Takoma Park Police Chief Antonio DeVaul Addresses Increase in Violent Crime

Per Takoma Park Police Chief, Antonio DeVaul: We are very concerned about the increase in violent crime in Takoma Park. These violent incidents that have plagued our region are now impacting our City far too frequently. We are doing everything we can to address the increase in crime in Takoma Park. This includes increased patrols, both uniform, and plainclothes, as well as overtime details to put more officers in identified “hot spot” problem areas. We want to make sure criminals know that Takoma Park is not a “soft target.”

We ask that residents continue to act as our eyes and ears, “if you see something say something.” Community members can also leave anonymous tips on our 911 Tip Line,   Residents’ calls/tips have led to officers being able to make arrests for in-progress crimes and have also provided information that has helped us solve crimes.

We have made several arrests for crimes in Takoma Park, including the arrests of two individuals responsible for multiple burglaries in Takoma Park and the arrest of a juvenile in the recent carjacking on Westmorland Ave. We will continue to investigate incidents to ensure offenders are identified and charged professionally.

We have held multiple Public Safety Ward meetings in Wards 1, 2, 3, and 6, as well as more focused neighborhood meetings to hear from residents, provide crime stats and crime prevention tips, and update residents on incidents in Takoma Park. Our next meeting, focused on Ward 5, will take place on Monday, March 13^th.

We also put out daily and weekly updates on crime incidents in Takoma Park. Residents can sign up for crime alerts and other public safety information on our website. Long-term, we must take a holistic approach to addressing the causes of criminal activity. Until we address these underlying issues, lack of education, food security, jobs, etc., the cycle of crime and violence will continue. The police alone cannot solve the problem. We look forward to the City implementing some of the recommendations made by the Takoma Park Reimaging Public Safety Task Force that help address these issues and continuing to look for ways to address the root causes of criminal behavior.

We are doing everything we can to keep our residents safe and secure while still protecting the values and small-town identity of Takoma Park. We are always open to ideas and input. Have suggestions? Please send them to me at Chief DeVaul.