The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim of yesterday’s homicide as Shawn Lamont Smith, 26, of the 2000 block of Fairfield Avenue.
Anyone with information to share about what happened should call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Friday, January 29, 2010
ROBBERY INITIATIVE ENDS
News Release
Robbery Initiative Ends; Shows Successes, Challenges
Jan. 28, 2010
The Richmond Police Department is proud to showcase the results of its first time robbery initiative that targeted certain portions of the city troubled with robberies.
The Initiative resulted in robberies in those areas being cut by more than half. In Sector 313, which includes the Fan area, robberies dropped from 13 to 5. In Sector 412, which includes the Carver, Ginter Park and Barton Heights, robberies decreased from 14 to 3. In Sector 413, which includes Jackson Ward, City Center and VCU, robberies were reduced from 14 to 6. All of this during a three-month period from September to November.
“This initiative was part learning experience, part targeted enforcement in areas where we were seeing an increase in individual and commercial robberies,” Major John Keohane said. “I’m very proud of the way our investigators and officers were able to not only reduce the number of robberies, but also to clear more than 44 percent of the robberies assigned to them and remove several violent offenders from the street.”
One person linked to 19 of the commercial city robberies was Andre R. Simpson, 38, who died last month in a car accident while fleeing police. Lawrence E. Murchison, 32, also died in the same crash, and was also linked to at least one city robbery. Their mugshots are attached to this advisory.
The Initiative included investigators from Richmond Police as well as the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Attorneys’ Office; the Virginia Attorney General’s Office; and the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s’ Office.
More details on the Robbery Initiative and 2009 robbery statistics are available in the attached documents.
Robbery Initiative Ends; Shows Successes, Challenges
Jan. 28, 2010
The Richmond Police Department is proud to showcase the results of its first time robbery initiative that targeted certain portions of the city troubled with robberies.
The Initiative resulted in robberies in those areas being cut by more than half. In Sector 313, which includes the Fan area, robberies dropped from 13 to 5. In Sector 412, which includes the Carver, Ginter Park and Barton Heights, robberies decreased from 14 to 3. In Sector 413, which includes Jackson Ward, City Center and VCU, robberies were reduced from 14 to 6. All of this during a three-month period from September to November.
“This initiative was part learning experience, part targeted enforcement in areas where we were seeing an increase in individual and commercial robberies,” Major John Keohane said. “I’m very proud of the way our investigators and officers were able to not only reduce the number of robberies, but also to clear more than 44 percent of the robberies assigned to them and remove several violent offenders from the street.”
One person linked to 19 of the commercial city robberies was Andre R. Simpson, 38, who died last month in a car accident while fleeing police. Lawrence E. Murchison, 32, also died in the same crash, and was also linked to at least one city robbery. Their mugshots are attached to this advisory.
The Initiative included investigators from Richmond Police as well as the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Attorneys’ Office; the Virginia Attorney General’s Office; and the Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney’s’ Office.
More details on the Robbery Initiative and 2009 robbery statistics are available in the attached documents.
Fairfield Avenue Homicide
At 4:01 pm on Thursday, January 28th police dispatch received a call of shots fired. When officers arrived on the scene they found a man on the ground at the intersection of Fairfield Ave. and North 20th St. He had been shot.
He was transported to VCU Medical where he died.
Investigators say the man was shot in the 1500 block of North 19th street. He ran about a block and a half before he collapsed.
They are asking anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
He was transported to VCU Medical where he died.
Investigators say the man was shot in the 1500 block of North 19th street. He ran about a block and a half before he collapsed.
They are asking anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Missing Person Jill Edmonds
The Richmond Police Department is asking for assistance to locate a missing person.
Jill Edmonds, 40, disappeared on Monday, January 25, 2010. Her vehicle was found abandoned on the shoulder of the northbound lanes of the Powhite Parkway as it crosses the James River.
An extensive search of the river and the riverbanks by Richmond police officers and firefighters, with the assistance of the Virginia State Police helicopter, turned up no trace of her.
Edmonds is described as a black female, 40 years old, 5’4” tall, 157 pounds with straight, shoulder-length black hair.
Richmond Police are asking anyone who may have any information on the whereabouts of Jill Edmonds to contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Jill Edmonds, 40, disappeared on Monday, January 25, 2010. Her vehicle was found abandoned on the shoulder of the northbound lanes of the Powhite Parkway as it crosses the James River.
An extensive search of the river and the riverbanks by Richmond police officers and firefighters, with the assistance of the Virginia State Police helicopter, turned up no trace of her.
Edmonds is described as a black female, 40 years old, 5’4” tall, 157 pounds with straight, shoulder-length black hair.
Richmond Police are asking anyone who may have any information on the whereabouts of Jill Edmonds to contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Suspect Arrested in Bus Shooting
The suspect in the shooting of a man on a GRTC bus Monday afternoon has been arrested.
Jamari Trice, 22, whose last known address is in the 1600 block of Clarkson Road, was arrested by the Capitol Area Fugitive Task Force in Chesterfield County without incident. He has been charged with malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
The victim, who suffered non life threatening injuries, was shot as he got onto a bus in the 600 block of Southside Plaza.
Richmond Police ask anyone with any information on this incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000.
Jamari Trice, 22, whose last known address is in the 1600 block of Clarkson Road, was arrested by the Capitol Area Fugitive Task Force in Chesterfield County without incident. He has been charged with malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
The victim, who suffered non life threatening injuries, was shot as he got onto a bus in the 600 block of Southside Plaza.
Richmond Police ask anyone with any information on this incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Forum for Media with Chief Norwood
Jan. 27, 2010
WHAT: Media forum with Richmond Police Chief Bryan T. Norwood
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29
WHERE: Richmond Police Headquarters, 200 W. Grace St.
BACKGROUND:
WHAT: Media forum with Richmond Police Chief Bryan T. Norwood
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29
WHERE: Richmond Police Headquarters, 200 W. Grace St.
BACKGROUND:
Chief Norwood will hold an open, on-the-record forum with members of the local media Friday at Police Headquarters.
Suggested topics for discussion:
- The city’s 2009 crime statistics
- Update on the Richmond Six Points initiative
- The department’s recent successful review by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission
- Results of the Cooperative Violence Reduction Partnership Robbery Initiative and
- A planned Department reorganization.
All members of the media are encouraged to attend.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Call Federal Credit Union Robbery
Richmond Police Department
E-mail Advisory 1/25/2010
Call Federal Credit Union Robbery
Richmond Police needs the public’s help identifying and locating a suspect who robbed the Call Federal Credit Union today.
Around 3:10 p.m. the suspect entered the credit union at 4605 Commerce Road and gave a teller a note demanding money. He did not display a weapon. The suspect was wearing glasses with gold frames, a black knit cap, black shirt and a black leather jacket. A photo of the suspect accompanies this advisory.
The suspect left the credit union parking lot in a maroon Chrysler Sebring. The license plate on the vehicle is KGV-893. This vehicle was reported stolen in Essex County.
Anyone with any information about the suspect in this robbery is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
E-mail Advisory 1/25/2010
Call Federal Credit Union Robbery
Richmond Police needs the public’s help identifying and locating a suspect who robbed the Call Federal Credit Union today.
Around 3:10 p.m. the suspect entered the credit union at 4605 Commerce Road and gave a teller a note demanding money. He did not display a weapon. The suspect was wearing glasses with gold frames, a black knit cap, black shirt and a black leather jacket. A photo of the suspect accompanies this advisory.
The suspect left the credit union parking lot in a maroon Chrysler Sebring. The license plate on the vehicle is KGV-893. This vehicle was reported stolen in Essex County.
Anyone with any information about the suspect in this robbery is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Suspect Sought in Southwood Homicide
Richmond Police need the public’s help in finding Oswaldo Ramirez in connection with the murder of Leoncio Deleon yesterday.
After further investigation, detectives have determined Deleon, 43, was stabbed after an altercation with a known offender inside an apartment in the 4600 block of Southwood Parkway around 2 a.m. yesterday. He later died at VCU Medical Center.
Ramirez, 24, is described as 5’6” and weighing about 150 pounds. His last known address is the 1700 block of Clarkson Road. His photo is attached to this advisory.
He is wanted on a charge of first degree murder and failure to appear for court.
Richmond Police ask anyone with any information on Ramirez’s whereabouts or this homicide to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000 or the Latino Tip Line at 239-4209.
After further investigation, detectives have determined Deleon, 43, was stabbed after an altercation with a known offender inside an apartment in the 4600 block of Southwood Parkway around 2 a.m. yesterday. He later died at VCU Medical Center.
Ramirez, 24, is described as 5’6” and weighing about 150 pounds. His last known address is the 1700 block of Clarkson Road. His photo is attached to this advisory.
He is wanted on a charge of first degree murder and failure to appear for court.
Richmond Police ask anyone with any information on Ramirez’s whereabouts or this homicide to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000 or the Latino Tip Line at 239-4209.
Southwood Homicide Investigation - 01/24/2010
The Richmond Police Department is investigating a homicide which occurred in the 4600 block of Southwood Parkway about 2 am.
When officers arrived they found Leoncio Deleon, 43, suffering from an apparent stab wound.
Deleon was transported to VCU Medical Center where he died several hours later.
Richmond Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this homicide to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000 or the Latino Tip Line at 239-4209.
When officers arrived they found Leoncio Deleon, 43, suffering from an apparent stab wound.
Deleon was transported to VCU Medical Center where he died several hours later.
Richmond Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this homicide to contact Crime Stoppers at 780 -1000 or the Latino Tip Line at 239-4209.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Midlothian Village Homicide
The Richmond Police Department is investigating a domestic-related homicide at the Midlothian Village Apartments, 4030 Midlothian Turnpike.
Police officers were called to the scene at 5:59 am. There they discovered a female stabbed to death in one of the apartments.
Richmond Police are now actively working with Henrico Police to apprehend a suspect in this case.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com
Police officers were called to the scene at 5:59 am. There they discovered a female stabbed to death in one of the apartments.
Richmond Police are now actively working with Henrico Police to apprehend a suspect in this case.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Food Mart and Deli Robber Sought
The Richmond Police
Department needs the public’s help in identifying the man in the three attached photos.
At about 11:30 p.m. Monday, he entered the Food Mart and Deli, at 11 Erich Road, and robbed the business. The male implied to the clerk that he was armed and demanded money.
The male is described as 25 to 35 years of age with a dark complexion, about 6’0”, weighing 160 to 170 pounds and was last seen wearing a dark hoodie and a baseball cap with an unknown white emblem on the front.
Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Homicide Suspect Sought
The Richmond Police Department is asking for help in locating a man wanted for the murder of Michael Mitchell.
Investigators are searching for Joseph Michael Rodriguez, Jr. He was indicted on January 5, 2010 for the murder of Michael Mitchell on December 23, 2009 in the 100 block of Wyck Street.
Rodriguez, Jr. is 20 years old, 6’0”, 148 pounds of the 3900 block of Bridgeton Road.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
New Year's Eve Homicide Arrests
E-mail Advisory 1/19/10
Richmond Police Department
New Year’s Eve Homicide Arrests
The Richmond Police Department has arrested two men in connection with the Dec. 31 shooting death of Reginale N. Lee, 19, in the 1000 block of St. James Street.
On Jan. 8, Carl L. Bruce Jr., 20, of no fixed address, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. On Jan. 11, a 17-year-old male was arrested and charged with murder and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The Department credits the neighborhood of Gilpin Court for providing information that led to these arrests. However, investigators believe there are more witnesses to this crime, and ask them to call Crime Stoppers anonymous at 780-1000.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Inauguration Street Closures and Parking Restrictions
The Richmond Police Department asks motorists and citizens to be mindful of street closures and parking restrictions this Friday and Saturday in preparation for the new governor’s inauguration.
Drivers need to be patient and plan alternate routes around the areas below.
There will be no parking allowed from 7 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday on:
East Broad Street from North 8th Street to Governor’s Street;
10th Street between Main and Bank Streets;
Bank and Franklin streets between 9th and 14th streets;
9th Street between Main and Broad streets;
Franklin Street between 8th and 9th streets;
12th Street between Main and Bank streets;
13th and Governor streets between Main and Bank streets;
East Grace Street between 9th and 8th Street.
There will be no parking allowed from 4 p.m. Friday through 4 p.m. Saturday on:
East Franklin Street east bound from Jefferson Street to 9th Street;
East Grace Street from Jefferson to 9th Street;
8th Street from East Broad to East Main streets;
7th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
6th Street from East Broad to East Main streets;
5th Street East Broad to East Main streets;
4th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
3rd Street from East Broad to East Main streets;
2nd Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
1st Street from East Broad to East Main streets.
The following street will be closed from 12 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday:
· 10th Street between East Main and Bank streets.
The following streets will be closed from 7 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday:
· Bank and East Franklin streets between 9th and 14th streets;
· 9th Street between East Main and East Broad streets;
· East Franklin Street between 8th and 9th streets;
· 12th Street between East Main and Bank streets;
· 13th and Governor streets between Main and Bank streets;
· East Grace Street between 9th and 8th Street.
The following streets will be closed from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday:
East Grace Street from Jefferson to 9th streets;
Franklin Street from Belvidere to 9th streets;
Franklin Street from Jefferson to 9th Streets;
8th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
7th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
6th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
5th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
4th Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
3rd street from East Main to East Broad streets;
2nd Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
1st Street from East Main to East Broad streets;
Foushee from East Main to East Broad streets.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Father Offers Reward in Daughter’s Murder
In the early hours of Oct. 11, 2008, Erica Renee Williams was found shot to death in the 3300 block of Moody Avenue. She was the city’s 28th homicide victim. But she was more than that to her parents, especially her father.
“There was immediate pain when I got the news, and that pain has not faded away,” Jerry Williams said. “Erica was everything to me.”
Richmond Police did not have immediate leads in the Williams homicide. But now they do. And in an effort to encourage anyone with additional information to come forward, Jerry Williams is offering a $5,000 reward to the person who helps Richmond Police in the investigation.
“It’s not much, but if it will get someone to come forward and help find out who killed Erica, I’m willing to pay the price,” Williams said.
Richmond Police recently received a tip in the investigation. But they need more information before charges can be placed against a suspect. The motive in this homicide is believed to be robbery.
“One thing we work to ensure is that we have everything in place to present a case before we place charges against someone,” Major Crimes Sgt. Duncan Pence said. “We have information, but if there is more out there, we definitely can use it.”
Richmond Police is asking anyone with information in the Williams homicide to contact Detective Jeff Crewell directly at 201-3829. If the person providing information would like to remain anonymous, they can always call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. A separate reward up to $1,000 also is available from Crime Stoppers.
Contact: Karla Peters
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
“There was immediate pain when I got the news, and that pain has not faded away,” Jerry Williams said. “Erica was everything to me.”
Richmond Police did not have immediate leads in the Williams homicide. But now they do. And in an effort to encourage anyone with additional information to come forward, Jerry Williams is offering a $5,000 reward to the person who helps Richmond Police in the investigation.
“It’s not much, but if it will get someone to come forward and help find out who killed Erica, I’m willing to pay the price,” Williams said.
Richmond Police recently received a tip in the investigation. But they need more information before charges can be placed against a suspect. The motive in this homicide is believed to be robbery.
“One thing we work to ensure is that we have everything in place to present a case before we place charges against someone,” Major Crimes Sgt. Duncan Pence said. “We have information, but if there is more out there, we definitely can use it.”
Richmond Police is asking anyone with information in the Williams homicide to contact Detective Jeff Crewell directly at 201-3829. If the person providing information would like to remain anonymous, they can always call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. A separate reward up to $1,000 also is available from Crime Stoppers.
Contact: Karla Peters
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
April Murder Arrest
The Essex County Sheriff’s Office arrested Trae M. Tate, 25, of Tappahannock, yesterday in connection with an April homicide in Richmond.
Tate has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the April 12 shooting death of Kemal Dickerson, 33, of the 5900 block of Glenway Court. The shooting occurred in the 5000 block of Forest Hill Avenue.
Richmond Police investigators will continue to work the case following up on leads. Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Tate has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the April 12 shooting death of Kemal Dickerson, 33, of the 5900 block of Glenway Court. The shooting occurred in the 5000 block of Forest Hill Avenue.
Richmond Police investigators will continue to work the case following up on leads. Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.
Contact: Dionne Waugh
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
SWAT Team arrest
Today at approximately 8:22 a.m. the Richmond Police Department received a call from a female who reported a domestic dispute that had occurred with a known male inside the residence at 3919 Moss Side Ave. The female had left the house but the male, Matthew D. Walton, 27, of the same address, was reportedly still inside and believed to be armed.
Richmond Police negotiators and SWAT Team responded to the incident. After securing the immediate area the negotiators attempted to make contact. After several attempts to contact Walton he complied with SWAT units and emerged from the house at around 1 p.m.
He has been charged with domestic assault and abduction. He will also be charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.
The Department’s specialized units were staged on several streets in the area, including Moss Side Ave., Akron St. and Rex Ave., closing them to traffic.
Contact: James Mercante
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Richmond Police negotiators and SWAT Team responded to the incident. After securing the immediate area the negotiators attempted to make contact. After several attempts to contact Walton he complied with SWAT units and emerged from the house at around 1 p.m.
He has been charged with domestic assault and abduction. He will also be charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.
The Department’s specialized units were staged on several streets in the area, including Moss Side Ave., Akron St. and Rex Ave., closing them to traffic.
Contact: James Mercante
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
RPD Steps up Holiday Patrols on Foot, Bike and Segway
For some, it’s planes, trains and automobiles. For Richmond Police, the focus is bike, Segway and foot patrols this holiday season.
The Department has begun implementing a holiday initiative designed to have more officers out patrolling in ways that allow them to interact more with citizens in and around commercial corridors.
“The holiday season gives us a great opportunity to interact with shoppers and for us to share holiday safety tips, especially at a time when criminals are more apt to find target-rich environments,” Major Peggy Horn said.
The initiative started Nov. 21 and will continue through Dec. 20. Each precinct has identified commercial corridors that will benefit from either a walking, biking or Segway patrol and the Department has assigned officers to monitor those areas.
Richmond Police would also like to offer the following safety tips to help keep citizens safe this holiday season:
Record serial numbers and take digital photos of all electronics;
Keep credit card information so if there is loss or theft, they can be cancelled quickly;
Notify police that you will be away so we can keep an eye on your home or business: http://www.richmondgov.com/police/VacationWatch.aspx;
Do not post travel plans on social Web sites;
Do not overburden yourself with packages;
Always be alert and aware of your surroundings;
Avoid suspicious situations or people and notify the police;
Walk briskly and with confidence;
If using an ATM at night, find a highly visible well-lit ATM; and
Do not carry or display large amounts of cash.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Six Points Initiative Targets Drug Trafficking
In July of this year the Richmond Police Department began an undercover drug operation in the area of Enslow Avenue and Front Street in the Highland Park neighborhood. As a result of that operation, arrests have been made but problems persisted in the area. Investigations revealed that street-level drug dealers were responsible for much of the criminal activity in the area.
The drug operation and the information it yielded converged to become the Richmond Six Points Initiative.
“This is a unique approach to eradicating drug trafficking,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said. “We’ve taken what we’ve learned from our operation to get to the root of the issue – the individuals involved in these crimes.”
Chief Norwood will announce the results of the Six Points Initiative thus far in a press conference 2 p.m. today at 3100 Meadowbridge Road. He will be joined by Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson – Gateway 6th District and Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael N. Herring.
As a result of Six Points investigations, since Jan. 1:
Twenty people identified as supplying drugs to street-level dealers in the Six Points area have been arrested.
More than 9,000 grams of cocaine was seized, which equates to more than nine kilograms of cocaine with a wholesale value of $270,000 and a retail value double or triple that amount.
Five hundred and five grams of heroin was seized, with a wholesale value of $50,000 and a retail value double or triple that amount.
Twelve firearms were taken from these dealers and $39,625 in cash was seized.
In July the street-level portion of this initiative began. From July 1 to Dec. 1, detectives made cases on an additional 50 individuals for drug violations. Twenty-one of these people have been arrested. Eight others are currently wanted and 14 are facing indictments in the near future.
In addition, a unique part of the Six Points initiative is providing the nonviolent offenders involved in street-level drug trafficking in the target area the first-ever offer of no prosecution and not asking the dealers to give up their suppliers or customers. Instead they would be presented opportunities such as education, job training, potential employment assistance and improved life skills. If they declined, they would be arrested and prosecuted.
Chief Norwood and Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Herring hand-delivered letters to these individuals last week inviting them to meet with law enforcement and community leaders to discuss their options. Most accepted the offer.
“Hopefully they will realize the benefits of these alternatives and that there are ways to make a living other than through criminal activity,” Chief Norwood said. “Because in reality, that isn’t living.”
Richmond Six Points will follow up with the persons who accept the offer and in the community to determine the success of this new approach to policing drug trafficking.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
The drug operation and the information it yielded converged to become the Richmond Six Points Initiative.
“This is a unique approach to eradicating drug trafficking,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said. “We’ve taken what we’ve learned from our operation to get to the root of the issue – the individuals involved in these crimes.”
Chief Norwood will announce the results of the Six Points Initiative thus far in a press conference 2 p.m. today at 3100 Meadowbridge Road. He will be joined by Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson – Gateway 6th District and Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael N. Herring.
As a result of Six Points investigations, since Jan. 1:
Twenty people identified as supplying drugs to street-level dealers in the Six Points area have been arrested.
More than 9,000 grams of cocaine was seized, which equates to more than nine kilograms of cocaine with a wholesale value of $270,000 and a retail value double or triple that amount.
Five hundred and five grams of heroin was seized, with a wholesale value of $50,000 and a retail value double or triple that amount.
Twelve firearms were taken from these dealers and $39,625 in cash was seized.
In July the street-level portion of this initiative began. From July 1 to Dec. 1, detectives made cases on an additional 50 individuals for drug violations. Twenty-one of these people have been arrested. Eight others are currently wanted and 14 are facing indictments in the near future.
In addition, a unique part of the Six Points initiative is providing the nonviolent offenders involved in street-level drug trafficking in the target area the first-ever offer of no prosecution and not asking the dealers to give up their suppliers or customers. Instead they would be presented opportunities such as education, job training, potential employment assistance and improved life skills. If they declined, they would be arrested and prosecuted.
Chief Norwood and Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Herring hand-delivered letters to these individuals last week inviting them to meet with law enforcement and community leaders to discuss their options. Most accepted the offer.
“Hopefully they will realize the benefits of these alternatives and that there are ways to make a living other than through criminal activity,” Chief Norwood said. “Because in reality, that isn’t living.”
Richmond Six Points will follow up with the persons who accept the offer and in the community to determine the success of this new approach to policing drug trafficking.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
City Swears In New Young Adult Police Commissioners
Richmond Police Department is proud to announce the swearing-in of 10 new Young Adult Police Commissioners at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10, at Police Headquarters, 200 W. Grace St.
“I am proud and happy to welcome these new Young Adult Police Commissioners to an already fine group of young people who really care about improving relationships in their communities,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said.
These new commissioners will join the five current members as they unveil their first event as a new commission on Friday, Dec. 11. They will present the Word on the Street Poetry Slam, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Police Training Academy, 1202 W. Graham Road.
For the past two months, the commission, which is made up of juniors and seniors from several city high schools, has met several times a week and worked to create and distribute fliers, sell tickets and find teen poets to perform.
Chief Norwood created the board at the beginning of the year as a way to build strong relationships with young people in the community. The chief and his Command Staff have been meeting weekly with the students to help them understand how the Department operates and in turn gain a better understanding of young people, their needs and the best ways to relate to them.
The media is encouraged to attend both the swearing-in ceremony and the poetry slam.
“I am proud and happy to welcome these new Young Adult Police Commissioners to an already fine group of young people who really care about improving relationships in their communities,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said.
These new commissioners will join the five current members as they unveil their first event as a new commission on Friday, Dec. 11. They will present the Word on the Street Poetry Slam, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Police Training Academy, 1202 W. Graham Road.
For the past two months, the commission, which is made up of juniors and seniors from several city high schools, has met several times a week and worked to create and distribute fliers, sell tickets and find teen poets to perform.
Chief Norwood created the board at the beginning of the year as a way to build strong relationships with young people in the community. The chief and his Command Staff have been meeting weekly with the students to help them understand how the Department operates and in turn gain a better understanding of young people, their needs and the best ways to relate to them.
The media is encouraged to attend both the swearing-in ceremony and the poetry slam.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Power Shift: Richmond Police Specialized Units
Richmond Police Department is more than doubling the number of officers on the streets for New Year’s Eve. Officers and detectives normally assigned to specialized units like Narcotics, School Resource Officers and Motors will join forces with precinct patrol officers.
These officers and detectives, whose daily assignments usually involve everything from undercover investigations to traffic accidents, will assist precinct officers with the annual increase in calls for service overnight Dec. 31 through Jan. 1.
“Annually we work to have added enforcement on the streets for calls involving DUIs, random gunfire and any disruptive New Year’s Eve revelers,” Major Peggy Horn said. “We’re prepared to expect the unexpected.”
The officers and detectives will be divided among the Department’s four precincts based on the analysis of previous years’ data on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day incidents.
“The majority of calls for New Year’s involve people firing guns in the air, especially at the midnight hour,” Horn said. “For safety’s sake, we want to remind people that reckless handling of firearms endangers everyone. Bottom line: It is illegal to fire a weapon in the city limits.”
Richmond Police reminds citizens that they also have a role in New Year’s Eve safety. Partygoers are asked to have a designated driver or travel by taxi to eliminate having persons driving under the influence. In large party crowds, try to remain aware of your surroundings at all times and travel in pairs or in groups.
“We want everyone to have fun but to also ring in the new year safely,” Horn said.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
These officers and detectives, whose daily assignments usually involve everything from undercover investigations to traffic accidents, will assist precinct officers with the annual increase in calls for service overnight Dec. 31 through Jan. 1.
“Annually we work to have added enforcement on the streets for calls involving DUIs, random gunfire and any disruptive New Year’s Eve revelers,” Major Peggy Horn said. “We’re prepared to expect the unexpected.”
The officers and detectives will be divided among the Department’s four precincts based on the analysis of previous years’ data on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day incidents.
“The majority of calls for New Year’s involve people firing guns in the air, especially at the midnight hour,” Horn said. “For safety’s sake, we want to remind people that reckless handling of firearms endangers everyone. Bottom line: It is illegal to fire a weapon in the city limits.”
Richmond Police reminds citizens that they also have a role in New Year’s Eve safety. Partygoers are asked to have a designated driver or travel by taxi to eliminate having persons driving under the influence. In large party crowds, try to remain aware of your surroundings at all times and travel in pairs or in groups.
“We want everyone to have fun but to also ring in the new year safely,” Horn said.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
Monday, January 4, 2010
New Crimes Rankings List Richmond Even Safer
Richmond has dropped 50 cities from 49th to 99th in terms of city crime rankings.
This is the biggest drop yet for the city, and the fourth year in a row the city’s national crime ranking has fallen, according to the Congressional Quarterly Press.
In 2005, the city ranked 5th; in 2006, the city ranked 15th; in 2007, it ranked 29th; and last year it ranked 49th.
“This is great news for all the citizens of Richmond,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said. “Though we missed being out of the top 100 by one city index point, I know we can get there next year.”
The city’s current ranking is based on 2008 data. That data includes 385 cities with populations of 75,000 or more and is based on reported crime rates per 100,000 in six crime categories: murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and motor vehicle theft.
“I commend the city’s law enforcement professionals and the residents of the city of Richmond, as the city could not obtain this ranking without their teamwork, collaboration, and the dedication to reclaim the safety of our streets and neighborhoods,” Mayor Dwight C. Jones said. “This ranking serves as positive reinforcement and will aid our efforts in making Richmond a tier one city.”
Chief Norwood attributes the decline in ranking to the community and professional partnerships established by the Department and its officers. Close work with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office – with community prosecutors assigned to each sector – and the Cooperative Violence Reduction Partnership, which includes local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, all lead toward the goal of crime reduction.
The Department’s own Fugitive and Firearms Initiative, Gang Reduction and Intervention Program, and truancy reduction efforts also greatly contribute to addressing the underlying factors that lead to persons committing criminal acts.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
This is the biggest drop yet for the city, and the fourth year in a row the city’s national crime ranking has fallen, according to the Congressional Quarterly Press.
In 2005, the city ranked 5th; in 2006, the city ranked 15th; in 2007, it ranked 29th; and last year it ranked 49th.
“This is great news for all the citizens of Richmond,” Chief Bryan T. Norwood said. “Though we missed being out of the top 100 by one city index point, I know we can get there next year.”
The city’s current ranking is based on 2008 data. That data includes 385 cities with populations of 75,000 or more and is based on reported crime rates per 100,000 in six crime categories: murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and motor vehicle theft.
“I commend the city’s law enforcement professionals and the residents of the city of Richmond, as the city could not obtain this ranking without their teamwork, collaboration, and the dedication to reclaim the safety of our streets and neighborhoods,” Mayor Dwight C. Jones said. “This ranking serves as positive reinforcement and will aid our efforts in making Richmond a tier one city.”
Chief Norwood attributes the decline in ranking to the community and professional partnerships established by the Department and its officers. Close work with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office – with community prosecutors assigned to each sector – and the Cooperative Violence Reduction Partnership, which includes local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, all lead toward the goal of crime reduction.
The Department’s own Fugitive and Firearms Initiative, Gang Reduction and Intervention Program, and truancy reduction efforts also greatly contribute to addressing the underlying factors that lead to persons committing criminal acts.
Contact: Gene Lepley
Richmond Police Department
Phone 804-646-0607
Fax 804-646-3496
http://www.richmondgov.com/police
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