Be Prepared, Not Scared – Murray, Hudes Help Senior Citizens Learn How to Safeguard Their Homes from “Distraction Burglary”Residential burglaries are invasions of privacy and are threats to the safety and quality of life enjoyed by Hempstead Town residents. Many burglars prey on our most vulnerable citizens, tending to target the senior citizens in our community. Indeed, there have been nine “distraction burglaries” and attemptedrobberies in our area since December 9th, whereby criminals used various methods of deception to distract homeowners to gain access to valuables inside.
In an effort to increase awareness and knowledge for concerned senior citizens, Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray, Councilman Gary Hudes and the Department of Public Safety hosted a burglary prevention safety seminar at the East Meadow Senior Center on Friday.
“Being cautious and alert can go a long way in safeguarding your home and your loved ones from criminals,” Murray said. “This seminar will be a valuable educational tool for our seniors so they can enjoy their golden years without fearing for their safety. Be prepared, not scared.”
The spate of “distraction burglaries” and robbery attempts are a disturbing trend with senior citizens as the main targets. The following are some tips for senior citizens to consider in an effort to avoid becoming victims:
Install and use a peephole
Never open the door to strangers and never let them know you’re alone.
Ask for identification. If someone rings your doorbell claiming to provide a service and/or represent a company, organization or group, ask them to present identification. Get their names.
Beware of phone scams: Don’t give personal or financial information over the phone. Hang up on nuisance callers and report them.
Protect yourself from common types of consumer crimes, including medical and insurance fraud, sweepstakes scams, business schemes and unlicensed home repairs.
If someone breaks into your home, do not confront the burglar. Lock the room you’re in and if you can get to a phone, quietly call law enforcement officials.
“If you don’t know someone at your door, don’t let them in,” Hudes said. “If you feel threatened or have been victimized by one of these crimes, immediately contact the authorities.”
“Awareness and education are keys to preventing unwelcome intruders from entering the home,” Murray said. “I encourage senior citizens, and all residents, to follow these important preventative tips. Remember, the best way to fight crime is to prevent it in the first place.”
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Receiver of Taxes to Host Taxpayer Forums
Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin has announced his winter series of taxpayer forums at local libraries. As part of his commitment to making government work effectively for the residents of the township, Clavin will discuss important issues such as assessment challenges, tax exemptions, tax discounts, property tax payment dates and convenient tax payment options.
“As we approach the annual grievance period during which property owners may apply for a reduction in assessed value of their property, it is important that residents understand the steps they can take if they believe that their home’s assessment is out of line (too high) with comparable properties in their neighborhoods,” said Clavin. “My taxpayer forums give residents an opportunity to ask questions, address any ‘taxpayer’ concerns that they may have and obtain valuable information about tax reduction programs in which the town participates.”
Tax Forums are scheduled as follows:
January 12- 2 p.m., Lynbrook Library, 56 Eldert St.
January 17-1 p.m., Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Rd.
January 19- 1 p.m., Hewlett-Woodmere Library, 1125 Broadway, Hewlett
January 25- 2 p.m., Oceanside Public Library, 30 Davison Ave.
January 26- 2 p.m., Levittown Library, 1 Bluegrass La.
February 2- 2 p.m., Hempstead Library, 115 Nichols Ct., Hempstead
February 8- 1 p.m., Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke.
February 9- 2 p.m., Baldwin Library, 2385 Grand Ave.
February 21- 2 p.m., Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave.
“These forums are just another way in which Hempstead Town is doing its part to keep taxpayers informed so they do not have to pay one penny more than their fair share of taxes,” remarked Town Supervisor Kate Murray.
Forums are free, and all are welcome to attend. For further information about taxpayer forums, please call the Office of the Receiver of Taxes at (516) 538-1500.
“I encourage residents to attend one of the upcoming forums and learn how they might be able to reduce their property tax burdens,” concluded Clavin.
“As we approach the annual grievance period during which property owners may apply for a reduction in assessed value of their property, it is important that residents understand the steps they can take if they believe that their home’s assessment is out of line (too high) with comparable properties in their neighborhoods,” said Clavin. “My taxpayer forums give residents an opportunity to ask questions, address any ‘taxpayer’ concerns that they may have and obtain valuable information about tax reduction programs in which the town participates.”
Tax Forums are scheduled as follows:
January 12- 2 p.m., Lynbrook Library, 56 Eldert St.
January 17-1 p.m., Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Rd.
January 19- 1 p.m., Hewlett-Woodmere Library, 1125 Broadway, Hewlett
January 25- 2 p.m., Oceanside Public Library, 30 Davison Ave.
January 26- 2 p.m., Levittown Library, 1 Bluegrass La.
February 2- 2 p.m., Hempstead Library, 115 Nichols Ct., Hempstead
February 8- 1 p.m., Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke.
February 9- 2 p.m., Baldwin Library, 2385 Grand Ave.
February 21- 2 p.m., Merrick Library, 2279 Merrick Ave.
“These forums are just another way in which Hempstead Town is doing its part to keep taxpayers informed so they do not have to pay one penny more than their fair share of taxes,” remarked Town Supervisor Kate Murray.
Forums are free, and all are welcome to attend. For further information about taxpayer forums, please call the Office of the Receiver of Taxes at (516) 538-1500.
“I encourage residents to attend one of the upcoming forums and learn how they might be able to reduce their property tax burdens,” concluded Clavin.
Local Taxi Companies Offer Free Rides to Fight DWI
Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter announced today a STOP-DWI initiative that will put more police officers on the streets during the holiday season, and also announced the Holiday Free Ride Initiative supported by local taxi companies. The County Executive and Acting Police Commissioner were joined by President of All Island Transportation Larry Blessinger; Margaret Rebholz of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD); and Marge Lee, Executive Director of DEDICATEDD.
The “STOP DWI” program is funded by DWI fines collected in Nassau County and will provide the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) and police departments throughout the county with additional funding that will be utilized to implement an effective DWI saturation enforcement strategy that has proven very successful in years past. The NCPD’s Highway Patrol Bureau will coordinate and plan this initiative that will target certain areas throughout the county.
“Nassau County Police will be targeting drunk drivers and looking to prevent the kind of senseless alcohol-related accidents that too often occur during the holidays. My message is clear: if you drink and drive here in Nassau County you will be arrested and prosecuted,” said County Executive Mangano. “I urge everyone to be responsible and to plan accordingly so all can return home safely to their loved ones. Be smart -a taxi is a much better choice than the backseat of a patrol car. Choose your ride, don’t drink and drive.”
Since December 10th, local taxi companies have been offering free rides to those who need a ride home in an effort to deter drunk driving and prevent holiday celebrations from ending in tragedy or arrest. They will continue to offer free rides through January 1, 2012. This public service will be available throughout Nassau County and Eastern Queens by calling (516) 326-9090, and also includes rides back to the driver’s car the next day.
The following companies are participating in the Holiday Free Ride Taxi Initiative:
* Ollie’s Taxi & Airport Service
* All Island Transportation
* Taxi Latino
* Luxury Transportation
* Glen Belle Car Service
* Deluxe Transportation
“I am pleased to support and promote this generous offer of public service by the local taxi companies listed above, said Acting Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter. There is no acceptable excuse for DWI with this offer of a free ride. If you do so in Nassau County, you will be arrested.”
“We want all of our residents and customers to be safe over the holiday season. During this joyous time of year, our goal is to prevent or stop any horrible tragedies. If we can avoid one accident or someone from being injured, it is well worth it. Don’t drink and drive, let your Transportation Companies be your designated driver and keep you safe,” said Marianne Blessinger, President of Ollie’s Taxi and Airport Service.
The “STOP DWI” program is funded by DWI fines collected in Nassau County and will provide the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) and police departments throughout the county with additional funding that will be utilized to implement an effective DWI saturation enforcement strategy that has proven very successful in years past. The NCPD’s Highway Patrol Bureau will coordinate and plan this initiative that will target certain areas throughout the county.
“Nassau County Police will be targeting drunk drivers and looking to prevent the kind of senseless alcohol-related accidents that too often occur during the holidays. My message is clear: if you drink and drive here in Nassau County you will be arrested and prosecuted,” said County Executive Mangano. “I urge everyone to be responsible and to plan accordingly so all can return home safely to their loved ones. Be smart -a taxi is a much better choice than the backseat of a patrol car. Choose your ride, don’t drink and drive.”
Since December 10th, local taxi companies have been offering free rides to those who need a ride home in an effort to deter drunk driving and prevent holiday celebrations from ending in tragedy or arrest. They will continue to offer free rides through January 1, 2012. This public service will be available throughout Nassau County and Eastern Queens by calling (516) 326-9090, and also includes rides back to the driver’s car the next day.
The following companies are participating in the Holiday Free Ride Taxi Initiative:
* Ollie’s Taxi & Airport Service
* All Island Transportation
* Taxi Latino
* Luxury Transportation
* Glen Belle Car Service
* Deluxe Transportation
“I am pleased to support and promote this generous offer of public service by the local taxi companies listed above, said Acting Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter. There is no acceptable excuse for DWI with this offer of a free ride. If you do so in Nassau County, you will be arrested.”
“We want all of our residents and customers to be safe over the holiday season. During this joyous time of year, our goal is to prevent or stop any horrible tragedies. If we can avoid one accident or someone from being injured, it is well worth it. Don’t drink and drive, let your Transportation Companies be your designated driver and keep you safe,” said Marianne Blessinger, President of Ollie’s Taxi and Airport Service.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Project 21 Arrests
12/7/2011 370 WOODFIELD RD WEST HEMPSTEAD 508
KEE DELI
18:55 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 100 W MERRICK RD VALLEY STREAM 518
SHELL GAS STATION
20:55 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant . The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 530 FRANKLIN AVE FRANKLIN SQUARE 506
GETTY GAS STATION
20:00 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 758 FRANKLIN AVE NORTH VALLEY STREAM 510
VALERO GAS STATION
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of alcohol to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one 24 oz can of Coors Light from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
KEE DELI
18:55 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 100 W MERRICK RD VALLEY STREAM 518
SHELL GAS STATION
20:55 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant . The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 530 FRANKLIN AVE FRANKLIN SQUARE 506
GETTY GAS STATION
20:00 -
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of tobacco to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
12/7/2011 758 FRANKLIN AVE NORTH VALLEY STREAM 510
VALERO GAS STATION
Officers were working in plainclothes participating in Project 21 initiative, illegal
sale of alcohol to minors. Arresting officers were present at the above business when an underage agent working for the police department entered this location and bought one 24 oz can of Coors Light from the defendant. The defendant did not ask for or check the identification of this agent. Defendant placed under arrest and transported to the Fifth Precinct for processing.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Nassau County Police Holiday Safety Tips
County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter and the Police Department are taking affirmative steps to ensure the safety of the people of Nassau County during the upcoming holiday season. All of our regular marked and plainclothes patrols will be intensifying their coverage of shopping malls and commercial areas. The patrols will be augmented by patrol from our Mounted Unit and Bureau of Special Operations. Concurrently, dedicated patrols have been assigned to the major malls within the county, putting additional police officers at those locations during peak hours.
In addition to shopping safety, Nassau Police will also be on the outlook for drivers and occupants who are not complying with the Seat Belt Law. This includes children who are not in child safety seats or buckled in their seat. Police Officers will also be vigilant watching for drivers who are drinking and driving on all roads in Nassau. Handicapped parking violations will be strictly enforced. Parking in handicapped spaces are reserved for those with visible permits.
Before Leaving Home
Plan your shopping trip carefully. Know where you are going and what routes you will take to get there.
If possible, arrange for a friend to go shopping with you. There is safety in numbers.
Let someone know where you are going and what route you will be taking. Additionally, let them know when you expect to return.
Leave your home secure, engage alarms and give the appearance that your home is occupied by leaving the lights on in the most frequently used rooms.
Don’t leave valuable items out in the open. Secure them in closets, safes, etc.
When Parking
Always park in well-lit areas.
Note the location of your vehicle in the parking lot to conveniently return after shopping.
Always lock all your doors.
Remove all items, such as radar detectors, laptops or packages and hide them in the trunk, glove compartment, out of site.
Avoid parking near vans or other vehicles with covered cargo areas.
Avoid carrying large handbags. Carry only what is necessary.
Look around the parking lot for suspicious persons before you exit your vehicle.
Don’t get out of your vehicle until you are ready. If you don’t feel safe, stay in the car or drive away.
While Shopping
Keep your money and credit cards in your front pocket and try to limit the number of credit cards and cash you’re carrying while shopping.
To avoid being a victim of “Identity Theft”, be aware of exposing credit cards, debit cards and other identification at the cash register and ATM’s. Thieves will utilize cell phones to capture card information without your knowledge.
Be cognizant of any other type of “Distraction” type of crimes that typically occur during this time of the year.
When Returning To Your Car
Never leave the store with your arms full of packages. Use a courtesy cart.
Have your car key in hand, ready to unlock your door.
Check the parking lot for suspicious people and look around before you exit the store.
Do not return to your vehicle if you see people loitering nearby.
Carry a whistle or other audible device. If you feel threatened, use it. If you’re inside your vehicle, lock your doors and honk your horn to attract attention.
Check underneath, in front and in back of your car as you approach it.
Check the front and rear passenger seats inside your car before you enter it.
If you are planning on returning to the store, never leave your packages in plain view inside your vehicle. Lock them in the trunk or place them on the floor and cover them with a blanket or jacket.
ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
The Nassau County Police Department wishes everyone a safe and Happy Holiday season.
In addition to shopping safety, Nassau Police will also be on the outlook for drivers and occupants who are not complying with the Seat Belt Law. This includes children who are not in child safety seats or buckled in their seat. Police Officers will also be vigilant watching for drivers who are drinking and driving on all roads in Nassau. Handicapped parking violations will be strictly enforced. Parking in handicapped spaces are reserved for those with visible permits.
Before Leaving Home
Plan your shopping trip carefully. Know where you are going and what routes you will take to get there.
If possible, arrange for a friend to go shopping with you. There is safety in numbers.
Let someone know where you are going and what route you will be taking. Additionally, let them know when you expect to return.
Leave your home secure, engage alarms and give the appearance that your home is occupied by leaving the lights on in the most frequently used rooms.
Don’t leave valuable items out in the open. Secure them in closets, safes, etc.
When Parking
Always park in well-lit areas.
Note the location of your vehicle in the parking lot to conveniently return after shopping.
Always lock all your doors.
Remove all items, such as radar detectors, laptops or packages and hide them in the trunk, glove compartment, out of site.
Avoid parking near vans or other vehicles with covered cargo areas.
Avoid carrying large handbags. Carry only what is necessary.
Look around the parking lot for suspicious persons before you exit your vehicle.
Don’t get out of your vehicle until you are ready. If you don’t feel safe, stay in the car or drive away.
While Shopping
Keep your money and credit cards in your front pocket and try to limit the number of credit cards and cash you’re carrying while shopping.
To avoid being a victim of “Identity Theft”, be aware of exposing credit cards, debit cards and other identification at the cash register and ATM’s. Thieves will utilize cell phones to capture card information without your knowledge.
Be cognizant of any other type of “Distraction” type of crimes that typically occur during this time of the year.
When Returning To Your Car
Never leave the store with your arms full of packages. Use a courtesy cart.
Have your car key in hand, ready to unlock your door.
Check the parking lot for suspicious people and look around before you exit the store.
Do not return to your vehicle if you see people loitering nearby.
Carry a whistle or other audible device. If you feel threatened, use it. If you’re inside your vehicle, lock your doors and honk your horn to attract attention.
Check underneath, in front and in back of your car as you approach it.
Check the front and rear passenger seats inside your car before you enter it.
If you are planning on returning to the store, never leave your packages in plain view inside your vehicle. Lock them in the trunk or place them on the floor and cover them with a blanket or jacket.
ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
The Nassau County Police Department wishes everyone a safe and Happy Holiday season.
Monday, November 7, 2011
First Nationwide Alert of the Emergency Broadcast System
On Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.(EST),the federal government will be conducting the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The test will last up to three and a half minutes. During this period, regularly scheduled television, radio, cable, and satellite shows will be interrupted as the system is being tested.
This system test is the first of its kind designed to broadcast a nationwide message to the American public. In the history of the country, nothing like it has been conducted on such a level. As you may be aware, there have been tests in the past, but not of this magnitude encompassing all regions of the Nation simultaneously. The three (3) minute test will run concurrently on all radio and TV band stations exceeding the previous messages broadcast which were anywhere from a 30 second to 1 minute message.
The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies. NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts. A national test will help federal partners and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system, as well as its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers both nationally and regionally. The test will also provide the FCC and FEMA a chance to identify improvements that need to be made to build a modernized and fully accessible Emergency Alert System.
Below are two websites that will provide more information regarding this test:
- http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm
- https://nationaldialogue-emergencyalertsystem.ideascale.com/
This system test is the first of its kind designed to broadcast a nationwide message to the American public. In the history of the country, nothing like it has been conducted on such a level. As you may be aware, there have been tests in the past, but not of this magnitude encompassing all regions of the Nation simultaneously. The three (3) minute test will run concurrently on all radio and TV band stations exceeding the previous messages broadcast which were anywhere from a 30 second to 1 minute message.
The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies. NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts. A national test will help federal partners and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system, as well as its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers both nationally and regionally. The test will also provide the FCC and FEMA a chance to identify improvements that need to be made to build a modernized and fully accessible Emergency Alert System.
Below are two websites that will provide more information regarding this test:
- http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm
- https://nationaldialogue-emergencyalertsystem.ideascale.com/
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