In an update this afternoon from 2nd District Police Commander Capt. David Falcinelli were year-to-date stats comparing crime numbers to last year.
Despite 784 reported thefts from autos (211 fewer than at this time last year) Falcinelli said property crime was down in all categories entering the holiday season, when criminals are notorious for stealing holiday gifts from mall parking lots or after delivery companies drop off packages at doorsteps.
“While the property crime numbers have improved since last year, there is no reason to get comfortable with your efforts or ours. Recently, there have been a number of residential burglaries occurring across the district. Some are a result of transient criminals utilizing a false story to gain entry to a home (i.e. “We are here to check the water meters and then they distract the homeowner and steal” or “I lost my dog and when you decide to help, another suspect enters the unlocked home”),” Falcinelli wrote. “Some are occurring when residents leave their home for a short period during the day and the burglars force entry or enter through unlocked doors and windows. In these cases, it is most likely a stranger in the neighborhood watching for movement in and out of homes so it is critically important that you call us ASAP anytime you encounter a suspicious situation or person. Have your neighbors perform regular checks on your home if you will be away. Consider adding extra lighting at night, or using motion sensor lights.”
Falcinelli said the 47 reported robberies, an increase of nine from this time last year, is due in large part to a spike earlier in the year. He said many of those cases have been closed.
Falcinelli also said the Special Assignment Team was responsible for arresting Byron Govan, the suspect in an Oct. 31 armed carjacking near White Flint and a carjacking a few days earlier in Congressional Plaza farther north on Rockville Pike.
Falcinelli attributed the spike in aggravated assaults, a more than 100 percent increase from this time last year, to a number of domestic situations and bar fights in which the victims knew the assailant.
Stats via Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Services Center
