DOOR-TO-DOOR SOLICITORS IN RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Once again - and it seems to happen every June
for the past few years - Precinct 7 officers are responding to an
increase in calls for service regarding door-to-door solicitors in
residential neighborhoods. And, as in the past, we are finding that
some of these solicitors are licensed and legitimate and some are
not.
Here are a few of the past and current sales spiels given by some
solicitors:
- Selling books to support a local children's hospital
- Selling books to help sponsor a local traveling baseball team's
efforts to make it to a national competition
- Selling books to help support a scholarship for the seller to
fly to London for a summer internship as she or he studies for a
degree in communications
- Selling books/goods/wares/subscriptions for any
(fill-in-the-blank) reason which arouses suspicions in a homeowner
listening to the sales pitch
Some of the solicitors will actually tell you that they are
neighbors of yours (they aren't) who live "right around the
corner" (they don't) and may mention the names of other
neighbors (easily available in many computer databases including
Maryland Real property Search) in an effort to gain your confidence.
The intent of this email is NOT to suggest that all door-to-door
solicitors are fraudulent or are there to scam you for money.
However, please be cautious and check into the veracity of the
solicitor's claims as to where the money is going. If you're not
sure, or you just don't feel "right" about it, check into the
background of the supposed company before making any financial
donation.
Also, be aware of the following:
- Solicitors in Baltimore County are required to be
licensed as a peddler/huckster through the Baltimore County
Office of Permits and Development Management.
- Solicitors must carry that license with them.
- The license does not give the solicitor the
right to remain on your property after being told to leave.
The license/permit that they are required to carry with them is actually
issued by the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court for Baltimore County.
The Baltimore County Office of Permits and Management Development issues
the permits that are required for soliciting money on county roadways.
Sample license (click to enlarge) >
We strongly suggest to area residents NOT to allow any
door-to-door solicitors into your home. If you allow the person
to give the sales pitch, listen to it through the door. ASK to
see their Baltimore County Huckster's License that they are
required to carry. If the person makes you feel uncomfortable,
simply tell the person to leave your premises and not return.
Remember...it's YOUR home and you are NOT required to allow them
entry and you are NOT required to listen to a sales pitch. If
you don't want them there, tell them to leave. If they refuse,
call 911.
I know some folks get frustrated because it seems as if the
police can't stop and arrest these solicitors. We can - and have
- if they are not licensed or scam folks or continue to trespass
on your property after being told to leave. I encourage folks
to call 911 if you have concerns about the activities of any
door-to-door solicitors.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Date: Thursday, June 17, 2010, 4:06 PM
Door-to-door Solicitors and Burglaries
SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS IN THE NORTHERN /
NORTHEASTERN PORTION OF PRECINCT 7:
Since 6/10/2010, three residential burglaries
have been reported in the northern sections of Precinct 8 and
Precinct 7 as follows:
Precinct 8 (Parkville):
Kanes Road
Long Green Pike
Precinct 7:
14000 block of Manor Road
The method of entry in two of the incidents is similar (by force)
and, in one of the Precinct 8 incidents, entry was gained through an
open door while the homeowner was outside doing yardwork. These
burglaries have occurred during the daylight hours. Both Precincts 7
and 8 have assigned additional patrol units to this area and we
encourage residents to call 911 to report suspicious vehicles,
persons or activity.
Additionally, we have received numerous complaints in the same
general area in regards to door-to-door solicitors. I want to let
the residents know that Precinct 7 officers have identified the
persons soliciting and they are properly licensed per Baltimore
County Code. The subjects have been operating a maroon Honda CRV
with Missouri registration plates. We have their information and my
officers, along with our burglary detectives, are investigating and
currently have no evidence or information that connects these
persons to the recent burglaries. We are aware that these
persons have been seen in the area of Manor Road and other northern
neighborhoods.
Meanwhile, we strongly suggest to area residents NOT to allow any
door-to-door solicitors into your home. If you allow the person to
give the sales pitch, listen to it through the door. ASK to see
their Baltimore County Huckster's License that they are required to
carry. If the person makes you feel uncomfortable, simply tell the
person to leave your premises and not return. Remember...it's YOUR
home and you are NOT required to allow them entry or listen to a
sales pitch. If you don't want them there, tell them to leave. If
they refuse, call 911.
I know some folks get frustrated because it seems as if the police
can't stop and arrest these solicitors. We can if they are not
licensed or continue to trespass on your property after being told
to leave. The recent area burglaries also create concern when the
residents know these solicitors are out there. Rest assured that
they have been stopped numerous times and are aware that the police
department is responding to the residents' calls for service in
regards to them. Everything so far has been legal. However, I would
encourage folks to continue to call 911 if you have concerns about
the activities of any door-to-door solicitors.
The investigation of these recent burglaries is continuing
and I will keep you updated.
Please...call 911 to report suspicious activity when it is
happening! If any resident has information that may be relevant to
the recent burglaries, please call the Precinct 7 Investigative
Services Team at 410-887-1823.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Date: Thursday, June 3, 2010, 2:36 PM
BOTTLE BOMBS
Recently, a Precinct 7 Police and Community
Relations Council member sent me an inquiry about an email she
received alerting her to the existence of soda bottle bombs or
"Drano Bombs" in the Precinct 7 area.
If you are not familiar with the term, Drano Bombs are cheap and
easily made explosive devices that require only an empty plastic
soda bottle with a screw on cap, some liquid bathroom cleaner and
a small amount of aluminum foil, sometimes rolled into a small ball.
Chemical reactions between the aluminum foil and the liquid cleaner
inside the sealed bottle cause the bottle to expand, contort and
eventually burst. The plastic bits of bottle debris act as shrapnel
when the bottle explodes. IF THE BOTTLE EXPLODES
CLOSE ENOUGH TO A PERSON, SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR.
We have had past incidents involving soda
bottle bombs in the Precinct 7 area. However, they have been
sporadic in nature. They are sometimes placed inside of roadside
mailboxes in order to destroy them as a "prank". However, there are
occasions in which these devices have not detonated but,
if disturbed or moved, CAN detonate hours after being made.
Please examine the attached photo of a
soda bottle bomb. Should you come across such a device on your
property or in your mailbox, DO NOT TOUCH OR DISTURB THE DEVICE IN
ANY WAY. Keep everyone back at least 150 feet. Call 911 to report
the incident. A police officer will respond to verify the incident
and will have the Hazardous Devices Team respond to safely remove
and dispose of the item.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Date: Thursday, May 27, 2010, 2:00 PM
SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS OF THE SHETLAND HILLS /
LUTHERVILLE COMMUNITIES:
On May 17, 2010, I sent out an email alert
regarding a residential burglary in the 100 block of Martingale
Road. Over the next few days, additional burglaries and one
attempted burglary were reported in the Timonium and Mays Chapel
area, as later updated on the GTCC and LCA websites.
On 5/21/10, officers and detectives working in the area spotted a
suspicious vehicle in the Orchard Hills / Lutherville area. The
vehicle was followed out onto York Road and stopped. The driver of
the vehicle was arrested for a serious traffic violation. Subsequent
investigation recovered evidence stolen in several of the Timonium
area burglaries. As a result, the driver was also arrested and
charged with this recent burglary trend. There haven't been
any residential burglaries reported in these areas since 5/21/10.
I know some of the area residents are concerned that this trend is
continuing and were not aware of the arrest. I had to delay the
official community notice of the arrest due to the sensitive nature
of a portion of the on-going investigation.
I am proud of the officers and the work that they did in these
neighborhoods. I am also proud of the community for the residents'
willingness to call 911 and to assist my officers with tips and
information. Thank you for helping us to make this happen.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Date: Monday, May 24, 2010, 3:35 PM
RESIDENTIAL BURGLARIES (UPDATE) 5-24-10
As a result of a recent residential burglary trend, Precinct 7 officers and
burglary detectives in both marked and unmarked cars have increased patrol
in the Lutherville and Timonium communities. We have spent a lot of time
speaking with residents, delivery drivers, mail carriers, etc. The residents
of the area have provided us with information based on their recent
observations of community activity. As our investigation continues, please
note the following things that will assist us:
- Please! DO NOT hesitate to call 911 immediately to report suspicious
solicitors or other unknown persons who come to your door with a disjointed
story or other ruse. It's well known that this is a common method used by
burglars to "case" a residence to see if anyone is home. BUT, you need to
call 911 immediately - don't wait - and provide the 911 operator with a
physical description of the person/s and of any vehicle that the person/s
could have used. Some of the more common "stories" give to homeowners who do
open the door (much to the chagrin of the burglar) is that the person is
lost, or that the person's car is broken down just around the corner, or the
person is seeking outdoor work. Put yourself into the mind-set of a burglar
- if you saw a potential house target and you wanted to make sure no one was
home before breaking in, how would YOU do it? I'm betting that whatever you
think of has been tried before.
- Entry into the house in four, and possibly five, of the most recent
burglaries occurred through an unlocked door. Think about it...that means
that instead of just quickly breaking out a window or prying open a door,
the burglar is first checking the perimeter of the house to see if
any doors or windows are unlocked. This is definitely the preferred method
of entry to burglars because forcing a door or window or breaking glass
makes noise and attracts attention. That's something that burglars want to
avoid because it increases the chances of getting caught. So, please make
sure you doors and windows are locked securely when you leave your house.
Our investigation is continuing and we are working closely with the
community residents. You can assist us by calling 911 and by securing doors
and windows. The assistance and information provided by the residents has
been very beneficial and I appreciate all the support. I will update the LCA
and GTCC as soon as I can.
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
Date: Monday, May 17, 2010, 2:08 PM
SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS OF THE SHETLAND HILLS /
LUTHERVILLE COMMUNITIES:
There was a
residential burglary
that occurred in the 100 block of Martingale Road on Friday 5/14/10
between 8:30 AM and 3:00 PM. Entry was gained through a rear basement
door. It is unclear if that door was locked or unlocked. No one was home
during the time span.
Around
10:30 AM, a neighbor saw a white SUV-type vehicle parked on the
street near the residence. Another neighbor saw what he described
as a "mid-size box truck" parked on the street at the same location.
(It's possible that it's
the same vehicle
that is just described differently by each neighbor.)
Sometime
around 12:30 PM, a neighbor saw a black male walking from the area of
the house. The neighbor suspected that the homeowner was having repair
work done, so no one called 911. The black male was wearing a Boston
Celtics basketball team jersey along with a Boston Celtics cap.
On Saturday
afternoon, a West Lutherville resident saw a Budget Rental truck operating
suspiciously in the area of Morris Avenue. It is not known if this is the
same vehicle seen on Friday on Martingale Road.
We are asking that
residents be alert for any suspicious vehicles or subjects fitting that
description. Please call 911 immediately to report such activity.
If any residents
may have seen this vehicle or subject and can provide additional
information, please call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at
410-887-1823.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
TELL FOLKS YOU KNOW WHO
COULD BE TARGETED HOW TO AVOID FOUND MONEY SCAM
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 4:01 PM
ALL PRECINCT 7 EMAIL TREE MEMBERS...PLEASE SHARE THIS
OVERVIEW WITH ELDERLY FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS.
I've written before about a theft crime known as a "Flim-Flam" or
"Pigeon Drop". This involves a "con" situation in which a victim -
usually (but not always) elderly - is convinced to give up a
sum of money as a good faith promise to obtain a larger sum of money.
Pigeon-Drop thieves usually work in pairs, BUT have been known to work
alone with the aid of a cell phone as a prop. These crimes usually occur
in shopping centers and often in the vicinity of banks. Most of these
type of scam crimes will follow this pattern:
The suspect/s will identify a potential victim, otherwise known as the
"mark" or "pigeon". A suspect will approach the victim and strike up a
friendly conversation in order to gain the victim's trust. After that, a
second suspect will approach and ask if anyone lost a wallet, bag, or
purse containing money but no identification. The second suspect will
show the item which contains a roll of "flash money" which is usually
nothing more that a large paper bill wrapped around an inner roll of
paper, etc. The two suspects will discuss what to do with the money. One
of the suspects may offer to call a "lawyer friend" for advice. That
suspect will then either walk away to "make that call to the friend" or
fake a phone conversation while standing with the victim. The suspect
will then say that the friend has offered to hold the found money for X
number of days and, if it's not claimed, all (victim and suspect/s) are
entitled to it. At this point, one suspect will offer to put up "good
faith money" to secure his/her interest in the found money. The victim -
and remember, usually an unsuspecting elderly victim who has been "sized
up for vulnerability" already - will be asked to do the same. The
suspect/s will then accompany the victim to a bank where a sizeable
withdrawal of cash is made. That "good faith" money is given to the
suspect to be held by the "lawyer friend" for X-number of days. The
suspect/s will then leave after telling the victim that they will "be in
touch".
That's it! Done! And yes, there are actually folks that will do this
because it works on some victims. Remember though, that there are many,
many variations of the flim-flam scam. And, as I said, it can
be pulled off by one suspect acting alone. The one I've described is one
of the most common methods of operation.
The common issues amongst all the scams are:
- The victim is usually elderly and/or vulnerable.
- "Something" is found containing what appears to be a large sum of
cash.
- The victim will be asked to put up "good faith" money to secure an
interest in the found money.
TELL FOLKS YOU KNOW WHO COULD BE
TARGETED HOW TO AVOID FOUND MONEY SCAM
- Trust instincts and if the situation seems unusual or if you feel
uncomfortable, walk away
- Trust only people you know. Do not trust someone because they seem
to have honest faces and pleasant personalities. That trust is they key
to the scammer's success.
- If someone found $50.000 would he be willing to automatically give
up $25.000 just as a sign of good faith? Highly unlikely.
- If legal advice or other money assistance is required, the service
of a competent financial professional should be sought. Before you
withdraw any sum of money at someone else’s suggestion you should call
your bank, lawyer or any trusted person who could posses appropriate
knowledge.
If you have concerns about elderly parents, family members, etc. making
a large withdrawal of cash in such a situation and there is no joint
account or power of attorney, etc., contact the bank manager to see if
the account can be flagged for co-authorization of large-sum cash
withdrawals.
Awareness is the key to combating this crime that preys on the elderly.
Please pass this information along. There are actually videos of hidden
camera pigeon-drop scams that you can watch on YouTube to see how it
works. Just web-search "Pigeon-Drop You Tube" on your web browser.
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
8/4/2009
The official
YouTube page of the Baltimore County
Police Department
with information on the agency's activities and operations to serve county
residents.
http://www.youtube.com/user/BCoPDInformer
Also added to Links & Resources page.
News from Captain Lurz of Baltimore County Police
Department
--- On Tue, 12/8/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009, 9:36 AM
Folks,
Please see the attached media release link sent to me by Ms. Julia
Hardgrove, of the BCoPD Media Relations Section. It's the time of
year that motor vehicles are left unattended, generally unlocked
with the keys inside, to idle and warm up before starting the drive
to work, school or to run errands. There are opportunistic thieves
watching for this, particularly in residential neighborhoods and
near convenience stores. Your vehicle could be stolen within
seconds. Of particular interest is the following quote:
"According to police auto theft detectives, studies show that
approximately 80 percent of stolen vehicles in the area were found
with the key left in the ignition."
Here's a link to the story:
You can subscribe to the BCoPD Media Relations news releases on
line by following this link:
news releases
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS
IN THE TIMONIUM AREA
- Another Deception Burglary
Date: Friday, October 2, 2009, 12:40 PM
On Wednesday, 9/30/2009, around 3:00 PM, a "deception burglary" occurred
in the 100 block of East Timonium Road. In this case, a male described
as Hispanic, about 6' 2" tall, wearing a long sleeve (possibly plaid)
shirt and blue jeans, knocked on the door of the residence and told the
homeowner that he was doing some work in the backyards of the
neighborhood and needed the homeowner to verify his property lines. The
suspect convinced the homeowner to accompany him to the backyard where
he engaged him in conversation about the property lines for several
minutes. During that time, a second "unknown" subject entered the front
of the house through the unlocked front door and stole items from inside
the house. No one else was in the house and the homeowner was in the
rear and was unable to see the front door. The first suspect then told
the homeowner he had to leave and would return in five minutes. He was
last seen walking out the side gate towards Timonium Road. He never
returned. Shortly after the homeowner returned to his house, he
discovered that property had been stolen. We have no description of a
vehicle that may have been used.
The victim told the investigating officer that about three weeks ago he
had his driveway coated by a Hispanic male and a younger white male.
They had accessed his house several times to use the restroom, but the
homeowner was in the house at the time. We do not know if these persons
are the same as the deception burglary suspects, but would like identify
them. If any residents have had similar events with driveway surfacing,
please call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823.
Meanwhile, be aware of this incident and call 911 immediately to report
any suspicious subjects.
For more information concerning "Deception Burglaries", please see the
excerpts below from a previous email. You will note the similarities to
this incident on 9/30/09.
Captain Martin Lurz
*********************************************************************
As many of you are aware, I
have sent out email alerts in the past concerning what we call "Deception
Burglaries." For some reason, these types of incidents seem to increase with the
arrival of warmer weather, although they can occur any time of the year. Please
review the information below and be aware of the method of operation of these
burglars and thieves and - MOST IMPORTANTLY - SHARE this information with your
neighbors and families by sending them this email or talking to them. I would
also ask that all Community Association Presidents assure that this email is
forwarded to everyone on their association's email tree.
Deception burglaries have one
common theme - to get the homeowner distracted by getting them to walk into
another room, or, more frequently, asking the homeowner to step outside and then
getting them to move to the side or rear of the house (out of view) while a
second suspect enters the house through the unlocked door and steals whatever is
quickly accessible to them. This second suspect is almost always out of the
house before the homeowner re-enters. Here's how it works:
The first suspect will come to
the door, knock on the door or ring the doorbell, and use some type of ruse to
win the confidence of the homeowner. For example, the suspect may tell the
homeowner that he works for a fence company (or satellite TV company...or
roofing company...or landscaping company...you name it, they've tried it) and
tell the homeowner that he or she needs to step outside with him and examine a
portion of their property. To gain the confidence of the homeowner, the suspect
might say "he doesn't want to infringe on property lines, so he needs the owner
to examine the line in the rear of the property." If the homeowner does step
outside, he or she will generally leave the door unlocked and the first suspect
will escort the homeowner around the back - out of view - of that door.
Sometimes, the first suspect will use a cell phone he is carrying to "call his
boss...or the office...or Land Records...") when, in fact, he is ACTUALLY
CALLING THE SECOND SUSPECT to let him or her know that entry into the home can
now be made without detection. Sometimes, the first suspect will remain on the
phone the entire time and actually feed information back to the person who has
entered the house. After about ten minutes, the first suspect and the homeowner
will walk back into the house AFTER the second suspect has slipped out.
Sometimes, it may not be immediately apparent that items were stolen from the
house (i.e. money and credit cards from a purse or wallet, jewelry, etc.) These
burglars generally take smaller items that are easy to grab and conceal quickly.
That's how it works and we
find that there are generally two common themes to all of these types of
burglaries:
1) A ruse or "scam" is used to
gain trust and confidence.
2) The elderly are more likely
to be a victim of these burglaries.
Keep in mind that there are
variations to this "scam" burglar. We have investigated deception burglaries
that have used a ruse varying from the "package drop-off" scam (in which two
suspects come to the door and ask the homeowner to accept a package for their
neighbor. If they are allowed into the house, one will say she is thirsty and
ask for water. As the homeowner walks the one to the kitchen and engages in
conversation, the second one slips off and steals small valuables...very
quickly!) to the BGE/Water Department Employee scam (in which the suspect says
he or she is from BGE or the Water Department and needs to get to the basement
to investigate a "problem in the lines." When the homeowner walks that person
down to the basement, the second suspect enters and steals the valuables.)
Please remember - and make
sure your neighbors know too - DO NOT let anyone that you do not know and trust
into your house. Employees of BGE and the City Water Department carry photo ID
and do not mind being challenged for proof of employment. My suggestion is that
you don't stop there - CALL the appropriate agency for verification. But be
aware of this as well - IF THE "EMPLOYEE" WHO IS SEEKING ACCESS TO YOUR HOUSE
PROVIDES YOU WITH THE NUMBER TO CALL FOR VERIFICATION, DON'T CALL THAT NUMBER!
CALL THE NUMBER LISTED IN THE PHONE BOOK – while the person waits OUTSIDE. The
reason for that is that if the person at the door is trying to scam you, the
number he or she provides is probably the cell phone number of the second
suspect who will tell you, yes, it's perfectly OK to let that person into your
house! So, call the listed number in the phone book. Better yet, if you are
really suspicious, tell the person you are calling 911. A legitimate employee
will wait for the police... the deception burglars won't.
Now that you know how it works
and the myriad of scenarios that are used, I hope you can see the common threads
that I wrote about. Here's where we need your help - stay alert and get this
word out, especially to your elderly neighbors, family members and friends.
Awareness is the key. Tell them to call 911 immediately to report suspicious
activity. Memorize the suspect's appearance (scars, marks, anything unusual.) If
a vehicle description can safely be obtained (look to the license plate
number...write it on your hand if you have to) provide that to the 911 operator
so the officers can start looking right away. Be alert, be aware and be curious.
Make that call to 911.
Thanks for your help....please
pass this along.
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
17th Annual Komen Maryland Race for the Cure will
be held in the Hunt Valley area
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2009, 2:03 PM
Folks,
On Sunday, October 18, 2009 at 8:00 AM, the 17th Annual Komen Maryland
Race for the Cure will be held in the Hunt Valley area of Precinct 7.
This will be the third year that the event has been held in the business
park section of Hunt Valley. The footrace will follow this route FROM
THE STARTING POINT ON SHAWAN ROAD JUST EAST OF McCORMICK ROAD:
- EAST on Shawan Road to right (south) onto York Road
- SOUTH on York Road to right (west) onto Schilling Road
- WEST on Schilling Road to left (south) onto McCormick Road
- SOUTH on McCormick Road to right (west) onto Beaver Dam Road
- WEST on Beaver Dam Road to right (north) onto Gilroy Road
- NORTH on Gilroy Road to left (west) onto Schilling Circle
- Schilling Circle to the finish line
Key Road Closures and approximate times:
- Shawan Road will be closed in BOTH directions from McCormick Road to
York Road at 6:00 AM
- Southbound York Road will be closed to thru traffic at McCormick
Road at 6:00 AM. Traffic will be allowed to turn right onto McCormick
Road to enter the Hunt Valley Towne Centre, but will not be allowed to
continue south on York Road.
- Northbound McCormick Road at Wight Avenue will be closed at 6:00 AM.
- Northbound Beaver Dam Road at McCormick Road will be closed at 7:00
AM
- Northbound Beaver Dam Road at Cockeysville Road will be closed at
7:30 AM
- Eastbound Beaver Dam Road at Ivy Hill Road will be closed at 7:30 AM
- Northbound York Road will be closed at Ashland Road at 7:45 AM
Major Detour Routes:
NORTHBOUND York Road
- Follow the detour RIGHT onto Ashland Road. Ashland Road will become
Paper Mill Road. Follow Paper Mill Road to Phoenix Road and turn LEFT
onto Phoenix Road. Follow Phoenix Road to York Road and turn RIGHT onto
York Road.
SOUTHBOUND York Road
- Follow the detour LEFT onto Phoenix Road. Follow Phoenix Road to
Paper Mill Road and turn RIGHT onto Paper Mill Road. Paper Mill Road
will become Ashland Road. Follow Ashland Road to York Road and turn LEFT
onto York Road.
NORTHBOUND Beaver Dam Road
- Follow the detour RIGHT onto Cockeysville Road to York Road.
Numerous uniformed Baltimore County Police Officers will be posted
throughout the race route and outer perimeter to assist motorists with
traffic direction. PLEASE follow their directions to assist us with
traffic flow. As in the past two years, we hope to have ALL roads
re-opened to the public by 12 Noon.
For more information concerning participation in the race, parking,
etc., please visit
www.komenmd.org
Thank you for your cooperation during this event.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Public Cautioned About Items Stolen in House
Burglary
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2009, 2:52 PM
Folks,
Please be aware of the following information. Click on the "more" link
below. Obviously, if these items are seen, DO NOT touch or disturb them
and call 911 immediately. This is being sent out as a precautionary
measure to all while this investigation continues.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
THEFTS FROM VEHICLES and RESIDENTIAL
BURGLARIES
--- On Tue, 8/18/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
Folks,
Over the past few weeks, there have been sporadic increases of
residential burglaries and thefts from automobiles throughout
various areas (urban and rural) of the police precinct. As we
investigate and adjust police presence and resources accordingly, I
wanted to send out this email as both an alert and a reminder on
some basic crime prevention steps that you can take to lessen your
chances of being a victim of these types of property crimes.
THEFTS FROM VEHICLES
Although thieves can and do break windows to gain entry into a car,
the majority of thefts from autos reported to us indicate that the
car door was left unlocked. As we've discussed before, breaking a
window, be it on a house or a car, makes noise and increases the
chance that the thief or burglar will be noticed by someone.
However, regardless of how entry into the vehicle was gained,
another common factor is that valuables - particularly GPS units,
wallets, jewelry, etc. - were in open view within the vehicle. GPS
units are particularly a popular item with thieves today. So
please...take an extra minute or two to remove and take your GPS
with you and move valuables - if you must leave them in the car - to
the trunk area where they will not be visible. Make sure that your
car doors are locked as well. And one more thing about cars and
what's inside of them...remember that if you park your car in your
driveway outside of your garage and the garage door opener is easily
accessible, you provide a potential burglar with the opportunity to
enter your garage, and then possibly your house, by simply using
your remote door opener.
RESIDENTIAL BURGLARIES
if you've been on the Precinct 7 email tree connection for a while,
you've probably heard me remind the folks repeatedly to lock their
doors and windows. Though the number of "no force" burglaries has
declined from a few years ago, there's still work to be done. The
same rules apply...if breaking a window or forcing/kicking a door
can be avoided (because of creating noise) a burglar will use the
easiest method to enter a house. And the easiest method is finding a
house with an unlocked window or door. Now, this is not to say that
recent sporadic increases have all been the result of the easiest
access point. In some of the more recent cases, the burglar has
chosen the rear of the house and either forced a door or broken a
window. Because of that, I am asking the precinct residents to be
vigilant and alert to suspicious noises, subject, or circumstances
around your house or your neighbors' houses. If you're not sure that
the person you see acting suspiciously near the rear of your
neighbor's house is supposed to be there, call your neighbor to
alert him or her or call 911 to have an officer respond to
investigate. I can assure you that we would rather respond and
determine that everything is safe and secure than miss the
opportunity to catch the bad guy/s. So please, work with your
precinct police officers and help us by staying aware and alert and
asking your family and neighbors to do the same. Burglars and
thieves do not like to work in front of an audience, so, if they
know you're watching, chances are they will go somewhere else. And,
if you happen to see something suspicious and call 911, please give
the operator as much information as you can as far as a description
of a car or person. If you can safely get a tag number of a
suspicious car, pass that on to the 911 operator and the responding
officer.
Finally, during the time span of a recent residential burglary in
the 1800 block of Vista Lane in Timonium (8/1/2009 between 1:30 PM
and 3:30 PM) an alert neighbor saw a white female, in her 30s, short
in stature, with a brown ponytail, carrying some cloth bags, walk
across the lawn of the victim's house. The female then walked a
short distance down the street and was seen getting into the
passenger side of a silver or gray auto that was driven by a second
subject who could not be seen by the neighbor. The neighbor could
not see the tag number of the car. We do not know if the female was
involved in the burglary, and have been unsuccessful in locating any
similar vehicles. However, residents of the Timonium area should be
aware of this information and call 911 to report any similar
suspicious activities.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Beware of Phony Alarm System Sales Pitches
--- On Fri, 8/14/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
Folks...this was recently sent out by our Media Relations Section.
It is not a "slam" on alarm companies, but rather an awareness of
some tactics that have been used in the past to make the sale.
Please remember...the Baltimore County Police Department does NOT
act as a monitor station for private burglar alarm systems. If an
alarm system is wired into a central monitoring location, that
central location calls the police department once an alarm indicator
is received.
This is just for your awareness. Please click on the link below.
Captain Martin Lurz
Thefts from unlocked cars in Lutherville
--- On Tue, 7/14/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
Special Attention - Lutherville Residents
During the recent overnight period of Friday 7/10/09 into Saturday
7/11/09, there were nine reports of thefts from autos in the 1400
block of Francke Avenue, the 200 block of Morris Avenue and the 1500
block of Melton Road. There may have been others that were not
reported to this agency
The thief or thieves entered each of the unlocked
vehicles and rummaged for loose valuables such as cash and change. A
Sirius satellite radio console and CDs were removed from one
vehicle.
The reporting officer noted that vehicles that were locked were
not attacked. It appears as if the suspect/s walked through the
area tugging on door handles until the unlocked vehicles were found.
Please be aware of this and take a moment to assure that your
vehicles, even if parked in your driveway, are locked and secure.
G.P.S. units are a "hot" item now, so remember to remove them (and
yes, their windshield mounts as well if you want extra peace of
mind) from your vehicles. As we have discussed before, the majority
of thefts from autos that we investigate have a common
thread...unlocked car doors.
Be alert for suspicious activity in your neighborhood such as these
"door tuggers" who tend to walk in the middle of the street in their
search for a vehicle to enter. DO NOT hesitate to call 911 to report
such activity.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Four (4) Residential Burglaries
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2009, 1:27 PM
SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS IN THE SOUTHWESTERN
PORTION OF PRECINCT 7 (LUTHERVILLE, FALLSWOOD, MAYS CHAPEL, SEMINARY
OVERLOOK)
Since 6/26/2009, there have been four (4) residential burglaries
reported in the southwestern area of Precinct 7 as follows:
6/26/09 - 500 block W. Seminary Avenue
6/29/09 - 1500 block of Greenspring Drive (reported 6/29/09,
occurred between 6/24 and 6/29/09)
6/30/09 - 600 block W. Padonia Road
6/30/09 - 11300 block of Mays Chapel Road
Time spans are between 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The "tightest" timespan
occurred yesterday, 6/30/09, between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM in the
600 block of W. Padonia Road. In two cases, the suspect/s forced
open a rear door or window, in one case entry was gained through an
unlocked garage door. Method of entry in the last case was
undetermined...there was no force involved. Jewelry has been stolen
in all four incidents.
Please remain alert while these cases are investigated. There are
extra officers, in both marked and unmarked cars, in that area as
well. Be especially alert for suspicious subjects, vehicles and
activity and call 911 immediately to report such
activity. Remember, if a vehicle is involved, try to safely get the
vehicle's tag number and provide that to the 911 phone operator and
the responding police officer. Also, try to get the best description
of the suspicious subject/s and/or vehicle that you can!
Remember...lock your doors and windows and keep an eye out for your
neighbors as well.
Don't forget...we would rather respond to a call and find out that
everything is OK than miss the opportunity to apprehend the bad
guy/s. So please, DO NOT hesitate to make that call to 911!
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
Class for Parents on
Internet Safety
--- On Fri, 5/22/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
Folks,
We constantly receive more questions about internet and text
messaging safety, particularly for teenagers. The BCoPD is
presenting a free Internet Safety class next Thursday, 5/28/2009 at
6:30 PM. For details and registration information, please see the
information below.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
>>> John Worden 5/22/2009 9:26 AM >>>
To commemorate
National Missing Child Day, Monday May 25th, an important training
is being held on
Thursday May
28th at the
police Public Safety Building, sixth floor conference room. Please
see press release below:
The
Ever-Changing Internet Presents Ever-Changing Problems
National Expert to Lead a Class for Parents on Internet Safety
On May
28 at 6:30 p.m. the Baltimore County Police Department and the
Missing and Exploited Childrens Association will present a free
class on Internet safety for parents. The two hour class will be
held at the Baltimore County Public Safety Building, 700 E. Joppa
Rd., Towson 21286.
The class is designed to bring parents attention to the Internet at
a time of change and challenge. It is timed to coincide with the
beginning of summer, when young people will have time on their
hands, and their eyes on the computer screens.
The changing Internet presents new challenges for parents. The rapid
growth of social media and the development of new teen practices
such as sexting presents a constantly changing cyber-landscape and
parents must be aware of their childrens Internet travels.
The class will be presented by Iris Beckwith of connectED4safety.
Ms. Beckwith has 15 years of experience in prevention education.
Monitor
Your Child's Social Networking
According to Ms. Beckwith, children are living in a world where
social networking, text messaging, gaming and downloading music are
part of their everyday activities. It is fun, exciting, and normal
for them. They are also living in a world where this technology
brings cyberbullying, access to inappropriate photos and
information, obsession about their online lives and confusion over
what is ethical, safe, and secure behavior.
Even those parents and educators who believe that they are
tech-savvy, says Ms. Beckwith, can be left feeling ill-equipped to
deal with the issues that surround childrens connected activities.
School administrators, teachers, churches, synagogues, and community
groups have witnessed the impact of childrens online activities in
their offline lives.
Ms. Beckwith will bring parents up-to-date information about online
dangers, and provide practical, concrete advice on how to protect
their children.
For
questions or to register for this important event, please call
410-321-1184, E-mail:
dundalkpat@aol.com or visit the MECA website:
www.mecamd.com
5/11/2009
FLIM-FLAM "PIGEON DROP" SCAM ALERT
--- On Mon, 5/11/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Monday, May 11, 2009, 10:22 AM
FLIM-FLAM "PIGEON DROP" SCAM ALERT
Folks,
You may have seen an article in The Baltimore Sun on
Saturday describing a Grand Theft "Flim- Flam" that occurred in the
Padonia Village Shopping Center on Thursday, 5/7/2009. For those of
you who may be unfamiliar with what we call a "Pigeon Drop" scam, I
have provided an overview below:
The victim, usually an elderly female, is usually approached
by one or two well-dressed females in a shopping center area,
sometimes near a bank. One of the females will attempt to engage the
victim in idle conversation and then she, or her partner, will claim
that she just found a bag, wallet, or envelope containing a large
sum of cash, usually between $10,000 and $25,000. She will look
inside the bag to try to find the "owner" and at the same time, may
expose "flash money" (which is nothing more than one or two larger
bills wrapped around a wad of worthless filler paper). She may ask
the victim if she dropped the bag in an attempt to build the
credibility of being a good citizen and to win the victim's
confidence.
Of course, no identification papers are found inside the
bag. One of the female suspects will then surmise that the money is
the fruit of some illegal activity and it would be impossible to
return it to its rightful owner. The women will then talk about
sharing the money between themselves and include the victim, since,
well, the victim is nice and just happens to be standing there
watching this! The women may talk about what they can do with the
money and the human emotion of greed starts to make an appearance.
Usually, one of the female suspects will claim that she
works for an attorney and that the attorney will know how to
"legally" handle this recovery of money. She may pretend to call her
boss, or walk to his office, which just happens to be around the
corner from where they are standing. This female with then either
end the "phone call" or return from the office and explain that the
lawyer said each person who wanted to share in the proceeds would
have to put up "good faith money" for taxes and/or other expenses
while the lawyer arranges the division of the money. The suspects
will post their amount of good faith money and will agree that the
money should go into the account, or safe-deposit box, of the
original "finder" of the money. They will ask the victim to put up
several thousand dollars as good faith money if she wants to share
in the profits once the lawyer works out the details. The victim
will then go to her bank, which is usually right there in that
shopping center, withdraw cash, and give it to the suspect/s. The
suspect/s will exchange phoney names with the victim, tell her they
will be in touch "next week" and then leave the area because of a
pending doctor appointment or kids to pick up from school, etc.
There are several variations to the Pigeon Drop scam, but it
generally follows the above outline. In the 5/7/09 incident in
Precinct 7, the two female suspects were described as:
1) White female, 40 to 50 years, thin, fair complexion, black hair
with some gray, wearing a light blue suit.
2) Black female, 40 to 50 years, thin build, medium complexion,
black hair with some gray, wearing a red jacket and red dress.
PLEASE share this information with your family, neighbors and
friends, especially those who may be elderly and a bit more
vulnerable. For those who have joint bank accounts with elderly
parents, we suggest contacting the bank to limit withdrawal amounts
without you providing approval to the transaction. Awareness is the
key to preventing this scam against the elderly. If any citizens
should witness or overhear such activity in a shopping center and
suspect that a scam is occurring, please call 911 immediately.
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
False Report on Child Abduction
--- On Tue, 3/3/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
wrote:
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2009, 12:07 PM
Folks,
Recently, an alert Baltimore County Middle School Principal
contacted me regarding the authenticity of an email that was
circulating throughout the area over the past two weeks. The
email gave an account of a supposed attempted child abduction that
occurred at a Cockeysville Target store on or about February 12,
2009. The email appeared factual and provided certain specifics
about the supposed attempted abduction. Within days, this email
caused obvious parental concern and questions as to the status of
the police department's investigation, suspect/s descriptions, etc.
The purpose of my email today is to provide the facts and to dispel
the rumors. Once alerted to the email, Precinct 7 personnel, along
with the BCoPD Criminal Investigation Division, began an extensive
investigation to find out exactly WHAT happened on that day. Fact
Number One - the Baltimore County Police were never called to the
store on that date, or around that time frame, for such an incident.
Once that was verified through our 911 center and precinct dispatch
records, we interviewed the store manager, the store security
personnel, reviewed surveillance tapes, and eventually witnesses who
were present at the time. As a result, we have concluded that the
incident that was described in the email did not occur.
We still do not know the source/s of the original email that began
circulating throughout the community. I would ask that if you hear
of, or receive any emails describing such an attempted abduction,
that you infuse the factual information into the system. And please,
as the school Principal did in this case, do not hesitate to
contact me or one of my precinct personnel for verification of such
information.
As always, thanks for helping to get the facts out to the community.
Captain Marty Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
--- On Wed, 2/11/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 8:49 AM
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THE EMAIL (BELOW) SENT
2/10/09:
Any residents who have encountered or know of anyone who has
encountered a person who has come to their door and asked to do
tree-trimming and/or other landscaping work, please call the
Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823. Any
information that you or a neighbor might have could be of
significant importance in this investigation. Thank you for your
assistance.
Additionally, two more burglaries were reported yesterday in an
area several miles south of the original incidents:
- 15800 block of Yeoho Road 8:20 AM to 4:15 PM 2/10/09
- 15300 block of Priceville Road 6:15 AM to 4:00 PM 2/10/09
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
ATTENTION...RESIDENTS OF THE NORTHERN PORTION OF
PRECINCT 7:
Folks,
Back in November 2008, I sent an email alert out in regards to
several residential burglaries in the area of Ruhl Road, Orwig Road,
West Liberty Road and Jordan Sawmill Road. Each of those
locations are close to the Maryland-Pennsylvania border. Those types
of burglaries stopped in early December. At the time, I was asking
you to be alert for any of the following vehicles that were seen in
the area of these burglaries:
- Older model GREEN and WHITE pick-up truck, tag number not known
- Newer model MAROON Toyota pick-up truck, tag number not known
- GRAY Ford Ranger pick-up truck, tag number not known, occupied
by two white males about 6/00 tall and of medium build
Since January 26, 2009, there is another trend that appears to be
occurring in this area again. In fact, since 2/5/2009, there have
been four residential burglaries and one attempted residential
burglary in this general area as follows:
- 1/26/2009 8:45 AM to 3:45 PM - 1600 block of Walker Road
- 2/05/2009 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM - 18700 block of York Road
- 2/06/2009 9:45 PM to 2/07/2009 8:00 AM - 2600 block of Monkton
Road
- 2/08/2009 7:00 AM to 5:10 PM - 20800 block of Keeney Mill Road
- 2/09/2009 4:00 AM to 2:00 PM - 20600 block of West Liberty Road
- 2/09/2009 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM - 20000 block of Kirkwood Shop Road
Although we do not know if the most recent burglaries are related to
the ones reported in November of 2008, I am asking for your
assistance again in being alert for the above vehicles as we would
like to identify the drivers and occupants. In addition,
the following vehicle was seen around 10:00 AM this morning acting
suspiciously in the area of Bee Tree Road near Bentley Road:
Maroon Mini-Van (Dodge Caravan style) with Tennessee license
tags. The vehicle was occupied by three white males.
While the investigation of these burglaries continues, please stay
alert for any suspicious vehicles or activities in this
area. For an incident that is happening NOW, call 911. If
you have any information that may assist us with this investigation,
please call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at
410-887-1823.
As always, thanks for your assistance in getting the word out.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
--- On Tue, 1/27/09, Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov> wrote:
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2009, 9:13 AM
Folks,
This media release comes on the heels of the alert that I sent out
last week. Please take a moment to click on the link and read the
information. Then...PLEASE pass the information along to your
family, friends and neighbors.
Captain Marty Lurz
Precinct 7
********************************************
NEWS RELEASE: Elderly Cautioned About Theft
Scam
The public is being cautioned about suspicious calls to residents
asking for money. A number of senior citizens have been targeted in
recent theft scams in Precinct 8/Parkville.
More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/0126scamselderly.html
___________________________
SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Baltimore County Police Department provides the
public with the most immediate information through its news
releases. If you would like to subscribe, update or cancel your
subscription, you may do so online:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Subscribe/policenews
____________________________
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/police
James T. Smith Jr., County Executive
James W. Johnson, Chief of Police
Baltimore County Police Department
700 E. Joppa Road
Towson, Maryland 21286-5501
410-887-2214
Added 1/23/2009
Deception Burglaries
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Friday, January 23, 2009, 10:59 AM
Folks,
I have written and sent emails and have spoken before about the
exploitation of the elderly, particularly by perpetrators who commit
what we refer to as "Deception Burglaries." Over the past two weeks
or so, several elderly Baltimore County residents in the Precinct 8
(Parkville) area have been called and one was actually "scammed" for
$1500 on yet another deception scheme...and this one by telephone.
Please pass along the below information, obtained from
our Media Relations Section and from Precinct 8, to your neighbors
and family members, particularly the elderly. Awareness and
alertness are the keys to avoid becoming a potential victim:
"Please be advised
that the auto-dialer is currently being used to contact senior citizens
in Baltimore County . The auto-dialer has been activated in response to
an increasing number of fraud and deception cases that have been
targeting senior citizens in and around Baltimore County .
The dial-out has been
scheduled to initially contact senior citizens residing in Precinct 8.
Precinct 8 has recently reported three attempted thefts by deception
involving elderly victims. The remaining dial-outs will follow Precinct 8. A
total of 17,586 phone numbers will be contacted over the next several days.
Phone numbers were obtained from the County's Department of Aging (Operation
TRIAD), and from a list of crime victims age 60 years and older who reported
being a crime victim sometime during 2007 through October 2008."
And from Precinct 8...
Precinct 8 has had
three attempted thefts by deception and one theft in which the suspect
acquired $1500.00 from an elderly victim. These incidents occurred
between January 13 thru January 20. The targeted victims are elderly and
are contacted by phone by the suspect who uses the name of a relative
(son, daughter, nephew) and states that they need money to fix their
vehicle, have it towed, or for bail. On two occasions the suspect or his
partner has stated that he is a police officer and tells the victim that
their relative needs money. In that case, the suspect actually went to
the retirement center where the victim lived received $1500.00. That
suspect was described as a black male, about 35 years old, 5'-07'',
150lbs., thin build.
***********************************************
The capsulized
version of this scam is that the suspect somehow has information on the
phone number or address of an elderly victim. The suspect will call that
person and say that he is a family relative and needs money to get out
of a jam...either an auto accident, a DUI arrest, or medical emergency.
In some cases, the unsuspecting victim will fall for this scam. In
Springfield Township, York County PA, a recent similar scam case
resulted in the loss of $12,000 when the suspect called an 88-year old
female, told her he was a relative who had been arrested in Canada
for DUI, and then asked her to wire $12,000 to him for bail. She wired
two $6000 money orders to a bogus location.
While these
investigations continue, it is important that you help us by spreading
the word to those who may fall vulnerable to this individual. Thanks for
your assistance.
Captain Marty Lurz
Precinct 7
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz
<jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Monday, December 8, 2008, 11:38 AM
Folks,
If you own a computer and have internet access, you have probably at
one time or another received emails from sites or senders that are
labeled "Not a Joke" or "Urgent Warning" or "Take This Seriously"
followed by a supposed warning about pending gang activity or
criminal activity. We often refer to many of these emails as "urban
legend." Some of the latest emails circulating are actually quite
dated, but seem to reappear from time to time. Some of the email
tree members forward the emails to me and ask about the
veracity/accuracy of the information. The vast majority of these
emails that are forwarded are immediately recognized as being rumor
or half-truths or inaccurate in nature.
One of the on-line sites that I often refers folks to is:
That site is not a part of the police department nor endorsed by the
police department. However, I have found that the website contains
good information about how the emails started and how far they have
traveled via the web. Many are international in scope! If you visit
that site, you may be surprised (or, in some ways, relieved) to know
that you are not the only one to have an "urgent warning" passed
along to you from a friend who received it from a friend who
received it from a friend...and on and on.
With that in mind, some emails do bring up concerns about personal
safety in certain situations. One recent email describes an
"intentional" bumper tap by the vehicle behind you in an effort to
stage a motor vehicle accident so that you will get out of your
vehicle. The "problem" with the email is that it makes it appear
that there is a widespread campaign by certain criminals to do this
and the fear then takes over and the rumor spreads because of the
apparent "authenticity" of the email that says "This is not a joke." Could something
like that ever happen? Yes. Is it a widespread problem? NO!
For those that often ask me, "what if" - If something like that were
ever to happen to you and it was apparent that the bumper tap was
intentional, my suggestion is that you remain in your car and drive
normally to a police station or fire station or other well-lit safe
area. If you have a cell phone, as you are driving call 911 and
explain what happened, where you are, and what you are going to do
(i.e. drive to a safe place.) Once you arrive, tell the 911 operator
to dispatch a police car to that location. Explain to the officer
why you left the scene and that you immediately called 911 while you
were driving away. The officer will be able to verify that
information through the 911 center of the agency.
I hope this information is helpful to you. If you get a chance,
visit that website and I'm certain that you will be surprised by the
number of such emails that have been or are currently circulating.
Remember though, if you still have any questions as to something you
heard or saw that raises concern, you may contact us directly for
assistance in checking its accuracy.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
From: police@baltimorecountymd.gov
<police@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: NEWS RELEASE: Keep Sheds and Garages Locked
To: police@baltimorecountymd.gov
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2008, 11:30 AM
NEWS RELEASE: Keep Sheds and Garages Locked
As the weather gets cooler, residents are reminded to keep their sheds and
garages locked to avoid thefts when doing outdoor activity.
Just because the air is getting cooler, donʼt believe that
thieves are staying in until springtime.
The Baltimore County Police Department is urging everyone to
take precautions when storing tools, bicycles and other
valuables in sheds and garages.
There is still a lot of outdoor activity yet to do for many
residents of the County: raking leaves, preparing the garden
for winter and spring.
When you are outside, be sure your outdoor equipment is secured
inside the shed or garage by closing the door to your shed or
garage and locking them.
Thieves often watch neighborhoods to see who is outside, away
from their tool areas.
Donʼt make it easy for them.
With the sun setting earlier and earlier everyday, it is easy
to forget the extra lighting needed in and around the buildings.
If you have motion detector lights, check to make sure they are
illuminating the target areas.
Lights and locks are deterrents to thieves, because if they have
to take time to break a lock or break out lights they risk the
chance of being caught and arrested.
A good way to store
valuables, if possible, is to use your
basement for storage.
And if you plan to be out of town, let a neighbor know.
Or better yet, start a neighborhood watch.
This way you are creating a safer and happier community and
meeting new neighbors in the winter months.
Remember, if you notice anyone suspicious in your area, call 911.
For more information on how you can keep your valuables safe,
contact your local precinctʼs Community Outreach Officer.
More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/1022lockshedsgarage.html
SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Baltimore County Police
Department provides the public with the most immediate information
through its news releases. If you would like to subscribe, update or
cancel your subscription, you may do so online:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Subscribe/policenews
____________________________
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/police
James T. Smith Jr., County Executive
James W. Johnson, Chief of Police
Baltimore County Police Department
700 E. Joppa Road
Towson, Maryland 21286-5501
410-887-2214
From: Joseph (Martin) Lurz <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: From
BCoPD Precinct 7
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2008, 1:13 PM
Folks,
We are trying to identify the vehicle and person described below
that were seen in the area of a recent residential burglary in the
1400 block of Charmuth Road on 9/13/2008 between 6:00 PM and 8:00
PM:
VEHICLE: White sedan, possibly a Honda Accord,
with damage to the rear of the vehicle, mainly on the driver's side
rear.
SUBJECT: White male, between 20 and 30 years old,
5/08 - 5/10, with "spiky" hair.
As always, should you see a similar vehicle or person in your
neighborhood, please safely try to obtain a license tag number and
call 911 immediately. Provide the vehicle description and tag number
to the 911 operator.
If you have seen this vehicle in the past or can provide
further information, please call the Precinct t Investigative
Services Team at 410-887-1823 to speak with a detective.
Remember though....for events happening now, CALL 911.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Date: Tue, 05 Aug 2008 12:41:08 -0400
From: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Subject: NEWS RELEASE: Accreditation Team Invites Public Comment
To: "Joseph (Martin) Lurz" <jlurz@baltimorecountymd.gov>
Folks...here is a media release concerning the police department's
re-accreditation process.
Captain Marty Lurz
Precinct 7
>>> <police@baltimorecountymd.gov> 8/5/2008 12:13 PM >>>
NEWS RELEASE: Accreditation Team Invites Public Comment
The Baltimore County Police Department is seeking reaccreditation from the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). A
public information session is scheduled on August 18 for comments from
community members.
More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/0805caleareaccredit.html
___________________________
SUBSCRIPTIONS: The Baltimore County Police Department provides the public
with the most immediate information through its news releases. If you would
like to subscribe, update or cancel your subscription, you may do so online:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Subscribe/policenews
____________________________
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/police
James T. Smith Jr., County Executive
James W. Johnson, Chief of Police
Baltimore County Police Department
700 E. Joppa Road
Towson, Maryland 21286-5501
410-887-2214
Sent: Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Subject: Deception Burglaries
A REMINDER FOR ALL PRECINCT 7 E-MAIL
TREE MEMBERS...
I have sent a few e-mails out this year (and last
year) concerning what we refer to as "Deception Burglaries." Since February
14, 2008, there have been seven (7) such burglaries throughout Baltimore
County. Five of the seven occurred in June 2008. So far - and this is where
I am once again counting on you to spread the word - NONE of these incidents
have occurred in Precinct 7. I believe this is a result of the residents
spreading the word to family, friends and neighbors throughout the precinct.
We have had several people join "the tree" since
the deception burglary explanation email went out back in March of 2008. I
also wanted to update everyone on the increasing frequency (especially in
June) of these burglaries and give everyone the latest information as
follows:
- Victims targeted in these cases were 73 to 92
years old
- In the first two cases (February and May) the
suspects posed as Water Department employees to gain entry into the home of
the victim.
- In the last five cases (all in June) the
victims were persuaded to go into the rear yard to discuss yard work.
- In several cases, the suspects have used cell
phones to communicate with each other.
Physical descriptions vary, but have included:
- White male, 40s, heavy build accompanied by a
black male, 20s, medium build
- Three white males, 40s, 5/11, heavy build
- Three Hispanic males
Vehicles:
- 2004 SILVER GMC Envoy (SUV-type) possibly has
Florida registration
- SUV-type vehicle, unknown make and
model, WHITE, no side windows, fancy silver-colored rims
For the convenience of everyone, I have once
again attached an overview of how the "deception burglar" works. The ruse
may change but the intent is the same - win the "trust" of the victim and
then get the victim out of the house or down into the basement so that a
second suspect can enter the house undetected. They prey on the elderly
citizens. PLEASE - help again by spreading the word, particularly
the descriptions given above, to your neighbors, families and friends.
Please remember to call 911 to report any suspicious persons or activity.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Monday, June 23, 2008
Subject: Arrests Due To 911 Call
Folks,
I am pleased to let you know that early Saturday morning in the Mays Chapel
area, we made two arrests and recovered a car reported stolen from Baltimore
City. The vehicle also contained stolen property from a vehicle in the Mays
Chapel community.
In addition to the Precinct 7 officers' quick response, one of the things that
pleases me the most is that a resident of the Mays Chapel community heard and
saw something suspicious - at 2:40 AM in the morning - and immediately called
911 while providing an excellent description of the suspicious vehicle. Based on
that information, we located the vehicle within moments of receiving the call
and the driver and occupant were subsequently arrested after a foot pursuit. We
are investigating these suspects' involvement with the additional thefts that I
brought to your attention last week.
Kudos to the resident that called 911! Though the officers were in the
residential areas, they may not have seen or known about this vehicle had that
person not called to report suspicious activity. This is an excellent indicator
of the teamwork that is necessary in order to keep our communities safe.
Please continue to remain alert and use good proactive crime prevention measures
for your homes and cars. And...don't hesitate to make that call to 911!
Captain Marty Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Friday, June 20, 2008
Subject: Door-to-door Solicitors
We have recently noticed an increase in the number of calls
for service regarding door-to-door solicitors in residential neighborhoods. We
have also made an arrest in regards to an alleged unlicensed solicitor who made
fraudulent claims in order to seek donations. According to several victims, the
person said he was selling childrens' books for a company along with several
other statements such as:
1) The solicitor said he was a student at a local university
2) He was seeking a college degree in communications
3) He was going to do a summer internship in London
4) He lived in the same neighborhood and would mention neighbors' names as if he
knew them
5) Any books purchased would support his internship and the books would be sent
to a local childrens' hospital
In addition to not being licensed as a peddler through Baltimore County Permits
and Licenses, the arresting officer was able to disprove the statements listed
above.
The intent of this email is NOT to suggest that all door-to-door solicitors are
fraudulent! However, please be cautious as to the veracity of the solicitor's
claims, where any money is going, etc. And, the first step for residents to know
is that such solicitors are required to be licensed by Baltimore County. They
are also required to carry that license with them. Legitimate solicitors will
show you their legitimate license, so ask to see it. Licensed or not - if you're
still not certain, perhaps the best thing to do is not to make the purchase
until you can check into the company and the seller's claims. You can also call
911 to report such solicitors.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Friday, June 20, 2008
Subject: Car Burglaries
Folks,
In the past ten days, I have sent out two email alerts regarding thefts from
autos in residential areas. We have tracked these thefts and they basically fall
into five areas of the precinct listed below in general chronological order of
occurrence:
1) Loveton Farms
2) W. Seminary Ave / Thornton Road area
3) South Timonium (between York and Dulaney Valley Roads, south of E. Timonium
Road)
4) Springdale Community
5) Mays Chapel North
These thefts have occurred during the overnight hours on various dates between
the 6/3/08 and 6/18/08. We do not know if all of these thefts are related. We
have developed a suspect in one of the areas and have recovered some stolen
property. We do believe that there are other subjects committing these crimes
and I am asking that you remain alert for the following vehicles acting
suspiciously in your neighborhoods that may be involved in these crimes:
Gray or green van
Gray Chevy Suburban with dual exhausts and upgraded wheel rims
Again...the common denominator with all of these thefts is that in the vast
majority of cases, the car doors were left unlocked. That allows quick, easy and
quiet access into the vehicle.
Please pass this information along to your neighbors while we investigate these
thefts. Locking your car doors will reduce the chance that your property will be
stolen. Please remain alert to suspicious persons, noises or activity,
particularly during hours of darkness, and call 911 immediately to report such
activity. If anyone has information concerning the two vehicles listed above,
please contact the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Monday, June 09, 2008 3:26 PM
Subject: Car Burglaries
SPECIAL ATTENTION WEST LUTHERVILLE RESIDENTS:
During the overnight hours of darkness on Wednesday night 6/4/08 into
Thursday morning 6/5/08, suspect/s entered at least eleven vehicles in the
West Seminary Avenue / Wandsworth Bridge Way / Lambeth Bridge Court area of
the precinct. For those not familiar with the area, it's just north of W.
Seminary Avenue off Thornton Road. Nothing was removed from the majority of
the vehicles but the suspect/s looked through the interior and the glove box
of each vehicle. Two GPS units were stolen from the other vehicles, as well
as wallets, credit cards, etc.
The common denominator in each of these cases was that at least one car door
was unlocked. These incidents often occur when a suspect or group of
suspects will walk down a street and tug on every car door handle until an
unlocked one is found. No windows were broken nor were doors forced open to
enter these vehicles. Remember that the vast majority of thieves and
burglars do not want to make noise and attract attention to themselves.
Breaking glass makes noise, so it's less risky to look for the unlocked car
door. PLEASE...take that extra step and make sure that your car
doors are locked and that no valuables are kept inside your vehicle.
We are seeking information from any residents who may have seen suspicious
activity in this area during that time frame. Please call the Precinct 7
Investigative Services Team (Lieutenant Parker or Sergeant Riebel) at
410-887-1823 if you have any information that may assist us with this
investigation.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Monday, June 09, 2008 3:50 PM
Subject: Deception Burglaries
Folks,
I have previously sent email alerts out concerning what we call "Deception
Burglaries" that generally target the elderly citizens of the county. As a
quick review, the suspect/s in these burglaries use a ruse (such as Water
Department, roofing companies, fencing companies, satellite TV companies) to
distract the homeowner away from the front door and into the rear yard or
basement of the house, out of view of the door, while a partner enters and
steals valuables.
So far this year, we haven't had any of these incidents in Precinct 7.
However, there have been three such incidents in the western part of the
county since 2/14/2008. The victims' ages range from 75 to 92 years old. The
first two cases involved the Water Department ruse. The last case, on June
3, 2008, involved a lawn maintenance "let's go into the backyard" ruse. In
each of the three cases, the suspects' description vary from a white male
and black male team, to a Hispanic male, to a white male team in their 40s,
both about 5/11 and having a heavy build.
One way we can stay in front of this trend is by word of mouth. As I have
pointed out before, and this year's stats seem to hold true, most victims
are elderly citizens and the suspects prey on those folks' perceived
vulnerability. Let's stop that by talking with your families, friends and
neighbors and making them aware of these types of crimes. Make sure that
they VERIFY the identification of anyone who shows up for "repair
work" and the like.
To help you have a better idea of how these suspects operate, please check
the attachment I have sent to you with this email.
Captain Martin Lurz
Precinct 7
Sent: Friday, May 09, 2008 9:17 AM
Subject: Identity Theft
Folks,
I have attached some of the most current information concerning Identity
Theft. As noted in the brochure - and this applies mainly to residents in
the rural communities whose mailboxes border the roadways - quick retrieval
of your mail after it has been delivered is a good precautionary measure
because it will prevent what we call "fishing" from your mailbox. Another
key point is to try to deposit all outgoing mail in a public USPS
mailbox or at the post office itself. Leaving outgoing mail in a roadside
rural mailbox and then raising the box flag to alert the carrier for pick-up
also advertises to someone intent on stealing your identity that there is
mail in that box...and that mail often includes bill payments with account
numbers and other personal information.
I hope you find this information useful. For additional information
concerning Identity Theft, you may call the Precinct 7 Community Outreach
team at 410-887-1863.
Click >>>
Identity Theft
Brochure.pdf
Captain Martin Lurz
BCoPD Precinct 7
Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 3:10 PM
Subject: Locks for Sheds
Folks,
Please click on the attached link for some useful information concerning
choosing a specialized lock that could help prevent thefts from storage
structures. As we've discussed before, if you take the time to "harden" the
target, there's a greater chance that you won't become a victim of burglary
or theft.
Captain Martin Lurz
