Suspect Sought in Commercial Robberies on Southside

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the individual in the attached photos who is a suspect in two separate robberies at businesses this week.

On Wednesday at a store in the 3300 block of Richmond Highway and again today at a store in the 2600 block of Hull Street, the individual in the photo attempted to walk out of the store with a basket of items without paying. The suspect then brandished a box cutter towards employees before leaving the area. There were no injuries.

The suspect is approximately 5’ 4” tall with a slim build. He walks with a slight limp.

Anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of this person is asked to call Second Precinct Detective J. Myers at (804) 646-8152 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in a Commercial Burglary

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the individual in the attached photo who is a suspect in a commercial burglary that occurred on West Broad Street last week. A photo of his vehicle is also attached.

Around 8:30 p.m., Friday, May 21, the man in the photo parked the truck in a rear parking lot in the 4100 block of West Broad Street, broke into the structure and stole several pieces of equipment. He then drove around the building to West Broad Street and left the scene.

Anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of this person is asked to call Third Precinct Detective H. Truong at (804) 646-1067 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

 

Community Walk in the Whitcomb Neighborhood

May 26, 2021

 

WHAT:                      Richmond Police Department Community Walk

 

WHEN:                      5:30 p.m. TODAY, May 26, 2021

 

WHERE:                   2200 Sussex Street – Whitcomb Neighborhood    

 

BACKGROUND:     Chief Gerald M. Smith, Command Staff and other Richmond Police Department officers will walk at 5:30 p.m. through the Whitcomb neighborhood. During the walk, officers will speak with community members about safety concerns they may have and what they would like to see from the Richmond Police Department.

                                   

“We hope to connect with many community members in the neighborhood during the Walk to discuss crime trends and the benefits of rapid communication with police when crimes occur,” said Sector 113 Lt. Mark Sims.

 

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.

 

Memorial Day Missing Persons

May 26, 2021 

WHAT:                     Chief Gerald M. Smith, detectives and family members discuss three missing person cases on the anniversary dates of their disappearance around Memorial Day

WHEN:                   Noon TODAY, May 26, 2021

WHERE:                 Police Headquarters – 200 West Grace Street    

BACKGROUND:    Three missing person cases that originated around Memorial Day through the years will be discussed as detectives hope to develop tips from the public to help the investigations.

The family of Melanie Davis, a longtime VCU Medical Center registered nurse who was reported missing in 2016, will share information and appeal for assistance from the public.

Detectives will share information on William Adkins, Jr., who was missing for three months when a family member reported him missing in 2012.

The family of Joseph Slaughter will also discuss his missing status from 2005 and the areas where he was known to frequent throughout the region.

“As each date of disappearance for our missing persons approaches, it is important to share these family memories and investigative insights to hopefully generate tips from the public that can bring our missing person home again,” said Chief Gerald M. Smith.

 

Members of the media are encouraged to attend.

Victim Identified in Fairfield Avenue Death Investigation

Richmond Police Department detectives have identified the victim in Sunday morning’s fatal shooting on Fairfield Avenue as Jaheim Wilkes, 18.

At approximately 2:13 a.m., officers responded to the 2100 block of Fairfield Avenue for the report of a shooting. Officers arrived and found a male, Wilkes, down and injured near a parked car suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where yesterday morning he succumbed to his injury.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Crewell at (804) 646-5324 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Fatal Collision on Richmond Highway

The Richmond Police Department’s Traffic Crash Team is investigating a fatal two-vehicle collision that occurred this afternoon on Richmond Highway.

At approximately 1:07 p.m., a motorcycle being operated northbound in the 2800 block of Richmond Highway collided with a pick-up truck.

The operator of the motorcycle, an adult male and sole occupant, was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injury.

No injury was reported to the driver of the pick-up truck.

The Crash Team responded and is investigating.

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to call RPD Crash Team Sergeant J. Nathanson at 804-646-3135 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in a Commercial Robbery on Forest Hill Avenue

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the individual in the attached photos who is a suspect in yesterday’s commercial robbery that occurred at a convenience store located in the 6800 block of Forest Hill Avenue.

At approximately 4:49 a.m., a male entered the store, grabbed items and approached the counter where he displayed a firearm. He demanded cash from a store employee and left the store. There were no injuries.

The suspect is approximately 6’ tall and weighs approximately 130-150 lbs. The suspect was wearing a red hoodie with the word “Hogwarts” on the front, black shorts, blue medical mask, and blue gloves.

Anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of this person is asked to call Third Precinct Detective M. Sacksteder at (804) 646-1068 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used. All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspect Sought in Idlewood Avenue Homicide

Richmond Police Department detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect in a homicide that occurred last month.

Keion Taylor, 20, is wanted for murder and firearm violations in connection to the homicide that occurred on April 21 on Idlewood Avenue.

Taylor is 6’ tall and weighs approximately 160 lbs. His photo is attached.

If you see Taylor or know of his whereabouts call 911. Do not approach him. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information on his location should contact Major Crimes Detective M. Godwin at (804) 317-6922 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

RPD Announces Liaison to Asian-American and Pacific Islander Community

May 21, 2021

Chief Gerald M. Smith has named Officer Phon Hoonsan as the Richmond Police Department’s liaison to the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community.

Born in Bangkok, Thailand, Officer Hoonsan was a police officer for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for four years before becoming a sworn officer in Richmond. She has been an officer for RPD for 15 years, mostly assigned to Second Precinct. She is currently detailed to the Public Affairs unit as a Public Information Officer.

“This is just another component of our Department’s mission to foster collaborative relationships with the entire Richmond community,” said Chief Gerald M. Smith.

“It is an honor for me to further our work with the vibrant Asian community in Richmond,” said Officer Phon Hoonsan. “Together, we can provide excellent service and continue to enjoy strong relationships which leads to sustained success.”

In her new role, Officer Hoonsan will continue to build community trust with the police through outreach to businesses, addressing safety concerns and attending community meetings and events.

Victim Identified in Williamsburg Road Homicide

Richmond Police Department detectives have identified the victim in Saturday night’s homicide on Williamsburg Road as Scott Johnson, II, 26.

At approximately 10:25 p.m., officers responded to the 2200 block of Williamsburg Road for a shooting. Officers arrived and found a male, Johnson, II, unresponsive outside of an apartment, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Medical Examiner will determine cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective Mansfield at (804) 510-4209 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Crime Stoppers is anonymous.

Homicide Investigation 2200 block Williamsburg Road

May 16, 2021

Last night at approximately 10:25 p.m., Richmond Police responded to the 2200 block of Williamsburg Road for a shooting. Officers arrived and found an adult male, down and unresponsive, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Medical Examiner will determine manner and cause of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective Mansfield at (804) 510-4209 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspects Sought in Richmond Highway Motor Vehicle Theft

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the two individuals in the attached photos who are suspects in a motor vehicle theft on Richmond Highway.

At approximately 2:55 a.m. on Saturday, April 24, the two males in the photos entered an unoccupied and idling SUV in the parking lot of a gas station in the 1000 block of Richmond Highway. They drove the 2005 Ford Explorer, silver in color, off the parking lot and in an unknown direction.

Anyone with information about their identity or whereabouts, or the location of the Ford Explorer, is asked to call First Precinct Detective T. Wilson at (804) 646-0672 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.  The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used.  All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Suspects Sought in East Cary Street Assault and Robbery

Richmond Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the individuals in the attached photos who are suspects in an assault and robbery that occurred on East Cary Street.

At approximately 6:36 a.m. on Monday, April 26, the eight juvenile males in the photos approached an adult male in the 1000 block of East Cary Street and assaulted him before stealing his wallet and mobile phone. The juveniles fled the area westbound on East Cary Street near 10^th Street.

Anyone with information about their identity or whereabouts is asked to call First Precinct Detective T. Wilson at (804) 646-0672 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.  The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones may also be used.  All Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Fugitive Twin in Custody Following Days-Long Search

Following days of tirelessly searching for a fifth suspect involved in the homicide of a mother and her infant child last week and the shooting and injuring of three others, the Richmond Police Department, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force and the FBI, last night took the final known suspect into custody.

Kevon Bynum, 18, was arrested without incident and has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder. His booking photo is attached.

Just hours after the April 27 shooting incident in the apartment complex on Midlothian Turnpike, patrol officers had three suspects in custody. This week, as the investigation continued, warrants for the twin Bynum brothers were obtained and a team of RPD and federal units unwaveringly sought the suspects. Wednesday, Kavon Bynum was taken into custody and last night his twin brother Kevon was arrested.

“The rapid arrests for these outrageous violent crimes is testament to the focused, dedicated and selfless coordinated work by these law enforcement professionals,” Chief Gerald M. Smith said. “Members of the public provided important information and the media shared the story of these fugitives which allowed our coordinated team of patrol officers, precinct FMT detectives, our Special Investigations investigators, detectives and supervisors from Major Crimes and the valuable assistance of the US Marshals and the FBI to be successful.”

Anyone with further information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Russell at (804) 646-7715 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Driver Identified in Fatal Crash on Arthur Ashe Boulevard

May 5, 2021

The Richmond Police Department’s Special Operations Division - Traffic Crash Team is investigating a fatal crash that occurred last night in the Carytown neighborhood.

At approximately 9:16 p.m., Nicholas Anthony Smith, 23, a male and sole occupant, was operating a vehicle southbound in the 100 block of South Arthur Ashe Boulevard and lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a pole near the intersection of West Cary Street. Witnesses stated that he swerved to avoid striking two pedestrians that were crossing Arthur Ashe Boulevard from east to west at that location. Smith was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Investigators determined that speed was a factor.

The Crash Team responded, collected evidence, took measurements and are actively investigating.

Anyone with further information about this crash is asked to call RPD Crash Team Investigator W. Kress at 804-646-0280 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

One Twin Arrested, One Sought for Homicides of Mother and Infant in Midlothian Turnpike Shootings

Richmond Police detectives, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force, have arrested a male twin, Kavon Bynum, 18, a suspect in last week’s homicides of a mother and her infant daughter at an apartment complex on Midlothian Turnpike.

Kavon Bynum’s twin brother, Kevon Bynum, is still being sought.

Kavon Bynum was arrested last night without incident and has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder. His booking photo is attached.

Kevon Bynum is wanted for conspiracy to commit murder from the same incident. A photo of Kevon Bynum is also attached. Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance to locate Kevon Bynum. Anyone with knowledge of Kevon Bynum’s whereabouts is asked to call 911. He is considered armed and dangerous.

Three others have been charged in this incident.

At approximately 6:31 p.m. on Tuesday, April 27, officers were called to the 4000 block of Midlothian Turnpike for a shooting. Sharnez Hill, 30, and her daughter, 3 months old, were shot at the scene and transported to a local hospital where they succumbed to their injuries. One other adult female and two female teens were also injured. The three other female victims have injuries that were not believed to be life threatening.

Anyone with further information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective G. Russell at (804) 646-7715 or contact Crime Stoppers at 780-1000. Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Bynum, Kavon

Bynum, Kevon (SOUGHT)

Victim Identified in East Ladies Mile Homicide

Richmond Police Department detectives have identified the victim in last week’s homicide on East Ladies Mile as James Foster, III, 18.

At approximately 10:22 p.m., on Thursday, April 29, officers were called to the 200 block of East Ladies Mile for a report of a person shot. Officers arrived and found an adult male, Foster, down and unresponsive in a parking lot of a store, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Foster was transported to a local hospital where on Friday he succumbed to his injuries.

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

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detective J. Higgins at (804) 646-7570 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.