Neighborhood Watch
A neighborhood watch (also called a crime watch or neighborhood crime watch) is a citizens' organization devoted to crime and vandalism prevention within a neighborhood. It is not a vigilante organization, since members are expected not to directly intervene in possible criminal activity. Instead, neighborhood watch members are to stay alert to unusual activity and contact the authorities. It builds on the concept of a
town watch from Colonial America.
The current American system of neighborhood watches began developing in the late 1960s as a response to the rape and murder of Kitty Genovese in Queens, New York. People became outraged after reports that three dozen witnesses did nothing to save Genovese or to apprehend her killer. Some locals formed groups to watch over their neighborhoods and to look out for any suspicious activity in their areas. Shortly thereafter, the National Sheriffs' Association began a concerted effort in 1972 to revitalize the "watch group" effort nationwide.
Our Neighborhood Watch was created in January of 2007 in response to many of our own issues we face here on the mountain.
We have been working effectively with the
Blooming Grove Police Department and have had them at several Association
meetings as well as a private meeting the Summer with our Association
President and Neighborhood Watch Captain.
We ask that
residents please share any
information they may to both
the Police Department and the Association. Our primary goal is to
communicate more effectively with the BGPD and to ensure that important
information concerning the safety and security of our residents gets to
others so that they can take they necessary precautions to protect
their families and property.
As information and news become available it will be updated on the site and
the MLPGHRA Yahoo Group.
If
you have any information you would like to
share with the community please e-mail
watch@mlpghra.org.
If you would like you can remain anonymous.
If you have any questions or would like to
become a Trail Captain or alternate please contact us at:
watch@mlpghra.org
Important Forms for Recording & Reporting Incidents to the BGPD:
Tip Form
Suspected Criminal Activity Form
Please Fax to the BGPD at:
845-496-0717 or call 845-496-9161
Important Links:
http://www.familywatchdog.us/
You can this site to search for sex offenders in any zip code.
http://www.bloominggrovepolice.com/
The BG Police site has listings and they seem to be more complete, but the family watchdog site has more detailed information.
Neighborhood Watch Links:
NATW: National Association Of Town Watch:
http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/natw/
USAOnWatch:
http://www.usaonwatch.org/
CitizenCorps:
http://www.citizencorps.gov/programs/watch.shtm
NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL:
http://www.ncpc.org/
National Night Out 2007:
http://www.nationalnightout.org/nno/ (We are now on their mailing List)
Laws of New York
UPDATE 8/10/08:
I want to thank all of the Trail Captains and
Residents for the outpouring of support and information we received before
meeting with the Blooming Grove Police Department on Sunday. Mike and I
discussed community problems with Sgt. Solfaro for over 2 hours and learned
a wealth of information, most of which I am allowed to share with you. The
B.G.P.D. does not like to "blow their own horn" but we feel it is important
for the residents to know that the police are not sitting around waiting for
something to happen, but are constantly patrolling, investigating and
following up on information they receive.
Sgt. Solfaro applauded the various Trails that have improved their road
conditions, thereby allowing a patrol car to make regular trips. These
patrol trips increase the police presence and decrease the criminal activity
on those trails.
With regards to the drug dealing, several arrests have been made and we were
told there should be a significant decrease in this activity from several
areas of the mountain. With the help of one Trail Captain, we supplied some
new information on another area where there has been some new drug activity
reported and that is being monitored.
More good news followed, as we found out a major arrest was made of an
individual responsible for several breaking & entering's on the mountain
including houses on Sylvan Trail, which we not aware of. Again, thanks to
the removal of this individual, we were told we should also notice a
decrease in this problem, especially around the Sylvan Trail area.
The B.G.P.D.was notified of gunshots being fired, but they could not confirm
how many of these were reported. We were not told of any leads regarding
these incidents. Surprisingly, they did not have a report of an explosion on
the night of July 26th, which several residents reported to me by phone.
They checked their log while Mike and I were there but only a gunshot was
reported that night.
On a sad note, as of this year we have lost the Burn Grant that has allowed
an officer to be stationed in our community on Friday, Saturday and Sunday
nights, during peak months of the year. This grant has been around since
2002 and many of you remember when it started out with a quad. It evolved
into a marked car that was designated between ML/GH and Lake Anne in the
evening hours. It significantly reduced the number of trouble calls for this
area. I know it also has a visual impact as I remember firsthand seeing this
car many times and hearing reports at meetings, from my neighbors, and from
other residents.
This will all come to an end as the grant has expired and due to budget
constraints and will most likely not be renewed. The department is now
trying to find monies through other possible grants, but at this time they
do not see anything available through the State or elsewhere. However they
are committed to finding these funds and may explore other possibilities,
and have asked for the Association's help if needed. Of course we said we
would help in whatever way we can.
They have also promised to join us at out next Association meeting in
October and will answer any questions and concerns from the residents. We
hope to see you there!
Remember....if you witness or hear about a crime, see something suspicious,
etc. please report it to the Police and the Watch so we can follow up and
alert our neighbors.
Have a a safe and happy
holiday season....
When you travel, know where you are going and how to get there and back.
Check for construction detours; for longer trips, get a weather forecast.
If traveling out-of-state, most state law enforcement agencies provide
road-and-highway information; check to see what conditions they report
before leaving. Inform a family member where you will be and when to expect
you back; give them your route if they don't know it.
Travel and conduct your business during daylight hours if possible. Lock
doors and windows when getting into your car and keep them locked while
driving.
If you have access to a cellular telephone, carry or take it.
If possible, know the emergency cell codes for the area you're in.
Click here for a state-by-state listing of
highway-related cell phone codes.
When driving, keep doors locked and windows rolled up. Maintain at least
half a tank of fuel, and keep vehicle in good repair.
If planning a "road trip" over the holidays, have your vehicle serviced and
checked out sufficiently far ahead to allow for repairs if needed. Don’t
forget to have the mechanic check your spare tire and all fluid levels along
with the other preventive maintenance procedures.
Consider keeping spare fuses and a "breakdown kit" in your vehicle at all
times. Breakdown kits may be purchased from a variety of sources, or you can
assemble your own at any auto parts or hardware store using a commercial
version as a guideline.
Minimally, a "breakdown kit" should include: a thermal blanket/bag and a
gallon of water
a "HELP" sign/flag and flares/reflectors
a flashlight (check batteries semi-annually)
duct tape
Also consider carrying:
a set of jumper cables, a tire gauge, and work gloves
a few hand tools (pliers, screwdrivers, Allen wrenches)
some rope and at least one bungee cord
towels and a roll of toilet paper (in a plastic bag)
a small 12-volt tire-inflator
an empty (new, never used) one-gallon gas can
change for a payphone and a pair of comfortable shoes
a cheap/disposable rain coat/suit/poncho
All these items can fit in a small or medium size gym/duffle bag or a box
and kept in your vehicle's trunk, back-seat floorboard, or other storage
area in the vehicle. Keep it updated, but never remove it from your vehicle.
In addition to your basic "breakdown kit" you should also have a basic first
aid kit in your vehicle at all times.
Also consider purchasing and mounting a small ABC-rated portable fire
extinguisher in your vehicle. Buy one with a "mount" designed for use in
vehicles. Portable fire extinguishers should be securely "mounted" in the
vehicle to prevent rolling and damage. The extinguisher should be visible
and easy to reach. Mount the bracket on a strong, stable surface. It can be
mounted in any sloping, vertical or horizontal position.
Know how to access your spare tire and jack. Vehicle owners should also
consider obtaining towing insurance, either as a rider on their automobile
insurance policy (such riders are usually very inexpensive for excellent
coverage) or by joining an automobile club or other provider. Be prepared!
Follow the timeless, savvy advice of OUPD Sergeant M. Wayne Smith (Ret), "It
doesn't cost any more to keep the top quarter of your tank filled than it
does to keep the bottom quarter filled." Even if you're pressed for time,
take time to fill up the tank. Making a habit of checking your fuel gauge
whenever you start driving, and routinely "topping off" your tank, can
prevent unexpected, untimely and dangerous roadside emergency situations.
If you experience a breakdown, pull as far onto the shoulder as possible and
turn your emergency flashers on. If you have a cellular phone, summon
assistance from a reputable source or call for law enforcement response.
Otherwise, raise your hood or tie a streamer to your antenna, and await
assistance inside your locked vehicle.
If a stranger stops, speak to them through a partially rolled-down window,
and ask them to go to a phone and call police or a tow service; do not exit
your vehicle until a law enforcement officer or tow operator are on scene.
On longer trips, be sure you have water, food, and blankets in the vehicle.
If involved in a property-damage collision in an unfamiliar or potentially
unsafe location, do not open or exit your vehicle. If you have a cellular
telephone, summon law enforcement. If not, acknowledge the accident by hand
signal, and motion the other driver to proceed with you to a safe location
(where there are other people and light) to exchange information. If unable
to proceed, honk the horn to attract attention and ask a passer-by to summon
police.
Before your trip — Consider leaving a copy of your travel itinerary with a
trusted family friend or relative (plus a driving route map or
flight/bus/train trip info).
Also handy when you're "away" from home: You can download/print our
"Lost/Stolen Wallet Inventory & Emergency Checklist" to record key
information for a house-sitter, friend/neighbor, or relative.
If signaled to stop by any vehicle other than a clearly marked law
enforcement unit, acknowledge the signal, and wave the driver to follow you
to a safe location (where there are other people and light). Drive within
the speed limit and take the shortest possible route to the nearest safe
place. If you have a cellular phone, dial 9-1-1, tell the call-taker you are
being followed by an unmarked vehicle attempting to stop you, and ask them
to send a marked law enforcement vehicle to your location.
When parking, roll up the windows, lock the vehicle, take the keys, insure
your valuables are concealed, preferably in the trunk. During hours of
darkness, park and walk in lighted areas to the extent possible.
If you must leave valuable items in your car while out and about, place
items out of sight before reaching your destination or move them
inconspicuously. This includes packages, backpacks, gym bags, GPS units, MP3
players, and so forth. Someone may be watching when you put items
under/behind seat or throw something over them. An opportunistic thief is on
the lookout for "trunk-packing", and can break into your car the minute
you're out of sight.
One reason SUVs and pickups are common auto-burglary targets is because they
don't have a "trunk" to hold valuables — the driver/passenger generally just
"hides" their valuables "out of sight". The thieves know this, and do check
glove compartments, behind seats, and under seats. It only takes a few
seconds to check all the "usual" hiding places.
Unobtrusively locking everything valuable "in the trunk" (if you have one)
may be difficult when you're combining errands at multiple destinations.
Certainly avoid leaving packages or shopping bags visible in your car — lock
them in the trunk out of sight if you have to leave packages in your car
unattended.
Plan your shopping/errands so that you don't load your trunk until you are
ready to drive to another destination. Load your trunk when you leave a
location — never open a trunk, fill it full of valuables, close it, and then
just walk away to do more shopping or other errands.
When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to
unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible. As you approach your
vehicle, scan the area, glance underneath the vehicle, and take a quick look
inside before entering.
While out and about, present an alert appearance.
Be aware of your surroundings; scan the area from time to time. Avoid
concentrating so hard on shopping that you fail to keep track of your
surroundings, others near you, or your personal property.
Wear conservative, comfortable clothing.
Grip carried items firmly and avoid leaving them unattended.
Carry minimal cash and valuables, wear minimal jewelry.
Shop with friends or relatives if possible; there IS safety in numbers. As
you shop, be alert in crowded places. Among pickpockets' favorites are
revolving doors, jammed aisles, elevators, and public transportation stops
and vehicles, especially at rush hour. Carry the day's most expensive
purchases closest to your body, and don't carry so much you lose the ability
to react quickly.
If possible, leave your children with a baby-sitter while you are shopping.
For holiday shopping, consider making arrangements with family or
friends/neighbors, and take turns baby-sitting. If you take your children
with you, keep a close eye on them while shopping.
Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard if they ever
get separated from you in a store/mall, and be sure they know their first
and last name so they can tell someone who they are. It's best to keep
children under four (4) in a stroller. Children in shopping carts should be
properly belted and seated in the child carrier area at all times —never let
your child stand in or push a shopping cart.
Return to your vehicle periodically to check on it and reduce the amount you
are carrying and must keep track of. Store packages in the trunk or, if your
vehicle doesn't have one, out of plain view (on the floorboard, under a
blanket or clothes, etc). When possible, have purchases delivered instead of
taking them with you; many businesses offer free delivery during the holiday
shopping season. Ask for an escort to your car if you feel nervous.
Return to the mall or store for assistance if you spot suspicious activity
near your vehicle. Stay alert while loading items into or out of the vehicle
or arranging cargo stowage. If someone approaches, and you feel threatened,
get in and lock up until they leave the area; if they loiter, drive away.
Using debit or credit cards is much safer than carrying a lot of cash. If
the vendors you will visit don't take cards, consider obtaining traveler's
checks which, unlike cash, can be replaced if lost or stolen. Visit ATM's
only at well-lighted and populated locations; visit during daylight hours if
possible.
Using the drive-up is usually safer than walking up or into a facility.
Remember to scan around you as you make your withdrawal. Many ATMs now have
"fisheye" mirrors mounted above the keyboard to enable you to view the
entire surrounding area while conducting business; try to patronize ATMs
so-equipped, and use the mirror!
If anyone is loitering, or you don't like their looks, go to another ATM.
Stand such that those behind you cannot see your PIN as you enter it; your
PIN should NEVER be written down on or carried with your ATM card.
Be observant. Avoid dark areas, short-cuts, cul-de-sacs, and suspicious
persons. Stay near light and people.
Be prepared to flee potential problems. If apprehensive about any location
for any reason, leave. Consider carrying a whistle. Weapons are not
recommended, and may be unlawful.
If followed —
On Foot:
Cross the street
Vary your pace
Change direction
By Vehicle
Execute several right turns to verify
Get and stay on arterial streets
Note and record:
license plate number
description of vehicle and occupant(s)
If followed by a vehicle while you are on foot, turn and walk the "wrong
way" onto a One-Way Street, if possible. If follower persists, go to an
occupied and lighted location (convenience store, fire station, police
station) and summon police.
Confine your charitable giving to reputable established organizations,
preferably those with a local branch.
If solicited by an individual for personal charity, don't give cash; offer
to buy the individual food or drink or refer them to local assistance
resources.
If solicited for an unfamiliar organized charity, ask for literature so you
can make an informed decision about giving; any reputable organization will
be glad to provide material or a website address where you can check them
out.
To avoid telephone solicitation to the extent possible, sign up for the
"National Do-Not Call List". If solicited by telephone despite being on the
list, simply hang up — it's your phone. If you choose to speak to the
solicitor, do not give out credit card numbers or personal information not
listed in the telephone directory, and don't allow the organization to come
to your home until you are certain of their reliability. Instead, ask them
to send you information so you can make an informed decision and mail in
your donation.
With the exception of local organizations, door-to-door sales are often
fraudulent, and should be viewed with skepticism. If it sounds too good to
be true, it usually is.
Under consumer protection laws, you have a right to written information
about any offer, and the right to cancel any order within three days should
you reconsider your decision.
Make sure you obtain enough information to enable you to re-contact the
vendor or his/her office in the event you have questions or change your
mind. If you don't want to be bothered by door-to-door solicitors, most
locations have a law that solicitors must avoid homes which display a "NO
SOLICITORS" sign; bear in mind this usually doesn't apply to religious
proselytizing, charitable organizations or political workers.
For further information about consumer protection laws, contact your State
Attorney General's Office. Also, visit our nationally acclaimed safety
presentation on Identity Theft and Fraud which has a wealth of information
on shopping safety, both online and off.
Promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, and crimes to the local law
enforcement agency.
Did you know? —
Locking Your Checked Baggage: In some cases screeners will have to open your
baggage as part of the screening process.
If your bag is unlocked then Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
screeners will simply open and screen the baggage.
However, if you decide to lock your checked baggage, and TSA cannot open
your checked baggage through other means, then the locks may have to be
broken.
Domestic Violence
Awareness by Peg Hanson RN. MSN
“ Domestic Violence violates the most basic of human rights - to be safe
within your own body and in your home. It’s a real danger that many women
and girls face each day.” (J Poisson, THR Oct 29, 2003).
In the 1980's the Surgeon General C. Everett Koop led the first national
effort to raise awareness of family violence as a public health problem.
Domestic Violence is the leading cause of injury to women’s ages 13 - 44 and
accounts for more than muggins, stranger rapes and motor vehicle accidents
combined.
The Senate Judiciary Committee in 1990 stated “ If every women victimized by
domestic violence were to join hands, the string of women would span from
New York to Los Angeles and back again.” It is estimated that 20% to 50% of
all females presenting to Hospital Emergency Departments are battered women
(Ellis, 1990). In most populations, one in four women may be physically or
sexually abused. Battering is now recognized as the single most common cause
of injury to women in the United States.
Domestic Violence is a pattern of behavior that may include: the use of
physical or sexual force, economic, emotional and/or psychological abuse
exerted by one family member against another (this is also true in same sex
relationships). The GOAL is to establish and maintain POWER AND CONTROL over
their victims. Most victims are unaware that Domestic Violence is a CRIME,
punishable by incarceration depending on the level and outcome of their
crime.
Battering is a pattern, not a single incident with the underlying issue
being power and control. I cannot state enough that Power and Control is
maintained by the man against the women for many reasons, the most being
that the man grew up in this environment at home and feels that this is
normal.
The following is a check list that you can use to help you determine if you
or someone you know is being abused. If your partner does things that make
you uncomfortable or afraid and that isolates you from family or friends,
you may be abused. This list should also be used by girls ages 16 - 24 as
this is now the largest growing population being abused by their boyfriend.
Does Your Partner...
1.Constantly criticize you and your ability as a wife or partner, mother or
employee?
2. Behave in an overprotective way or become extremely jealous?
3. Threaten to hurt you, your children, pets, friends, family members or
himself?
4. Prevent you from seeing family or friends?
5. Gets suddenly angry or lose his temper?
6. Destroy personal property?
7. Deny you access to family resources like the car, bank accounts, credit
cards or control all finances and force you to account for what you spend?
8. Intimidate or manipulate you or your children?
9. Hit, punch, slap, kick, shove or bite you?
10. Prevent you from going where you want to, when you want to?
11. Makes you have sex that makes you feel uncomfortable?
12. Humiliate, put you down, or embarrass you in front of others?
If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you maybe a battered woman.
You are not alone-millions of women are abused by their partners every year.
There are many services that are available to women who are victims of
Domestic Violence.
The major focus of all services available is to MAINTAIN YOUR SAFETY!
All of the agencies will offer a safe place for you, your children and at
times your pet(s). The agencies are anonymous, however they are there to
help and assist you through the process of getting your life back together.
If you are in a current active domestic violence abuse call 911. The police
will come and take you to a safe place, take you to an Emergency Department
to receive medical care if needed. A copy of the police report can be given
to you in case you decide to take your abuser to court and prosecute.
In Orange County now has a an Orange County Family Justice Center (FJS)
which opened in July of 2007. Think of it as a “one-stop-shopping”,
comprehensive service program for victims of violence and their families.
Child abuse cases are also decided here. A victim is now able to have all of
the court services to assist them in one area instead of going from one
court to another. This helps maintain the victims safety.
Numbers available for Domestic Violence help
1. 911
2. Safe Holmes of Orange County, a not- for- profit agency that provides a
multitude of services for victims. Telephone Number 1-800-503-HOPE (4673)
This is a secure hot line number.
3. New York State Hot Line Numbers for Adult Domestic Violence
English: 1-800-942-6906
Spanish: 1-800-942-6908
