Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs: Update on Criminal Activity and Police Response in South Midwood

February 5, 2013

Dear South Midwood Residents and Our Community Schools:

As both your elected representative and a resident of South Midwood, I share in your concerns for the safety and security of our area in light of the recent crime spike.

Please be advised that Ed Powell of my staff has been in contact with the 70th Precinct to communicate my concerns on behalf of the residents, as well as to obtain the latest information on the police response and progress. First and foremost, according to Lt. Bourne, the Precinct is monitoring the situation and has increased its police presence in the immediate area as of the reports of car break-ins, which I monitor regularly. The Precinct has dispatched a combination of plain clothes officers in unmarked vehicles as well as uniformed officers to address the increase in crime.

Secondly, Mr. Powell has spoken directly with Inspector Rodriguez and has been informed that there is an active investigation underway regarding the sexual assault that took place on Saturday morning at East 26th Street and Glenwood Road. Our office has learned that progress is being made in the investigation and an arrest is imminent, but specifics are unavailable until the case is closed.

My office will share further information as it becomes available. In addition, I will continue to monitor the situation and press for fair, ongoing protection for our neighborhood. Finally, I encourage community residents to share their concerns at the next 70th Precinct Community Council meeting, which will take place on Feb. 27 at 7:30 pm at the United Cerebral Palsy Auditorium (175 Lawrence Avenue between Ocean Parkway and Seton Place).

In the meantime, it is important to be vigilant and to take the following safety precautions from the NYPD:

PURSE/WALLET SAFETY

• Carry purses or briefcases in a manner that will allow you to let go. Straps placed across your shoulder, around your neck or wrapped around your waist have caused injuries because individuals could not free themselves during a purse snatch.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and carry your pocketbook clasp towards you, close to your body, tucked in the bend of your elbow as if it was a football. If there is a long strap, wrap it around the bag.
• If someone attempts to snatch your pocket book, let go of it, especially if there is a weapon involved. When dining out, the only place for your purse should be your lap. Never carry a wallet in a rear pocket, use a front trouser or an inside coat pocket.
• Minimize the amount of money, credit cards and valuables you carry by only taking items that are necessary. Divide money between your purse/wallet and pockets. Carry your keys on your person separate from your identification.

VEHICLE SAFETY

• All it takes is a few seconds for a thief to take anything you left in your car and leave you with a lot of broken glass. Everything from GPS devices to cell phones, from gym bags to sunglasses, even loose change can be tempting to a thief. Any bags left visible – even if empty – pose an enticing target for thieves.

WALKING - BE STREET SMART

• Use well-populated and well-lit streets. If you suspect you're being followed, stay away from deserted blocks and head for an area where people are or the nearest open store. If you're driven home, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside. Should a motorist bother you while you are walking, reverse your direction. If you are still followed, seek a safe location and yell for HELP.

AT HOME

• Have your keys ready before you get to the door. Make sure your entrance area is well lit. If you live in an apartment close the lobby door behind you, especially if a stranger is approaching. Make all visitors and delivery persons use the door bell.
• If a stranger asks to use the phone, keep your door locked and tell them you will place the call for them. If there is an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Sincerely,
Rhoda S. Jacobs
Assistant Speaker
New York State Assembly

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