RPD to Give Away 200 Bikes at Public Safety 5K

May 24, 2017

WHAT:                       2017 Public Safety 5K: Bike Ride & Community Day

WHEN:                       8 a.m. Saturday, June 10

WHERE:                     Armstrong High School (2300 Cool Lane)

BACKGROUND:         Now in its 12^th year, the Richmond Police Department is hosting the 2017 Public Safety 5K: Bike Ride and Community Day beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 10 at Armstrong High School.

The community event will feature a delicious assortment of free food, music, games, and a large bounce house. Free bicycles will also be given to the first 200 students who register.

“This is a great opportunity for Richmond Police to continue bridging the gap and strengthen relationships with the city’s youth,” Sgt. Carol Adams said.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the 5K bicycle ride will start at 9 a.m. Participants must be at least 8 years old and have parental consent. Covered shoes and helmets are required.

Visit https://RPD5KPublicSafetyBikeRide.eventbrite.com to reserve your spot or call event coordinator Sgt. Carol Adams at (804) 646-4069 for additional information.

Victim Identified in Motel 6 Homicide

May 23, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim in yesterday’s shooting in Southside as Desean R. Lucas, 28, whose last known address is in the 400 block of Westover Hills Boulevard.

Shortly before 11:30 a.m. yesterday, officers responded to the Motel 6 in the 100 block of Greshamwood Place for a report of a person down. When officers arrived, Lucas was found on the floor and unresponsive inside of a room suffering from a gunshot wound. The Richmond Ambulance Authority pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

The Department is investigating this incident as a homicide. No additional information is available at this time.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

 
Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Two Charged in Paintball Attack

May 23, 2017

Richmond Police Department Officers charged two men last week following a paintball attack on Chamberlayne Avenue.

Troy Murchison, 20, of the 2200 block of Watts Lane and Lakeith Moore, 20, of the 2500 block of Byron Street were each charged with assault and released on a summons. No booking photos were taken.

At approximately 5:14 p.m., Friday, May 19, RPD officers were asked to be on the lookout for a white Dodge Charger that was involved in a paintball attack on the driver of a moped in the 2700 block of Chamberlayne Avenue. He was struck several times.

Within moments, the officers stopped the Charger a few blocks away from where the attack occurred. It was occupied by Murchison and Moore. Officers recovered a paintball gun loaded with the same colored paintballs as had been used in the attack. The weapon was retained as evidence.

Officer Involved Fatal Shooting – Officer Identified

May 18, 2017

The Richmond Police Department officer who was involved in the fatal shooting earlier this week of Jaison Fitzgerald, 29, of the 1900 block of Accommodation Street has been identified as Officer Cleophas Williams.

“I am saddened by the fact that the Richmond Police Department is having to investigate a case like this one,” said RPD Chief Alfred Durham. “Using lethal force is one of the most difficult decisions a police officer must make in the line of duty. My thoughts are with Officer Williams, Jaison Fitzgerald and their families.”

The shooting occurred shortly after 6 p.m., Monday, May 15 during a traffic stop in the 3800 block of Lynnhaven Avenue.

Officer Williams was not wearing a body-worn camera. The RPD has been unable to locate any video of the shooting, either from other officers or bystanders.

“It has been my policy to release the names of officers involved in fatal shootings. I have done it in the past,” said Chief Durham. “But, we must first assess the situation and determine the possibility of retaliation. We have completed that portion of the investigation which is why I am releasing Officer Williams’ name at this time.”

Officer Williams is a two year veteran of the force. He remains on administrative leave.

The Department’s Force Investigation Team (FIT), comprised of Major Crimes Division detectives, are investigating the fatal shooting of Fitzgerald and will present their findings to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for review and a finding.

RPD detectives have spoken to several residents of the neighborhood and ask anyone who may have seen, heard or took of video of the incident to contact Detective W. Thompson at (804) 646-3925 or by calling Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or www.7801000.com or by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the keyword “iTip” followed by your tip. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Victim Identified in Stockton Street Homicide

May 17, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim in last night’s shooting in Manchester as Jaquan A. Harris, 25, of the 700 block of Stockton Street.

Last night at approximately 11:02 p.m., officers responded to the apartment building at 700 Stockton Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and found Harris down and unresponsive in the fourth floor hallway suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The Richmond Ambulance Authority pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

The Department is investigating this incident as a homicide.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective M. Gouldman at (804) 646-3915 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

RPD Ceremony Recognizes Lives Lost in Line of Duty

May 17, 2017

WHAT:                       Richmond Police Memorial Service

WHEN:                       7 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2017

WHERE:                     Richmond Police Memorial Statue, William Byrd Park (Blanton Avenue and Trafford Road)

BACKGROUND:         Each year law enforcement agencies across the country honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty during National Police Week. This year’s observance is May 15 - 19.

A wreath-laying ceremony will be held this evening at 7 p.m. at the Richmond Police memorial statue located at William Byrd Park.

The Richmond Police Department will pay homage to the city’s fallen officers and also remember those who served in the Department and passed away in 2016 and to-date in 2017.

Speakers will include Chief Alfred Durham and retired Richmond Police Officer and Police Memorial Committee Chairman Glenwood Burley.

Members of the public and the media are invited to attend.

Stockton Street Death Investigation

May 17, 2017

The Richmond Police Department is conducting a death investigation as a result of a shooting that occurred in an apartment building on Stockton Street.

Last night at approximately 11:02 p.m., officers responded to 700 Stockton Street for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and found a male down and unresponsive in the fourth floor hallway suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The Richmond Ambulance Authority pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

First Precinct officers, Major Crimes detectives and Forensics detectives are investigating, conducting interviews and collecting evidence.

Anyone with information about this death investigation is asked to call Major Crimes Detective M. Gouldman at (804) 646-3915 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Richmond Police Memorial Honors Sacrifices of Fallen

May 16, 2017

WHAT:                       Richmond Police Memorial Service

WHEN:                       10 a.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2017

WHERE:                     Richmond Police Training Academy, 1202 W. Graham Road

BACKGROUND:         Each year law enforcement agencies across the country honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty during National Police Week. This year’s observance is May 15 - 19.

Chief Alfred Durham and the Richmond Police Department will pay homage to Richmond’s fallen officers and also remember those who served the Department and passed away in 2016 and to-date in 2017.

During the ceremony, all surviving family members of fallen officers will be given a blue boutonniere.

Special guests include Mayor Levar Stoney, Chief Administrative Officer Selena Cuffey-Glenn, Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Dana Bedden, and Councilmembers Parker Agelasto, Michael Jones and Kristen Larson. High school participants of the Richmond Technical Center’s criminal justice program will also be in attendance.

A brief wreath-laying ceremony will be held later in the evening at 7 p.m. at the Richmond Police Memorial Statue located at William Byrd Park.

Members of the public and the media are invited to attend.

Lynnhaven Avenue Officer Involved Shooting

May 16, 2017

During a traffic stop shortly after 6:00 p.m., Monday, May 15, in the 3800 block of Lynnhaven Avenue, a Richmond Police officer fatally shot the driver of the vehicle, Jaison Fitzgerald, 29, of the 1900 block of Accommodation Street.

Fitzgerald was being sought on several warrants, including Attempted Murder, in connection with a domestic dispute with a female companion and her family. The most recent encounter had occurred earlier that day, at approximately 1:40 p.m. in the 1300 block of Armfield Road, during which it was reported Fitzgerald had shot at a family member of the woman.

The Department’s Force Investigation Team (FIT), comprised of Major Crimes Division detectives, are investigating the fatal shooting of Fitzgerald and will present their findings to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for review.

They have spoken to several residents of the neighborhood and ask anyone who may have seen, heard or videotaped the incident to contact Detective W. Thompson at (804) 646-3925 or by calling Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or www.7801000.com or by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the keyword “iTip” followed by your tip. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 The RPD officer has been placed on administrative leave with pay while the investigation is being conducted.

Fitzgerald was the only occupant of the vehicle. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. A weapon was recovered at the scene.

Arrest Made in Midlothian Village Double Homicide

May 15, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has made an arrest related to the double homicide in Midlothian Village which occurred last month.

Last week, Jarmaine T. Free, 21, of the 6000 block of Salem Street, was indicted on charges of murder (x2), use of a firearm in commission of a felony (x2) and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Free was already in custody on an unrelated charge. His booking photo is attached.

At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 8, police responded to the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike for a report of a person down. Shortly afterward, the call was upgraded to two persons shot.

When officers arrived, they located Kejuan L. Goode, 18, and Terrell D. Thomas, 20, both of the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike, inside of the residence with apparent gunshot wounds. The victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective K. Hughes at (804) 646-3917 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

Submit tips to GUN250 about persons illegally possessing guns by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, then using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

 

Officer Involved Shooting

May 14, 2017

Last night at approximately 10:55 p.m., officers were called to a residence in the 3800 block of Cheverly Road for the report of disorderly person. The caller stated a male was threatening to shoot another male.

Officers arrived and encountered a male on a porch of a residence. During the encounter, the three patrol officers at the scene discharged their service weapons. There were no injuries, no arrests have been made at this time, and two firearms were recovered at the scene.

A full inquiry is underway, which will include the Force Investigation Team and continued consultation with the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office.

Pedestrian Identified in Chamberlayne Avenue Fatality

May 13, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the pedestrian who was struck and killed last night on Chamberlayne Avenue as Donald C. Cordell, 55, of the 3000 block of Chamberlayne Avenue.

At approximately 10:25 p.m., a vehicle was travelling south in the 3000 block of Chamberlayne Avenue when Cordell ran across the roadway. The vehicle, in the right travel lane, struck Cordell. The vehicle came to an immediate stop but was then struck by a vehicle from the rear in the same lane.

Both drivers remained on scene.

Cordell was transported to a local hospital where, this morning, he succumbed to his injuries.

The RPD Crash Team responded to the scene where they took measurements and interviewed the drivers. No charges are expected at this time.

Investigators ask anyone with any information to call Crash Team Investigator Roderick Rose at 646-1665 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also submit a tip online at www.7801000.com or text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in West Broad Street Stabbing

May 12, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photos who is a person of interest in a stabbing incident last month.

At approximately 10:45 a.m. on Friday, April 14, officers were called to the 1600 block of West Broad Street for the report of a person stabbed. Officers arrived and found a female in a business who had been stabbed by an unknown male who then fled the scene on foot.

The suspect is described as a black male, 25-28 years old, 5’8”-5’10” tall, with a slim build and short hair. Detectives believe he may frequent the area near North Lombardy and West Broad streets.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about the identity of the suspect to call Major Crimes Detective P. Mansfield at (804) 646-6996 or (804) 510-4209 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000, online at www.7801000.com or by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the keyword “ITip” followed by your tip.

Suspect Sought in Jefferson Davis Corridor Breaking and Entering

May 12, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photo who is believed to have broken into a business along the Jefferson Davis corridor last month.

In April, officers were called to a business in the 4600 block of Jefferson Davis Highway for the report of a breaking and entering. Officers and detectives arrived and found the business had been broken into and several items taken.

Detectives believe the male in the photo, wearing the black North Face jacket, is a suspect in the burglary.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about the identity of the suspect to call Second Precinct Detective Derrick Longoria at (804) 646-8171 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000, online at www.7801000.com or by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the keyword “ITip” followed by your tip.

 

 

Bike for the Blue Remembers Fallen Officers

May 11, 2017

WHAT:                        Bike for the Blue Memorial Ride

WHEN:                       5:30 a.m., Saturday May 13

WHERE:                    State Capitol

BACKGROUND:  As part of National Police Week, over 20 members of the Richmond Police Department join others in law enforcement to pedal in a pilgrimage to Washington, D.C. in honor of officers who have died in the line of duty.

A contingent of over 100 officers representing jurisdictions from Virginia and federal law enforcement agencies will participate.

“We organize this ride every year to honor those who lost their lives protecting the citizens and making the communities safer,” said Richmond Police Sergeant Anthony Papaleo. “This year is particularly special because the Metro Richmond Police Emerald Society will be the featured pipes and drums performers during Saturday evening’s candlelight vigil at the National Mall.”

Bike for the Blue participants will ride 110 miles on Route 1 to the nation’s capital to meet their colleagues from across the country for the Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony. Richmond Police will remember 29 RPD officers who have given their lives for the city as the Department participates for the 22^nd year.

Members of the public and the media are invited to attend.
 

Missing Man Sought

May 3, 2017

The Richmond Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing man, Jahad Ahi Chapman, 32, of the 700 block of Stockton Street.

Chapman has not been seen by his friends or family since Friday, April 28^th, when he left his apartment to go out for the evening. His phone has been cut off and he was in process of moving out of his apartment.

Detectives do not suspect foul play at this point, but they would like to reunite him with his family.

Chapman is described as a black male, 5’7” tall, weighing 165 pounds with tattoos on his body, neck, face and hands.

Anyone who has seen Jahad Ahi Chapman is asked to call RPD Detective Jay Brissette at (804) 337-4724 or the Department of Emergency Communications at (804) 646-5100.

         Jahad Ahi Chapman

 

Suspect Sought in Theft from Motor Vehicle and Credit Card Fraud in Forest Hill

May 3, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the individual in the photos who is believed to be a suspect in a theft from a motor vehicle and credit card fraud in the Forest Hill neighborhood.

Between 6 and 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 6, an adult male entered a vehicle in the 6200 block of Forest Hill Avenue and took cash and several credit cards. He then used those credit cards at a GameStop and CVS Pharmacy located in the 7100 block of Forest Hill Avenue.

The suspect is described as a black male with a dark complexion and an average build. He has a dark goatee, possibly in his late-20s to late-30s, and approximately 5’9” to 5’11 tall. At the time, he was wearing a white shirt underneath a dark button down coat, olive green pants, black and white or metallic sneakers and an Oakland Raiders baseball hat.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call Third Precinct Detective Eric Sandlin at (804) 646-1010 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “ITip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Suspects Sought in Barton Heights Shooting

May 2, 2017

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspects and provide information about the shooting which occurred yesterday in the Barton Heights neighborhood.

At approximately 5:19 p.m. yesterday, multiple police units responded to the Norrell Elementary School Annex at 201 W. Graham Road for an active shooter situation. It was reported that three suspects forced entry into the building and were possibly still on-scene. When units arrived, they quickly set a perimeter and cleared the building.

While the suspects were not located, four individuals were found inside of the building. One of the individuals was found suffering from a non-life threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was treated and released. No other injuries were reported.

The suspects are described as:

·         Suspect 1: Black male with a dark complexion, short hair and no facial hair. He is approximately 5’2”, and in his early-to-mid teens. He was wearing a red bandana covering his face from his eyes to his chin, blue jeans, and a short sleeve shirt.

·         Suspect 2: Black male with a dark complexion, short hair and no facial hair. He is approximately 5’6”, and in his early-to-mid teens. He was wearing blue jeans and a white T-shirt.

·         Suspect 3: Black male in his early-to-mid teens.

The suspects were last seen running southbound in the alley between Miller and Greenwood Avenues.

During the investigation, a red Metropack backback (Photos attached) was found on the premises. Police are asking anyone who may have seen this backpack to please speak with detectives.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call Major Crimes Detective M. Smith at (804) 646-8171 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000, online at www.7801000.com or by texting Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the keyword “ITip” followed by your tip. Submit tips about persons in possession of illegally-held guns by using keyword “GUN250” followed by your tip. Rewards up to $250. All the Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Community Walk in the Eastview Neighborhood

May 2, 2017

WHAT:                       Richmond Police Department Community Walk

WHEN:                      5:30 p.m. Today, May 2, 2017

WHERE:                    1907 Mechanicsville Tnpk., rear parking lot of Community Market

BACKGROUND:     Chief Alfred Durham, First Precinct Sector 113 Lt. Michael Alston and other Richmond Police Department officers will participate in a walk through Richmond’s Eastview neighborhood at 5:30 p.m. today. During the walk, RPD officers will speak with community members about safety concerns they may have and what they would like to see from the Richmond Police Department.

Sector 113 Lt. Alston said the Eastview neighborhood has seen an uptick in property crimes, particularly motor vehicle theft and theft from motor vehicles.

“There were 87 motor vehicle thefts last year compared to 24 this year in Sector 113,” Lt. Alston said. “Six of the 24 vehicles stolen were in the Eastview neighborhood. We are beginning to see a trend of stolen vehicles used in violent crimes.”

“During this community walk, we will go door-to-door and speak with residents and discuss ways to help prevent motor vehicle theft and theft from motor vehicles.”

This event is the latest in a series of walks conducted by the Richmond Police Department in neighborhoods throughout the city.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Arrest Made in Carytown and Willow Lawn Robberies

May 1, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has made an arrest related to two robberies which occurred last week in Carytown and Willow Lawn.

The suspect, Andrew S. Falk, 30, of the 800 block of North Boulevard, was charged with robbery (x2). Falk is also a person of interest in a robbery which occurred in Henrico County on April 17. A Richmond City booking photo is attached.

Shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, the suspect entered the Petco animal supplies store at 10 N. Nansemond St. and gave the cashier a note demanding money from the cash drawer. He fled store on foot, entered a green Honda, and drove eastbound on Floyd Avenue.

The next day, around 2:30 p.m. at the Wells Fargo at 4901 West Broad Street, the suspect entered the bank, approached the customer service desk, handed the teller a note and softly said, “Cooperate with me. I don’t want to hurt you,” He then advised the teller not to cause a scene. The bank teller then handed the suspect money from her drawer.

The suspect asked her, “Where are the hundred dollar bills?” When the teller explained she did have any large bills, he fled on foot heading southbound on Staples Mill Road toward Monument Avenue.

No weapons were involved in either incident.

On Thursday, April 27, Falk was taken into custody and was arrested without incident.

Anyone with additional information about these incidents is asked to call Third Precinct Detective Ryan Nixon at (804) 646-1165 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. Both Crime Stoppers contacts are anonymous.

               Andrew Falk

Bicyclist Identified in Fatal Collision

April 29, 2017

The Richmond Police Department has identified the bicyclist killed the fatal collision on the southside last night as John H. Shelton, Jr., 69, of the 3500 block of Broad Rock Road.

At approximately 10:39 p.m., officers were called to the intersection of Hopkins Road and Veterans Street for the report of a bicyclist struck by a vehicle.

Officers arrived and found Shelton down and unresponsive. Richmond Ambulance Authority arrived and pronounced Shelton dead at the scene. The vehicle that stuck Shelton remained at the scene.

The Richmond Police Department Crash Team responded and interviewed the driver and witnesses and took measurements. The vehicle that struck Shelton, an Oldsmobile sedan, was travelling westbound in the 1600 block of Hopkins Road, and had the right-of-way, when Shelton attempted to cross Hopkins Road on his bicycle and was struck by the vehicle.

Charges are not expected to be filed.

Anyone with information that may be helpful to the investigation is asked to call SOD Officer J. Ozolins at (804) 646-1343 or Sergeant G. Borges at (804) 646-3132 or call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.