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.

On February 14, at approximately 9:59 am, Takoma Park Police responded to the unit block of Philadelphia Avenue for the report of an armed home invasion robbery. According to police, the victim was sitting in her kitchen when a male suspect dressed all in black clothing and a full mask covering his face walked in and placed an object to the back of her neck and demanded property (victim believed it to be a gun or a taser).  The victim complied.  After taking property, the suspect had her walk into a closet in the back bedroom while he continued to rummage through her purse.

The suspect fled the residence with property and the victim’s car keys, however, he was unable to take her vehicle because there was a vehicle blocking it.  The suspect fled on foot running towards Carroll Avenue from Park Avenue. A lookout was provided to all surrounding jurisdictions.  A K9 track with the assistance of Montgomery County Police yielded negative results.  A neighborhood canvass was conducted that yielded more witnesses.

On February 12 at approximately 12:47 pm, Takoma Park Police responded to the Hudson Avenue and Roanoke Avenue area for multiple calls about hearing what sounded like several shots being fired.  Officers canvassed the area on foot for suspects, potential victims, and casings.  Officers located seven shell casings indicative of a weapon’s discharge.  Those shell casings were impounded.

Possible suspects and vehicle descriptions were left through the Takoma Park anonymous tip line. Please contact Takoma Park Police if you witnessed the incident or have video surveillance. If you hear what sounds like shots fired please call 911 if you have an emergency or our non-emergency number of 301-270-1100. This investigation is ongoing.  If you have any information, please contact the police at 301-270-1100. Courtesy of Takoma Park Police, featured photo courtesy of Google Maps.

On February 10, at approximately 11:02 am, Takoma Park Police responded to the 6400 block of New Hampshire Avenue for the report of a theft from auto.  The victim’s vehicle was parked at the gas station near a food truck.  She witnessed one suspect open her front passenger door and steal property.  The suspect then entered a black sedan and fled towards the District of Columbia.

According to Takoma Park police, shortly after, the suspect used the victim’s credit card at a retail store in the District of Columbia.  The suspect vehicle is a black Kia Forte with DC tags and the suspect is described as an unknown race male, thin, last seen wearing a black sweater, black gloves, gray shoes, gray pants and a black ski mask. Investigation continues.  Anyone with information about this crime is asked to please call us at 301-270-1100 and reference case #230006793 Featured photo courtesy of Google Maps

On February 9, at approximately 3:30 am, Takoma Park Police responded to the 6900 block of New Hampshire Avenue for the report of an armed robbery. The victim was waiting at the bus stop when he was approached by two unknown suspects who demanded property while brandishing a handgun.  The victim complied and the suspects left the area on foot. The victim was not seriously physically injured during the armed robbery.

According to Takoma Park Police, the suspects are described as (1) Black male, approximately 6’0, skinny, last seen wearing all black with a black ski mask and (2) Black male, approximately 5’8, skinny, last seen wearing a green shirt and black pants. Lookout information was provided to all surrounding jurisdictions. Investigators are asking that anyone with information about this incident, or knows the identities of the suspects, please contact the Takoma Park Police Department at 301-270-1100 and refer to case #230005483. Featured photo courtesy of Google Maps.