Richmond Police Honors Personnel, Community Partners

Two Richmond Police officers were shot in the line of duty in April of this year. Thankfully, they survived their injuries.

Three Third Precinct officers worked in the lobby of their precinct to save a stabbing victim, whose wounds required more than 200 stitches.

A South Side business owner, in the spirit of the season, brought Christmas dinner to the officers on duty at Second Precinct.

These are just a few examples of the acts by members of the Richmond Police Department and members of the community that will be honored tomorrow in an awards ceremony.

The Department’s biannual Salute to Excellence Awards will be presented 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2013, at The November Theatre, 114 W. Broad St.

 "The Salute to Excellence Awards continue to remind us of the important accomplishments of the Richmond Police force as well as our community partners,” Mayor Dwight C. Jones said. “Public safety is a task that we must continue to work on together and we must always let those who are making a difference know how thankful we are."

 Added Chief Ray J. Tarasovic, “This is an opportunity to recognize our own as well as those persons in the community who have made a difference in contributing to public safety. These awards are just a small token of our appreciation for their extraordinary efforts.”

Nominations come from officers throughout the Department and are judged by the Department’s Honors Board. One nomination came directly from the top. The CALEA Team, which worked on the Department’s recent re-accreditation process, was nominated by Chief Tarasovic. CALEA stands for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

“In the exit interview, the (CALEA) assessors repeatedly complimented the Department for its professionalism, competence and community engagement,” the chief said. “I could not let this work go unnoticed.”

 Members of the media and the community are encouraged to attend.

Coalter Street Accidental Shooting

The Richmond Police Department has charged a man in connection with the shooting of a child on Saturday.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, officers received a call for a person shot inside a residence in the 1300 block of Coalter Street. Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found a 4-year-old female who had been shot. She was taken to VCU Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Detectives have charged Demond A. Brown, 27, of the 2100 block of Mimosa Street, with one felony count of discharging a firearm within a building or dwelling.

Detectives believe the shooting was a result of an accidental discharge.

Victim Identified in Fairmount Avenue Fatal Collision

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim from yesterday's Fairmount Avenue fatal collision.

Robert L. Vannote, 35, of the 3100 block of North Avenue, was struck by a Mitsubishi Gallant sedan in the intersection of Fairmount Avenue and North 23rd Street at approximately 9:44 a.m.

Vannote was transported to VCU Medical Center where he died.

A female, the sole occupant, operated the car.

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team interviewed witnesses and took measurements of the crash scene in the course of the investigation. Fairmount Avenue was closed in both directions for several hours to accommodate the investigation.

The Crash Team has sent their findings to the Commonwealth Attorney's Office for review and a decision on any charges.

Fairmount Avenue Fatal Collision

This morning at approximately 9:44 a.m., the Richmond Police Department was called to the scene of a collision involving a scooter and a sedan.

In the intersection of Fairmount Avenue and North 23^rd Street, a car and scooter collided. The lone rider of the scooter, a 35-year-old male, suffered injuries and was transported to VCU Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.

The car was operated by a female, the sole occupant.

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team interviewed witnesses and took measurements of the crash scene in the course of the investigation. Fairmount Avenue was closed in both directions to accommodate the investigation.

Information on the identification of the victim and any potential charges is not yet available.

Mega-Tel Wireless Breaking and Entering Suspect Sought

Mega-Tel Wireless Breaking and Entering Suspect Sought

The Richmond Police Department needs the public’s help to identify the man in the attached surveillance photos who broke into the Mega-Tel Wireless store.

Yesterday at approximately 4:15 a.m., a man broke into the business at 2905 Chamberlayne Avenue by throwing a large stone through the window. The suspect entered the store and stole phones, memory cards and cash.

The man is described as a black male with a slim build. He was wearing a black cap with white design, a dark colored shirt, blue jeans and grey and black shoes. He left the store and ran towards Hawthorne Avenue.

Anyone with any information about this man or this crime is asked to call Detective James Higgins at 646-3186 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Update Clarkson Road Homicide

Richmond Police detectives have tentatively identified the man who was shot to death on Clarkson Road this weekend as Victor Amilcar Soriano Aviles, 40, of Chesterfield.

At approximately 12:16 a.m. Sunday, officers received a call about a shooting inside a residence the 1700 block of Clarkson Road.

Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found Soriano suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to VCU Medical Center where he later died.

Detectives believe he was shot during a home invasion robbery in which a struggle ensued and shots were fired.

The suspects are described as:

1. Suspect 1: A dark-skinned black male, between 20 and 25 years old, 5’9” to 5’10” and weighing between 160 and 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing all black clothing and a mask.
2. Suspect 2: A black male between 20 and 25 years old, 5’9” to 5’10” and weighing between 160 and 180 pounds who was last seen wearing all dark clothing.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asking to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Update East Brookland Park Boulevard Homicide

The Richmond Police Department has identified the man found shot to death on East Brookland Park Boulevard this weekend as Garrick Lamont Ellis, 18, of the 2400 block of North 23^rd Street.

At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, officers received a call about a person shot in the 1400 block of East Brookland Park Boulevard.

Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found Ellis suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to VCU Medical Center where he later died.

Detectives are asking anyone with any information about this crime to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Clarkson Road Homicide

Richmond Police detectives are in the early stages of a homicide investigation on the city’s South side.

At approximately 12:16 a.m. today, officers received a call about a shooting in the 1700 block of Clarkson Road.

Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found a Hispanic male in his late 30s suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to VCU Medical Center where he later died.

Detectives believe the man was shot during a home invasion robbery in which a struggle ensued and shots were fired.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asking to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

East Brookland Park Boulevard Homicide

 The Richmond Police Department is in the early stages of a homicide investigation on the city’s North side.

At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, officers received a call about a person shot in the 1400 block of East Brookland Park Boulevard.

Officers arrived on scene within minutes and found an adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to VCU Medical Center where he later died.

Detectives are currently canvassing the area and looking to speak with anyone who may have heard something or saw something that could help them investigate this crime.

Anyone with any information is asking to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

East End Shooting

Richmond Police detectives are in the early stages of an investigation involving the shooting of three people in the East End.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. Saturday, an officer heard gunfire and found the victims at the intersection of Bryan and Littlepage streets.

All three adult male victims were taken to VCU Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Detectives believe the victims were injured during an exchange of gunfire between two groups of individuals, and the crime was not random.

They do not believe the shooting is related to other incidents.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this crime to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Arrest Made in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

A man wanted in connected to a homicide last weekend surrendered to the U.S. Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force late last night.

Floyd E. Taylor, Jr., 26, of the 11300 block of Dumaine Drive in Midlothian, was wanted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in relation to the fatal shooting at the hotel located at 6346 Midlothian Turnpike last Saturday. An updated mugshot is attached.

At approximately 5:34 p.m. on Aug. 10, officers were called to the hotel for reports of shots fired. Officers arrived in two minutes and found Zekei Johnson, 18, of the 300 block of Red Ash Drive, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound in the parking lot of the hotel. He died at the scene.

Detectives still ask anyone with any information about this crime to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Update Jahnke Road Death Investigation

The Richmond Police Department does not suspect foul play in the death of a man found last night in the 5200 block of Jahnke Road.

At approximately 5:40 p.m. Tuesday, officers received a call for a person down in a ditch near the railroad tracks on Jahnke Road.

Detectives have identified the man as Sammy E. Ferguson, 64, of the 6500 block of Jahnke Road.

Brauers and Peter Paul Neighborhoods Walk Through

The Department’s Command Staff will join First Precinct Sector 113 Lt. Jody Blackwell for a walk through the Brauers and Peter Paul neighborhoods this evening.

Officers will meet at 5:30 p.m. today at 23^rd and U streets, and spread out through the neighborhood from there.

Officers will talk with residents about safety tips and recent crime trends in the area. Command staff and officers will also ask what residents would like to see more of from Richmond Police.

The media is encouraged to attend.

To learn more about Sector 113’s neighborhoods, please visit our website and check out Lt. Blackwell’s monthly newsletters:

http://www.richmondgov.com/Police/Precinct1Sector113.aspx

Suspect Sought in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

Suspect Sought in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

The Richmond Police Department needs the public’s help to locate the suspect believed to be involved in Saturday afternoon's homicide.

Floyd E. Taylor, Jr., 26, of the 11300 block of Dumaine Drive in Midlothian, is wanted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in relation to the shooting at the hotel located at 6346 Midlothian Turnpike. Taylor's photo is attached and below.

Do not attempt to approach Taylor. Should you know the whereabouts of Taylor contact Richmond Police Homicide Detective Victoria Griffith-Matko at 317-6204 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip.

Victim Identified in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

August 12, 2013

Victim Identified in Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

The Richmond Police Department has identified the man found shot to death Saturday afternoon as Zekei Johnson, 18, of the 300 block of Red Ash Drive.

At approximately 5:34 p.m., the Richmond Police Department was called to a hotel at 6346 Midlothian Turnpike for reports of shots fired.

Officers arrived in two minutes and found Johnson suffering from an apparent gunshot wound in the parking lot of the hotel. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key work "ITip" followed by your tip. Both methods are anonymous.

Midlothian Turnpike Homicide

At approximately 5:34 p.m., the Richmond Police Department was called to a hotel at 6346 Midlothian Turnpike for reports of shots fired.

Officers arrived in two minutes and found a black male in his early 20’s suffering from an apparent gunshot wound in the parking lot of the hotel. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Homicide detectives interviewed many potential witnesses at the scene while forensics detectives collected evidence.

Detectives believe the suspect and victim knew each other and do not believe the crime was random.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call CrimeStoppers anonymously at 780-1000.

Update Fairmount Homicide

The Richmond Police Department has identified the man shot to death Monday morning as LeSean L. Cosby, 31, of the 2800 block of Fairfield Avenue.

At approximately 3:48 a.m. Monday, officers received a call for random gunfire in the Fairmount neighborhood. They were on scene within minutes and found the victim lying in the street at the intersection of 22^nd and W Streets.

Detectives believe the motive for the crime may be robbery, and are looking for three suspects.

Two suspects are described as black males in their 20s, between 5’7 and 5’10” with a slender build and medium complexion skin tone. The first suspect was last seen wearing a dark colored t-shirt and a baseball cap. The second suspect was last week wearing a white t-shirt.

A third suspect is believed to have driven the getaway vehicle, which is possibly a black, four-door, older model, mid-size vehicle.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.  Citizens may also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

German School Road Homicide

The Richmond Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred last night on German School Road.

Shortly before 7:00 p.m., officers received reports of shots fired and a car into a house in the 900 block of German School Road. When they arrived minutes later, they found a male victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle. He died at the scene.

He has been identified as Samuel L. Washington, 20, of the 5800 block of Larrymore Road.

The initial investigation indicates that Washington was shot about a fifth of a mile away, near the intersection of German School and Deter roads, but was able to drive northbound on German School Road where the vehicle veered off the road and struck a street lamp pole along the northbound lane before coming to rest against the house.

There were several people inside the house at the time, but none were uninjured. The house was evacuated until it could be inspected for structural damage. Following the inspection, the occupants were allowed to return.

Investigators do not believe the shooting was random and that it may have been the result of an argument or dispute.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.  Citizens may also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “iTip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Deforrest Street Homicide

The Richmond Police Department is investigating Friday’s shooting death as a homicide.

At 1:24 p.m. Friday, officers were called to the 2100 block of Deforrest Street for a report of a person down. Officers found James E. Rousey Jr., 25, of Chester, shot to death inside a residence.

Detectives are following up on several strong leads and don’t believe this crime was random.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.  Citizens may also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Person of Interest Sought in East Main Street Burglary

The Richmond Police Department needs the public’s help to identify a person of interest in the burglary of a downtown business Thursday.

He can be seen in the two attached photos.

Detectives would like to speak to this male in connection with the Aug. 1 burglary of a business at approximately 3 a.m. in the 100 block of East Main Street during which computer equipment was stolen.

The person of interest is described as a black male of unknown age, approximately 5’ 8” and weighing about 170 pounds. He was last seen wearing a baseball cap, dark hoodie, gloves, dark trousers, shorts over trousers and white tennis shoes.

Anyone with any information about who this male may be is asked to Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or Detective J. Walker at 646-3184.  Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Persons of Interest Still Sought in Stuart Avenue Robbery

The Richmond Police Department still needs the public’s help to identify the two men in the attached image who are persons of interest in the robbery a woman on Stuart Avenue in May.

At approximately 12:40 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, two males approached a woman from behind in the 3100 block of Stuart Avenue and knocked her to the ground as they stole her purse and ran away. They were last seen running west on Stuart Avenue and then North on Cleveland Avenue toward Broad Street.

The robbers are described as black males with a dark skin tone, clean shaven, between the ages of 15 and 25, approximately 5’10” feet tall and weighing about 200 pounds. The first robber was last seen wearing a grey shirt and dark-colored shorts while the second robber was last seen wearing a red shirt and dark-colored shorts. Both men were also last seen wearing glasses.

Anyone with any information about these individuals or this crime is asked to call Detective William Cutshall at 646-1068 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. 

Richmond Police Graduate 23 New Officers Today

The Richmond Police Department is proud to welcome 23 new officers to the force and invite the public to their graduation and swearing-in ceremony at 10 a.m. today at the Cheek Theater in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard. The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of the City of Richmond will be in attendance and Henrico Police Chief Douglas A. Middleton will present the keynote address.

After 30 weeks of training at the Department’s Academy, the 108^th Basic Recruit Class will immediately begin patrols, each assigned to a field training officer for the next eight weeks.

Chief Ray J. Tarasovic and the entire Richmond Police Department would like to congratulate and welcome:

·         Joseph Balducci         

·         Daniel Bondy   

·         Vamana Brown

·         Paul Cho

·         Jordan Clark     

·         Shavonte Cotman - Russell

·         Latoya Felton

·         John Flack

·         Ernest Ford       

·         Carrie Griffith

·         Justine Hewitt

·         Tremayne Hughes      

·         Desiree Jones

·         Colette Josey

·         Eric Livengood

·         Jason McClendon       

·         Justin Miller

·         Robert Misgades

·         Jonathan Quigley        

·         Michael Saunders

·         John Story

·         Sierra Thomas

·         Joshua Umbel