The C-PACT Blotter

The citizen radio program is making a real difference. Nearly twenty radios are in circulation around town, and the initial crime fighting has been grand. To date the radios have resulted in the recovery of two stolen vehicles, the identification of a suspect in a burglary, the identification of a suspect vehicle in another robbery, and the arrest of a suspect with an open warrant. All because there is immediate and efficient communication between neighbors like you and the CPD.

Want in on the bad guy apprehension goodness? Call the station. We believe there are a few more units left.

As many of you may have learned, the 2002 Infiniti recently stolen at gunpoint from the Giant parking lot was recovered. One of the carjackers has been identified, and a warrant for his arrest has been issued. Investigators are hopeful that, once apprehended, he will reveal the identity of his accomplice.

We will keep you posted as the case develops.

In the midst of a bit more negative crime news than usual, we have a story of how paying attention can make a real difference for the better. Recently, a Cheverly resident answered his door to be greeted by a man offering to rake leaves for money. Aware that any door-to-door solicitor must have a town-issued license, the resident called the CPD to report the license-less would-be raker. The police made contact and ultimately arrested the man who had an open warrant for failure to appear on a burglary charge. They hypothesize that he may have been casing houses to rob.

The moral of the story: if something is out of the ordinary, make the call.

Contrary to some recent posts on Cheverly forums and message boards, the carjacking was indeed at the Giant and not on Crest Avenue. It was the first carjacking in Cheverly in about a year and a half. The investigation has been turned over to the PG County Police, who handle all carjackings in the county.

The description of the gunman is general, at best:

• black male
• 5'8"
• dark clothes
• dark mask
• dark handgun

Being a good witness [scroll to bottom] takes practice. Being a good witness while staring down the barrel of a gun takes incredible presence of mind.

As of 3:00pm, the stolen car had not been located.

• 2002 Infiniti I35 4 Door sedan
• Gold in color
• Tennessee tag# 095 BGJ

The vehicle was last seen westbound on Rte. 50 towards DC.

Chief Robshaw, and other security experts, advise that if you are ever confronted with a gun-wielding assailant, you comply as long as their demands involve property. No wallet or vehicle is worth your life.

If, however, the gunman makes demands on your person, particularly ordering that you go with him, you must decide whether or not to resist. At this point, he has added kidnapping--or perhaps worse in the immediate future--to armed robbery. Statistically speaking, very few victims survive being taken to a second, usually isolated, crime scene. Most police departments train their officers not to let a hostage situation become mobile. Being transported in these situations almost always means losing whatever tiny fraction of control or initiative you may have had.

Security experts would also remind you to live in condition yellow when out in public. Remember, awareness buys time.

Be safe and call the CPD with any leads in this case.

Posted to Cheverly Exchange on Thu Nov 6, 2008 9:06pm (PST):

Earlier tonight two of our friends who live in Cheverly ran over to the Giant on Landover Road and were robbed right out in front at gun point by two young men wearing masks. The men stole their keys, a wallet and took their car. Needless to say the whole thing was absolutely horrible and they are having their locks changed as we speak. These men robbed an 8 month pregnant woman right in front of Giant, so I think it's safe to assume they are very dangerous and we all need to keep an eye out and let Cheverly police know if we see anything odd.

Keep alert and be safe.

Good advice. We will learn what we can and post an update...