We are now a little more than two weeks into the Governor's "Safer at Home" order. A few updates:
- While we have generally seen very good compliance with the restrictions the order puts in place, officers have responded to a number of informal "gatherings" (parties) held in private residences in violation of the order. Please remember that any gathering – public or private – of any number of people not part of a single household is prohibited under the order (unless a specific exception applies).
- As Easter weekend approaches, remember that the order only allows religious facilities/entities to hold gatherings if fewer than 10 people are in a room or confined space at the same time. This includes gatherings in parking lots or outdoor spaces.
- As the weather improves, remember that certain outdoor activity is allowed under the order. Biking, running and walking are all permitted (as long as appropriate social distancing is exercised). However, group activities/sports are not allowed, and playground are closed.
MPD officers have continued to focus on education and voluntary compliance when responding to possible violations of the order. However, the order is just that – an order – and it is enforceable by arrest or citation. So, please do your part...stay home unless you need to go out for something essential. If you do need to go out, practice social distancing and minimize your exposure to others. Adhering to these restrictions is undoubtedly inconvenient and difficult; but doing so is critical to the health and safety of our community.
The information provided below about some of the calls officers responded to is derived from notes provided by MPD Officers-In-Charge (OIC) at the end of their shifts. Most narratives represent early and preliminary information that was gathered by an OIC from those in the field who were actively working cases. The OIC is sharing what they were being told, in the moment. In many instances, facts and circumstances, even the type of crime listed, can change as officers, detectives and investigators continue their work.
From 6:00 a.m. on 04/08/2020 through 6:00 a.m. on 04/09/2020, MPD received 337 calls for service. This number does not include parking complaints or 911 misdials. A breakdown of the calls for service per district is as follows: Central (48), East (65), Midtown (50), North (61), South (32), West (48), and Other (33). "Other" is used for calls that either do not have a sector or the sector is not in the City. This would be used in the case of one of our officers assisting another law enforcement agency.
04/08
WEST: Death Investigation – 7:59 a.m. Officers responded to a parking lot of a business to check the welfare of a subject in a vehicle. The subject (60-year-old male) was found deceased. Nothing suspicious identified. The decedent was homeless and video footage shows he was in the parking lot for several days. Medical Examiner's office responded. Autopsy pending. Investigation continuing.
MIDTOWN: Death Investigation – 9:59 a.m. Officers responded regarding a deceased subject (72-year-old male). Nothing suspicious observed. Medical Examiner's office responded.
EAST: Disturbance – 11:52 a.m. Officers responded to a disturbance involving a 43-year-old female suspect. Attempts were made to de-escalate the situation and have the suspect leave the premises. The suspect was not cooperative and a consultation with Journey Mental Health took place. The suspect was subsequently conveyed to a local hospital for a possible voluntary assessment. The suspect continued to be uncooperative and kicked an officer. The suspect was arrested/charged with battery to a police officer.
EAST: Crash with Injuries – 1:49 p.m. Officers responded to the area of Buckeye/Camden for a bicycle vs. motor vehicle crash. A juvenile was riding his bike in the rain and went through an intersection due to brakes failing. A vehicle, coming through the intersection, collided with the bicyclist. The juvenile sustained minor injuries. No citations issued at this time.
WEST: Crash – 3:50 p.m. A driver sideswiped a squad that was occupied by an officer. No injuries sustained. The driver was cited for unsafe lane deviation.
WEST: Theft from Auto – 4:39 p.m. Officers responded to a residence after the caller/victim reported that five juveniles were going through her vehicle without her consent. The victim reported that she had one of the juveniles detained. The juvenile was able to get away and was no longer on scene when officers arrived. Perimeter set up and area canvassed. One juvenile (12-year-old male) was apprehended and charged with theft (party to a crime). The juvenile was released to a responsible party. Investigation continuing.
EAST: Missing/Runaway Juvenile – 10:55 p.m. Officers responded to a report of a missing/runaway juvenile (14-year-old female). No safety/medical concerns identified. Attempt to locate aired. The juvenile was listed as missing/runaway in the appropriate databases.
04/09
WEST: Domestic Disturbance – 12:23 a.m. Officers met with a victim who reported a physical disturbance with a known suspect (33-year-old male). The victim sustained injuries which required stitches. The suspect was not located. Probable cause developed to arrest/charge the suspect, once located. Investigation continuing.
EAST: Missing/Runaway Juvenile – 1:53 a.m. Officers responded to a report of a missing/runaway juvenile (16-year-old male). No safety/medical concerns identified. Attempt to locate aired. The juvenile was listed as missing/runaway in the appropriate databases.