latest news

At the beginning of our May meeting, the Association’s membership elected our 2013-14 officers: President Jonathan Lawlor; First Vice President Samantha Nolan; Second Vice President Barbara Elkus; Treasurer Joan Linderman; and Secretary Debbie Parker. In addition, Nancy Taylor was elected as the At-Large Nominating Committee Member.

Following the election, we proceeded with our annual public safety meeting, which included in-depth discussion of an array of public safety issues. The CCCA’s Director of Neighborhood Watch, Samantha Nolan, and Public Safety Committee Chair, George Corey, introduced themselves and their roles in the community, announced the speakers, and moderated the discussion.

The Metropolitan Police Department’s Ronald Reid discussed adult sexual crimes prevention. In particular, he explained that 70% of sexual assaults occur between people who already know each other. While, as Sgt. Reid noted, sexual assaults in our Police Service Area 201 are rare, such crimes are more prevalent in areas that neighborhood residents may frequent, such as nightlife areas downtown.

Sgt. Reid described MPD’s recent campaign to bars and restaurants to have waiters and bartenders watch out for intoxicated individuals who may be being targeted for sexual assault (or, as later mentioned by Second District Commander Michael Reese, targeted for a mugging). As part of the campaign, posters are being put up in bars advising individuals to keep watch over their own drinks, as foreign substances ranging from the “date rape” drug to an easily obtained sleeping pill could be added. Basically, if you lose sight of your drink, buy another one.

Commander Reese and Captain Jeffrey Herold addressed combating crime in our Police Service Area 201, especially thefts from automobiles and burglaries, which have recently been particular causes for concern. In response, police presence has been increased. Residents were advised that to help deter these crimes they should keep their doors and windows of their cars and homes locked and to keep valuables out of view.

Chevy Chase Village, MD Police Chief John Fitzgerald discussed cross-jurisdictional cooperation, including several success stories with MPD's Second District.

PSA 201 Officer William Parr explained the operation of the newly installed HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crossWalK) signal, at Connecticut Avenue and Northampton Street, NW. A HAWK signal is a signal-beacon designed to help pedestrians safely cross busy streets. For information about the HAWK signal, CLICK HERE

Finally, PSA 201 Sgt. Sharion Garner was in attendance and available for questions before and after the meeting. Unfortunately, PSA 201 Lt. Antonio Charland had a work conflict and could not attend.