Information and Advice from the Police and Community Relations Council - Pikesville, Precinct 4

As the New Year begins, there is a growing trend of vehicle "break-ins" in the Pikesville area and throughout Baltimore County. Unfortunately, many people who realize that their cars have been entered and rifled through by some unknown person, are not reporting this to police. It may be that nothing was taken, or a resident isn't sure what was taken, but it is still important to report the incident as it will assist police with locating the perpetrators and will help identify crime trends.

Pikesville's PCRC President Jerry D'Antoni, stated that "This is an on going problem with people forgetting to lock their vehicles. I recommend removing all valuables from your vehicle and being certain to lock the doors in addition to reporting cars or people that are just hanging around or look like they don't belong. I always say that if it doesn't look right, it most likely isn't right, so err on the side of caution and call the police. It's better to be safe than sorry."

A good resource to utilize if one wishes to avoid calling 911, is the Baltimore County Police web site that allows for residents to file police reports online. "Online reporting is designed to make filing a police report easier and more convenient for you; however, not every crime can be reported online. In most cases, you may report lost property, abandoned vehicles, hit and runs, destruction of property and theft online." The web address is: http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/onlinereport/index.html There is also a phone number to use for requesting a report in lieu of dialing 911. This number is: 410-887-2222.  

Another good resource is iWatch Baltimore County. iWatch is "a neighborhood awareness program created to educate and encourage citizens to vigilantly watch around them and report suspicious behaviors that may have connections to crime, as well as local, state, or national security threats." There is a form available for non-emergency situations that can be filled out and sent online by going to the following web address: http://baltimorecountypcrc.org/iWatch.htm

As the year rolls along, let's all remember the importance of being alert and watching out for our neighbors. Together we can make Pikesville a safer, happier community.

"The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life."  -Jane Addams

*Police & Community Relations Council-Pikesville, Precinct 4 meeting will be on January 24th, 2012 at 7pm. The meeting will be held at the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation*