BE ESPECIALLY ATTENTIVE TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Any obvious criminal activity, including prostitution and drug activity
• Snooping, hiding, or wandering on private property or in alleyways
• Peeking into parked cars
• Solicitors, especially those going door-to-door – they’re usually street scammers
• Unusual noises, such as glass breaking, screaming, or dog barking.
• Irrational or menacing conduct
• Walking down street with unusual object
• Property being taken out of houses or buildings where no one is at home or the business is closed
• Cars, vans, or trucks moving slowly with no lights or apparent destination.
• Anyone being forced into a vehicle
• Sitting in a car day or night, especially when transactions are taking place
• A stranger stopping to talk to, or lure a child
• Running as if from something
• If in doubt, err on the side of calling the law. Trust your instincts…
• Do not attempt to handle these situations on your own. Report these kinds of situations to 911 immediately

REPORT SUSPICIOUS AND CRIMINAL ACTIVITY TO 911

When calling 911 remain calm and give the following information:

• WHO you are – briefly identify yourself and your location
• WHAT you are reporting
• WHERE this is happening
• WAIT for additional questions by the 911 operator

Note the following to the best of your ability:

• Suspect(s): sex, race, age, height, weight, hair color, clothing, distinctive characteristics such as beard, mustache, scars, injuries or bleeding, items carried and accent/manner of speaking
• Vehicles: if a vehicle is involved note color, make, model, year, license plate, and special features such as stickers, markings, and dents

To the extent necessary also alert your neighbors and the MPSA at earliest feasibility. Even though you may call 911 anonymously, it is helpful if you are available to police for clarification and information.

PLEASE ADVISE THE MPSA OF ONGOING PATTERNS SUCH AS:

• Drug Dealing – characterized by frequent, short visits by various individuals
• Vagrants Camping & Loitering
• Nuisance Properties
• Litter Accumulation
• Graffiti and street spam
• Abandoned and junked vehicles
• Suspicious and nuisance activity, such as panhandling and drug activity
• Dark places especially along streets

These things adversely affect neighborhood safety, quality of living, aesthetics and property values. They need to be addressed as early as possible.

We encourage residents to be curious neighbors within reasonable limits

We encourage residents to start and maintain block watches.

Most importantly, the MPSA appreciates your ongoing support. Your neighborhood MPSA Patrol is the most crucial strategy in making Midtown Safer.