Crime Watch Alert

This was posted on the Woodland Heights Yahoo Group by one of the neighborhood Watch Captains.

“Hello neighbors. I am the Neighborhood Watch block captain for the 700 block of West 33rd Street. I am writing this email to share some recent events with you.

On Friday September 11, an older white man in a grey Mazda Tribute was seen parked and watching young children play in the 700 block of West 33rd Street. This was not the first time this individual had been seen on the block watching the children at this particular home. It appears the man had followed my neighbor home within the past few months (unbeknowst to my neighbor) and knows where my neighbor and the children live. In a couple of previous sightings of this man, the police were called and his activity was reported. This past Friday, 911 was called three different times to report the man sitting in his car across from my neighbor’s house. Two of my neighbors confronted the man but he refused to leave or to explain what he was doing and why he was there. Officer Fernandez, from the 3rd precinct, arrived an hour and a half later to investigate. By this time the man had left. A report was taken by the officer and he said to call 911 again in the future if the man returns.

This morning I called the 3rd precinct to speak with the lieutenant of our sector, 312. I spoke with Lt. John O’Kleasky to discuss the events of Friday and the previous events. I wanted to discuss the amount of time it took for a response to the three phone calls and to ask what the next steps would be. I also inquired about what we could do here in the neighborhood. He explained that all 911 calls are prioritized and that is probably what delayed the response on Friday. I said I understood but that we were still concerned about the safety of the children on this block and other children in the neighborhood, even if the man had not (yet) committed a crime. Lt. O’Kleasky was very helpful and we had a very productive conversation. As a result, Lt. O’Kleasky and Officer Fernandez came over to my neighbor’s house this afternoon to further discuss the recent events. Lt. O’Kleasky and Officer Fernandez have taken this situation seriously. Since the license plate number was noted and written down by my neighbors, the police have identified the owner of the grey Mazda Tribute. They are going to continue their investigation and to keep us informed.

So, why am I taking the time to tell you all of this? Because everyone, and I mean everyone, needs to continue to be aware of what is going on around you and your home. We need to be the eyes and ears of this neighborhood to continue to keep everyone safe. Know your neighbors. Know their cars. Be aware of their comings and goings. If something seems out of the ordinary, make a note of it. (My neighbor’s detailed notes were very helpful to the police) And, don’t hesitate to call 911.

Also, Lt. O’Kleasky provided his contact information:
Lt. John O’Kleasky
John.O’Kleasky@ richmondgov. com
Work phone: 646-1944
Cell phone: 380-8459″

If you have a question or a concern, I would encourage you to contact him. He listened to my concerns today and was very quick to respond.