be moved frequently to maintain effectiveness.

* Residents wanting to call attention to a house involved with drugs, an open air market, or an individual that they believe are selling drugs, should contact PSA 102 Lt Mcinnis, who will relay the request to Focused Mission for prioritization.

ACTION ITEM: The PSA coordinators and Lt Mcinnis will track current hot spots for drug activity that the community has concerns about, and the Lt will ensure that this information is passed to Lt Wilkins for action.

A SHARP DROP IN BURGLARIES was highlighted during the April meeting. MPD Sgt Rogers, newly assigned to PSA102 as part of the MPD reorganization said just seven burglaries occurred during March--down from 26 in February and 29 in January.

CLICK TO ENLARGE CHART

Sgt. Rogers explained MPD techniques that have been effective in significantly lowering the rate of burglaries in PSA102. Several arrests were made, and one suspect is deceased

He suggests that homeowners make sure that easy to access windows on the second floor should be secured, use motion sensor lights, and if going away, ensure that mail and papers do not pile up on your doorstep

ROBBERIES continue to be a problem, but MPD is very aware and have more plainclothes officers on the streets. Focused Mission also is attempting to gain information from those arrested on drug violations.

Sgt. Rogers said most robberies occur in the evening. Most victims were walking alone.

Residents are reminded when walking anywhere in the city to stay alert--especially when listening to an iPod or talking on a cell phone--and try to walk near better-lighted, busier streets and sidewalks.

ACTION ITEM: Lt. McGinnis is planning an "Operation Fight Back" in May for PSA 102. This is a one or two block area targeted for street safety improvements and cleanup. This area needs to be one with strong neighborhood support, and that could be improved by increased attention. She said a block has been selected and will be announced soon. Learn more about "Operation Fight Back".

>>> ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING ON TUESDAY, MAY 9 <<<
* Metro Transit Police are scheduled to attend the May 9 meeting to hear the community's concerns about crime at bus stops in PSA 102, and especially those on H St. NE.

* Assess burglary, robbery situation, to see if arrests have been made or stats show frequency decreasing.

PSA 102 Blue: Officers P. Nguyen and E. Walsh

2006-04-21T21:39:00.000-04:00

MPD's H Street NE evening shift Officers P. Nguyen (left) and E. Walsh photographed near the intersection of H and 8th Streets on April 21. They walk the two-officer beat Tuesday through Saturday from 2:30-11 p.m. Click for a larger view. (Klavitter photo)

Crime Map for PSA 102: March 20 - April 18, 2006

2006-04-19T10:57:00.000-04:00

CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW(source: Metropolitan Police Dept.)

PSA 102 Blue: Sgt. G. Mapp

2006-04-12T09:10:00.000-04:00

MPD Sgt. G. Mapp on April 11, 2006, during PSA 102 meeting. Click for a larger view. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Sgt. Rogers

2006-04-12T09:06:00.000-04:00

MPD Sgt. Rogers on April 11, 2006, during PSA 102 meeting. Click for a larger view. (Klavitter photo)

MPD Responds to Concerns About Alleged Sexual Assault in PSA 102

2006-04-12T00:15:00.000-04:00

Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) First District Commander Diane Groomes and PSA 102 Lt. Sharon Mcinnis requested that Sgt. Rice of the MPD Sexual Assault Unit attend last night’s (April 11) PSA 102 meeting to address the community’s concerns about an alleged sexual assault, which reportedly happened on April 5 in the 900 block of 8th Street NE.

Information about the alleged incident was distributed April 10 by a citizen's post to several community blogs and listservs.

Sgt. Rice confirmed to the group that his unit is investigating an allegation of a crime, but would not offer specific details of the case. He reiterated that if it was determined a crime was committed—or there exists a potential danger to the community—his unit would immediately notify PSA 102 officers.

When asked if residents should be concerned, he responded that residents always should be mindful of their surroundings anywhere in the city.

Sgt. Rice explained that due to the difficult nature of sexual assaults, an investigation is often necessary to ensure that a crime was committed. He said if police determine that a crime has occurred, his team would file a report and proceed with a case.

Both Sgt. Rice and Lt. Mcinnis said they understood the community’s concerns, but emphasized, “this seems to be an isolated incident.”

Lt. Mcinnis praised the online listservs and blogs as important communication tools for the community. However, she cautioned residents to be careful about posting allegations as factual information, especially when police investigations are not complete.

Full PSA 102 minutes of the April 11 monthly meeting will be distributed in the next few days.

Nuisance Property Success Stories in PSA 102

2006-04-10T20:33:00.000-04:00

During the March PSA 102 meeting, U.S. Attorney Giuliana Dunham, community prosecutor for District 1, spoke about nuisance properties and how to deal with them. Her office has several success stories from PSA 102 posted on its website:

810 F Street NE
707 7th Street NE
523 Florida Ave. NE

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, nuisance properties are frequently neglected by their owner and used for illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, prostitution and public drinking. The U.S. Attorney's Office and its partners in the Nuisance Property Program have successfully abated a number of nuisance properties across the City.

To report a nuisance property in your neighborhood, contact the First District Community Prosecution staff at 202-698-0346. Learn more about the program here.

April 11 Meeting Will Address Lower Burglary, Festering Robbery Numbers

2006-04-06T16:01:00.000-04:00

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: April 11 (2nd Tuesday of each month)
TIME: 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St NE

AGENDA:
* Hear from MPD First District Focused Mission Lt. Ron Wilkins, who will discuss his unit’s concentration on hot spots of criminal activity.

* Assess results of MPD burglary focus. Discuss festering robbery problem. Review other statistics.

* Identify problem areas in PSA 102 which citizens can remedy through the Partnership for Problem Solving (PPS) process.

**** 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! ****

BOUNDRIES of PSA 102 are (clockwise) the railroad tracks at Union Station, Florida Avenue NE, Maryland Avenue NE, 9th Street, East Capitol Street, 2nd Street, Massachusetts Avenue, and Columbus Circle. See the MPD website and map to determine your PSA:
http://mpdc.dc.gov/mpdc/cwp/view,a,1239,Q,543658,mpdcNav_GID,1534.asp

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

QUESTIONS can be answered by PSA 102 Citizen Coordinators:
Marc Lesnick: 202-543-3736 (marc_lesnick@yahoo.com)
David Klavitter: 202-547-5745 (klav@questforquiet.org)
Or
Alphonso C. Coles, MPD Community Outreach Coordinator: 202-497-5033
alphonso.coles@dc.gov

March 14 Meeting Minutes

2006-03-21T11:49:00.000-05:00

PSA 102 Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center

>>> IN ATTENDANCE <<<
Giuliana Dunham- Community Prosecutor for District 1, Dept. of Justice
Lt. Sharon Mcinnis – MPD, PSA 102 LT
Sgt. Washington – MPD, PSA 102
Ofc. Simmons – MPD, PSA 102
Alphonso Coles (Community Outreach Coordinator)
David Klavitter (New PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Marc Lesnick (New PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Roger Mattioli (previous PSA coordinator and current PSA 102 statistician)
Other Community Members and MPD Officers

>>> FOLLOW-UP FROM PREVIOUS FEB. 14 MEETING <<<
* Lt. Mcinnis said that two separate foot-beats have now been implemented on H St NE, from 4th to 14th Sreets NE. A one-officer day shift with Ofc. Williams happens Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. A two-officer evening shift with Officers Nguyn and Walsh happens Tuesday through Saturday from 2:30-11 p.m. The lack of a foot-beat after staff transition within PSA102 was a serious concern raised at previous meetings.

* Meeting minutes, charts, photographs and more can be accessed on the PSA 102 website at http://psa102.blogspot.com.

>>> MINUTES <<<
* COMMUNITY PROSECUTOR GIULIANA DUNHAM of the U.S. Attorneys Office spoke to the group about how decisions are made to charges persons arrested in D.C., and under what circumstances persons arrested would not be charged. She explained how prosecutions in D.C. differ from other jurisdiction, since all prosecutions here are undertaken by the Department of Justice, not local prosecutors. Interestingly, she discussed how the limited space in D.C. jail for those awaiting trial leads to limits placement of more persons in half-way houses and could influence a judge’s decision to dismiss cases.

Other points to note:

The community prosecutor’s office also handles nuisance property abatement (that is, properties that sponsor actual crimes, drug or otherwise), and she suggested that she can be contacted directly to begin this process. She stated that the number of calls for service to the location does have an impact in their ability to abate nuisance properties. A member of the community also mentioned that “Operation Crackdown” still is active, and can be contacted to deal with problem properties as well.

Dunham suggested that while the photos often taken by neighborhood people to document drug activity are not sufficient for prosecution, they could be used as additional evidence at a trial if they are of sufficient quality.

Since MPD and FBI total crime stats do not include drug crimes, Roger Mattioli asked if it was possible to get monthly drug crime stats/maps (something the PSA has requested for a long time), and Dunham stated that she would help with this request.

A SHARP INCREASE IN BURGLARIES was highlighted during February’s meeting—a trend which appears to be continuing. Lt. Mcinnis stated MPD has allocated additional officer hours—including some in plainclothes—to address this increase. The community eagerly awaits the results of this plan. It was noted that almost 50% of the burglaries in the First District occurred in PSA 102, which highlights the severity of this problem.

- Lt. Mcinnis said many of these burglaries occur during daylight hours while residents are at work;
- Most occur via rear windows or doors;
- And most are very rapid snatch and grab type of burglaries;
- Community members are reminded to report suspicious people in alleys by calling 311 or 911 as appropriate and to use house alarms where available.

ROBBERIES also are up, but this trend is not as prominent as burglaries. Lt. Mcinnis said two arrests were made March 6 in connection with one robbery. She said MPD is very aware of the increase in robbery numbers and has implemented an action plan to address this, including more plainclothes officers (also to help against burglaries). Residents are reminded when walking anywhere in the city to stay alert—especially when listening to an iPod or talking on a cell phone—and try to walk near better-lighted, busier streets and sidewalks.

SMALL MOTORBIKES driven recklessly are of concern to several community members. One neighbor said juveniles often drive these small motorbikes recklessly in some neighborhoods. MPD explained that these bikes are not technically illegal, and the police are not authorized to chase down these bikes when driven in an unsafe manner. MPD is actively trying to approach the juveniles off the bikes to defuse this problem in a proactive fashion.

TEMPORARY PARKING TAGS still are a problem on Capitol Hill. Many of these temporary tags are issued by Virginia or Maryland, reported one resident.

ACTION ITEM: Lt. McGinnis is planning an “Operation Fight Back” in May for PSA 102. This is a one or two block area targeted for street safety improvements and cleanup. This area needs to be one with strong neighborhood support, and that could be improved by increased attention. Volunteer blocks/neighborhoods are needed! Learn more about “Operation Fight Back”.

>>> ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING ON TUESDAY, APRIL 11 <<<
* Contact Metro Transit Police to attend the April 11 meeting to hear the community’s concerns about crime at bus stops in PSA 102, and especially those on H St. NE.

* Assess burglary situation, to see if arrests have been made or stats show frequency decreasing.

Statshot: Robbery Numbers--February 2006

2006-03-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

SOURCE: FBI and MPD (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

Statshot: Burglary Numbers--February 2006

2006-03-19T14:56:00.000-05:00

SOURCE: FBI and MPD (CLICK TO ENLARGE)

PSA 102 Blue: Ofc. Simmons

2006-03-19T10:55:00.000-05:00

MPD Ofc. E. Simmons on March 14, 2006, during PSA 102 meeting. Click for a larger view.(Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Blue: Sgt. Washington

2006-03-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

MPD Sgt. L Washington on March 14, 2006, during PSA 102 meeting. Click for a larger view. (Klavitter photo)

1D Prosecutor Will Address March 14 Meeting

2006-03-09T08:35:00.000-05:00

WHAT: Police Service Area (PSA) 102 monthly meeting
WHEN: March 14 (2nd Tuesday of each month)
TIME: 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St NE

AGENDA:
* Learn more about community prosecution in the First Police
District: First District Prosecutor Giuliana Dunham of the U.S.
Attorneys Office will explain what happens after suspects are
arrested by police. She will explain what's called the "papering
process" and why some people are charged with crimes while others
are released. Learn more here:
http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/dc/Neighborhoods/District_1.html

* Assess burglary situation to see if arrests have been made or
stats show frequency decreasing. Review other statistics.

* Recent robberies.

* H Street NE footbeat update.

* Identify problem areas in PSA 102 which citizens can remedy
through the Partnership for Problem Solving (PPS) process.

PSA 102 Blue: The Crew

2006-03-08T09:56:00.000-05:00

CLICK TO ENLARGE During the Feb. 14 PSA 102 meeting at Sherwood Recreation Center (from left): Ofc. Tyrone Harris, Lt. Sharon Mcinnis, MPD Community Outreach Coordinator Alphonso Coles, First District Inspector Andy Solberg, Capt. Jeff Brown, Ofc. Charles Johnson. (Klavitter photo)

PSA 102 Crime Map: February 2006

2006-03-07T21:41:00.000-05:00

CLICK FOR A LARGER VIEW
(source: Metropolitan Police Dept.)

Meetings

2006-03-07T21:22:00.000-05:00

PSA 102 meetings happen the second Tuesday of each month.
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center
10th and G Streets NE
Washington DC 20002
View a map

Contacts

2006-03-07T21:04:00.000-05:00

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

First District Police Dept. names and numbers can be found on the First District website.

Listservs

2006-03-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

Three groups are available to facilitate communication and discussion among the wired community.

First District listserv: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MPD-1D
MPD-sanctioned listserv about broader issues that affect the entire First District.

NELink: http://groups.google.com/group/NELink
Neighborhood-supported discussion (non-political and non-commercial) concerning the northeast area of Washington D.C., bounded clockwise by the railroad tracks, Florida Ave NE, Maryland Ave NE, 9th Street NE, East Capitol Street, 2nd St NE, Massachusetts Ave, and Columbus Circle.

Walk with the Citizen Patrols

2006-03-07T15:02:00.000-05:00

Orange Hat Patrols are groups of citizens, often in the company of police officers, who walk the neighborhood for about an hour. They pick up trash, note any missing signs or burned out streetlights, and provide a visible presence for concerned residents in the area.

There currently are three weekly PSA 102 Orange Hat groups. One meets on Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m. in front of the Stuart Hobson School to walk around PSA 102. Another meets at 6 p.m. every Friday evening in front of the J.O. Wilson School at the corner of 7th and K Street NE.

Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Stuart-Hobson’s main entrance, 400 block of E St. NE. Contact Roger Mattioli at roger.mattioli@verizon.net or Kim Matthews at 202-543-4653 or email her at ki.matthews@verizon.net.

Thursdays at 7 p.m. in front of JO Wilson School at 7th and K St. NE. Contact Brandon Bies at 202-543-2046.

Fridays at 7 p.m. in front of JO Wilson School at 7th and K St. NE. Contact Daniel Pernell at 202-421-2001.

Meeting Minutes: Feb. 14, 2006

2006-02-20T08:26:00.000-05:00

Police Service Area (PSA) 102 Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
7-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Recreation Center, 10 and G Streets NE

>>> IN ATTENDANCE <<<

Inspector Andy Solberg (MPD)
Capt. Jeff Brown – new PSA 102 Captain
Lt. Sharon Mcinnis – new PSA102 LT
Sgt. Gwen Mapp
Alphonso Coles (Community Outreach Coordinator)
David Klavitter (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Marc Lesnick (PSA 102 Citizen Co-Coordinator)
Other Community Members, Media representatives and MPD Officers

>>> FOLLOW-UP FROM JAN. 10 MEETING <<<

* PARTNERHSIP FOR PROBLEM SOLVING (PPS) training was provided to
citizen coordinators, David Klavitter and Marc Lesnick. This
training will be used in the March meeting to address a selected
community issue.

* NUMBER OF OFFICERS ASSIGNED TO PSA 102 stand at about 45 officers,
according to Inspector Solberg. There are 48 assigned to the First
District (1D) powershift, which means that more than 45 officers are
assigned as needed to deal with specific issues in 1D.

>>> MINUTES <<<

* WELCOME new First District Capt. Jeff Brown (PSAs 102 & 104) and
new PSA 102 Lt. Sharon Mcinnis.

* CRIME STATISTICS for January 2006 reviewed.

* BURGLARIES ARE UP IN PSA 102, and Inspector Solberg suggested that
residents remain vigilant, and look out for a pick-up or cargo van
in alleys that might be involved with these burglaries. MPD suggests
residents call 311 anytime they spot an unfamiliar truck or van
lurking in the alleys. Also don't hesitate to report unfamiliar
persons coming or going into properties.

The burglars are getting in through roofs, hidden windows, and
realtor locks on empty houses to take items and appliances. He wants
to remind all home-owners and contractor to secure all tools and
ladders at all times. Install motion detector lights outside or
leave outside lights on.

* THE MAN who had recently been knocking on doors late at night
asking for help re: broken key or other excuses was apprehended but
was not charged. On arrest, the subject was found to be armed with a
knife. The PSA coordinators urge all residents to be wary of people
knocking on their doors at night for assistance, and telephone 311
or 911 as appropriate.

* H STREET FOOTBEATS will increase. Currently, a dayshift footbeat
(Ofc. A. Williams) happens from 6:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Part of this
officer's job is to communicate with H Street merchants. Capt. Brown
said, starting this month, PSA 102 will add an evening footbeat to H
Street with two officers. The shift will run from 2:30-11 p.m.

* MORE PARTICIPATION IN PSA 102 MEETINGS was discussed, as well how
to get the message about the PSA meeting out to the non-wired
community:
- Dave and Marc will walk the PSA with Alphonso to hand out
flyers in person;
- Dave and Marc will start talking to local business owners to
see if they would be willing to keep flyers in their establishments.

* MAPS WITH CRIME STATISTICS are being sought from MPD to post at
local businesses as well, to alert the community to increases in
crime, and make them aware of the crimes that affect their local
area.

* PSA 102 NEWSLETTER idea was explored to reach those without
Internet access. Would include meeting times for all local groups,
local initiatives to aid in criminal situations, monthly safety
tips, etc. This was tabled for future discussion.

* GUEST SPEAKER Another suggestion from the group was to try to get
in house a community prosecutor, to describe the process for
choosing who gets papered and who doesn't.

ACTION ITEM: Marc will follow up to arrange for a prosecutor
to come to the March or April meeting.

* METRO TRANSIT POLICE DEPT. has jurisdiction over some of the heavily-used bus stops along H Street. Suggestion was made by MPD that citizens need to contact Metro Police to encourage better enforcement at bus stops throughout the PSA, especially the corner
of 8th and H, which generates a large number of MPD calls daily.

ACTION ITEM: Marc will call Metro Police and see if they can
attend the March or April meeting to hear the community's concerns.
Dave will bring issue up at the Feb. 15 ANC6A Public Safety Meeting.

>>> ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING <<<

* USE PARTNERSHIP FOR PROBLEM SOLVING (PPS) process to identify and
develop action plans to an achievable goal that would get strong
community support.

* ASSESS BURGLARY SITUATION, to see if arrests have been made or
stats show frequency decreasing.

* GET COMMUNITY PROSECUTOR or Metro Transit Police to speak to the
community.

* THE NEXT PSA 102 MEETING is scheduled for Tuesday, March 14, 7-
8:30 p.m. at Sherwood Rec Center, 10th and G Streets NE.