Mount Pleasant DC Forum

[IrvingStreet]

Hi, I was wondering if this forum is the only real way to be notified of crimes happening in the neighborhood. I recall a couple months ago seeing flyers posted on trees on Hobart street letting people know about an armed robbery that took place there. I never would have known otherwise.

Are police required to notify us of crimes in the neighborhood? How can I find out what is going on, other than guesses and rumors posted online?

Thanks.

[Laurie]

Dear IrvingStreet,

The police canvassed last night and will continue to canvass over the next few days. Because this is an open homicide case that just occurred, with the on-sight investigation/evidence gathering only closing at 9am this morning, the police can only notify so many residents. They will leaflet also in the days to come.

They also have to identify the victim, as well as notify their next of kin which is in process now. The police don't like giving too much information prior to them actually finding out themselves.

Some neighbors in the area approached the police on the scene and that is how it got posted here first.

This is no rumor or guesses. There was a homicide, a Mt. Pleasant resident, who was walking their dog.

As far as being notified, there are many ways you can get involved.

1. Attend PSA meetings every second Tuesday at the Library.
2. Subscribe to the Yahoo 3D substation list serve.
3. Check this forum
4. Subscribe to the mpdc.dc.gov website to have crime reports emailed directly to you.
5. Call the 3D sub station and ask questions 673-6815.
6. Talk to your neighbors.

Finally, the MPNA is sponsoring a public meeting on Tuesday with Councilmembers Jim Graham and Kwame Brown. I'm sure this issue will be discussed.



Laurie Collins

[brodyburks]

The PSA meetings at the library are the number one way of finding out this type of information. They always have reports from the patrol officers on what they're seeing as well as what arrests are being made. They also generally have the preliminary reports. It's probably the best way to identify trends, such as the recent rash of theft from autos.

Of course, a once a month meeting cant come soon enough when their is a homicide in the area. In those instances, rumor will always travel faster than truth. So pay attention to the other forms of information, but recognize that they will allways be preliminary.