Friday, January 28, 2005
Residential Crime Alert - January 28, 2005
Recent Incidents
Bank Robbery
On 1-24-05 at 2:07 PM, a black male wearing a navy colored hooded sweatshirt possibly with the word VARSITY on the front, blue jeans and a dark colored baseball cap robbed the Standard Federal Bank at Long Lake and Rochester. The suspect is described as being 25 to 30 years old, about 170 lbs, with a thin mustache and possible goatee.
Crime Prevention Tip:
If you are confronted with a robbery:
· Remain calm.
· Give the assailant what they want.
· Don’t put yourself in any physical harm.
· Try to remember as much about the perpetrator as possible
- Height
- Weight
- Build
- Clothing
- Facial features
- Anything unique about language usage or voice.
· Always call the Police as soon as it is safe to do so.
· Give as much information about the suspect and the property stolen as you can, including the direction they fled.
Larcenies from Vehicles
On 1-23-05 at the Lifetime Fitness center, 4700 Investment, a Red Porsche had the right front window smashed out and a shopping bag containing new clothes was stolen.
Crime Prevention Tip:
Never leave any item of value in plain view in your vehicle whether locked or not.
Home Invasions
On 1-23-05 someone kicked in the front door of a home on Ravenwood Ct. (Wattles/Beech) and stole a snow blower.
On 1-23-05 a home on Burtman (14 mile/Stephenson) was entered through and un-locked rear door wall and the home was damaged and vandalized.
Crime Prevention Tip:
Always lock all entry doors leading into the home.
Ensure all entry doors are outfitted with a single cylinder deadbolt lock with a bolt of at least 1 inch in length.
Security alarms are a good secondary layer to augment physical security.
Suspicious Incidents
On 1-20-05 someone called to report that a “scruffy looking” white male wearing a green Army jacket and green hooded sweatshirt was pulling on the church doors at 4571 John R. He left the area driving a blue 90’s Pontiac 6000.
On 1-24-05 near Rochester and Big Beaver, a woman reports observing a male subject apparently watching or following her. She fears being stalked. The subject is described as a white male approx. 47 years old 170 lbs wearing a gray dress hat and gray ¾ length dress coat.
Crime Prevention Tip:
If you witness any suspicious behavior that you believe may be a crime, call the Police and have us check it out. We are trained and equipped to investigate these matters and determine if further action is needed.
Frauds
On 1-22-05 a man noticed a $900.00 debit on his bank statement, which he did not authorize, to a company in Ann Arbor. The investigation revealed that someone had opened a construction company in the victim’s name and attempted to acquire credit.
On 1-21-05 a victim received bank statements with unauthorized charges to a gas station in Inkster totaling $458.92
On 1-22-05 a woman reported leaving her purse in her shopping cart as she shopped at the Farmer Jack at 3125 John R. When she checked out she realized her wallet containing her debit card was missing. She learned that someone was using her card at several retail establishments before she could report it stolen.
Crime Prevention Tip:
Always safe guard you personal information.
Shred all documents containing any personal information.
Do not leave any credit and debit cards or checks unattended – Not even for a moment.
Identity theft has become very popular among thieves and our best defense is to be on guard and deny them access to our information.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
Business Crime Alert for January 28, 2005
Recent Incidents
Bank Robbery
On 1-24-05 at 2:07 PM, a black male wearing a navy colored hooded sweatshirt possibly with the words VARSITY on it, blue jeans and a dark colored baseball cap robbed the Standard Federal Bank at Long Lake and Rochester. The suspect is described as being 25 to 30 years old, about 170 lbs, with a thin mustache and possible goatee.
Larcenies from Vehicles
On 1-20-05 a Catering truck parked 1950 Austin (Maple/I-75) was broken into and had $900 stolen from a safe.
On 1-23-05 at the Lifetime Fitness center, 4700 Investment, a Red Porsche had the right front window smashed out and a shopping bag containing new clothes was stolen.
Other Larcenies
On 1-25-05 at 224 Minnesota, the business petty cash box was stolen from a filing cabinet. Suspect is a black male 5’9” 170 lbs who left area in a medium sized white vehicle.
On 1-25-05 at 86 W 14 Mile, Logan’s restaurant, an employee reports someone stole her coat while she was working.
Suspicious Incidents
On 1-20-05 someone called to report that a “scruffy looking” white male wearing a green Army jacket and green hooded sweatshirt was pulling on the church doors at 4571 John R. He left the area driving a blue 90’s Pontiac 6000.
On 1-24-05 near Rochester and Big Beaver, a woman reports observing a male subject apparently watching or following her. She fears being stalked. The subject is described as a white male approx. 47 years old 170 lbs wearing a gray dress hat and gray ¾ length dress coat.
Frauds
On 1-22-05 a man noticed a $900.00 debit on his bank statement, which he did not authorize, to a company in Ann Arbor. The investigation revealed that someone had opened a construction company in the victim’s name and attempted to acquire credit.
On 1-21-05 a victim received bank statements with unauthorized charges to a gas station in Inkster totaling $458.92
On 1-22-05 a woman reported leaving her purse in her shopping cart as she shopped at the Farmer Jack at 3125 John R. When she checked out she realized her wallet containing her debit card was missing. She learned that someone was using her card at several retail establishments before she could report it stolen.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
Crime Prevention Tips
If you are confronted with a robbery:
· Remain calm.
· Give the assailant what they want.
· Don’t put yourself in any physical harm.
· Try to remember as much about the perpetrator as possible
- Height
- Weight
- Build
- Clothing
- Facial features
- Anything unique about language usage or voice.
· Always call the Police as soon as it is safe to do so.
· Give as much information about the suspect and the property stolen as you can, including the direction they fled.
Never leave any item of value in plain view in your vehicle whether locked or not.
If you tend to carry cash or run a cash business out of your vehicle:
· Minimize the time that you are away from the vehicle.
· Make deposits at a bank as often as possible.
· Post a sign stating you do not carry cash.
Always keep articles of value in a locked cabinet away from public access.
If you witness any suspicious behavior that you believe may be a crime, call the Police and have us check it out. We are trained and equipped to investigate these matters and determine if further action is needed.
Always safe guard you personal information.
Shred all documents containing any personal information.
Do not leave any credit and debit cards or checks unattended – Not even for a moment.
Identity theft has become very popular among thieves and our best defense is to be on guard and deny them access to our information.
Friday, January 21, 2005
Residential and Business Crime Alert for January 21, 2005
Larceny from Autos and Auto Theft
1-13-05 At the Troy Sports Arena, 1819 E Big Beaver, a 99 Jeep Cherokee had the drivers side rear window smashed out and a Laptop computer stolen from the back seat.
1-14-05 At the Somerset Collection South (Coolidge/Big Beaver) a 2000 Chevy Blazer had the driver’s door window smashed out and a purse stolen. The purse was later recovered at 822 E Big Beaver.
1-14-05 At 822 E Big Beaver a 2003 Jeep Cherokee had the driver’s window smashed out and a purse stolen. The stolen purse from the Somerset auto break-in was recovered at the scene.
1-14-05 A 96 Honda was stolen from a parking lot on Lovington (John R/14 Mile).
1-15-05 On Brentwood (Long Lake/Coolidge) Someone entered an unlocked vehicle and tampered with the CD player, but nothing was taken.
1-15-05 A 99 Plymouth Breeze was stolen from the Oakland Mall parking lot (JohnR/14 Mile).
1-17-05 At the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, two lockers were broken into and wallets and car keys were taken. The perpetrator then went to parking lot and used the key-fob remote opener to find the vehicles in the parking lot and stole more items. An attendant at the community center describes the suspect as a black male wearing jeans, a ball cap and a leather jacket. The suspect did not have a pass for the community center, but claimed to be there looking for his wife.
Between 1-14-05 and 1-17-05 A red 94 Pontiac Firebird was stolen from the parking lot on Glouchester (Coolidge/Big Beaver) while the victim was out of town.
1-19-05 A GMC Astro Van was broken into and had the stereo stolen from the parking lot of 1242 Rankin
Break ins and Larcenies
There is a trend recently where perpetrators break-into lockers at fitness centers and take money and keys. They then go to the parking lot and find the vehicle using the remote key fob and take more items or steal the whole car.
Between 1-13-05 and 1-14-05 there was a break-in through the rear door of the American Home Mortgage Company at 1339 Coolidge. The suspect went through file cabinets, but it is unknown what, if anything, is missing.
1-15-05 A larceny of 3 purses occurred at Demetrious Bridal, 1349 Coolidge. A credit card that was stolen was used prior to the victim being able to cancel it. The suspects are two black females.
1-15-05 Three larcenies from lockers occurred at the Bally’s fitness center at 201 W Big Beaver. The suspects made off with wallets, cash and credit cards, and the pants from one victim. The combination to one of the lockers was left on the lock and another lock was reported to be “faulty”. Another club member recovered the pants in the parking lot near a yellow Lincoln occupied by 2 black males and a black female.
1-17-05 At 3179 Livernois, the Troy Community Center, two lockers were broken into and keys and wallets were taken. (See entry above under vehicle larcenies).
1-19-05 At troy Beaumont Hospital (Dequindre/S. Boulevard) two patients from the fourth and fifth floor had their purses taken and the contents stolen. One purse was recovered, however, the credit cards were missing.
1-19-05 Someone attempted to break into the business at 1238 Rankin, Troy Biologicals. The perpetrator attempted to pry open the locked back door but was unsuccessful.
Fraud
1-15-05 A credit card fraud occurred at the Oakland Mall, 500 W 14 Mile. The suspects are 2 black females and 1 black male. They are believed to be responsible for purse thefts in Warren and Berkley from schools.
1-15-05 On Bristol (Wattles/Rochester) a female called the victim posing as a representative of the Discover Credit Card Fraud Unit. The caller claimed to be investigating a case, and requested the victim’s credit account numbers. The victim gave the caller the account numbers, but later became suspicious and checked the accounts, only to realize there were several unauthorized charges.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
Crime Prevention Tips
Implementing and using security devices at all times when your facility is closed is paramount to effective security.
Good locks, alarms and closed circuit cameras are only effective if they are installed and always used.
There are products that help prevent glass breakage, like glass security film, and Lexan; astic glass.
Never leave anything of value in your vehicle.
Always lock the doors.
Make every attempt to park in a well-lit area.
Do not keep any personal information or any financial transaction devices in your vehicle like credit cards etc.
Ensure all exterior entry doors are equipped with a single cylinder dead bolt lock.
It is a good idea to lock internal work cabinets, especially files containing personal information.
When going to a fitness center, try to take as few belongings as you might need.
Always lock your locker with a good quality lock and do not leave your combination accessible to any one.
It is clear that thieves prowl these facilities looking for easy or “known” targets.
Do not give your credit card numbers out to anyone that calls or emails you
Safe guard all account numbers.
Be vigilant when it comes to your personal documents.
Shred all old documents containing personal information or account numbers.
Safe guard all credit cards.
Identity theft continues to be the fastest growing crime in the world, and the city of Troy is no exception. We continually get reports of identity theft and fraud on a regular basis.
While it may not be totally avoidable, detecting the early signs of identity theft is one of the best ways to avoid extensive losses and damage to your credit history.
If your wallet/purse etc. gets stolen, cancel all stolen credit and ATM cards immediately.
Checking your credit history regularly is a great way to keep appraised on the status of your credit.
Here are three sources for checking your credit history:
(The titles are links to the webpages)
Equifax
1-800-525-6282
Experian
1-888-397-3742
TransUnion
1-800-680-7289
For more information visit:
US Dept. of Justice ID theft
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Residential Crime Alert - January 12, 2005
We have been experiencing an increase in auto thefts lately.
· There was a 1990 blue Pontiac Grand Am stolen from the parking lot of 920 John R (John R / Maple) between 1-9-05 and 1-10-05.
· A 2002 Red Chevy C series work van was stolen from the parking lot of 33475 Dequindre (Dequindre/14 Mile) on 1-8-05. The van was recovered in the southwest Detroit area, in the area of Springwells and Wagner. The driver’s side window was busted out and the ignition was punched.
· A 2002 Black Chevy Trailblazer was stolen from the Troy Sports Arena at 1819 E Big Beaver on 1-8-05. The perpetrator entered an un-locked locker-room and took cash, a jacket and the keys to the vehicle.
· Officers recovered a stolen 2003 Buick Rendezvous in the Arena parking lot on 1-08-05. The vehicle was stolen from Bally’s fitness center on Vandyke in Warren. The vehicle appears to be the drop vehicle for the vehicle stolen from the Troy Sports Arena the same day.
We continue to see Larcenies from Autos throughout the city.
· On 1-08-05 on Wendover (Adams/Big Beaver) A 1989 Ford Taurus was broken into and had a pipe stolen.
· On 1-09-05 on Columbia (John R/Big Beaver) A vehicle was broken into and had the stereo face and books stolen.
· On 1-10-05 at the Bowl One, 1639 E. 14 Mile, someone smashed the back window of a 2002 Jeep and stole the complainant’s purse containing money, credit cards and a palm pilot.
· Between 1-6-05 and 1-10-05 at 1810 Maple lawn, Suburban Olds Cadillac, a 2005 Cadillac Escalade had the tires stolen.
Be aware of Larcenies and frauds that also continue to occur.
· A Home Invasion occurred on Creston (Rochester/Long Lake) on 1-10-05 between 6:30 am and 3:30 pm. The homeowner found the front door forced open, there were also signs that the perpetrator made attempts on a rear window.
· A Larceny occurred on Alameda Street (Rochester/ South Boulevard). Four entry doors were stolen from a house under construction.
· A Larceny of a granite Tee marker, the 1st tee, occurred at the Sanctuary Golf Course, 1450 E South Boulevard, between 1-05-05 and 1-10-05.
· A fraud occurred on 1-09-05. The victim was called on the phone and told they won a lottery in Spain. The perpetrator convinced the victim to send a copy of driver’s licenses, passport, bank account numbers, and spouse information. The victim was also persuaded to transfer $1850.00 overseas.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
TEAM EFFORT CALLED FOR IN KEEPING
TROY'S STREETS CLEAR IN WINTER
Winter's icy blast isn't over yet, and the City of Troy wants to ensure the safety and accessibility of its residents on the roads. When winter weather strikes, minimizing snow and ice hazards in Troy is a priority, but it requires a team effort between the City, its residents and businesses.
The City of Troy manages its snow and ice control operation based on the following:
First Priority - Major City and County Roads
Second Priority - City Industrial Roads
Third Priority - School Entry Roads
After those roads are cleared, plowing operations on local/subdivision streets are initiated only when snow accumulates to more than four inches on a paved surface. After a snowstorm passes, it takes crews at least 24 hours to clear these local streets. For snowfalls of less than 4 inches, the City salts and sands hills, intersections and curves, as needed.
With the most recent snowfall on January 5 and 6, the City worked diligently to clear the priority roads, hills, intersections and curves. While the snowfall measures did not call for local road clearing (2.5"-3.5"), the City will be plowing the gutters over the next three days, before the slush is frozen in place to minimize hazardous conditions.
As always, we appreciate your patience during winter storms.
The City also rotates which local neighborhood roads get plowed first. If your section was plowed first on the most recent snow day, then it may be last for the next one.
Residents and businesses are responsible for clearing their own driveways, sidewalks and privately owned parking lot areas (i.e. lots at apartment complexes and shopping centers).
“The Department of Public Works is responsible for clearing over 360 miles of roads in Troy-the same distance as driving from Detroit to Sault Ste. Marie," Tim Richnak Public Works Director said.
"Be assured that we will get to your road, but we need to be within the boundaries of our city-wide policy while always being fiscally responsible," Richnak added.
What can residents do to assist the plow crews in keeping the streets clear? The following can help maintain clearer streets in winter:
Don't shovel/blow snow from driveways and sidewalks back onto the streets because it creates dangerous ice patches.
Clear the lump of snow at the end of your driveway (but not back into the street).
Don't park on the street after a snowstorm.
Keep fire hydrants in front of your property clear of snow and ice.
Residents should make sure the fire hydrant is visible and snow should be removed to an area of at least 5' all around the hydrant. Business owners should remind the people plowing their lots to keep snow piles a minimum of 10' from the hydrants.
Storing or planting anything within 15' of a hydrant is illegal.
(Info from Lt. Matlick of Troy Fire Department.)
When driving, give salt trucks extra room.
Beware of approaching snowplows as snow can be thrown and may contain rocks or road debris.
Allow for extra driving time in inclement weather.
Be a good neighbor and lend a hand to those in need!
Questions about the snow removal policy can be directed to the Department of Public Works at 248.524.3392.
Flash Flood Watch:
Weather conditions are such that heavy rainfall and melting snow leading to flash floods are possible for Oakland County.
The flood watch remains in effect until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 13, 2005.
Crime Prevention Tips
· When at a facility that requires the use of lockers-Always lock the locker or in the absence of lockable personal lockers ensure the locker-room door is locked and a responsible person maintains control of the key.
Things that can be done to combat auto theft and larcenies from autos include:
· Installing a car alarm.
· Using steering-wheel locking applications like the club etc.
· Applications of a hidden kill switch to the ignition system.
· Park in a well lit well traveled area if possible.
· Always maintain security of vehicle keys.
· Do not leave items of value in your car especially in plain view.
NOTE: There is a trend among criminals to target locker rooms at fitness centers in the metro area for the ease in which they can obtain money and car keys.
Tips for securing your home:
· all entry doors should be equipped with a single cylinder dead bolt lock. The locking bolt should extend out at least 1”.
· Security alarms provide a good secondary layer to physical security and should be considered for certain applications.
· Always lock you doors and windows. Locks are only good when they are activated.
· Request a security survey from the Troy Police Crime Prevention Section to have them assess the security level of your home and give safety recommendations.
Fraud Prevention:
· Remember nothing that is worth anything is free.
· Never give any personal information out to an unknown source over the phone or Internet.
(If someone asks for personal information, ask to speak to his or her supervisor and inform them you will be calling the Police to make a fraud report.)
No reputable business will call you or email you for this information!!!
· If you receive a phone call or email telling you that you have won something that you did not apply for, it is more than likely a fraud.
· No legitimate organization will not ask for any money or a Credit Card number in order to claim a prize
· Protect yourself against identity theft by shredding all documents and safe guarding your account numbers, social security numbers and credit card numbers.
While making a police report, it is important to give the Officers and Detectives all information known about the case. Withholding any information is not helpful to any case and could result in charges of obstructing justice.
For home security advice, or to have a free security survey by a Troy Police Crime Prevention Officer, call 248-524-3452
Business Crime Alert - January 12, 2005
We have been experiencing an increase in auto thefts lately.
· There was a 1990 blue Pontiac Grand Am stolen from the parking lot of 920 John R (John R / Maple) between 1-9-05 and 1-10-05.
· A 2002 Red Chevy C series work van was stolen from the parking lot of 33475 Dequindre (Dequindre/14 Mile) on 1-8-05. The van was recovered in the southwest Detroit area, in the area of Springwells and Wagner. The driver’s side window was busted out and the ignition was punched.
· A 2002 Black Chevy Trailblazer was stolen from the Troy Sports Arena at 1819 E Big Beaver on 1-8-05. The perpetrator entered an un-locked locker-room and took cash, a jacket and the keys to the vehicle.
· Officers recovered a stolen 2003 Buick Rendezvous in the Arena parking lot on 1-08-05. The vehicle was stolen from Bally’s fitness center on Vandyke in Warren. The vehicle appears to be the drop vehicle for the vehicle stolen from the Troy Sports Arena the same day.
Counterfeit Money:
· A local shoe store reported receiving 4 counterfeit $20 bills for a recent purchase. The suspect was described as an Arabic male, age 18, 5’10”, 170 lbs, dark curly hair, dark eyes, and wearing an orange basketball jersey.
· A counterfeit $20 bill was passed at the Troy Community Center on Saturday, 1/8/05
Mail Fraud Scam:
· A fraud occurred on 1-09-05. The victim was called on the phone and told they won a lottery in Spain. The perpetrator convinced the victim to send a copy of driver’s licenses, passport, bank account numbers, and spouse information. The victim was also persuaded to transfer $1850.00 overseas.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
Crime Prevention Tips
Things that can be done to combat auto theft and larcenies from autos include:
· Installing a car alarm.
· Using steering-wheel locking applications like the club etc.
· Applications of a hidden kill switch to the ignition system.
· Park in a well lit well traveled area if possible.
· Always maintain security of vehicle keys.
· Do not leave items of value in your car especially in plain view.
NOTE: There is a trend among criminals to target locker rooms at fitness centers in the metro area for the ease in which they can obtain money and car keys.
Detecting Counterfeit Money
All U.S. notes have security features on them to make them recognizable as authentic currency. In the past few years, The U. S. has been designing even more easy to identify, and more difficult to counterfeit. Some of these identifier features are:
· A watermark identical to the portrait of the president’s face is visible from both sides against a light.
· Color shifting ink on the number in the lower right corner on the front of the note.
· Micro printing on the oval ornamentation portrait framing around the president’s face on the front of the note; “The United States of America” is printed on it’s lower edge.
· Fine line printing patterns behind the portrait and building picture on the note are difficult to replicate.
These and other features will become easy to recognize with a little practice in handling money.
The most economical tool to assist in this effort is purchasing a small black light for use by all clerks, and left or installed for their use at the cash register.
For further information, contact the Community Services Section of the Police Department, and/or your local United States Secret Services Office.
While making a police report, it is important to give the Officers and Detectives all information known about the case. Withholding any information is not helpful to any case and could result in charges of obstructing justice.
Fraud Prevention:
· Remember nothing that is worth anything is free.
· Never give any personal information out to an unknown source over the phone or Internet.
(If someone asks for personal information, ask to speak to his or her supervisor and inform them you will be calling the Police to make a fraud report.)
No reputable business will call you or email you for this information!!!
· If you receive a phone call or email telling you that you have won something that you did not apply for, it is more than likely a fraud.
· No legitimate organization will not ask for any money or a Credit Card number in order to claim a prize
· Protect yourself against identity theft by shredding all documents and safe guarding your account numbers, social security numbers and credit card numbers.
For business security advice, or to have a free security survey by a Troy Police Crime Prevention Officer, call 248-524-3464
Friday, January 07, 2005
Residential Crime Alert - January 7, 2005
Residents,
There have been several of Larcenies from Auto’s in the city over the past week:
· Renshaw Street (Long Lake / Dequindre area) - A 99 Chevy van had its window broken out and electronic equipment taken.
· Home Depot, 1177 Coolidge - A Ford F-350 had a rear window smashed out and a bag of tools stolen at the.
· Brentwood Street (Coolidge / Long Lake area) - a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero had the right rear tire stolen during the night.
· Vineyards Street (Adams / Long Lake area) - A 2003 Lincoln Navigator had a rear window smashed out, nothing appeared to be missing as the alarm sounded and probably scared the intruder off.
There were several drunk-driving arrests over the holiday season. Some of these incidents involved crashes, and one involved a fatality.
We experienced two fatal crashes in the city, both involving teenaged drivers:
· On December 26, 2004 at approx. 6:00 PM - Southbound I-75 near Wattles. A 16-year-old driver lost control and rolled her Hummer SUV. The 15-year-old female passenger was killed. Alcohol was not a factor in this crash, however the occupants were not wearing their seatbelts.
· On January 5, 2005 at approximately 2:00 AM - Northbound Livernois just north of Long Lake. A 19-year-old driver was attempting to pass his friends in another vehicle and lost control on the snowy roadway. The vehicle rolled over several times and the 20-year-old female passenger was killed. The driver of this incident was intoxicated and has been charged with Second Degree Murder. Both the driver and passenger were wearing seatbelts.
· There was a home invasion in the 6000 block of Rochester, sometime between New Years Eve and New Years Day. The suspect sliced a rear screen and opened a bedroom window to gain entry. The suspect was driving a white or silver car and could possibly be an ex-employee of the resident.
· A residence on Farmbrook had several antiques missing from her home. She suspects a Handyman she hired because he engaged her in conversation about the antiques.
· On January 2, 2005 a resident on Quartz came home to find pry marks on the pedestrian door leading into the garage. Nothing appeared to be missing at the time. The homeowner stated she had a high school aged female staying at the residence, but refused to identify her to the Police.
If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.
Crime Prevention Tips
· When vehicles are left unattended, do not leave any valuables inside them in plain sight even if parked at home. Make every attempt to park in a well-populated, well-lit area.
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!
DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE ELSE
TO DRINK AND DRIVE!
DO NOT RIDE WITH ANYONE
WHO HAS BEEN DRINKING!
· Always wear your seatbelt anytime you are in a vehicle regardless of the duration of the trip or where you are sitting in the car.
· Make sure all children that require a child safety seat are properly secured in that seat.
· Make this a habit for everyone who rides in your vehicle and demand that they wear a seat belt.
· Prior to hiring anybody to do any work, especially in your home, get references and ask to see identification, insurance, and licenses.
· Attempt to find out as much as possible about this person.
· If someone seems to be overly interested in any of your belongings, do not hire them. Find some one you feel more comfortable with.
You can write to the State Police to get a pre-employment records check done on any prospective employee by writing to:
Michigan State Police
Central Records Division
7150 Harris DR
Lansing, MI 48913.
While making a police report, it is important to give the Officers and Detectives all information known about the case. Withholding any information is not helpful to any case and could result in charges of obstructing justice.
For home security advice, or to have a free security survey by a Troy Police Crime Prevention Officer, call 248-524-3452.
Business Crime Alert - January 7, 2005
There have been several Retail Fraud incidents in recent days. Some of these shoplifters were combative and assaulted Loss Prevention Officers (LPOs). In one Oakland Mall store alone, there were at least three separate shoplifting incidents:
· 2 black males removed two suits from a display rack and left the store.
· LPOs observed two females stuffing items into empty shopping bags that they had concealed under their shirts. When approached, they threw their bags at the LPO’s and ran. One suspect escaped to a white Dodge Intrepid and fled. The second suspect was located and arrested by Police after punching, kicking, and biting LPO’s and escaping to the parking lot.
· LPOs observed a woman pushing a man in a wheel chair. She was concealing clothing behind the man in the wheelchair. They were stopped as they left the store without paying.
· At Mid-Town-Square, Troy Police Officers responded to a report of man and woman team stealing clothing and shoes. When Officer’s confronted the couple, they fled in opposite directions. The woman was caught after a short foot chase. The man was later arrested from his nearby apartment still wearing the stolen shoes.
There have been several incidents of Identity, Credit, and Check Frauds.
· A woman reported her wallet was stolen from the pocket of her coat while it hung in the office. When she reported the credit cards stolen she discovered fraudulent charges made on her American Express Card that was in her stolen wallet.
· A man reported that he suspected his friend stole his ATM card, and used it to make $1210 in unauthorized purchases.
· A woman reported that she applied for a mortgage and was refused. She checked her credit report and discovered three accounts she had never opened. These fraudulent accounts had been declared delinquent for non-payment of approx. $1350.
· A local bank’s Fraud Investigator reported that a suspect opened an account with two no account checks totaling $1969.21. He then withdrew $610 in cash from ATM’s before the checks were returned.
· A woman reported that she received a notice from ATT that her phone was shut off due to an unpaid $1800 balance. The billing address on the account had been changed, 3 additional phone lines had been added to her account, and 6 cell phones had been purchased and charged to her account. ATT advised the suspect would have needed the victim’s social security number in order to facilitate this crime.
Crime Prevention Tips
· Loss Prevention Officers should always work in groups of at least two, when confronting suspect(s).
· Attempt to call the police early while observing the shoplifters in-progress for more successful apprehensions.
· Attempt to stall the suspects by offering them assistance with sizes, etc., while another associate calls police.
· If suspects flee or resist you, give a description and direction of travel, as well as any vehicle information to the police immediately.
To prevent yourself from fraud and I.D. theft:
· Protect your personal information from others.
· Keep your social security card locked up at home.
· Do not give out personal information over the phone to anyone that you did not initiate the contact with.
· Keep your purses and wallets locked up when not on your person.
For more tips or to schedule a presentation for your employees, contact
Officer Jeff Stacey, Retail Establishment Coordinator, at
248-524-3464
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
Troy Police to Host an Alarm Users Seminar
False alarms and the commensurate time away from legitimate law enforcement problems continue to represent a significant challenge on manpower. Although final numbers are not yet available, there were approximately 3823 burglary and robbery alarms in 2004 through November 30th. This is up over 700 since the same time period last year. Almost all of these were false.
In 2003 there were a total of 4653 burglary and robbery alarms. Of those, only 7 were actual break-ins, and 1 was an actual robbery. This represented 1665 hours of police response time, which is equivalent to 69 days. Most false alarms are the result of user error. An alarm user contacting their alarm company, advising them of the mistake, and canceling police response can significantly reduce time spent responding to these types of false alarms, as well as avoid false alarm fees.
The city has implemented a false alarm fee that becomes effective after the third false alarm at a location during a calendar year. Users are allowed up to two false alarms on their premises before having to pay the false alarm fee. The fee starts at $100.00 and can increase to as much as $500.00. Fees can be waived for up to 2 mechanical malfunctions each year with documentation that repairs have been made by a certified service provider. False alarms caused by power outages can also result in fees being waived. A $100.00 fee is automatically assessed when the Police Department responds to a false alarm at a location where the alarm user has failed to register. Registration provides the Police Department with the opportunity to obtain contact information for business owners and residents when officers investigating an alarm discover a condition that requires a response.
Yearly registration forms are sent out to alarm users that have registered in the past. New users need to contact the Police Department to get registered once service has been activated.
This seminar will provide a convenient opportunity for users not only to register, but also to become familiar with their systems through the assistance of service providers and avoid false alarms.
The goal of the Police Department is to provide prompt and quality service to the community. With the assistance of alarm users, we can devote police officers’ attention to benefit all the citizens of Troy.
For additional information, please contact Ms. Suzanne Stroinski of the Community Services Section at 248-680-7224.