Police Reports

Anyone can access police reports in a timely fashion these days. Just click on the www.dallaspolice.net link to the left for the Public Access icon. If you'd like to see what's happened in our neighborhood, insert 122 in the Beat No. field. You can sort by date, address, complainant, beat number, etc. It is a great resource and will give you an idea of what is going on in the neighborhood.

A Word About Purses

Yesterday one of my coworkers ran into the post office for a minute and returned to find her car window broken and her purse missing. The police officer explained that burglars watch for women who get out of their cars without their purses because they are sure to hit the BMV jackpot. So, ladies, please remember to take your purses with you no matter how long you think you'll be out of the car - at the gas station, the post office, running to your mailbox, etc.

BDC Alley

A resident has reported a theft from a second floor balcony in the alley between Bowen and Hall, behind BDC. The male suspect has dark hair and was wearing a long-sleeved blue shirt and pants and now has a bicycle. This incident highlights the issue of security on the second floor - everyone please keep your doors and windows locked, even if you are on the second floor. It is easier to get up there than you think. In addition, a tall fence has been erected at 3207 McKinney so there is no visibility from McKinney to the alley. As a regular patio sitter, I can confirm that there is no shortage of people wandering around in the alley who have no business there. Please exercise caution and remember that you should not confront anyone suspicious - call 911.

Dallas Morning News article on burglary increase

Copy and paste into your browser the following link for today's article on the rise in burglaries and some advice on how to protect your property.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/052708dnmetburglarbattle.3c0e36a.html

Making a 911 Report

When you call the police, give the following information to the operator - your name and address, reason you are calling, the location of the activity you are reporting, and a detailed description of the event, person, automobile, etc. Make your report as detailed as possible so the police can apprehend the suspect(s). If you are calling from your cell phone, you must report your location - make sure you give the operator your telephone number in case you are disconnected - cell phones do not give your location in same the way that your land telephone line does.

When do most crimes occur?

According to the Dallas Police Department, there is no "time" when most crimes occur. They are spread through daylight and nighttime hours. The best protection is to be on guard no matter what time it is. And always keep doors, and windows locked. Remember to call 911 if you see something or someone suspicious. Never confront anyone on your own.

What is a Crime Watch?

The Dallas Police Department defines a Crime Watch program as "a group of neighbors working together along with law enforcement agencies and local organizations to reduce residential crime." Members of the Crime Watch should not confront suspects or take risks - instead they should call local law enforcement at 911. Alert and observant neghbors can help reduce crime. For instance, all our dog walkers should carry their cellphones (in addition to their pooper scoopers) and be alert to any suspicious activity. And. the most important thing is to get to know your neighbors. They are your first line of defense...

Burglary of Motor Vehicles

As we know, burglary of motor vehicles is the most common crime in the neighborhood. Thes best way to avoid it is to hide or take valuable items you are carrying in your car, and make sure you lock your vehicle! I see broken glass along curbs almost every day. A recent news report suggests that these are organized crimes - a group of people will come through a neighborhood quickly, and burglarize many cars at a time. If you see any suspicious activity or spot someone breaking into a vehicle, call 911.

Contact Us

You may contact the Trolley Line Crime Watch at trolleyline@gmail.com. We appreciate suggestions and information about what is going on in the neighborhood.

Introduction to the Trolley Line Crime Watch!

This new crime watch program covers the portion of Uptown Dallas that lies between the Katy Trail and Oak Grove Cemetery and between Lemmon West and Allen Street. The historic trolley line runs through the neighborhood, hence the name Trolley Line Crime Watch. Our neighborhood has a wonderful school, the William B. Travis TAG School that is part of DISD and educates children from grades 4 through 8. (Just remember to obey the speed limits and flashing lights when school is in session.)

Uptown's mixes of business and residential properties requires a delicate balance so that all properties retain their value and vibrance. Membership in the Trolley Line Crime Watch will be for "residents only" - businesses have their own associations and have different needs. We encourage all residents to stay alert and stay safe.

Keep watching this blog for news and warnings!

Be safe....

Jennifer