RPD Patrol Vehicles to Display Steady Blue Lights

June 28, 2018

Starting July 1, Richmond Police Department patrol vehicles will once again display steady blue lights on the light bars of the vehicles.

Chief Alfred Durham has re-instituted the policy in response to the Virginia General Assembly’s action to allow the blue lights. In this year’s session the body amended a law involving the colored lights permitted on emergency vehicles to allow the steady display of blue lights on police vehicles. Chief Durham briefly launched the blue light policy when he became the Department’s police chief in 2015.

“These blue lights are a great way for our officers to be visible in the neighborhoods they serve,” Chief Alfred Durham said. “When the public sees these steady blue lights they’ll know our patrol officers are in their communities serving and protecting the public. These steady blue lights are not a signal for drivers to stop – but please pull over, as usual, for flashing lights. I thank the General Assembly for amending the law to allow these blue beacons of community policing to once again shine across our city.”

Suspect and Person of Interest Sought in West Broad Street Armed Robbery

June 27, 2018

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect and person of interest in the photos who are suspected to have involvement in an armed robbery which occurred this morning inside 7-Eleven on West Broad Street.

At approximately 3:06 a.m., an unknown male entered the 7-Eleven in the 4600 block of West Broad Street, displayed a firearm to the cashier, and demanded money. The cashier complied and the suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect was last seen driving south on Westmoreland Street in a dark-colored sedan.

A few minutes prior to the reported robbery, an unknown female entered the store. Detectives believe she may be involved in the incident.

The suspect is described as a black male in his early-20s. He was last seen wearing a navy blue sweatshirt, gray pants, and black shoes.

The person of interest is described as a black female approximately 20-30 years old. She was last seen wearing a black cropped top with block lettering, black pants, no shoes, and a colored cap on her head.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this incident to call Third Precinct Detective A. Davila at (804) 646-1069 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.

Standout Athlete Mo Alie-Cox to speak at PAL Summer Camp

June 27, 2018

WHAT:                    2018 Police Athletic League Summer Camp

  

WHEN:                   Thursday, June 28 8:30 a.m.

WHERE:                 Sports Center of Richmond (SCOR) 1365 Overbrook Road

BACKGROUND:    The annual PAL Summer Camp is in full swing, and former VCU basketball star, Mo Alie-Cox will be providing words of encouragement to campers Thursday morning.

                                   

                                 A fan favorite, Alie-Cox is well known for his skills on the basketball court at Virginia Commonwealth University. He recently made the transition to football after signing a reserve/future contract with the Indianapolis Colts   

                                “For our young children, Alie-Cox represents something more than another NFL player,” said Sgt. Kenneth Peterson. “His VCU basketball journey and NFL career is a testament to all our campers that although you may not have all of the answers in life, perseverance, dedication, and commitment can most certainly help you find them.”

                                The Richmond PAL Summer Camp is designed to provide Richmond’s youth with a safe environment to participate in a variety of sports and educational opportunities. Participants build relationships with members of the Richmond Police Department. Officers mentor the students to become champions in life.

Cold Case: Many Witnesses, Few Tips in Christmastime Homicide of 2000

June 26, 2018

The Richmond Police Department is still seeking information related to the homicide of Clyde E. Foster who was found dead in Northside 18 years ago, days after the Christmas holiday.

Around 8 a.m. on Dec. 27, 2000, Foster, who was also known as “Butter,” was shot multiple times in the 3700 block of Loudon Street near East Ladies Mile Road. When police arrived, his body was faced down and partially covered in snow. He was pronounced dead at the scene. He was 28 years old at the time of his death.

Police believe Foster may have been inside of a burgundy Honda sedan shortly before he was killed.

“Several individuals in the area heard gunfire around 10 p.m. the night before Foster was found, however there were no calls to police to respond at the time they occurred,” said Det. D. Burt. “While this case occurred nearly two decades ago, we ask that anyone who may recall any details from that night to contact us.”

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective D. Burt at (804) 646-3913 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Community Walk in the Westover Neighborhood

June 26, 2018

WHAT:                       Richmond Police Department Community Walk

WHEN:                      5:30 p.m. Today, June 26, 2018

WHERE:                    5800 block of Westover Village Drive

BACKGROUND:     Chief Alfred Durham and Richmond Police Department officers will walk through Richmond’s Westover neighborhood this evening. During the walk, Chief Durham and 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 312 Lt. Harold Giles said that the area has seen an increase in property crimes such as thefts from motor vehicles and motor vehicle thefts.

                                “Simple tips such as locking doors and keeping items out of plain sight can make a huge difference in preventing these kinds of thefts,” said Lt. Giles.

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.

Victim Identified in Southside Homicide

June 25, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim of this morning’s homicide in the Bellemeade neighborhood as Stephon B. Clarke, 33, of the 1300 block of Minefee Street.

At approximately 2:36 a.m. this morning, a call was received for random gunfire in the 1400 block of Drewry Street. First and Second Precinct officers arrived on scene where they found Clarke unconscious and suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Russell at (804) 646-7715 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.

The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Victim Identified in Bethel Street Homicide

June 22, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim who has succumbed to his injuries in a life-threatening shooting that occurred late last month on Bethel Street.

At approximately 2:57 a.m., on Tuesday, May 29, officers responded to the 2300 block of Bethel Street for the report of a person shot. When police arrived, they located Charles H. Pope Jr., 30, of the 5000 block of Cheshire Drive, Hopewell in a vehicle suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Pope Jr. succumbed to his injuries yesterday.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with 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.

The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Identified in Downtown Barricade

June 21, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has identified the suspect as Charles W. McKinney, 48, of the city of Richmond, in a barricade which occurred downtown on Tuesday.

At approximately 11:17 a.m. on June 19, a call was received for an individual, later identified as McKinney, who barricaded himself with possible injuries at the Richmond Omni Hotel located at 100 S. 12^th St. When officers arrived, they were directed toward the exterior of the building where they saw a window that was shattered on the 15^th floor.

Upon entry and further analysis of the situation, police negotiators were called to speak with McKinney for an hour. During that time, McKinney caused significant damage to the hotel. When he stopped communicating with negotiators, officers made entry into the room and took him into custody. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he underwent a medical examination.

No injuries were observed or reported at the conclusion of the event. A booking photo is NOT available at this time.

Police are still investigating this incident.

Anyone with further information about this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

2018 Richmond Bacon Festival Traffic Advisory

June 21, 2018

An estimated 5,000 people will be at the 17^th Street Farmer’s Market on Saturday for the 5^th annual Richmond Bacon Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Numerous road closures and “No Parking” zones will be in effect beginning 3 p.m. on Friday, June 22 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 23.

The list of street closures are as follows:

·         100 block of North 17^th Street between East Franklin and Grace Streets

·         1700 block of East Franklin Street between North 18^th and Ambler Streets

·         100 block of Ambler Street between East Franklin and Grace Streets

·         1600 block of East Grace Street between North 17^th and Ambler Streets

·         200 block of Crane Street between East Broad and Grace Streets

Street closures are available for view on Google Maps.

(Direct URL: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1gpzv0EETFOKYWxKU1LWQPM-tfI58lLCe&ll=37.53502155995882%2C-77.42741615&z=18)

Information is also posted on the Richmond Police Department website.

Traffic Advisory: Belvidere Street Bridge Closed This Weekend

June 21, 2018

The Belvidere Street Bridge which crosses over the Downtown Expressway will be closed from 9 p.m. on Friday, June 22 to 6 a.m. on Monday, June 25 for deck rehabilitation. There will be alternating lane closures in both directions.

To increase awareness and safety, traffic control signs will be placed prior to entering the bridge.

The Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the Richmond Police Department would like to remind motorists to pay attention to signage and use caution while traveling through the work zone.

Road work in this area will be weather permitting.

Victim Identified, Suspect Identified and Arrested in Double Shooting in the East End

June 18, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has made an arrest in the Saturday morning homicide and aggravated assault that occurred in the 1600 block of Spotsylvania Street.

At approximately 2:30 a.m., officers were called to that location for the report of a shooting. Officers found Tevon M. Cook, 26, of the 1700 block of Carlisle Avenue, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injury later that same day.

Another adult male was found at the location suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital with an injury that was not considered life threatening.

Officers were able to detain a male in close proximity to the crime scene. That individual, Vashawn C. Hill, 26, of the 00 block of Blair Drive, Warfield, Virginia, was later arrested and has been charged with malicious wounding. Additional charges relating to the homicide are pending. His photo is attached.

Anyone with further information about this homicide and aggravated assault is asked to call Major Crimes Detective D. Cuffley at (804) 646-6795 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Arrests Made in Walmsley Boulevard Homicide

June 15, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has arrested two persons in connection to last month’s homicide on Walmsley Boulevard.

Zaquarie D. Hightower, 19, of the 5700 block of Westover Village Drive and Ayah A. Alshaer, 20, of the 5700 block of Westover Village Drive were arrested Friday on a capias in connection with the murder of Elizabeth M. Ziegler, 34, of the 3400 block of Walmsley Boulevard. Additional charges are pending. Booking photos will be released once they become available.

At approximately 1:23 p.m., on Thursday May 17, officers were called to the 4200 block of Walmsley Boulevard for the report of a person shot. Officers responded and found Ziegler, 34, of the 3400 block of Walmsley Boulevard on a sidewalk suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. She was transported to a local hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.

Detectives are asking anyone with information about this homicide, to contact Major Crimes Detective A. Sleem at (804) 814-7123 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All three Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Police Seek Information in Jefferson Davis Corridor Shooting

June 15, 2018

The Richmond Police Department is seeking information regarding a shooting which occurred early this month in the Northern Barton Heights neighborhood.

At approximately 9:25 p.m. on Friday, June 1, an off-duty Richmond Sheriff Deputy advised of shots fired in the 2300 block of North Avenue. One minute later, police received a call for a person shot within the same block.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where he is still receiving treatment for his life-threatening injuries.

No suspect information is available at this time. Police are still investigating this incident.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes Detective N. Reese at (804) 646-0712 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Victims Identified in Lincoln Avenue Death Investigation

June 13, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victims in a death investigation that occurred Sunday night on Lincoln Avenue.

At approximately 10:57 p.m., Sunday, officers were in the area of the 600 block of Lincoln Avenue for an unrelated call when they heard gunfire. When police arrived, they located Quentin R. Robinson, 25, of the 2800 block of Matterhorn Drive, Henrico and Herbert O. Carter, 37, of the 9900 block of Racquet Club Lane, Henrico suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both Robinson and Carter were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine the exact cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes K. Hughes at (804) 646-3915 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.  Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

RPD to Give Away 100 Bikes at Public Safety 5K Bike Ride

June 13, 2018

WHAT:                         2018 Public Safety 5K: Bike Ride & Community Day

WHEN:                        8 a.m., Saturday, June 16

WHERE:                      Broad Rock Park (4825 Old Warwick Road)

BACKGROUND:         Now in its 13^th year, the Richmond Police Department is hosting the 2018 Public Safety 5K: Bike Ride and Community Day.

Thanks to the generous donations from Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries and members of the community, 100 brand new bicycles and helmets will be given to children between the ages of 9 and 15 years old at no cost who pre-registered for the event prior to June 12. Priority will be given to children who do not have bicycles. We are no longer accepting applicants for new bicycles.

The day’s activities, which are open to the public, will include a 5K bike ride through South Richmond and a community event immediately following the ride which will feature free food, music, and games.

“We look forward to hosting this event,” said Sgt. Coretta Monts. “It’s another opportunity to interact with the great citizens of Richmond and strengthen relationships with the city’s youth.”

Those interested in participating in the 5K ride are asked to visit http://bit.ly/2018RPDBikeAThon to reserve a spot. All participants must have a bicycle, helmet and parental consent to participate. Covered shoes and helmets are required.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and the 3.2 mile bicycle ride will start at 9 a.m. The Community Day events will begin following the conclusion of the ride at 10 a.m. The ride is open to adults and youth who are, at minimum, 9 years old. An on-site obstacle course will be provided for children under 9 years old.

Please call Event Coordinator Donald Cook at (804) 646-3354 for additional information.

Suspect Sought in East Broad Street Stabbing

June 12, 2018

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photo who is a person of interest in a stabbing incident that occurred earlier this month.

At approximately 11:48 a.m., on Saturday June 2, a victim told police he was stabled by an unknown male in the 300 block of East Broad Street. The suspect fled the scene on foot. The victim was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.

The suspect is described as a black male, 40-50 years old with an average build. He was last seen on surveillance video crossing 3^rd Street wearing a white hat, a blue and white shirt, blue jeans, white shoes, and walking with a cane.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about the identity of the suspect to call Major Crimes Detective J. Larry at (804) 646-5896 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.

Lincoln Avenue Death Investigation

June 11, 2018

The Richmond Police Department is conducting a death investigation that occurred last night on Lincoln Avenue.

At approximately 10:57 p.m., yesterday, officers were in the area of the 600 block of Lincoln Avenue for an unrelated call when they heard gunfire. When police arrived, they located two males suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine the exact cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Major Crimes K. Hughes at (804) 646-3915 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com.  Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Homicide Victim Identified in Belt Boulevard Homicide/Aggravated Assault

June 7, 2018

The Richmond Police Department has identified the victim of last night’s homicide on Belt Boulevard as Kenneth L. Brown, 43, of the 900 block of Belt Boulevard.

At approximately 11:45 p.m., officers were called to a home in the 900 block of Belt Boulevard for the report of a person shot. Officers arrived and found Brown in the home, down and unresponsive, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Also at the scene was an adult male who suffered an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital with an injury that was not considered life threatening. He reported an unknown male entered the home and shot both victims before fleeing on foot.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information about these shootings is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Bailey at (804) 646-6743 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All three Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Richmond Police Partners with Special Olympics VA for Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run

June 7, 2018

WHAT:                        Special Olympics Virginia Law Enforcement Torch Run (Capitol Leg)

WHEN:                        9 a.m. on Friday, June 8

WHERE:                     Virginia Capitol Washington Monument (North 9^th & Grace Streets)

BACKGROUND:        The Richmond Police Department and members of other area law enforcement agencies will participate in the Torch Run’s Capitol Leg at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 8. This year, the Capitol Leg of the Torch Run will leave from the Washington Monument on Capitol Square. From there, runners will begin a 3.8 mile course to the Police Memorial located at Police Memorial Way in Byrd Park.

This year’s course and destination take the participants to Grace Street, past RPD headquarters and west on Main Street. After running through the Fan neighborhood and circling Carytown, the run will conclude at approximately 10 a.m. in Byrd Park.

This year, marks the 50^th anniversary of the Special Olympics games and the 33^rd year of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Suspect Sought in Accommodation Street Robbery

June 7, 2018

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the male in the photos who robbed a man on Accommodation Street last month.

At approximately 6:30 a.m. on Friday, May 11, a male walked out of a convenience store located in the 2100 block of Accommodation Street and was approached by the male pictured in the photos. The suspect pushed the victim to the ground and stole the victim’s wallet before fleeing on foot. There were no injuries.

The suspect is a black male between 30-40 years of age, approximately 5’ 9” tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds. He had a mustache and a distinctive goatee at the time of the robbery.

Detectives ask anyone with information about the identity of this suspect to call First Precinct Detective J. Hewitt at (804) 646-0576 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

RPD Invites Media to meet K-9 Puppies in Training

June 7, 2018

WHAT:                     Media availability to meet four new puppies in training at the RPD K-9 Training Facility

WHEN:                    9:30 a.m., Friday June 8

WHERE:                  K-9 Training Facility - 814 Forest Lawn Drive

BACKGROUND:     The Richmond Police Department and Richmond Animal Care and Control would like to invite members of the media to meet the four Belgian Malinois puppies that were donated to the K-9 unit by RACC in May.

                                The puppies are from a large seizure in February. They are currently residing at the RPD K-9 training facility and will be trained as drug and bomb dogs for the department.

                                “The City of Richmond wins when our departments work together,” said Christie Chipps Peters, Director of RACC. “This is such a natural collaboration and one that serves the purpose of saving animals’ lives in our shelter that translates to saving human lives on the street”.

                                 RACC is working with the department to cover the cost of food, vet care, and supplies until the puppies are tested out and can be permanently transferred to the department.

                                “These four puppies are a real windfall for us,” said Sgt. Stuart Hannah. “Quality dogs like these are expensive to acquire and the unit is extremely grateful for this gift from RACC. We’re looking forward to having these dogs help continue to fight crime in our city.”

Suspect Sought in Three Chopt Road Armed Bank Robbery

June 6, 2018

Richmond Police detectives need the public’s help to identify the suspect in the attached photos who robbed a bank this morning on Three Chopt Road.

At approximately 10:35 a.m., an unknown male entered the South State Bank in the 7100 block of Three Chopt Road. The suspect approached the teller, displayed a firearm, and demanded money. The teller complied and gave the suspect an undisclosed amount of money. The suspect fled on foot behind the bank and was last seen headed towards Register Parkway and Patterson Avenue.

The suspect is described as a black male with an average build. He is approximately 30 to 40 years old and between 5’9” – 6’0” tall. He was last seen wearing a black mask over his face, a white hooded sweatshirt, white sweatpants, and white shoes.

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this individual or who may have seen any suspicious activity or vehicles in that area over the past several days to call Third Precinct Detective R. Nixon at (804) 646-1165 or 804-510-4200. Citizens can also call Crime Stoppers at 780-1000 or submit a tip online at www.7801000.com. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smart phones may also be used. All three Crime Stoppers methods of contact are anonymous.

Registration for National Night Out 2018 is now open!

June 5, 2018

Registration for National Night Out 2018 is now open!

Annually, residents throughout the city of Richmond and across the nation lock their doors, turn on the outside lights, and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police.

Many neighborhoods throughout Richmond will be hosting a variety of special events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, flashlight walks, contests, and youth activities where police officers and other first responders will visit with residents.

National Night Out is designed to

1. Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;

2. Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts;

3. Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police‐community partnerships;

4. Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The National Night Out Kickoff event is noon to 4 p.m. on Aug. 4 at the Target located at 7107 Forest Hill Avenue.  Join officers and our local partners as we gear up for another spectacular National Night Out!

National Night Out Registration and street closure forms are found on our website:  http://www.richmondgov.com/police/NationalNightOut.aspx

Please complete, print and fax or return the street closure forms to:

Permits & Special Events Coordinator
Richmond Police Department
2219 Chamberlayne Avenue
Richmond, VA 23222
Fax: (804) 646-1830
Phone: (804) 646-1717

Suspect Sought in Theft from Motor Vehicle and Credit Card Fraud

June 1, 2018

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 near the James River.

At approximately 7:29 p.m., on Sunday, May 27, officers responded to the 700 block of West 19^th Street for the report of a theft from motor vehicle. When police arrived, the victim stated that she was at the rocks near the James River when she received messages from her bank that purchases were being made on her credit card.

The victim returned to her vehicle and found a window had been broken out. The victim’s purse and other items in the car were reported stolen.

The suspect is described as a black male with an average build and facial hair. At the time he was wearing a black T-shirt, black hat, jean shorts, red Nike tennis shoes, and a red towel over his shirt.

“With summertime quickly approaching, more residents will be headed to the parks and the James River to enjoy the warmer weather,” said Third Precinct Detective Matthew Sacksteder. “We want to remind everyone to avoid leaving valuables in their parked vehicles.”

Detectives ask anyone with any information about this man’s identity to call Third Precinct Detective M. Sacksteder at (804) 646-1068 or Crime Stoppers at 780-1000.