[Editor's note: this has been adapted from an email by Captain Paul Larson of the Arlington County Police Department]
Everyone:
I am forwarding the crime information for the month of November. Crime continues its downward trend in the Third District and the county. Compared to last years statistics in the Third District, robbery is down 25%, burglary is down 11% and stolen cars are down 30%. These are amazing statistics for the three quarters of 2005. The number of cars being broken into remains constant from 2004, but we are still looking pretty good. However, we still have some trends that give me concern.
In the Penrose neighborhood, a pattern continues with vandalisms to cars and other property. This is occurring in the 200 - 600 blocks of S. Adams St and along the 2400 block of S. 8th and S. 6th Sts. Additionally, two weeks ago 7 cars were vandalized in the 700 block of Walter Reed Dr. The Police Department has increased visible patrols and some plain clothes officers to try and apprehend the suspects.
In Douglas Park, there also has been an increase in vandalism of property, but there is no discernable pattern of time or location. They just seem to be spread out throughout the neighborhood.
In Nauck, we have seen an increase of stolen cars. The cars are being stolen from the dealership at the corner of S. Shirlington Rd. and S. 24th Rd. The dealer sells old police cars and this is a regional trend as well as local. The cars are either stolen for parts or transportion to the District of Columbia. These vehicles are preferred by drug dealers because they have a police package that includes a larger motor and increased suspension.
In Columbia Forest, we have seen a pattern of robberies at 4990 Columbia Pike. The robberies happen inside the apartment building and the suspects flee through a door into the parking lot. We are working with the building management to increase lighting and other safety measures.
I have attached a map that contains the burglaries, auto thefts and vandalisms to this email. Other than the things I have mentioned, it continues to be quiet throughout the Third District. If you have any questions or concerns please let me know. I will be out of town from December 22nd through January 1st. Lieutenants Steve Broadhurst and Mark Belanger will be standing in for me while I am away. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday and see you next year.
Captain Paul Larson
Third District Commander
Arlington County Police Department
1425 North Courthouse Road
Arlington, Virginia 22201
703-228-4097
plarso@arlingtonva.us