Thefts from auto are on the rise, and the police department is trying to alert people of this crime by ‘ticketing’ cars to get people’s attention. The police department suggests that people install and use alarm systems in vehicles and not to leave valuable items, including clothing in plain view.
This information was included in Sergeant Pollock’s safety report on the happenings along the Georgia Avenue corridor at the July 12th Georgia Avenue Community Development Task Force Meeting. Sergeant Pollock is a resident and a sergeant under Lieutenant Timberlake and Lieutenant Munk of the Metropolitan Police Department 3rd District, PSA 302. There are also bicycle and foot units that patrol the area. Sergeant Pollock also reported that the lighting on many parts of Georgia Avenue, especially parking lots, is not adequate enough to abate crime from happening. She gave the example of merchants who lock up their shops when it’s dark outside, giving criminals the chance to rob the business. The other problems with businesses in the area are that many of them have cameras with no film, so if a crime happens, the police department cannot prosecute due to lack of substantial evidence. The police department strongly advises that businesses upgrade their camera systems and include recording devices.
In addition, the installed shot spotters detect various noises including construction. Even if it may not be a shot, the Police department still goes to make sure it isn’t anything dangerous. The shot spotter covers the area of Shaw extending to Columbia Heights and Park View.
For more information on the Metropolitan Police Department visit: www.mdc.dc.gov
To contact
Lieutenant Timberlake: 202-576-8217
Lieutenant Munk: 202-576-8221
