Crime & Safety

Preventing Summer Crimes: A Q&A with Corporal Roland Alexander

The Riverdale Park Police Department's community resource officer gives tips on how to stay safe in the summer.

Riverdale Park, like neighboring communities University Park and Hyattsville, has seen a recent increase in crime this summer. Most of the crimes have been citizen robberies along the park trails and thefts from cars on neigborhood streets. Local police departments have been encouraging residents to stay aware of their surroundings and to help prevent themselves from becoming victims.

Riverdale Park-University Park Patch: What are some of the more prevalent crimes during the summer?

Roland Alexander: There are more crimes with juvenile involvement during the summer. This summer there has been a spike in citizen robberies. There have also been a lot of property crimes, where electronics, televisions and computers were taken and car thefts.

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Patch: Why do you think more teens are involved in crimes during the summer?

Alexander: They don't have anything to do during the summer, and I guess they get bored. Teens should be enrolled in summer camps, sports programs or get a summer job to avoid being idle. There are a lot of programs out there, but parents need to get involved and make sure their kids sign up.

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Patch: Local police have told residents to report when they think someone is doing something suspicious. How do you know who is suspicious?

Alexander: You can't tell without stereotyping, the difference between teens gathering at a corner and when teens are looking to get into trouble. But if a resident feels unsafe they should call the police. To call Riverdale Park Police, they should dial 301-927-4343. They can also call 911, which will push them through to Prince George's County Police. [Do you want to add in an editor's note about what people in University Park should do to contact the police?]

Patch: How can someone prevent becoming a victim of a crime?

Alexander: 1. Be aware of your surroundings. 2. Don't go out to the park at night. 3.  If you're going to walk at night, walk in a group. 4. Try not to run at night; if you do, run without earphones in your ears.

Patch: If someone does get robbed, what should that person do?

Alexander: Give them what they want, and don't fight them. Try to get a good description of their facial features, clothing and complexion.

Patch: How can residents prevent property crimes?

Alexander: Neighborhood watches are the best way to prevent property crimes, because neighbors look out for one another. If everyone knew their neighbors, they would know when someone shouldn't be there. [Transition from his explanation to the numbered list?]1. Don't leave computers out. 2. Local all doors and windows. 3. Cut shrubs back away from house. 4. If you're traveling or work at night, get an auto light system.

Patch: How can residents prevent car thefts?

Alexander: Put away the GPS, any change and CDs. Put your laptops and purses in the trunk when leaving the vehicle to run into the store. If you stop the opportunity, then there's a smaller chance for crime. However, if you eliminate the opportunity, it still doesn't mean you won't be a victim.


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