Posted by Martha Catt Martha_Catt@aigvalic.com (24.225.41.109) on July 14, 2006 at 03:04:12:
In Reply to: PM Crime Watch Monthly Meeting posted by Martha Catt on July 12, 2006 at 22:09:59:
We need ACTIVE observers--people with eyes that will pick up the phone and call 911. Even if the 911 operator directs you to the non-emergency number to report missing items, it still gets reported as a call for service. This is important in that officers will immediately know about the incident, and it also assures the proper number of officers will remain assigned to our district. (Officer assignment is directly proportional to calls for service.)
At our July 12, 2006 Crime Watch meeting, Officer Varnum recalled receiving phone calls after the fact from neighbors who saw individuals acting strangely or in places they didn't belong, and these people did NOT call 911. The two individuals they did apprehend last month were caught by a neighbor noticing them and calling 911. So, if you see something, call 911 - not Officer Varnum three days later.
Officer Varnum stated expressly PLEASE DO NOT report burglaries (someone breaking into your house or car), robberies (someone accosting you andtaking property off your person or property), or maliciousmischief (like the recent rash of tire slashing) via the CMPD website, because the report takes two weeks to get to officers. By that time, the criminal could be working through the neighborhood.
Although people may feel better after posting their stories on the neighborhood website, we need people to look up from their computer screens, peer out the window, and report ANY suspicious activity to 911 IMMEDIATELY. Be clear, direct, and fully informative. Do worry that the police will end up hassling an honest workman who belongs there. CMPD Officers are determined, but polite, professionals.
Just remember that criminals can easily spot and hide from cruising police cars, but they cannot hide from every neighbors' eyes forever. Our actionin reporting things amiss is the best defense against this recent spate of unfortunate events.
Yours,
Martha
Martha L. Catt
PMNA Crime Watch Coordinator