Wednesday, August 17, 2011 4:40 PM
BGE Impostors and Other Deceptions

Folks,

You may have seen or heard recent media coverage of persons fraudulently purporting themselves to be public works or utility workers such as this one released today by our Media Relations Section:

"Baltimore County Police are asking the public to be cautious when approached by those who say they work for BGE.

BGE impostors are responsible for four recent deception burglaries: one on August 8, one on August 9, and two on August 10. The burglaries are not concentrated in any one particular area of the County.

The impostors wear BGE like uniforms, and carry clipboards while some wear construction helmets. They tell the victim that some outside work needs to be done and walk the person outside. While the two are out of the house, an accomplice goes inside removing the victim's property."

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For those who have been on our email tree for a long time, you may have read the information below many times before, including earlier this year. But, as you can see from what's written above, it bears repeating once again. I have edited it a bit to make it a quicker read, but I am asking that you once again share this with your neighbors, especially the elderly, who seem more vulnerable to this type of crime. Explain to them how the scam works and it may help them to see the importance of verifying identification or calling 911. So far, none of these incidents have been reported within the boundaries of Precinct 7. Here goes:

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 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.

3) Distraction is a key element that allows an accomplice to enter the house while the owner is outside or out of sight of the door...which is usually left open or unlocked.

Keep in mind that there are variations to this "scam" burglar. Some scammers will use a ruse in which two subjects are allowed inside. One might ask for a glass of water. As the homeowner walks the one to the kitchen and engages in conversation, the second one slips off and very quickly steals small valuables. Others use a Power Company / Water Department employee scam in which the suspect says he or she is an employee of one of the companies and needs to get to the basement to investigate a "problem in the lines or the pipes." 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. For BGE, the contact number is 410-685-0123. For Baltimore City Public Works/Water, county residents should call 410-396-5352. Do not call any number provided by the alleged employee because, 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 numbers I have provided for you. 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.

Remember too that those Precinct 7 residents who have well water and live outside the area of home water service provided by Baltimore City, should not be visited by such a representative!

Finally, these burglars seem to bounce around the entire county and parts of the surrounding jurisdictions. 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

Date: Monday, April 18, 2011, 3:54 PM
Copper Thieves

Folks,

I've sent out emails before explaining why copper is a popular item to steal and recycle as scrap. For those new to the email tree, copper maintains a good portion of its original value (some say up to 80%) when it's sold to a scrapper. As a result, we have occasional trends involving the theft of copper-based items ranging from shoplifting copper wire at home improvement stores, to stealing copper piping from vacant homes or even new homes being built, to coils from air-conditioning HVAC units to even copper guttering and downspouts from homes. And those are just a few examples of what can be and has been stolen.

The purpose of this email - a preemptive strike - is to let you know that Precinct 7 officers are investigating two recent thefts of copper downspouts/guttering from two homes in separate locations in the PC7 area - the 1200 block of Dulaney Valley Road near Charmuth Road (just north of I-695) and the 14000 block of Falls Road near Geist and Miller Roads. These locations are miles apart from each other, but both had copper downspouts removed from the exterior of the house.

These thieves will cruise neighborhoods with housing styles that include the use of copper guttering (the patina on the copper attracts their attention) and have been known to simply walk up to the house, break off the wall clips, and rip the downspout from the house.

Although we have no suspect or vehicle description at this time, I am sending this out to alert homeowners, especially those in the previously described areas, to be alert for such activity. If you see anyone or any vehicle acting suspiciously, please call 911 right away to report it. If you can safely get a tag number, do that and give it to the 911 operator as well as the responding police officer. If you see "gutter repair work" being done on a neighbor's house, take a closer look to make sure it's actually repairs being done and not guttering being stolen.

Remember, DON'T hesitate to call 911. We would rather respond and find out that everything is legitimate than find out later that guttering was being stolen.

Captain Martin Lurz

BCoPD Precinct 7

Date: Friday, April 8, 2011, 3:37 PM
Remain vigilant for suspicious activity in your neighborhoods

Folks,

No, this is not deja vu...but it IS a reminder, edited from an email alert sent a few weeks ago, to remain vigilant for suspicious activity in your neighborhoods.

Previously, I have described how some burglars use "door-to-door" sales pitches as a ruse for casing a home to see if it is occupied. There are many legitimate folks that go door-to-door as well, but they are more likely to have some type of credentials, a huckster's permit, etc.

Here's what I need the residents to be particularly alert for in their neighborhoods if a solicitor comes to your door with a sales pitch of "just starting a new landscaping company" or selling some sort of "window cleaning spray" or fill-in-the-blank for whatever reason. The keys to raising your awareness to suspicions of legitimacy should be:

If you ask to see one, the solicitor may make an excuse for not having a business card, credentials, etc. He may say he needs to get one "out of his car". If he walks away and doesn't return with "a card"...that's a big clue!
He may leave abruptly after being asked for credentials.
He may be wearing a Bluetooth in his ear or carrying a cell phone in his hand.
He may leave your property and walk towards a vehicle parked somewhere close by, especially if you live on a cul-de-sac or dead-end street. That vehicle may be driven by a second person waiting inside.

IF YOU SEE EXPERIENCE ANY SIMILAR ACTIVITY AND CAN SAFELY DO SO, TRY TO GET A TAG NUMBER, MAKE AND MODEL OF THE VEHICLE, AND CALL 911. GIVE THE TAG NUMBER TO THE 911 OPERATOR AND TELL THE OFFICER WHEN HE OR SHE ARRIVES. IF YOU WOULD PREFER TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS, THAT'S OK...BUT GIVE THE 911 OPERATOR AS THOROUGH A DESCRIPTION OF BOTH THE "SOLICITOR" AND THE VEHICLE AS YOU CAN!

Similarly, if you should happen to be outside and see such activity occurring in your neighborhood, or see a car cruising slowly as if following the solicitor or even parked close by, do your best to safely get a tag number and CALL 911 to have an officer respond.

Remember, for incidents that are happening "NOW", call 911. If you have any past information that may assist us, please email me or call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823.

Date: Wednesday, March 23, 2011, 1:51 PM

ALL PRECINCT 7 RESIDENTS...ESPECIALLY THOSE IN THE FALLS ROAD/WEST SEMINARY AVENUE/WEST PADONIA ROAD AND SPARKS/MONKTON/HEREFORD/PARKTON AREAS OF PRECINCT 7:

I'm sure many residents are curious about the status of the recent burglary trends in these areas. Precinct 7 officers made two arrests on March 1st, 2011 for two residential burglaries in the Sparks area of the precinct. However, additional burglaries occurred the next day. Since that date, there have been no additional burglaries reported in these areas. We have received many, MANY, MANY tips from area residents who are looking out for each other and trying to help their police officers. Every one of these tips is investigated fully. Thank you for sending them to us and to me.

I am sending this out to update you and remind you to remain vigilant for suspicious activity in your neighborhoods. I sent out a previous email in regards to suspicious solicitors and how some burglars use "door-to-door" sales pitches as a ruse for casing a home to see if it is occupied. And yes, there are many legitimate folks that go door-to-door as well, but they are more likely to have some type of credentials, a huckster's permit, etc.

If you ask to see one, the solicitor may make an excuse for not having a business card, credentials, etc.
He may leave abruptly after being asked for credentials.
He may be wearing a Bluetooth in his ear or carrying a cell phone in his hand.
He may leave your property and walk towards a black vehicle, mid-size, possibly a Hyundai Sonata, driven by a second person.
That black mid-size vehicle may be seen parked somewhere close by, especially if you live on a cul-de-sac or dead-end street.

IF YOU SEE SUCH A VEHICLE AND CAN SAFELY DO SO, TRY TO GET A TAG NUMBER, COLOR, MAKE AND MODEL OF THE VEHICLE, AND CALL 911. GIVE THE TAG NUMBER TO THE 911 OPERATOR AND TELL THE OFFICER WHEN HE ARRIVES. IF YOU WOULD PREFER TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS, THAT'S OK...BUT GIVE THE 911 OPERATOR AS THOROUGH A DESCRIPTION OF BOTH THE "SOLICITOR" AND THE VEHICLE AS YOU CAN!

Remember, for incidents that are happening "NOW", call 911. if you have any past information that may assist us, please email me or call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823.

Thanks for your continued support.

Captain Martin Lurz

Precinct 7

Date: Monday, January 10, 2011, 11:06 AM

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO RESIDENTS OF THE LUTHERVILLE / RIDGELY MIDDLE SCHOOL AREA

On January 6, 2011, around 9:30 AM, an indecent exposure occurred on the public street near the corner of Lynncrest Road and Lynncrest Court, near the Ridgely Middle School. An adult female victim was walking her dog along Lynncrest Road when she noticed a silver minivan parked facing north along the westside curb of southbound Lynncrest Road. As she walked past the van, a white male suspect exposed himself to the victim. He made no effort to abduct the victim nor did he get out of the vehicle. The victim had her cell phone and tried to take a picture of the tag number of the van. The rear tag had been concealed with some type of tape. The suspect then drove off in the van and a motorist stopped to assist the victim. She explained what happened and the motorist drove off in an effort to locate the suspect and the minivan. The victim called 911 and the School Resource Officer (SRO) assigned to Ridgely Middle School that day responded quickly. Interviews were conducted and a correct tag number was identified. We were able to determine that the van was owned by a business. The SRO worked quickly to identify who was driving the van at the time. The SRO made contact with the suspect, who declined to answer questions. Pursuant to the requirements of Maryland law, the SRO worked to obtain a warrant for the arrest of the suspect. The suspect turned himself in to officers at Precinct 7 on Saturday morning and is currently at the Baltimore County Detention Center on $30,000.00 bail. He is awaiting a bail review hearing later today.

At this time, we are continuing our investigation county-wide to see if this suspect is involved in any additional incidents. We have had no recent incidents that we can determine involved this suspect near the Ridgely Middle School or any other local school in the area.

I am asking that the GTCC and local community associations pass along this email to let the residents know the facts of what occurred. There were rumors of an attempted abduction during this incident but that did not occur.

If any other residents were victimized on January 6th or on any recent date, had not reported it to the police department, and wish to do so now, please call the Precinct 7 Community Outreach team at 410-887-1863. However, for ANY incident that is happening NOW, call 911 to report it.

Captain Martin Lurz

BCoPD Precinct 7

Date: Tuesday, December 21, 2010, 2:11 PM
Holiday Crime Tips

Folks,

I just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and send personal best wishes to you in whatever way you celebrate the season. I also want to thank you all for your support over the past year as we have worked together to keep our community safe.

If you're a member of this communication tree, be it for either a long time or a very short time, you should be familiar with our efforts to "target-harden" - that is, make it more difficult for either you or your property to become a crime statistic. You're familiar with our mantra and pleas to take the simple crime prevention steps of locking house doors and windows, locking car doors, etc. At this time of the year, it's more important than ever. Burglars and thieves are opportunists. They look for signs of whether the crime is "worth their time". They are quite aware that an unoccupied residence is more prevalent at this time of year because of folks visiting, being out of town, etc. And, if kids know that now is the time for gifts, so do the burglars and thieves.

So, here's another tip - Don't do trash collection day advertising of what you got for Christmas! If you don't break down the cardboard box that the 50-inch LCD flat screen TV came in, you're telling everyone, including potential burglars, that there's a brand new 50-inch flat screen TV inside the house attached to the driveway! Does it happen that way? Oh yes...it can and it does. Take a moment and break down the box when you leave it out for recycling pick-up. If you already break it down, just make sure the cardboard is "inside-out" when you leave it at the curb.

Once again, my intent is not to make you paranoid to the point where you don't buy anything unless it comes in a plain brown wrapper, but to make you aware of things that we, the police department, learn from burglars who like to talk about their activities...and some really DO like to talk about it. And so, be aware, but also enjoy yourself this holiday season.

Captain Martin Lurz

BCoPD Precinct 7

Date: Monday, November 22, 2010, 3:37 PM

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO WEST TIMONIUM / FALLSWOOD RESIDENTS:

Between Saturday 11/20/10 and Sunday 11/21/10, there were six (6) residential burglaries and one (1) attempted residential burglary reported in the western-southwestern portion of Precinct 7. Though the burglaries appear similar in method and are relatively close to each other, we do not know for certain if all were committed by the same person/s. Locations of the burglaries are:

900 block of Dennisford Court

1000 block of Coachford Court

300 block of West Timonium Road

8500 block of Huntspring Drive

8600 block of Marburg Manor Drive

The overall time span of the burglaries was between 12 noon on 11/20/10 and 9:48 PM on 11/21/10. However, we know for a fact that individual burglaries definitely occurred on both Saturday and Sunday. Entry, or attempted entry, was gained by prying or physical force in four of the incidents and through an unlocked door in the three other cases.

Additionally, around 7 PM on Saturday 11/20/10, the suspect, apparently thinking that the home was unoccupied, kicked in the front door of a home on Dennisford Court. The homeowner was home and scared off the subject, who fled on foot into the area of Falls and W. Padonia Roads. An extensive search of the area did not locate the suspect. The homeowner described the suspects a male (race unknown) wearing a blue "puffy" coat and black gloves.

Additional police officers will be in this area interviewing and seeking potential witness information from residents as well as doing preventive patrol. Residents of the area should be aware of this unusual spree of burglaries over such a short time frame and take steps to assure that doors and windows are secure. Outside lighting or motion-sensor lighting should remain on during hours of darkness. Be alert to suspicious activity, persons, or noise. Call 911 RIGHT AWAY to report incidents that are occurring "now"! Don't assume that someone else has called 911. If a vehicle is seen, provide the description and tag number, if known, to the 911 operator and to the responding police officer.

Any resident who has information that may assist in the investigation of these burglaries, or who may have seen someone similar in appearance to the person described above, may call the Precinct 7 Investigative Services Team at 410-887-1823 You do not have to provide your name.

Thanks for your vigilance and assistance.

Captain Martin Lurz

Commander

BCoPD Precinct 7 - Cockeysville

Date: Friday, October 15, 2010, 10:29 AM

SPECIAL ATTENTION - LUTHERVILLE AND TIMONIUM RESIDENTS OF PRECINCT 7

Since 9/23/10, there have been five residential burglaries in the southern portion of Precinct 7. Four of the burglaries have occurred in the area bordered by York Road (west), Pot Spring Road (east), E. Seminary Avenue (south) and E. Timonium Road (north). One burglary occurred west of York Road near the Historic Lutherville neighborhood. All have occurred during the daylight hours while the houses were unoccupied. The tightest time span was between 2:15 PM and 4:00 PM.

In two of the five burglaries, entry was gained by breaking out a rear window. However, entry in three of the burglaries was gained through an unlocked window.

We have increased our saturation of this area with additional officers in both marked and unmarked cars. At this time, we do not know if all of these burglaries have been committed by the same person/s.

During this transitional time of the year between warm and cool weather, please take a moment to make certain that your windows and doors are locked and secure, including upstairs windows that could be accessible by ladder or porch roof.

I am also asking your assistance in keeping an eye on your neighborhood and neighbors yards for suspicious subjects or vehicles. Please call 911 immediately to report such persons, vehicles or activity. If it can be done safely, try to get a vehicle tag number and provide that to the 911 operator and the responding police officer.

Thanks for your awareness and assistance.

Captain Martin Lurz

Precinct 7

Date: Thursday, September 23, 2010, 4:08 PM
18th Annual Komen Maryland Race for the Cure

The 18th Annual Komen Maryland Race for the Cure will be held in the Hunt Valley Business Park area of Precinct 7 on Sunday, October 3rd, 2010, at 8:00 am.

The race will start on Shawan Road, just east of McCormick Road, and will follow this route:

East on Shawan Road to south (right) onto York Road.

South on York Road to west (right) onto Schilling Road.

West on Schilling Road to south (left) onto McCormick Road.

South on McCormick Road to west (right) onto Beaver Dam Road.

West on Beaver Dam Road to north (right) onto Gilroy Road.

North on Gilroy Road to west (left) onto Schilling Circle.

West and north on Schilling Circle to the finish line.

Prior to the race, we will be closing several area roads. The major closures are listed below:

Shawan Road at York Road - no westbound traffic on Shawan Road after 6:00 am.

Shawan Road at McCormick Road - no eastbound traffic on Shawan Road after 6:00 am.

McCormick Road at International Circle - no southbound traffic on McCormick Road from International Circle.

McCormick Road at Wight Avenue- no northbound traffic on McCormick Road after 6:00 am.

York Road and Ashland Road- no northbound traffic on York Road after 7:45 am.

Beaver Dam Road at McCormick Road - no northbound McCormick Road traffic after 7:00 am.

Beaver Dam Road at Gilroy Road - no northbound Gilroy Road traffic after 6:00 am.

Although there WILL be traffic delays in the area, numerous uniformed Baltimore County Police Officers will be at all strategic locations within and around the race route to assist with traffic direction. Please follow their direction if you are in the area or coming to the race. We expect to have ALL roadways open by 12 noon.

The detour routes that I suggest for motorists who need to maneuver around the race route are as follows:

NORTHBOUND TRAFFIC - Turn right (east) onto Ashland Road from York Road. Approximately 1/2 mile east of York Road, Ashland Road becomes Paper Mill Road. Stay on Paper Mill Road to left (north) onto Phoenix Road. Stay on Phoenix Road as it winds north and west back to York Road. This will bring you out north of the race route and just south of the Loveton business area.

SOUTHBOUND TRAFFIC - Turn left (east) onto Phoenix Road from York Road and reverse the above route.

For additional information concerning the Race for the Cure, including registration, shuttle and parking information, please visit www.komenmd.org

Captain Martin Lurz

BCoPD Precinct 7

Date: Thursday, September 23, 2010, 12:12 PM
Burglary Update

Folks,

Although the person on the attached flyer has been identified, I wanted to send this along to you because it contains two high quality video links that show the burglar "casing" the target house and then leaving the house carrying the stolen property in a small travel case.

Over the past few years, I've often written about how burglars choose their targets and what can be done to "harden" that target so the burglar moves on without attacking your house.

Before you watch this, think about your own thought image of what a burglar looks like. Many of us who read the old comic books from the 50s and 60s might conjure up an image of the bad guy wearing a black and white horizontally-striped shirt, having a day or two growth of beard stubble on his face, and having a black mask around his eyes! So, get the image into your mind and then go watch the video to see if it matches what you're thinking!

In the first of the videos, you will see the burglar ready to go with his ruse if the homeowner comes to the door. He has a pad in his hand as a prop. That way, he can be the salesman, the survey-taker, etc. if someone opens the door. Watch how persistent he is at ringing the doorbell, knocking on the door and peering inside. When he walks away and out of camera view, he's not leaving. What you can't see is him forcing open a rear window to get inside the house.

In the second video, you will see him leave by way of the front door. Watch how he wipes down the door handle with his gloved hands and then places the gloves into his pockets.

I'm guessing that what you saw isn't the same as the mental image you had in mind. That's why I sent you the link. One of the ways that we can beat this type of burglar is by making your home appear occupied when you are away. Lights on timers, radios left on and flickering TV sets help to give that impression. In the Howard County case, I am not certain whether any of those suggestions were in use at the time of the burglary. My guess is that the burglar would not have entered had he thought that someone was home.

In closing, please remember that most burglars - no matter how they're dressed - do want to know if the house is occupied. The more you can do to make it appear that way, the greater the chance that you won't become a victim of burglary.

Captain Martin Lurz

BCoPD Precinct 7

Date: Wednesday, June 23, 2010, 4:31 PM

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:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/1127lockcars.html

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

*********************************************************************

Folks,

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.

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

NEWS RELEASE: Public Cautioned About Items Stolen in House Burglary

Baltimore County Police are cautioning the public and the suspect responsible for the burglary of a home in Precinct 7/Cockeysville. The suspect stole several guns, and two hand grenades that may be disabled or are live.

More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/0929grenadepct7brg.html

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

BCoPD Precinct 7

>>> <police@baltimorecountymd.gov> 8/10/2009 3:30 PM >>>

NEWS RELEASE: Beware of Phony Alarm System Sales Pitches

Residents are being warned about phony alarm system sales pitches. Two cases reported to the department had the same pitch.

More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/0810scamalarms.html

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:

www.hoax-slayer.com

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.

Click >>> Deception Burglaries03032008.pdf

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

Precinct 7

NEWS RELEASE: Specialized Locks Help Prevent Thefts

A recently arrested burglar told Baltimore County police officers about the different types of specialized locks that he and other thieves avoid. They can be used on storage sheds and other structures, and to secure ATVs and dirt bikes.

More:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/media/releases/0507locksspecial.html