Troy Police Crime Alert

Residential and Business Crime Alert

May 27, 2005

Recent IncidentsAlcohol and Drug Violations

On Rochester at Bishop, A Troy Officer noticed that a traffic crash had just occurred. As he attempted to approach the crash scene and investigate, a 1999 Ford Escort with heavy front-end damage from the crash began to drive away. The Officer caught up to the fleeing vehicle and eventually stopped it. When the 35-year-old female driver from New Boston was asked why she was running from the crash scene, she denied running from anything. She had been on her cell phone the entire time that the Officer had her in view. She thought she was on Woodward in Royal Oak. After failing sobriety tests, she was arrested for drunk driving and fleeing the scene of the crash. She had a blood alcohol level of .15% on the breath test. She has a prior drunk driving conviction in 2004, so was charged with a second offense.

At the Oakland Mall Marshall Field’s store, loss prevention officers recognized two subjects and their vehicle as suspects in larcenies from cash registers at other Marshall Field’s locations. They contacted Troy Police as they watched one of the suspects pry open an unattended cash register inside the store and steal the money. Responding officers took him into custody as he was attempting to exit the store. Officers recovered $1360.00 that he had stolen from the register. The other suspect waiting in the vehicle outside claimed no knowledge of the arrested subject, however he was arrested on outstanding arrest warrants from another jurisdiction. A small amount of heroin was confiscated from the suspect who broke into the register.

At the Athens High Prom at Petruzzello’s, 6950 Rochester, The Principal alerted the Juvenile Officers working the Prom to a group of attendees who arrived together in a limo and appeared to have consumed alcohol prior to their arrival. An 18-year-old female who was part of the group was displaying signs of intoxication. She was interviewed by detectives and had a blood alcohol level of .24% on a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT). The other members of her group were identified and interviewed. Seven additional members of the group ranging in ages between 17 and 18 were found to have been drinking, as well. Blood alcohol levels ranged from .03 to .13%. Two of those members tried to flee via a second floor door wall while officers were conducting their investigation, however they were caught and detained. The parents were summoned to pick their children up. Five members of the group had not been drinking and were allowed to stay.

On Kirts, an Attorney who is the executor/overseer of an estate of a deceased client was picking up the mail. A birthday card had been sent to the deceased client’s address from an unknown sender and the card contained a baggie with a powder substance inside. He suspected it was cocaine based on his client’s history. The card and powder was turned over to the Police and 9.8 grams of the powdery substance located in the baggie inside the card tested positive for cocaine.

In the lot of Nino Salvaggio’s at 6835 Rochester, an Officer observed a 2005 Saturn ION squealing its tires and driving carelessly in the lot. A 23-year-old male driver from Shelby Township was arrested for Driving on a Suspended License. His 16-year-old male passenger from Troy was found in possession of suspected hallucinogenic mushrooms. He claimed he found them in the bushes. He was arrested and transported to the station. He was later turned over to his father.

Firefighter’s Park, 5/26, 4:37 pm. A 23-year-old male from Rochester Hills cited for consuming alcohol in public.

Assaults

At the Foot Action store, 614 W.14 Mile, the store manager suspected two females of concealing two pair of pants in a shopping bag. A male joined them as they tried to exit. When the manager asked to check the bag, the female carrying it threatened her. When the manager tried to open it, the female carrying it slapped, and then punched her in the face, knocking her to the floor. All three fled on foot. When another employee attempted to follow, the male told him to “turn around, or else.” The suspects escaped. The store received a call shortly thereafter warning them to stop trying to check shopper’s bags or they will “get it.” The Manager was not available for interview, as she had gone to the hospital for treatment of a possible broken nose. The suspects are described as a Black Female, 30 years old, wearing blue jeans, black T-shirt and multi-colored Louis Vuitton cap. Suspect #2 is a Black Female, 25 years old, wearing white Capri pants and a light blue T-shirt. Suspect #3 is a Black Male, wearing blue jean shorts and multi-colored button down shirt, and white tennis shoes.

Retail Frauds

At the Oakland Mall Marshall Fields store at 500 W. 14 Mile, Loss prevention officers reported that a black male wearing a dark jacket, white shirt, dark pants, white shoes, and a dark hat entered the store. He approached the purse rack, grabbed 10 purses and ran out. He entered the driver’s side of blue 2005 Chrysler Sebring and fled. Total stolen: $587.00 Vehicle possibly registers to a 36-year-old male from Detroit.

At the Somerset Mall Marshall Field’s store at 2750 W. Big Beaver, a 56 year old white male from Royal Oak concealed $138.00 worth of merchandise in an empty Marshall Field’s shopping bag then exited the store without paying. He did this while shopping with his 9-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son. Two of the several items he concealed were handed to him, one by each of the children. When approached by store loss prevention officers he resisted and attempted to flee. During the struggle, the children came to their father’s aide by hanging onto the neck and back of the two store employees who were trying to detain him. He was controlled and arrested.

At the Rite Aid store at 1981 W. South Blvd., a store employee reported that two suspects stole 3 cases of beer. The suspects are described as a black male, 24 years, 5’11, clean cut and a black male 24 years, 5’8, wearing a ball cap. They were driving a Tan ’91 Mercury 4 door registered to a male from Commerce Township.

At the Home Depot at 1177 Coolidge, store loss prevention pointed out to an officer on routine patrol a suspect walking in the lot that they believed stole a pressure washer on 5/14. He reportedly attempted to steal two others on 5/16 and 5/20, but dumped them when he discovered he was being watched. The Troy Officer stopped and identified the suspect as a 51-year-old male from Detroit. Store personnel are currently collecting evidence to secure a warrant for the May 14th theft.

7-11, 5020 John R, 5/26. Two members of a group of three 16-year-old males from Troy entered the store and concealed some candy and gum in their pockets. An employee confronted them and recovered $3.27 worth of gum and candy. One youth explained he placed the items in his pocket intending to pay, but when he realized he didn’t have any money, he removed the items and returned them to a shelf. The second youth denied taking anything. Both were warned and released.

Embezzlement

At Wal-Mart, 2001 W. Maple, a 44-year-old female ex-employee from Bloomfield Hills had three shortages on her register. A review of activities by store loss prevention personnel on those dates resulted in discovering that the suspect removed and pocketed the funds from her deposit bag on one of those occasions. Approximately $531.00 was believed taken in that incident. The investigation continues.

Home Invasions and Breaking and Entering

On John R, a resident reported that someone stole an electric scooter from his open garage.

On Keaton, a resident observed several subjects she did not recognize in and around a home in the neighborhood. She called the police and when officers arrived, youths fled from the home. A 16-year-old male from Troy was detained inside. He reported that his friend who lives at the residence gave him the key. Officers contacted the homeowner, who advised that she and her family were out of town. When she asked her son, he confirmed that he gave the suspect the house keys. The Homeowner stated that no one had permission to be inside her home. Evidence of alcohol and marijuana consumption by the involved youths was discovered inside. The suspect had a blood alcohol level of .07% on a PBT. He was arrested, transported to the station and turned over to his parents. The 4 youths who fled have been identified. They are all from Troy, and charges will likely be filed.

PMP Marble and Granite, 1119 Wheaton, 5/11-5/26

A vacated building/warehouse was entered via an unlocked garage door. Numerous electrical fuse boxes as well as electrical copper wiring were stolen. The suspects appear to have used their own portable lights, as those were left behind and attached to the main electrical box with jumper cables. Suspects may have been inside on more than one occasion. The north cyclone fence leading into the rear yard had been cut. Workers in the business next door reported observing a suspicious red Chevy pickup cruising the area recently.

Automobile Break-Ins

On Jonathon, a resident reported that his 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix was entered and his cell phone and radar detector were stolen. A neighbor’s car was also entered and a flashlight was stolen. No sign of forced entry.

On Mountain, a resident reported an unlocked 2005 Ford Explorer that was parked in the drive was entered and a digital camera and several sets of keys were stolen. A can of olives was opened and thrown about the inside of the car. A bottle of mayo was dumped on the hood.

On Charter, residents reported that a 1995 Nissan and a 1988 Lincoln had windows smashed out. Nothing was missing from the Nissan, but a stereo was stolen from the Lincoln. Madison Heights Police advised Troy that they had a 17-year-old male from Farmington Hills and a 16-year-old male from Detroit in custody for breaking into autos in their town. The 17-year-old admitted to the Madison Heights Officers that they had entered 3 cars in Troy, taken a stereo from one, a Play Station and video games, and a cell phone from one of the others.

At the Holiday Inn at 2537 Rochester Court, twelve wheels and tires were stolen from 2005 Pontiac G6, and two 2004 Chrysler Sebrings. All vehicles were left on concrete blocks.

On Forest Park, an unlocked 2005 Chevy Suburban parked in the drive was entered and house keys, a radar detector, a garage remote, and spare change was stolen.

On Mountain, someone rummaged through an unlocked 1999 Ford Windstar and an unlocked 1995 Jeep Wrangler, both parked in the drive. Ten CD’s were stolen from the van. Nothing appeared to be missing from the Jeep.

On Russet Drive, Four cars and five houses were splattered with paintballs. A 2005 Buick LaCrosse parked in a drive was entered and a laptop, palm pilot, cell phone, and other miscellaneous items were stolen. No sign of force; apparently the car was left unlocked. A Pontiac Firebird parked in the same drive had the side view mirror broken off.

At Roche Photo, 1255 Rankin, A 2003 Ford Van that had been sold was parked in the lot until the new owner picked it up. A business representative discovered that the spare tire had been stolen from the undercarriage. A loading ramp had been unbolted and stolen, as well.

Renshaw, 5/25-5/26, 7:30 pm –8:00 am. A purse was stolen out of a 2003 Dodge van parked in driveway. Credit cards were used to make unauthorized charges. No signs of force, but the sliding door was found unlocked. The owner suspects that the door was accidentally left unlocked by her son when he exited, as the other doors were locked.

Vandalisms

At the Wattles Elementary School Playground at 3555 Ellenboro, a citizen reported observing two juveniles light a small fire on a playground tire and a play station apparatus tube. Burn marks were located near the tire and minor burn damage and a hole were burned into the tube. A 14 and a 15-year-old male from Troy were arrested and taken to the police station. Their parents were notified and the juveniles were turned over to them. A lighter, a bottle of lighter fluid, a bottle of isopropyl alcohol, a bag of caps and wicks, and a bottle of aluminum sulfide were confiscated.

On Forest park, a resident reported that the driver side mirror was broken and rear wiper bent on his GMC Jimmy.

On Elm, a resident reported an unlocked 1996 Chevy Monte Carlo parked in the drive was entered and the center console was damaged by paintballs.

On Forest Park, two side view mirrors were broken off a 2000 Pontiac Grand Am parked in the drive.

On Long Lake near Northfield Parkway, A citizen reported observing an unknown object hit the driver’s side door of her 2004 GMC Envoy, causing a dent. It appears something may have been propelled at the vehicle from the wooded area on the south side of the roadway.

At 2966 E. Big Beaver, Three windows were broken out of vacated business.

McIntosh, 5/22, 1:30 am – 4:30 am. The resident was sitting in her car on her cell phone when she observed a male youth from the neighborhood pull into his driveway. Shortly thereafter two males emerged from the area of his residence and approached the vehicles parked in her driveway. When they tried the door handles on her cars, she pushed her alarm, which scared them off. At 4:30 am., she heard sounds outside her window, but didn’t see anything. She found four yellow paintball shots on her car in the morning.

Stolen Vehicles

At the Alibi Inn, 6700 Rochester, a complainant reported a 2003 Harley Big Dog motorcycle was stolen from the lot.

The Detroit Police recovered a 1994 Pontiac Firebird on a residential street that had been stolen from Gloucester in Troy on 1/17/05.

Frauds

A resident reported receiving numerous e-mails and mailings from various groups, organizations, and schools she has never contacted. She also received notice from a music club indicating that she owes money for a CD she never purchased. That account was opened in her name to an address in Ann Arbor where she lived while attending school.

A resident reported that his debit card was stolen from his workplace and subsequently used to make approximately $440.00 worth of purchases at Circuit City and the Starr Theater in Madison Heights.

A resident reported that someone created a fraudulent check using her account numbers, but under a different name and address. The check was used to make a purchase at Wal-Mart for $125.89.

A resident received notice from a credit-reporting agency advising him someone tried to open an account with a computer sales company in his name. The transaction was not allowed.

A citizen reported that her purse containing a wallet and credit cards was stolen earlier in the month at Royal Oak Beaumont Hospital, where she works. She discovered that her credit cards were used to make unauthorized purchases at stores at Somerset and Oakland Malls after the theft.

A citizen reported that when he attempted to open an account with a utility company, he was advised of a delinquent account for $583.52 in his name registered to an address in Troy with which he is unfamiliar. He also received notice from a collection agency regarding the delinquent bill. He did not give anyone permission to use his personal information to open the account.

A resident reported receiving a notice from a collection agency over a delinquent phone account in the amount of $197.57. It appears that someone used the last four digits of her social security number to open the unauthorized account, which was billed to an address in Detroit with which she is unfamiliar.

Marshall Field’s, 2800 W. Big Beaver, Loss Prevention Officers reported discovering that a check used for a $397.50 purchase on 5/17 was counterfeit.

A resident reported discovering three unauthorized withdrawals for a total of $4328.00 made from his bank account. Someone appears to have opened an automatic payment account from his savings account using his personal information.

Larcenies

At Olga’s restaurant at 392 W 14 Mile a citizen reported that her debit card, social security card, and two gift cards were stolen from her purse while she worked.

On Upton, a resident reported that her purse was stolen while hosting a retirement party at her residence.

On Elm Ct. A resident reported someone stole a receiver from a satellite dish that was attached to side of house.

At Bally’s, 203 W. Big Beaver, a citizen reported discovering the lock removed from his locker and his wallet, cell phone, and gold necklace was stolen. The Manager stated that they have had two reports of a male seen tampering with patron’s lockers in the past. A male matching that description was seen in the locker room at the time the break-in was discovered. He is described as a black male, bald, large build. When a patron approached him when he was observed tampering with the patron’s lock on a past occasion, the subject explained he mistakenly approached the wrong locker.

At Bally’s a citizen reported five lockers had combination locks removed and some of the contents, including 4 wallets, and a cell phone were stolen. A subject matching the description provided above was seen in the locker room prior to discovery of thefts. He is described as black male, 30-40 years old, 6’2 to 6’4, 200 + pounds, with an earring, black Nike pants and a windbreaker, carrying a small black gym bag. Witness observed the subject in the locker room for a prolonged period of time, but never saw him change clothes.

At Bally’s, 202 W. Big Beaver, A citizen reported that someone stole his credit card and cash from his locked locker. The lock was still in place, however had marks on it leading him to believe it had been tampered with.

At Bally’s, 203 W. Big Beaver, Two lockers had combination locks removed and cash, credit cards, and cell phones stolen.

At the Oakland Mall Marshall Field’s store, loss prevention officers recognized two subjects and their vehicle as suspects in larcenies from cash registers at other Marshall Field’s locations. They contacted Troy Police as they watched one of suspects pry open an unattended cash register inside the store and steal the money. Responding officers took him into custody as he was attempting to exit the store. Officers recovered $1360.00 that he stolen from the register. The other suspect waiting in the vehicle outside claimed no knowledge of the arrested subject, however he was arrested on outstanding arrest warrants from another jurisdiction. A small amount of heroin was confiscated from the suspect who broke into the register.

On Telford, a resident reported that $1200.00 in cash was missing from a dresser drawer in the master bedroom. They have had a series of contractors in the home conducting remodeling jobs recently and they suspect a member of one of those crews may be responsible.

At Siemens at 777 Chicago, A $4355.00 laptop computer and accessories was stolen from an office. Witnesses reported a suspicious person walking out of lobby at time of theft carrying what appeared to be two laptop computer cases. Access to building is gained only via card access or fob access.

Wall Street Loan Center, 1361 E. Big Beaver, 5/20

An employee reported that a terminated employee, who is her ex-boyfriend, convinced a 16 year old male co-op student to steal her transaction receipts from the past year and place them in a dumpster. The youth advised he was under the impression the suspect planned to retrieve them after he placed them in the dumpster. The suspect promised the youth a better paying position with the company he was currently working for if he assisted him. Apparently, the suspect also wanted him to steal a laptop containing customer contact information from the business, but he refused.

Suspicious Persons/incidents

At Somerset North, 2800 W. Big Beaver, Officers responded to a report that a male subject had removed pants and underwear, and attempted to defecate on a planter. He was later observed removing his pants and urinating outside a store. The 46-year-old male from Detroit was committed for psychological evaluation. It appears he had recently been released from a similar evaluation.

If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.

This weekend is the Memorial Day weekend. Let us all use this time to reflect on the great sacrifices our war veterans have made for our great country. Say a special prayer for our soldiers and their families that are currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Always remember that freedom is not free and the great way of life we enjoy in this country is attributed to their willingness to serve and endure the hardships and pain that many of us will never have to know.

Crime Prevention Tips

If you witness a crime:

- get involved

- call the police

- It is easier to catch a criminal if we are called right away, while they are still in the area.

The Holidays usually bring celebrations, parties and alcohol consumption. Unfortunately we also see an increase in drunk driving.

Be responsible, if you drink, DO NOT DRIVE!

We all must share the roads, don’t risk the lives of others or yourself. It is not a good idea to mix Alcohol with other activities like boating or swimming. If you drink, do it in moderation and don’t drive or put yourself and other at risk.

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 anything of value in your vehicle in plain view.

- Always lock your vehicle doors.

- Never leave a vehicle unattended while running.

- There is a trend of things being stolen from vehicles in the parking lots of fitness centers and fun centers. While going to these places, be extra careful to remove all items of value and secure your vehicle.

Always secure your doors and windows.

- Garages and door walls are targets for thieves.

- Always ensure your garage door and pedestrian doors are secured.

- Do not leave garage door remote controls in cars not parked in the garage.

- Use 1 ½’’ dowel rod in the track of all sliding glass windows and doors to help prevent them from opening.

- It has been proven time and time again that the proper use and application of physical security will stop a would-be burglar.

- Always keep control of all your property.

- Your belongings are not safe while you are playing sports or at work unless you have them properly locked or are in possession of them.

- Thieves wait for the right time and will take property quickly.

- Unfortunately you cannot always trust co-workers or other business associates.

- Do not rely on others to watch your belongings. If they fail, you will be the victim, not them.

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.

- Always maintain your credit cards and secure the credit card numbers.

- If you suspect that you have been the victim of credit fraud, call your credit card company and have them run a query of your charges.

- Never give your bank account numbers over the phone. Especially if unsolicited!

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

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.

· DO NOT use illegal drugs

· DO NOT drive and endanger the lives of everyone if you have consumed alcohol or drugs.

· If you are under 21 years of age, IT IS ILLEGAL to consume or possess alcohol.

Vandalism Prevention

The best way to protect yourself from this crime, or from being held financially responsible for the acts of your kids, is to know where your children are, what they are doing, and whom their friends are. Kids are very tech-savvy, and use the latest means to communicate. We have had numerous cases where middle and high-school aged kids have made clandestine plans using their home computer and instant-messaging programs (AIM, Yahoo Messenger, etc.) to communicate with their friends, unbeknownst to their parents (no phones ringing in the middle of the night.) They sneak out of the house and meet up to go and commit all sorts of crimes. This is not only illegal, but it is very dangerous.

· Talk with your kids and encourage them to tell you about any problems with other kids.

· Monitor your child’s instant messages.

· Don’t put computers with Internet access in their bedrooms.

· Lock the doors to the house and set alarms when you go to bed.

· Make a habit of checking on the kids, no matter what age, in the middle of the night, just to make sure they are where they are supposed to be (especially when hosting sleepovers.) Let them know that you are checking.

· Check your vehicles for new damage or signs of being involved in vandalism - Mud on tires or wheel-wells, baseball bats with gouges or glass in them, egg cartons, knives or other sharp objects that are out of place in a car, cans of spray paint or shaving cream (yes shaving cream and eggs damage paint.)

If you suspect that your kids have been out vandalizing property, or committing any other crimes, you can contact the Police Department Juvenile Unit, or Troy Youth Assistance for advice.

Juvenile Unit – 248-524-3451

Youth Assistance - 248-823-5095

Residential Crime Alert

May 20, 2005

Recent Incidents

Larcenies From Autos

Oakland Mall, 412 W. 14, 5/15, 2:30 pm -5:50 pm. Someone broke the passenger side window on a 1996 Plymouth Neon and stole the in-dash stereo.

Wagon Wheel, 2950 Rochester, 5/13, 4:30 pm -5:30 pm. Someone broke the rear window of a 2003 GMC Denali and stole a briefcase.

Hallmark, 5/14-5/15, 4:00 pm-1:00 pm. Someone entered an unlocked 2005 Chevy Malibu that was parked in the driveway and stole a laptop and other personal items.

Chesapeake, 5/14-5/15, 11:00 pm –7:00 am. A lap top computer was stolen from the back seat a car that was parked in drive. The victim believes it was locked, but there was no sign of forced entry.

Larchwood, 5/14, 1:00 am – 8:00 am. A 1998 Buick Century that was parked on the street had the driver’s side window smashed out and a CD / radio and radar detector stolen.

Payne Technology, 1668 Thorncroft, 5/13, 1:00 am –4:00 pm. A 2004 Chevy pickup had the rear window smashed out and the interior ransacked. Nothing was found missing. An unlocked trailer was also entered and a battery and toolbox were stolen.

Jake’s Automotive, 1487 Premier, 5/12-5/13, 6:00PM – 7:00 AM. Three vehicles parked in the lot had windows broken, and at least one appeared to have been entered and rummaged through. It is unknown if anything missing.

Patterson, 5/18, 3:15 am. A resident responded to noise in the driveway and observed a small, dark vehicle with a loud exhaust speed off. He discovered the passenger side electric mirror stolen from his 1997 Chevy Blazer.

Pecar Electronics, 3732 Rochester, 5/17- 5/18, 5:00 pm –8:30 am. Someone broke into a 2000 Dodge Ram Van by punching driver’s side door lock. Approximately $4500.00 worth of tools and equipment was stolen.

Renshaw, 5/16. The resident stated that he left his wallet in his running car in the driveway while he went inside the house for 5 minutes. The car was locked, but the windows were open. When he returned to the car, the wallet was gone.

Firefighters’ Park, 1800 W. Square Lake, 5/16, 7:00 pm –7:30 pm. Someone stole cash and a debit card from a purse, which was left under the back seat of a 1996 Ford Windstar van. The debit card was used to charge $1100.00 worth of purchases. The victim thought that she pressed the lock button on the remote, however apparently not all the locks activated, as there was no sign of forced entry.

Andrew street, 5/18, 12:00am- 9:30pm. Someone unscrewed and removed the brake light assemblies from a 2001 Jeep Cherokee and a Ford Explorer that were parked in the drive.

Troy Marriott, 200 W. Big Beaver, 5/18, 5:50pm-7:00 pm. A computer was stolen from a car in the lot. No sign of forced entry, however the owner believes it was locked.

Suspicious Persons and Incidents

Delphi, 5725 W. Square Lake Rd., 5/15, 4:20 pm –5:15 pm. A citizen reported seeing a white male, 40 years, 5’8, 165, wearing camouflage, park his vehicle then walk into the woods. He came out, repositioned his vehicle then walked into another wooded area, before driving away. Vehicle described as a white ’02 Chevy Silverado that registers out of Utica.

Troy Marriott, 200 W. Big Beaver, 5/14, 8:00 am. A citizen reported that when she signed in at a conference that she was attending, she thought she recognized one of her optometry patients sitting in the lobby. She stated he was a new patient whom she saw for the first time earlier in the week, and he seemed to be acting strangely at that time. She thought she might have mentioned the conference to office personnel while he was present. When he was still in the hotel lobby after two hours, she advised security. They removed him from the property when they learned he was not staying there, nor did he have any reason for being there.

Wal-Mart, 2001 Maple, 5/14, 6:20 pm. A Troy Officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation after observing the occupants acting suspiciously near the store. The Officer determined that there was no evidence of criminal activity at the store, however the driver was wanted for Credit Fraud out of Georgia. It was a non-extraditable warrant.

Susick Elementary School, 5/19, 5:40 pm. An 11-year-old girl youth rode her bike back to school to retrieve an instrument that she had forgotten. While in the lot, she stated that a burgundy, box style van with two white male occupants with black hair drove toward her. She rode away from the van toward the back of the school. While doing so one of the occupants asked her for directions. She thought she recognized the male who was driving the van as the driver of another vehicle she had seen parked near the school a month ago. That vehicle was blue.

Troy Corporate Center, 880 W. Long Lake, 5/19, 4:40 pm. A Security Officer reports seeing a silver or grey newer 2-door coupe cruising the lot for the second time. On both occasions, when the driver saw him approach, he quickly drove off. The driver is described as W/M, 30-35, 5’9, with black hair and dressed professionally. On the first occasion, the driver approached a female in the lot and engaged her in conversation. The Security Officer checked with her and she stated the subject was asking for directions to the Marriott.

Stolen and Recovered Stolen Cars

Sears Lot, 300 W. 14 Mile, 5/16, 12:00 pm –10:00 pm. A 1993 Chevy Caprice was stolen.

Sears, 300 W. 14 Mile, 5/16, 5:41 pm. A suspicious vehicle that had been cruising the lots was found sitting unoccupied with the hood up. A Troy Officer determined that the 1991 Chevy Lumina had been stolen in Warren

On 5/13, Detroit PD recovered a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 that was stolen from the Northfield Hilton in Troy on 5/11. The vehicle was in a field and was missing the wheels, tires, and battery.

On 5/17, Detroit PD recovered a 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII that had been stolen from an apartment complex in Troy in July of 2004.

Larcenies and Possible Larcenies

Somerset North, 2800 W. Big Beaver, 5/14, 12:00 pm. A shopper left his cell phone on the sink in the restroom. When he returned to retrieve it, it was gone.

IADT, 1850 Research, 5/11, 9:00 pm. An art kit, valued at $384.00 reported stolen from an office. A student who was a suspect admitted taking the kit, but explained that she thought it belonged to a friend she was with when she picked it up. She said that she would contact him and retrieve the case.

Troy Sports Center, 1819 E. Big Beaver, 5/14, 6:15 pm. A player left his $160.00 hockey stick on the bench after a game. When he went to retrieve it, it was gone. Someone told him they observed an older male in the locker room w/the stick, claiming that he had found it on the bench.

William Sheahan Title, 525 E. Big Beaver, 5/16, 1:00 pm. The victim’s wallet was stolen from her purse, which was at her desk. She stated that she left her desk to deliver a message and when she returned, she found a male standing next to her desk. He asked for directions to the attorney’s office in the building. Shortly thereafter, she discovered her wallet missing. She also discovered her ATM card had been used at an ATM machine and then twice at a gas station in Detroit at approximately 1:50 pm. A possible suspect vehicle is described as a white, small, late model, possible foreign vehicle.

Lear Corp., 300 E. Big Beaver, 5/13-5/16, 4:05 pm – 8:15 am. Someone stole a lap top computer, valued at $2000.00, from an office.

Troy Beaumont Hospital, 44201 Dequindre, 5/16, 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm. While the victim was being treated in the Emergency Room, someone stole $97.00 from his wallet.

Michigan Catholic Credit Union, 255 E. Maple, 5/17-5/18, 5:00 pm –12:00 pm.

Someone stole the coolant from the air conditioning unit located on the roof. It had just been filled last week. Total value: $265.00

Home Invasions and Breaking and Entering

Medford, 5/16, 0730-1545 hrs. Complainant reported observing some items in the home disturbed. He also discovered his laptop and checkbook missing. No immediate sign of forced entry. Pedestrian door leading into house may have been left unlocked; basement window was found slightly ajar. Daughter of resident stated she had used that window to gain entry on a prior date when she forgot her keys. 05-16273

Stonetree, 5/13, 7:00 pm – 7:50 pm. The homeowner reported that a 12 pack of beer and 1.75 liter of Vodka were stolen from the refrigerator in his garage. The garage door was left open. This crime is actually a Home Invasion according to the law, since an attached garage is part of the dwelling; so entering the garage to commit a crime (steal beer) is a Felony.

215 E. Big Beaver, 5/15-5/16, 10:30 am – 8:00 am. Someone dismantled the lock on the entry door to the office and stole 2 fax machines and a computer monitor.

M Dry Cleaners, 38 W. Square Lake, 5/14-5/15, 5:15 pm – 11:22 am. A store employee arrived at work and found the glass in front door broken out. Officers determined that the door was still locked, and although no entry was apparent, approximately $300.00 in cash was missing from cash register. Two employees closed and locked up the night before. They stated that they left the cash in the register before closing.

Lovington, 5/18, 7:00am – 7:30pm. The resident left and secured his apartment door lock in the morning. When he returned he discovered his laptop and cable modem had been stolen. There were marks on the door near the knob indicating it had been partially pried to gain entry.

Frauds and Embezzlements

Rio Wraps, 3330 Rochester, 5/15, A manager failed to show up for work on Saturday and management has been unable to contact or locate him. None of the deposits for the prior several days were in the store. When the bank account was checked, those deposits had not been made. Approximately $1700.00 is missing.

Comerica, 31 E. Long Lake, 5/16, 2:05 pm. An 18-year-old female from Detroit was arrested after trying to open an account with a fraudulent payroll check. Three males, who all claimed little or no knowledge of her or her actions, had driven her to the location. The 24-year-old male from Detroit who was driving was arrested for driving on a suspended license; a 22-year-old male passenger from Detroit who initially provided a fictitious name and identity to officers was arrested for hindering and obstructing the Police; he was on parole for uttering and publishing and car theft. The third male, a 24 year old from Detroit, was released.

Home Depot, 1177 Coolidge, 5/11-5/13, Loss Prevention Officers were alerted by several suspicious purchases made by one of the store’s cashiers. Upon reviewing the transaction records at her register, they discovered that she had recently used the credit card numbers from three different customers who made purchases at her register to make three purchases for herself totaling $750.00. The 20-year-old female from Detroit was arrested.

Subway, 50 E. Maple, 5/12, 9:36 pm. A 20-year-old male employee from Troy is suspected of stealing the $100.00 bank deposit. When the manager arrived at the store on the night in question, she observed a customer in front of suspect’s register with a drink and sandwich, however the register only showed the drink as paid for. When she asked the customer why he wasn’t charged for the sandwich, he claimed he didn’t know. She fired the employee then checked the deposit. She found the deposit envelope in the safe, filled it out and signed by the employee as having $100.00 in it, however the money was missing. The register was approximately $100.00 short, as well.

A resident reported being contacted by his bank attempting to confirm a computer purchase for $1700.00 that someone was attempting to make using the resident’s personal information and have shipped to a secondary address. The resident confirmed that he had not made or authorized the purchase.

A resident discovered an unauthorized withdrawal of $269.95 from her checking account for.

A resident suspects his estranged 28-year-old son of making $1756.00 worth of unauthorized withdrawals from his checking account. $164.00 of those transactions occurred in Troy. He states his son lived at home until the beginning of the month. He believes he has a drug problem. The family has experienced various fraud situations involving credit cards, missing mail, and missing checks for the last several weeks. They have been able to prevent other frauds, except those involving the checking account.

A resident discovered that someone had used her identity and checking account information to create and pass two fraudulent checks for a total of $352.00 in Ohio.

A resident received a notice from a collection agency regarding an unpaid DTE energy bill for $40.55 in his name. He never had a DTE account. DTE advised the bill was from an address in Ferndale with which complainant was not familiar.

A resident discovered that someone used information from his Debit Card to make an unauthorized cash transfer for $850.00 out of the country via Western Union.

A bank representative reported that a customer deposited a $5500.00 non-sufficient fund check from another bank into his account at the bank the complainant represents. The suspect has disregarded payment demand notices.

Pier One Imports, 388 John R, 12/04-2/05, LPO’s conducted an investigation after detecting a series of suspicious return transactions involving a 21-year-old female employee from Clarkston. Investigation revealed evidence that suspect was conducting fraudulent refunds for herself at her cash register. Approximately $3150.02 in losses is suspected.

Troy Auto Wash, 5/17 an employee reported that a 22-year-old female driver of 2004 Ford Explorer paid with a counterfeit $20.00. Vehicle registers to a female from Mount Morris.

Assaults and Altercations

Bowl One, 1639 E. 14 Mile, 5/13, 6:45 pm. Officers responded to a disturbance in lot. When they arrived, the disturbance was over and the suspect was gone. The victim, a 26-year-old male from Ferndale, stated that a 41-year-old male from Detroit punched him in the face. The cause of the assault was never clearly ascertained, however it appears there is a history between the two men, and tonight’s episode minimally involved the victim directing an obscenity toward suspect.

Life Time Fitness, 4700 Investment, 5/15, 8:55 pm. A 20-year-old male victim from Bloomfield Hills reported that when he asked who was up next to play basketball, the 19-year-old male suspect from Troy confronted him and punched him in the nose. Apparently, several other individuals that were with the suspect’s group also punched the victim. The suspect claimed that he intervened on victim’s behalf, however witness statements contradicted his version. The suspect was arrested.

Wattles and Coolidge, 5/12, 4:00 pm. A 46-year-old female from Macomb Twp. reported that while driving home, a 37-year-old male from Shelby Twp., driving a Lincoln Town car, began swerving back and forth in front of her so she could not pass. He gave her the finger several times, and she could see him yelling at her. She eventually got ahead of him, and he began tailgating her. When they stopped at a light, he exited his car and began yelling that he works at the same building and accused her of always tailgating him. He reportedly was pounding his fists against her window, as well. (This occurred again at another light in Sterling Heights.) At another light in Troy, he bumped into the rear of her car. She determined who he was at work the next day and made a report to the Human Resources Department. They advised her that he also made a report, but his contained a different account. She received an e-mail from another employee indicating that the subject had made some comments to him about her constant tailgating him.

Big Beaver and Coolidge, 5/19. A 42-year-old male from Troy and 25-year-old female from Oak Park came to the station to make mutual complaints against each other about erratic/rude driving. The male claimed the female honked at him, flipped him off, and then began tailgating him after they both apparently tried to get into the center lane from the left and right lanes at about the same time. He stated he tapped his brakes to warn her. She claimed he cut her off, while cutting in and out of traffic, nearly causing her to crash into him.

Vandalisms

Kirts, 5/15, 3:00 am. Someone kicked and dented the side of a 2003 Honda Civic.

Kirts, 5/15, 1:50 am. Officers responded to a complaint of loud noise and what sounded like a fight coming from nearby apartment. Officers spoke to the 22-year-old female resident at the location in question, who advised that she was having a party, and one of her guests brought two friends. When they were asked to leave, a fight broke out and the two individuals damaged the entry door as they left.

1305 Stephenson, 5/13, 4:40 pm. A citizen observed three teens spray-painting a concrete barrier in the area. Suspects were gone upon officers’ arrival. A small amount of blue paint was found on the concrete cul-de-sac.

Hallmark Store, 2081 W. S. Blvd., 5/17, 12:00 pm –2:00 pm. Someone put a scratch along the entire passenger side of a car. A witness saw a 60-year-old male key the car.

Martell School, 5666 Livernois, 5/13-5/16. Someone painted a design containing the letters BB on the air-conditioning unit with red paint.

Alcohol and Drug Arrests

Rochester and Big Beaver, 5/15, 9:44 pm. Officers responded to area on a report that the driver of a 1997 Chevy Lumina was all over the road on N/B I-75, had blown a tire, and was driving on the rim and sparks were flying. Officers located vehicle and driver in a parking lot at Rochester and Big Beaver. The 26-year-old male driver from Sterling Heights had a blood alcohol level of .21% at the scene and was arrested. He was driving on a temporary license that was issued on 3/28/05 for another drunk driving arrest in St. Clair County. He refused a breath test and a search warrant for blood was obtained.

14 Mile and Dequindre, 5/15, midnight. Troy Officer located a semi truck that was wanted in a hit and run property damage crash that had just occurred in Warren. Warren PD arrived on the scene and arrested the driver for drunk driving and leaving scene of crash.

Wattles and Rochester, 5/15, 7:15 pm. A 23 old male from Troy was stopped for not wearing a seatbelt. The Officer’s investigation lead to the recovery of 1 gram of marijuana and the paraphernalia for smoking it in the subject’s possession. The subject was arrested.

Arlund Way, 5/16, 11:20 pm. Officers responded to report of car off theroad, possibly involved in a crash and located a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta with heavy front-end damage and the airbags deployed. There was no driver in the area. Officers went to residence of the registered owner on Hounds Chase, where the homeowner explained that his 18-year-old son was driving and had walked home after the crash. When asked why they hadn’t called PD, he stated they were just about to. The 18 year old failed sobriety tests and was arrested. He had a blood alcohol level of .20% on the breath test. He had a prior drunk driving conviction in 2003 in Pontiac. He was arrested for second offense drunk driving and leaving the scene of a traffic crash.

K-Mart, 100 E. Maple, 5/14, 7:00 pm. Officers responded to complaint that a suspect had driven into the lot at a high rate of speed, nearly striking a pedestrian. The suspect entered the store yelling and cursing. When several customers approached him and asked if anything was wrong, he began calling them obscene names and punched one of the males, before fleeing the store. The victim had departed before officers arrived, but was contacted later and confirmed the above details. The suspect drove off at high speeds prior to officers’ arrival, but was eventually located in a parking lot west of the location. After failing sobriety tests, he was arrested for drunk driving. He denied being at K-Mart. His hand was swollen, but he claimed an unknown male grabbed him while he was inside his vehicle. He had a blood alcohol level of .14% on the breath test.

Residence Inn, 2600 Livernois, 5/15, 12:07 am. Officers responded to a complaint regarding noise and spoke with two parties inside the room in question. The 18 and 17-year-old males from Shelby Township had blood alcohol levels of .13% and .06% on Preliminary Breath Tests. They were issued citations for Minor in Possession of Alcohol and driven home by Officers.

Oakland Commons, Big Beaver and Daley, 5/20, 1:35 am. A 53-year-old male from Wixom was observed sitting in a 2000 Saturn in the lot of a closed business. He was found to be smoking marijuana. A small amount was confiscated, as was an item of paraphernalia.

Found Property

Somerset North, 2800 W. Big Beaver, 5/11, A Security Officer reported that a customer turned in a gold bracelet valued at approximately $300.00 that was found in the mall.

Domestic Complaints / Family Troubles:

Troy Officers responded to a complaint from the father of 15 year old male indicating that he is experiencing on-going problems with his son. The son refused to go to church with the family and had left the premises without permission while they were away. Upon his return, it was discovered he took a bottle of wine from the home and consumed it. He had a blood alcohol level of .11% and was petitioned to the Juvenile Court for Minor in Possession of Alcohol, among other status related offenses.

A 15-year-old male who was home on a weekend visit from a treatment program for substance abuse ran away. He was entered into the Law Enforcement Information Network as missing.

The father of a 16-year-old male called the Police. He was attempting to drive his son back to Children’s Village on a probation violation, when the father agreed to stop so son could visit his girlfriend and the son fled on foot. Officers located the son in a nearby store, where he again attempted to flee, however he was caught and detained. Officers completed the transport to Children’s Village, where the son was admitted.

A 17-year-old female reported that she allowed her boyfriend to take nude photos of her with his cell phone when she was 16. They have since broken up and she recently discovered one of the photos on his web site. Her mother called his father, and it has since been removed.

Officers were called to the scene of a dispute between a male and female. Both subjects indicated there had been an argument, possibly over drugs. The 40-year-old male initially provided a false name, claiming he was from Nevada. The Officers’ Investigation revealed that he had thrown his wallet under a car in the lot. It was retrieved and his identification verified that he was wanted in California on a parole violation related to a kidnapping charge. He was arrested and extradition is pending.

When a mother went to wake her 16-year-old daughter up for school, she found her in bed with an 18-year-old male. Neither was cooperative about male’s identity so the mother called the Police. Apparently the two met when they were in an in-house detention program. The investigation continues as to whether a crime occurred.

Officers responded to a report of a subject “going wild” outside a room at the Red Roof Inn. Upon their arrival, the subject was gone, however the occupant of the room explained that he was there with a female friend, with whom the original disorderly subject lives. The female friend explained the subject is her boyfriend, and he is upset after discovering her cheating on him with the male she was currently with. While officers were still present, the wife of the male subject from the room showed up. She stated she called a number she found on her husband’s cell phone. It belonged to the female he was currently in the room with, however her boyfriend had the phone and answered. When the two compared notes, they suspected the affair. She had been driving to area hotels trying to find them. All were sent on their way after being advised to settle their problems peacefully.

A woman came to the Police station and reported that she and her ex-boyfriend, with whom she owns a business, got into an argument and he took her wallet and car. The Officer determined that they have mutual access to the car. He was contacted, came in and explained that he has had the car all weekend, and that the woman called him today to advise that she thought she left the wallet in the car. He stated he checked and located it under the passenger seat.

Officers responded to an apartment where a boyfriend was visiting girlfriend in parking lot. He family objects to the relationship and demanded that the subject leave the area. He departed without further incident.

A resident reported that his 18-year-old estranged son, who has substance abuse problems, stole $12,000.00 of jewelry from him and sold it at a pawnshop.

Troy Officers responded to 4 other incidents involving family troubles or domestic disputes where investigation revealed that no assaults or other crimes had occurred, therefore no formal enforcement action taken/required.

Welfare Checks:

Officers were called when a citizen found a 2-year-old female that she observed walking down a residential street as she drove by. She approached a home to identify the child. They knew the child, and called PD. The mother arrived at about the same time, and took the child home, several houses away. Officers went to that address where the mother explained that the family was in the back yard gardening when the children went inside. Apparently the 2 year old wandered out the open garage door from inside the house; the mom didn’t realize the door was left open.

Officers assisted a resident who was trying to locate his 20-year-old daughter at the Red Roof Inn on Rochester Ct., whom he suspected was drunk, and possibly suffering emotional difficulties. He originally located her van in the lot, but went home to retrieve the keys to take it home so she wouldn’t drive it. When he returned, she and the van were gone. She was entered into the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) as a possibly endangered person.

A citizen reported that her 16-year-old daughter did not attend classes at school and did not return home. She has had similar problems in the past. Checks of possible locations proved negative. She was entered into LEIN as a missing juvenile.

Troy Officers responded to 2 incidents involving individuals experiencing emotional / psychological difficulties and assisted with transport to the hospital for evaluation and treatment.

Officers responded to a report from relatives that they had been unable to contact a 71-year-old female. Officers obtained a key and discovered the woman disoriented in her bedroom and in need of hospitalization.

Officers responded to a report that a mother arrived to pick-up her daughter from an after-school program and found the program facility closed and her daughter not there. Shortly after officer’s arrival, the daughter was returned home in the company of her friend and the friend’s parent, who explained that they all went out to dinner and they thought the girl’s mother was aware of the arrangements.

A resident reported that he allowed his 35-year-old niece to move in with him and to use his car for work. He has not heard from her or seen the car for two weeks. She has not been at work, and he is concerned that she may have a drug problem and may be endangered. She was entered into LEIN as missing.

Officers responded to a request for EMS at a residence where a 28-year-old Troy resident had accidentally shot himself in the left forearm with his .45 caliber handgun. He had a valid CCW and reported that the gun went off when he removed it from its plastic holster to place it on a bookcase. His fiancée was present at the time, as was her 8-year-old son. Several additional guns were confiscated for safekeeping. The subject was transported to Royal Oak Beaumont for treatment.

A business representative reported that a subject arrived at his business apparently intoxicated, and was acting belligerently. The subject had several injuries and his clothes were ripped, apparently from falling down as a result of high level of intoxication. He had originally fled the area on foot, but was located and taken to hospital for treatment/evaluation.

Troy Officers responded to an incident involving an individual experiencing emotional/psychological difficulty and assisted with their transport to the hospital for evaluation/treatment

Neighbor Troubles:

A resident reported that her neighbor was working on a car in his drive while listening to music at an excessively high volume. An Officer spoke to neighbor, who confirmed that his son was working on his car, but claimed the music was being played at a reasonable level. He pointed out the complainant’s dog barks excessively early every morning, which disturbs him. Both were briefed on pertinent ordinances.

A resident reported that two of his neighbors’ dogs are defecating on his lawn. Both parties stated their dogs were routinely kept on leashes when outside and didn’t believe they were responsible.

A resident reported getting into a dispute with a neighbor after the neighbor yelled at his kids about their ball going into his yard. The neighbor is upset with the kids’ clutter, toys, and tree house on the complaining neighbor’s property, but agreed to be reasonable regarding kids retrieving ball from his yard in the future.

A resident reported that her dog defecated while on a walk. A homeowner began yelling at her to clean it up. She felt that it was on the city easement portion of his property and she had no obligation to do so. Later, she found a plastic bag containing her dog’s deposit in her mailbox, which she states caused her to feel violated. An officer explained the ordinance to the caller and spoke to the other party.

Phone Calls/Harassment/Threats:

A citizen reported receiving a harassing call at home and work from the mother of a female associate of her 18-year-old daughter. The caller claimed that the complainant’s daughter was at the caller’s home drinking with he caller’s 16-year-old daughter and another female while the caller was out of town. The caller threatened to contact the complainant’s daughter’s Probation Officer and have her put in jail. The complainant’s daughter denies the accusation. An Officer spoke to caller, who confirmed making the call, and advised that her older daughter told her about the incident. She stated that she was only trying to make the complainant aware of what was going on. She stated that the complainant had returned her call and called her daughter an inappropriate name. Both parties advised to have no further contact with each other. The complainant’s daughter was advised she was no longer welcome at caller’s home.

A citizen reported that the husband of a female whom he works with has made threats against him over suspicions that he is having an affair with her. He states they are just friends and he is seeking a Personal Protection Order.

A citizen report that an unknown male called her home 10 times between 2:00 am – 02:38 am 5/16 asking for her brother, who does not reside there.

A resident reported receiving text messages and a call on her cell from an unknown female calling her names. An Officer called the number and the female who answered claimed the responsible party was her friend, whom she only new by first name.

A business owner reported that when he terminated an employee, she made several threats toward him and the business.

A citizen reported that when she went to a residence to retrieve her fiancée, who was watching the basketball game, and sounded her horn to get his attention, the male resident came out in a rage and threatened to assault her. She left. The male resident denied any threats, asserting that she came over honking her horn and confronted him over a dispute involving their children.

A citizen reported that a contractor, who believes he is owed more money than he has already paid for a completed job, confronted him in the lot at his place of business and threatened to assault him if he didn’t pay the remainder of the disputed amount.

The mother of an 11-year-old female reported that someone entered her daughter’s private chat room on-line and threatened her daughter and her daughter’s female friend. Apparently the unknown person has hacked into her daughter’s chats in the past. They suspect two male youths with whom there has been friction in the past.

A resident reports receiving calls from her ex-boyfriend and his current girlfriend demanding that she return items of his that she claims she doesn’t have.

Entertainment Publications, 1414 E. Maple, 4/25 The company received a threatening and obscene e-mail from a customer in Arizona regarding a mailing list/rewards program he claimed never authorizing them to put him on.

Peace Officer/Civil Matters

A resident reported a dispute over billing lead to a patient of medical facility becoming argumentative and refusing to leave. The subject was gone when officers arrived. Officers spoke with both parties and referred them to civil court.

A business reported that the renter of a storage unit was delinquent in payments and ignored notices. The company replaced the renter’s lock and advised the renter that the property was subject to auction if the rent went unpaid. Shortly thereafter, a friend of the renter rented an adjacent unit, the company’s lock was removed from the delinquent renter’s unit, and the contents were moved into the newly rented storage space. The original renter remains delinquent on the original account.

The Collision Shop, 1835 E. 14 Mile, 5/18. A citizen reported having an estimate for collision repairs made. She stated that the sign advertised that they pay the deductible. When she questioned why the total repair cost didn’t reflect the deduction of the deductible on the estimate, she was directed to a smaller sign indicating some restrictions apply. It appears a verbal exchange occurred, with each claiming the other was either rude, threatening, or both. No contract had been signed; no repairs were made. The citizen was directed to the Better Business Bureau.

Arrest Summary:

In addition to those outlined above, the following arrests were also made during the period:

Drunk Driving: 4

Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs: 1

Retail fraud: 11

Drove While License Suspended: 3

Warrants: 5

Temporary Telephone Service Interruption Anticipated this Weekend

Due to maintenance of the phone system at City Hall, there will be a disruption in NON-EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE into the Police Department, as well as other city offices for approximately 20 minutes on Saturday, May 21, 2005 at 6:00 a.m. and on Sunday, May 22, 2005 at 7:00 a.m. 911 will not be affected. Citizens are asked to make routine calls either before or after these maintenance periods, and reminded not to use 911 for routine matters. Emergencies or in-progress incidents should, as always, be reported on 911 immediately.

If you have any information on any of the cases cited please contact the Troy Police Department.

Crime Prevention Tips

If you witness a crime, get involved, call the police. It is easier to catch a criminal if we are called right away, while they are still in the area.

Always secure your doors and windows.

Garages and door walls are targets for thieves.

Always ensure your garage door and pedestrian doors are secured.

Do not leave garage door remote controls in cars not parked in the garage.

Use 1 ½’’ dowel rod in the track of all sliding glass windows and doors to help prevent them from opening.

It has been proven time and time again that the proper use and application of physical security will stop a would-be burglar.

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 anything of value in your vehicle in plain view.

Always lock your vehicle doors.

Never leave a vehicle unattended while running.

There is a trend of things being stolen from vehicles in the parking lots of fitness centers and fun centers. While going to these places, be extra careful to remove all items of value and secure your vehicle.

Always keep control of all your property.

Your belongings are not safe while you are playing sports or at work unless you have them properly locked or are in possession of them.

Thieves wait for the right time and will take property quickly.

Unfortunately you cannot always trust co-workers or other business associates.

Do not rely on others to watch your belongings. If they fail, you will be the victim, not them.

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.

Always maintain your credit cards and secure the credit card numbers.

If you suspect that you have been the victim of credit fraud, call your credit card company and have them run a query of your charges.

Never give your bank account numbers over the phone. Especially if unsolicited!

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

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.

DO NOT use illegal drugs

DO NOT drive and endanger the lives of everyone if you have consumed alcohol or drugs.

If you are under 21 years of age, IT IS ILLEGAL to consume or possess alcohol.

Vandalism Prevention

The best way to protect yourself from this crime, or from being held financially responsible for the acts of your kids, is to know where your children are, what they are doing, and whom their friends are. Kids are very tech-savvy, and use the latest means to communicate. We have had numerous cases where middle and high-school aged kids have made clandestine plans using their home computer and instant-messaging programs (AIM, Yahoo Messenger, etc.) to communicate with their friends, unbeknownst to their parents (no phones ringing in the middle of the night.) They sneak out of the house and meet up to go and commit all sorts of crimes. This is not only illegal, but it is very dangerous.

Monitor your child’s instant messages.

Don’t put computers with Internet access in their bedrooms.

Lock the doors to the house and set alarms when you go to bed.

Make a habit of checking on the kids, no matter what age, in the middle of the night, just to make sure they are where they are supposed to be (especially when hosting sleepovers.) Let them know that you are checking.

Check your vehicles for new damage or signs of being involved in vandalism - Mud on tires or wheel-wells, baseball bats with gouges or glass in them, egg cartons, knives or other sharp objects that are out of place in a car, cans of spray paint or shaving cream (yes shaving cream and eggs damage paint.)

If you suspect that your kids have been out vandalizing property,or committing any other crimes, you can contact the Police Department Juvenile Unit, or Troy Youth Assistance for advice.

Juvenile Unit – 248-524-3451

Troy Youth Assistance - 248-823-5095