COP Officer Museus has put together some tips on how to prevent package theft. Read them here.
What is Suspicious Activity?
The CHPD has made many arrests and solved several crimes as a result of 911 calls from its citizens. Patrol officers count on residents’ eyes and ears to help identify things that are out of place. Residents are encouraged to call 911 when they witness suspicious activity. The CHPD has a strong Neighborhood Watch Program with over 160 organized blocks. The program offers resources for citizens to address things like suspicious activity. For a helpful guide on what is suspicious and how to report it click here.
Landlord Security Deposit Scam
A woman came to the police station because something just didn’t feel right about emails and text messages she had been exchanging with a landlord about potential rental housing. The alleged landlord, who goes by the name Mark, was asking for a security deposit and first month’s rent, prior to a contract. Police investigation discovered “Mark” was not the landlord but was a scam artist. In this increasingly common scenario, the swindler will offer an extremely low monthly rent that should seem too good to be true. The potential renter does not want to lose the deal and the swindler pressures him or her to secure the deal with cash payment. Police Tip: If it seems too good to be true it probably is, and don’t send money to anyone unless you have verified their business and are 100% certain it is legit. Although it may be hard to do at times, don’t let anyone pressure you into making fast decisions.
Video from CHPD about door security and deadbolt locks
COP Officer Museus teams up with Patrol Officer Nightingale to talk about deadbolt locks. In this video the Officer Nightingale shows some simple but effective tips on increasing door security. Check out the video here.
Avoid Being a Craigslist Victim
The CHPD highlights various ways criminals are using Craigslist to find victims. Be informed to better protect yourself.
IRS Scam Information
**Crime Alert** The beginning of tax season also starts the beginning of IRS scam season.
The Columbia Heights Police and surrounding agencies are seeing an increase in phone scams. In one of the most commonly reported scams, the swindler poses as an IRS representative and pressures the victim into sending an immediate payment. Many of these con artists are from out of state or even out of the country, which makes it very difficult to recover funds or prosecute.
Read our second crime prevention article here.
The CHPD Cautions Residents to be Aware of Telephone Scams
This is an article that has information on specific scams resident have faced. It includes information on what to do in these situations. Find the article here.
CHPD Senior Citizen Money Scam
The CHPD was made aware of a scam that was attempted on one of our senior citizens recently. It's important to know how to protect ourselves or our loved ones from money scams. The National Council on Aging offers some good advice on that topic, so check out this link for more information on "How Seniors Can Protect Themselves Against Money Scams" https://www.ncoa.org/economic-security/money-management/scams-security/protection-from-scams/