The first of six 2012 meetings for Calvert County’s Neighborhood Watch brought words of caution and encouragement. The meeting was held Monday, Jan. 9 at the Prince Frederick Holiday Inn.
Calvert County Sheriff’s Department Detective Greg Cameron reported that the latest data available to local law enforcement is showing a slight decrease in crime in the county. Another officer, Sgt. Sciana Roach of the Maryland State Police (MSP), reported progress in closing several recent cases.
Cameron credited the citizens who provide officers with bits and pieces of information that aid in the ultimate apprehension of criminals.
“You know who the bad guys are in your neighborhood,” said Cameron. “Anonymous tips are great.”
“If we don’t get a phone call we can’t do a thing,” said Sgt. Mike Bomgardner of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, who reported a rash of burglaries in the north end of the county resulted in arrests thanks to citizens who took the time to notify police of something they saw that appeared amiss.
“No police officer will ever tell you that you are wasting his time by reporting something that didn’t look right,” said Bomgardner. “That something that doesn’t look right may be an arrest down the road.”
Bomgardner explained that if a suspicious or unfamiliar vehicle is parked in a neighborhood a patrol officer who goes to the area to check it out could implement a tag reader that provides helpful data later on.
Roach reported that copper products and jewelry have been the most popular items for thieves. Fencing those items is easily done and yields money for drugs.
Bomgarder recommended citizens document the serial numbers on all valuable possessions, such as lawn mowers, computers and other merchandise.
Dunkirk Area Concerned Citizens Association (DACCA) President J.P. Sherkus reported inquiries from citizens about individuals claiming to be tree removers and driveway pavers soliciting business from residents.
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