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Crime Prevention News and Information

This section contains news from our police liaison or local news regarding crime prevention in the Sully district.

The dates on each news item listing is the date that information was posted or became available. Follow the link for details of each event.

Click here to see an archive of older items.

$20,000 Reward for Info on Murder of Yong Suk Yun

Fairfax County Police are seeking information on the murder of Yong Suk Yun. Mr. Yun was murdered on Thursday, October 7, 2010, between 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. near Fairfax County Parkway between Popes Head Road and Fairfax Station Road. The above truck and trailer were seen in this area at the time of the murder. Detectives would like to speak with anyone who would have been driving this vehicle that day or would have knowledge of anyone driving this type of vehicle in that area.

Detectives believe that someone reading this flyer knows the person who committed this crime. He could be your friend, co-worker, neighbor or a family member. He most likely lives, works, or regularly visits your neighborhood. Although coming forward with your suspicions might be difficult, your information will be kept strictly confidential and could prevent this person from killing again.

A reward of $20,000 will be paid for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone who may have seen the above vehicle in this area on Thursday October 7, 2010 is asked to contact Detective Connie Morris, CIB-Homicide at 703-246-7825, Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Sully District Station Report - Increase in Vehicle Break-Ins

Recent Crime Trend/Help get the word out - June 3, 2011

Sully's District has experienced an increase in vehicle break-ins. We need your assistance to help prevent these crimes and/or catch the suspects involved. Please pass this message along to your contacts/HOA email lists/neighbors etc..

Here are some important tips to prevent theft:

  • Do not leave valuables visible from the outside.
  • Items should be REMOVED and not just concealed.
  • Lock all doors and close the windows when leaving the car, even if it's only for a short time.
  • When possible, try to park in a well-lit area.
  • Call the police IMMEDIATELY if you observe ANY suspicious people, vehicles, or activity in your neighborhood.

Items usually targeted include:

  • GPS units
  • iPods
  • cell phones
  • computers
  • purses
  • wallets
  • cash

Most of these incidents occur overnight but remember crime can happen anywhere at any time. Please don't hesitate to call 703-691-2131 if you observe any suspicious persons, vehicles or incidents in your neighborhood. Thank you for helping me get the word out.

Reported by PFC P.B. Katinsky #2957
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7018
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Sully District Station Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting

The Sully District Station Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) is pleased to invite the community to the next CAC meeting.

Where: Sully District Police Station, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd, Chantilly.
When: May 17, 2011 @ 7:00 pm

Last month, the theme "Alcohol and Drugs" was presented with several guest speakers. This month, we will continue with Part II of the discussion.

We have planned two guest speakers; Mr. Kyle Guthrie and Fairfax County Police Sergeant Jim Cox.

Mr. Guthrie will share his story publically for the first time about his ordeal the night of July 18-19, 2010. For those that recall, Mr. Guthrie and four Westfield HS friends were traveling in a pick-up truck in Loudoun County. Several of the youths in the back of the truck had fireworks. During the horseplay, one kid jumped from the bed of the truck, struck his head, and later died. Mr. Guthrie was later charged and convicted of involuntary manslaughter. Hopefully, the audience will glean from this "Making the Right Choices."

Sergeant Jim Cox will speak about more about drugs, types of drugs in the community and what indicators parents can look for with their own children.

Sergeant James A. Cox III began his career in law enforcement in 1983 by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps and serving as a Military Police Officer until 1987. Sergeant Cox joined the Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax County, Virginia, in 1988. Sergeant Cox was first assigned as a Patrol Officer at the Mount Vernon District Station. In 1990 Sergeant Cox was selected as a member on an elite Select Enforcement Team targeting burglaries and robberies. In 1994 Sergeant Cox was selected from a group of candidates to the Department's Organized Crime and Narcotics Division as an undercover detective. Sergeant Cox took over the Asset Forfeiture detective position in 1999.

In 2001 Sergeant Cox was promoted to his current rank of Sergeant. In 2004, Sergeant Cox was requested to become the squad supervisor of the newly formed Special Investigations/Narcotics Money Laundering Unit. SIN/MLU is responsible for all the forfeitures for the Fairfax County Police Department. This elite unit has seized millions of dollars, prosecuted cases on Federal RICCO statutes, and has aided Departmental Investigations for further identification of assets and has successfully seized those assets. Sergeant Cox continues as the lead instructor for drug identification, its laws and enforcement for the Department as well as community groups. Sergeant Cox continues to testify as an expert witness in the field of illegal drugs for United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Fairfax County General and Circuit Court of Fairfax County.

Please attend and hear these important messages. We encourage parents to bring their children. Any questions, email Lt. John S. Trace at john.trace@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Reported by PFC P.B. Katinsky #2957
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7018
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Natural Disaster Donation Scams

Tuesday, April 19th, 2011 - As the warm weather arrives, we start to see a rise in certain property crimes. Here in Sully's District we are experiencing an increase in bicycle thefts. Please use the following tips to help prevent you or someone you know from becoming a victim.

Did you know that by doing a few simple things, you can help reduce the risk of your bicycle being stolen? Here are some crime prevention tips:

  • Lock it up! A bicycle lock is an inexpensive investment compared to your bicycle. Use a U-type lock for maximum security. By locking it up, you are creating a "roadblock" for a would-be thief. Theft is a crime of opportunity.
  • Use two locks. One is far better than none, but having two different style locks (chain and U-type) will slow a thief even more. The thief will need two sets of tools to defeat your security.
  • Do not leave bicycle unattended, even in your own yard. Many thefts occur right out of your own yard. Being at home makes us feel safe. This may lead us to dropping our guard. Always "lock it up," whether you lock it to a stationary object or lock it in a shed or garage.
  • Away from home, choose a parking location visible to passersby. Your bicycle is more likely to be a target if it is parked in a remote location.
  • Do not park outside overnight. Try to bring the bicycle inside, as darkness and isolation may make your bicycle a target, even if it is locked to a stationary object.
  • For bicycles with quick-release wheels, lock both wheels and the frame to a secure structure. This does two things: (1) it slows a thief down, and (2) it also prevents parts from being stolen from your bicycle.
  • Remove easily detached items, such as packs, pumps and lights, before leaving a bicycle unattended.
  • Record the serial number for your bicycle and keep it in a safe place.

These are just a few tips. Hopefully if you practice them, you will not become a victim. These tips can also be applied to scooters and mopeds.

Also, please remember to call 703-691-2131 if you see ANY suspicious people, vehicles or incidents in your neighborhood.

Reported by PFC P.B. Katinsky #2957
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7018
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Citizen's Advisory Committee Meeting - Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 7pm

For our next CAC meeting on April 19, 2011 at 7 PM, we will be hosting several folks that will present on the topic of Teen Alcohol and Drugs.

Guest speakers:

  • Mrs. Clara Rupp. Mother of Bo Rupp. Bo was a Westfields HS student who recently lost his life in a traumatic incident. Mrs. Rupp has agreed to come speak about the issues surrounding the events that lead up to the his death. I think this will be the first time she will speak about this incident.
  • Ms. Cori Synder, Virginia ABC Agent. She is currently an ABC Agent and is supporting Mrs. Rupp. Ms.Snyder is currently working an active investigation into the events that lead to the death of Bo.
  • Sergeant Bill Fulton, SRO supervisor. Sgt. Fulton will kick things off and facilitate the presentation.
  • MPO Lou Munoz, SRO at Westfield HS. MPO Munoz will give us insight into issues with teens and alcohol within the school structure.
  • Also, Captain Dawson will be introduced as the new commander of Sully Station.

What Is the CAC?

The Citizens' Advisory Committee of the Sully District Police Station is an organized forum for communication between the Police Department and our Community. Our mission is to work toward the common goal of reducing crime and increasing the quality of life for those that reside or work in the Sully District, as well as share information with all other seven police CAC's throughout the County.

This year, we are trying to increase participation in the Citizens' Advisory Committee by marketing to more communities to get involved. We are hoping to get more attendance at our monthly CAC meetings and would like to encourage a representative(s) or several from your community to attend.

Our meetings are once a month, usually at the Sully District Station on the third Tuesday of the month from 7:00 - 8:30 PM.

As a business establishment in the Sully District we would like to ask for your support of this program and your added communication with our Police Department. You may contact Leslie at dljenuleson@verizon.net or Ray at powers@fairfaxrealty.com and we will gladly answer any questions that you may have about CAC.

The Sully Citizens' Advisory Committee would love for you to join us! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Leslie or Ray. Occasionally, meetings may get moved to other locations, please let us know when you will be attending.

Leslie Jenuleson - Chair, Citizens' Advisory Committee
(703) 815-2006

Ray Powers - Co-Chair, Citizens' Advisory Committee
(703) 752-3700 X109

Tuesday, April 19th, 2011 - As the warm weather arrives, we start to see a rise in certain property crimes. Here in Sully's District we are experiencing an increase in bicycle thefts. Please use the following tips to help prevent you or someone you know from becoming a victim.

Did you know that by doing a few simple things, you can help reduce the risk of your bicycle being stolen? Here are some crime prevention tips:

Natural Disaster Donation Scams

Thursday, March 17th, 2011 - Once again, a natural disaster has brought out the worst in some. Because of recent events in Japan, some may be looking to help with donations. However, there are criminals out there looking to capitalize on our generosity. The Virginia Attorney Generals Office has dedicated a web page with information on protecting yourself.

As always, please be wary of fake websites, emails, phone calls or even door-to-door solicitation of donations. If you wish to donate, please follow the tips in the web site link above to keep from being scammed.

Reported by PFC P.B. Katinsky #2957
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7018
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Crime Solvers Seeks Suspects in Attempted Burglary - News Release

Fairfax County Police Department
Contact: PFC Shelley BroderickPublic Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
FCPD-PIO@fairfaxcounty.gov
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/news-releases/
News Release: 03/16/2011

Fairfax County, VA - Fairfax County Crime Solvers is asking for the public's assistance in identifying the two men responsible for attempting to burglarize a business in the Annandale area. A 48-year-old man was working inside the Potomac Computer and POS Systems business, located at 4209 Evergreen Lane, around 1:25 a.m. on Friday, March 11, when he heard the suspects enter the lobby area of the building and attempt to open his business door. The victim called out and the suspects fled from the building. The victim called police later that morning to report the incident. Further investigation determined the suspects were not able to gain entry to the inside of the business.

Surveillance cameras at the business captured the suspects and police are hopeful someone will recognize them. The suspects were described as white, 16 to 23 years old. One suspect was 130 to 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a blue or gray jacket. The second suspect was 150 to 180 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a black jacket. See photos below.

suspects_1 suspects_2 suspects_3

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS(8477), e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES (274637). A $100 to $1,000 cash reward will be paid for information that leads to an arrest. As always, callers never have to give their names or appear in court.
Find CrimeSolvers on Facebook.

October is Crime Prevention Month

Please see the news release attached below. During this month, please pick an area of security that you feel you are lacking in, and try to improve upon it. It could be something as simple as replacing a burnt out exterior bulb, or maybe upgrading your deadbolt locks on your exterior doors.

As time and funds permit, pick another area that needs improvement. Nothing says you have to do everything at once. Anything you can do will help the overall security of your home or business.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns relating to the safety of your home, business or your personal well being.

Take care,

Crime Prevention Officer MPO W. M. BROCK

News Release - October is Crime Prevention Month; Officers Highlight Weekly Themes

Larcenies from Vehicles are the first issue to be addressed by Fairfax County Police Department Crime Prevention Officers during Crime Prevention Month. Officers encourage the public to be part of their Write to Fight! campaign and record the make, model and serial numbers of their electronics and valuables. If those items are stolen, police will be more likely to track the items, arrest the culprits and return the property to owners.

Throughout October, officers will highlight a series of issues that need greater public awareness in Fairfax County and each week and will focus their efforts and attention on those issues. Following Larcenies, the second week will address Personal and Senior Safety. The third week will focus on Home Security, and the final week, Pedestrian and Halloween Safety.

In 1984, October was designated as Crime Prevention Month by the National Crime Prevention Council. The month-long commemoration urges citizens to get involved and reminds them that they play a vital role in helping to keep communities safe. Crime Prevention Officers will lead a series of community activities that highlight prevention information and reach out to educate and empower communities across Fairfax County.

Highlights for Crime Prevention Month include: October 8, officers will partner with Inova Health Systems to address employees about their personal safety. October 27, a Crime Prevention Awareness Event at LynBrook Elementary School, 5801 Backlick Road, Springfield aimed at individuals who speak primarily Spanish (as all events and activities will be in Spanish). On Halloween night, October 31, school crossing guards in the West Springfield Police District will be deployed to busy intersections and to assist costumed trick-or-treaters cross Fairfax County roadways. Residents are welcome to contact their local Crime Prevention Officer at any time to request a personal home security check or for information about crime in their neighborhood.

Crime Prevention Month will culminate in a countywide event November 6th, featuring an opportunity for the public to have VIN-etching applied to their vehicles. Forthcoming details will be posted on www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police.

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Suspected Serial Burglar in Custody - News Release

Fairfax County Police Department
Public Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
FCPD-PIO@fairfaxcounty.gov
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/news-releases/
News Release: 10/320/PIO
November 19, 2010

Fairfax County, VA - Fairfax County Police believe the arrest of a man in Montgomery County, Maryland, on Tuesday, November 17 is directly linked to the recent series of burglaries and attempted burglaries in Fairfax County and surrounding jurisdictions. A burglary task force created to investigate these burglaries developed a suspect based on information received from the community. An intense, comprehensive investigation followed.

An alert resident called police about a suspicious vehicle parked on their street around 4 a.m., Monday, November 8. Officers located the vehicle, initiated a traffic stop, and subsequently developed information that linked the vehicle and its driver to the series of burglaries. Subsequently, several incidents were reported in the same area.

An extensive investigation by the Fairfax County Burglary Task Force led detectives to Montgomery County, Maryland, on Tuesday, November 17. Task force detectives were working with Montgomery County Police when officers from that department observed the suspect commit a criminal offense in the Potomac area. The suspect was taken into custody and charged in Montgomery County. He remains in jail there.

The task force continues its investigation and anticipates placing charges against the suspect in Fairfax County.

"Nighttime burglaries of occupied homes present heightened risk for the safety of the public and propelled this investigation into very high priority operations for the Fairfax County Police Department," said Colonel David Rohrer, Fairfax County Chief of Police. "I commend our patrol officers and detectives for their dedication to the sustained long hours of work these cases required. I am also grateful to our policing partners, particularly the Montgomery County Police Department, for their collaboration, and to our communities for their patience, cooperation, and support during this investigation."

Although an arrest has been made, residents should continue to secure their homes and vehicles and remain alert for suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.

###

To request this information in an alternate format, call the Public Information Office at 703.246.2253. TTY 703-204-2264

October is Crime Prevention Month

Please see the news release attached below. During this month, please pick an area of security that you feel you are lacking in, and try to improve upon it. It could be something as simple as replacing a burnt out exterior bulb, or maybe upgrading your deadbolt locks on your exterior doors.

As time and funds permit, pick another area that needs improvement. Nothing says you have to do everything at once. Anything you can do will help the overall security of your home or business.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns relating to the safety of your home, business or your personal well being.

Take care,

Crime Prevention Officer MPO W. M. BROCK

News Release - October is Crime Prevention Month; Officers Highlight Weekly Themes

Larcenies from Vehicles are the first issue to be addressed by Fairfax County Police Department Crime Prevention Officers during Crime Prevention Month. Officers encourage the public to be part of their Write to Fight! campaign and record the make, model and serial numbers of their electronics and valuables. If those items are stolen, police will be more likely to track the items, arrest the culprits and return the property to owners.

Throughout October, officers will highlight a series of issues that need greater public awareness in Fairfax County and each week and will focus their efforts and attention on those issues. Following Larcenies, the second week will address Personal and Senior Safety. The third week will focus on Home Security, and the final week, Pedestrian and Halloween Safety.

In 1984, October was designated as Crime Prevention Month by the National Crime Prevention Council. The month-long commemoration urges citizens to get involved and reminds them that they play a vital role in helping to keep communities safe. Crime Prevention Officers will lead a series of community activities that highlight prevention information and reach out to educate and empower communities across Fairfax County.

Highlights for Crime Prevention Month include: October 8, officers will partner with Inova Health Systems to address employees about their personal safety. October 27, a Crime Prevention Awareness Event at LynBrook Elementary School, 5801 Backlick Road, Springfield aimed at individuals who speak primarily Spanish (as all events and activities will be in Spanish). On Halloween night, October 31, school crossing guards in the West Springfield Police District will be deployed to busy intersections and to assist costumed trick-or-treaters cross Fairfax County roadways. Residents are welcome to contact their local Crime Prevention Officer at any time to request a personal home security check or for information about crime in their neighborhood.

Crime Prevention Month will culminate in a countywide event November 6th, featuring an opportunity for the public to have VIN-etching applied to their vehicles. Forthcoming details will be posted on www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police.

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Increasing Tool Larcenies in Sully District

Recently in the Sully District, we have experienced a rising number of tool thefts from work vans and service trucks parked in residential areas. Please pass this along to anyone that you know who may have one.

If you or someone you know has a work van, here are a few tips to help prevent them from being targeted:

  • Lock the vehicle!
  • Use quality locks to secure side and rear doors.
  • Consider installing a barrier shield between the driver/passenger compartment and the rear.
  • Consider installing a barrier shield between the driver/passenger compartment and the rear.
  • Park in a well-lit area.
  • Have vehicle equipped with an alarm system.
  • Limit visibility of the tools.
  • Have locking compartments inside of vehicle.
  • Install tool boxes that you can bolt in place to vehicle.
  • Make sure the tool boxes that you have can be secured with a lock.

Please contact the police should you observe any suspicious activity, persons or vehicles. Call especially if you see someone trying car door handles or peering into vehicles.

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Composite of Suspect in Attempted Abduction Released

Please take a look at the following composite sketch, released of the suspect in the attempted abduction case. Please notify the police immediately if you have seen this individual or know his identity.

Suspect Composite drawing

Sketch of suspect

Fair Oaks Police District, released 09-14-09 - A composite sketch has been released for the attempted abduction that occurred in the 12100 block of Penderview Terrace on September 6. This description is also similar to the abduction report in the 12100 block of Polo Drive on September 9. However, in that case, the suspect was described as having his hair slicked back

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers:

Phone: 1-866-411-TIPS/8477
E-mail (anonymous via web): https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=187
Web: www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org
Text: Text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637
Alternate Phone: Or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Sex Assault Reported in Franklin Farms Area

Fair Oaks Police District, released / posted 09-10-09 - A 17-year-old female tells police she was sexually assaulted along Route 7100 in the Franklin Farms area on Wednesday, September 9. Around 7:20 p.m. The victim was jogging on a path along Route 7100, when she reportedly was grabbed from behind by a man, dragged into nearby woods, threatened, and sexually assaulted. The suspect then fled and the victim sought help at a nearby residence.

The suspect was described as white, in his 30s, about 5 feet 10 inches tall, and wearing all black.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers:

Phone: 1-866-411-TIPS/8477
E-mail (anonymous via web): https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=187
Web: www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org
Text: Text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637
Alternate Phone: Or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Second Abduction in Fair Oaks Area

Fair Oaks Police District, released / posted 09-10-09 - An 18-year-old woman was assaulted and abducted from the 12100 block of Polo Drive on Wednesday, September 9. The victim was walking outside an apartment complex around 10 p.m. when a man approached her and attempted to engage her in conversation. She ignored him and continued walking but he grabbed her and threatened her with a small knife. The victim struggled with the suspect and was able to break free. The suspect fled on foot toward Monument Drive. The victim did not require medical attention.

The suspect was described as Hispanic, in his mid to late 20s. He was about 5 feet 3 inches tall with a thin build. He had brown eyes and short, slicked back, black hair. He wore a white T-shirt and work out shorts.

Detectives believe this case is related to another abduction that occurred on Sunday, September 6 in the 12100 block of Penderview Terrace.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers:

Phone: 1-866-411-TIPS/8477
E-mail (anonymous via web): https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=187
Web: www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org
Text: Text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637
Alternate Phone: Or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Home Invasion robbery in the Herndon Area

Fair Oaks Police District - Police responded to a home in the 3000 block of Leefield Drive for the report of a burglary of an occupied dwelling. Officers met with a man who said he was sleeping in his second floor bedroom when he was awakened by three men; one displaying a handgun. They demanded money and other property. They kicked the victim in the face and upper body and then searched the home. At one point, the suspects left the victim alone so he jumped out of a second story window and ran to a neighbor's home to call police. The suspects fled prior to the officers' arrival. The victim was transported to Inova Fairfax Hospital with minor injuries.

The suspects were all described as black, in their late teens to twenties. They were all about 5 feet 8 inches tall and were wearing blue jeans. One had a black bandana covering his face, while two wore ball caps.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers:

Phone: 1-866-411-TIPS/8477
E-mail (anonymous via web): https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=187
Web: www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org
Text: Text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637
Alternate Phone: Or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131

Reported by MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

SALT meeting for persons 60+

The next SALT meeting is Wednesday, September 9th at 11:00 AM

Location: Sully Government Center, 4900 Stonecroft Blvd
RSVP: MPO W.M. Brock (703-814-7048), PFC P.B. Katinsky (703-814-7018), or Carol Burton at 703-378-4614, or email Bcarken@aol.com.

What is SALT? SALT is an acronym for Seniors And Law Enforcement Together. SALT is a nationwide organization that is part of Triad -- which in turn is comprised of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Sheriffs' Association, AARP and the general senior population.

Currently Triad/SALT is in at least 40 states. In Virginia it is overseen by the Attorney General's office and the Fairfax County Police Chief has mandated each substation must have a SALT council.

It is for all persons over the age of 60.

Reasons to attend include the fact that the senior population in Fairfax County has grown by almost 80% since the year 2000 and will continue to do so. Seniors are considered among the most vulnerable populations to criminals, often with fewer resources or resiliency with which to fight back.

The more information that is shared, the better able seniors are to confront the criminal element and to function in a fear free environment.

Please come and attend and spread the word!

MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

How You Can Prevent Crime

The following crime prevention discussion was provided to us by Officer Brock of the Sully Police Department. Also see this crime prevention flyer in PDF format.

To all:

As we continue through the year, one thing that keeps staring me in the face each time I look at the weekly crime stats are thefts from vehicles. The sad thing is that most of these could be avoided by doing two simple things:

  1. Locking your vehicle
  2. Removing items of value from your vehicle.

If you do these two things each and every time you park your vehicle, most likely you will not have any problems. If you chose not to follow this advice, you are taking a chance each and every time you park your vehicle. Take enough chances, keep thinking, "It will not happen to me," and I am sure I will be seeing your theft report pass in front of me for review in the near future.

Keep in mind that theft is a crime of opportunity. If no opportunity exists, then a crime can not take place. DON'T BECOME A VICTIM!

Enough said!

Take care,

MPO W. M. BROCK
Crime Prevention Officer
Fairfax County Police
Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Blvd.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Office: 703-814-7048
Fax: 703-814-7013
Email

Washington Post article: Helping Hand on Home Security

The following article was sent to us by Officer Brock, and is copyright © 2009 by the Washington Post, printed Saturday, July 18, 2009:

Home Security by By Gabe Goldberg, Special to The Washington Post, Saturday, July 18, 2009

As a first-time homeowner, Brandon Durflinger requested a security visit from Fairfax County police to ensure that he was doing everything possible to protect his home in the Falls Church area.

The officer's recommendations were simple: Durflinger was advised to enhance the lighting, especially near entries, and to use motion sensors that turn on the lights if an intruder approaches. He should put double-key deadbolt locks on any doors that have glass. He should use long wood screws to reinforce deadbolts where the strike plate attaches to the door frame. And police advised him to install latches on windows that allow them to be opened only partway, enough to allow air in, but to keep people out.

"In general, time is on your side," Durflinger said. "The longer it takes for someone to enter your home, the safer you are."

Nationwide, burglaries were the only type of property crime that increased in 2008 compared with 2007, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Burglaries were up 1.3 percent, the FBI reported last month.

All Washington area jurisdictions provide free security inspections and fire-safety checks, or at least checklists of simple and low-cost improvements that residents can make.

Upon request, the Fairfax County Police Department will send an officer to inspect a home and make recommendations. Courtney Thibault, a county police officer, said, "Risks stem from combinations of factors, such as homeowners not realizing how criminals seek to gain access, coupled with poor locks, or even leaving windows or doors open or unlocked." She said security goals should include keeping uninvited people off of one's property and making a break-in as time-consuming and visible as possible.

She also suggested alerting neighbors about travel plans, letting them know about pet sitters or caretakers, and placing an emergency contact list on the refrigerator for reference by police or firefighters.

Heather Hurlock, a crime prevention specialist with the Arlington County Police Department, typically includes a discussion of local crime trends in her visits.

If the homeowner has already reported a crime at the home, Hurlock said, she tailors her approach because a victim probably feels violated and needs reassurance. If there was a break-in, for example, Hurlock addresses the specifics of securing and protecting the area against another entry. If there was a car theft, she determines what was in the vehicle, how burglars gained entry and whether the burglar got access to house keys, which could lead to a break-in.

Hurlock said she checks to see that any weapons in a home are secured. And she advises gun owners on ways to protect children, caregivers or elderly residents from their misuse.

When she encounters something she considers ill-advised -- such as window security bars that could block escape -- she advises homeowners of possible consequences. But she said she cannot insist on their removal from a private residence. If it's a rental or condo apartment, building codes could require their removal.

Some jurisdictions offer programs that help residents take inventory of their valuables, noting the brand, model and serial number. Some will help residents engrave belongings with their names or other identifying information.

Most local fire departments offer similar home visits. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department spokesman Dan Schmidt said firefighters start by asking about particular homeowner concerns and then address issues such as working alarms, smoke hazards and escape routes.

Families should plan and rehearse escape routes together, he said, adding that it's especially important to involve children in these rehearsals. Residents should pay special attention to more complicated escapes from second stories or lower levels, he said.

Fire department officials regularly recommend that residents install detectors that can alert them to fire, smoke, explosive gas and carbon monoxide.

They said the most reliable ones are powered by the house's electrical current with a battery backup, and that all batteries should be replaced when people reset their clocks in the fall and spring. Some units communicate with each other over electrical wiring, sounding all alarms if one detects a hazard, which is important in large houses or when heating systems are far from bedrooms.

In Prince George's County, fire-prevention experts aren't waiting for an invitation. Lt. Col. Carla D. Blue of the county's fire and EMS department pointed to the Proactive Residential Information Distribution Effort, or PRIDE. Their goal, Blue said, is to "knock on the door of every single-family dwelling over a four-year period to check on fire alarms."

Safety reviews are not restricted to single-family homes. Thibault said Fairfax County police will inspect rental and condo apartments if the management approves the request. It isn't beneficial to make recommendations to a resident if the management company in charge of the building won't make the suggested changes, she said.

In particular, Hurlock suggests that apartment residents check the security of basement lockers and bicycle storage facilities. Prohibiting solicitations also can help.

Aside from providing greater peace of mind, following safety recommendations could have a cash payoff. Bob Noble, a State Farm agent in Springfield, said discounts on homeowners insurance ranging from 5 percent to 20 percent are available, depending on the type of alarm or system installed.

THE VERDICT: HANG UP - Don't Fall for Jury Duty Scam

The following article was sent to us by Officer Brock, and is copyright © 2006, 2009 from the FBI's web site.

The phone rings, you pick it up, and the caller identifies himself as an officer of the court. He says you failed to report for jury duty and that a warrant is out for your arrest. You say you never received a notice. To clear it up, the caller says he'll need some information for "verification purposes"-your birth date, social security number, maybe even a credit card number.

This is when you should hang up the phone. It's a scam.

Jury scams have been around for years, but have seen a resurgence in recent months. Communities in more than a dozen states have issued public warnings about cold calls from people claiming to be court officials seeking personal information. As a rule, court officers never ask for confidential information over the phone; they generally correspond with prospective jurors via mail.

The scam's bold simplicity may be what makes it so effective. Facing the unexpected threat of arrest, victims are caught off guard and may be quick to part with some information to defuse the situation.

"They get you scared first," says a special agent in the Minneapolis field office who has heard the complaints. "They get people saying, 'Oh my gosh! I'm not a criminal. What's going on?'" That's when the scammer dangles a solution-a fine, payable by credit card, that will clear up the problem.

With enough information, scammers can assume your identity and empty your bank accounts.

"It seems like a very simple scam," the agent adds. The trick is putting people on the defensive, then reeling them back in with the promise of a clean slate. "It's kind of ingenious. It's social engineering."

In recent months, communities in Florida, New York, Minnesota, Illinois, Colorado, Oregon, California, Virginia, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Hampshire reported scams or posted warnings or press releases on their local websites. In August, the federal court system issued a warning on the scam and urged people to call their local District Court office if they receive suspicious calls. In September, the FBI issued a press release about jury scams and suggested victims also contact their local FBI field office.

In March, USA.gov, the federal government's information website, posted details about jury scams in their Frequently Asked Questions area. The site reported scores of queries on the subject from website visitors and callers seeking information.

The jury scam is a simple variation of the identity-theft ploys that have proliferated in recent years as personal information and good credit have become thieves' preferred prey, particularly on the Internet. Scammers might tap your information to make a purchase on your credit card, but could just as easily sell your information to the highest bidder on the Internet's black market.

Protecting yourself is the key: Never give out personal information when you receive an unsolicited phone call.

Resources:

Police Warn Seniors of "Phony" Callers

Several seniors across Fairfax County have been victimized by a phone scam in recent weeks. Thousands of dollars have been lost by these few individuals and many others have nearly lost money.

The scam begins with a phone call from a "grandchild." The caller tells the senior they have been involved in an accident or arrested for DWI. They plead with the senior to wire money and not tell "mom and dad." They also say the money cannot be sent directly to them because their wallet is in the car which was impounded. Instead, they ask for the money to be sent to a "friend" or "attorney." In some cases, another person posing as the "attorney" calls the senior a few minutes later and supports the claims made by the initial caller.

This technique, known as social engineering, is preying on the fact that most seniors will do anything to help a family member. Steps need to be taken to not fall victim of this attack.

If you get a call from anyone asking for immediate money, you need to:

  • Verify who the caller is by asking personal questions.
  • Be cautious; don't give personal information.
  • Call other family members before sending any money.
  • Call the location where the "family member" is being held or treated.
  • Remember, an unsolicited call does NOT guarantee verification.

2 Child Abduction Attempts in our Area

Please note:

This is the time to talk with your children about safety and strangers. Please be aware that two incidents have now taken place involving a man in a silver car claiming to be looking for his lost dog. You may have heard about an abudction attempt in the Hampton Chase neighborhood right near Stringfellow and Route 29 on March 10. Then on March 22 2009, a second grade teacher at Poplar Tree, Mrs. Hurd, indicated that her daughter and some friends were approached by a Hispanic man in a silver car right outside their house. He told the girls he had lost his dog and was hoping they would help him find his lost dog. The children ran to the nearest house to tell an adult, and the police were called and came. The police shared that there is a Hispanic male in a silver car with the same MO that is patrolling the Centreville, Chantilly, and Clifton area.

Please speak with your children about safety issues, warn them not to enter a stranger's car, and advise them to go to the nearest familiar neighbor's house for safety if they encounter suspicious behavior such as described above.