Citizen Alert

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Boston Police: E-5 West Roxbury

LARCENY AT THE LIBRARY

On Friday December 5^th a report was filed for a stolen purse at the Boston Public Library in West Roxbury, Ma.  This is one of three reports filed for a stolen purse from a visitor of the library.  All three reports state that the individuals were sitting at a table in the facility with their bags at their feet.  The thefts are currently being investigated.

The thefts come during the holiday season when many individuals are targeted for this particular type of crime.  With more people out shopping and entertaining; thieves are aware that most people are traveling around with more money in their wallets and valuables in their bags or cars.  The District 5 Community Service Office would like to take this opportunity to advise community members to be cognizant of those around them; unfortunately not everyone is as good-hearted you would presume.

This type of crime can occur anywhere.  It is important to remember that placing your purse, or any other items of value, on the ground or even on the table you are sitting at is very risky.  Although it seems secure enough, since it is within reach, it is unprotected because it is out in the open and not always in our view.  When dining at a restaurant, sitting at the computer at the library, reading a book on the train, or even shopping at the supermarket with the purse in the cart we are not focusing on these items of value. Attention is focused on the task at hand, and since it takes only a split second for a criminal to swipe a bag or a phone it makes it very easy for items of value to be taken when we aren’t looking.  We recommend always keeping cell phones, wallets, iPods, and any other small valuables in your purses.  Leaving these items out on a table increases the risk of theft.  We urge people to always keep purses and bags on them.  Keep straps around your shoulder, and if you have to put them on the ground then connect the strap to your leg.  An alternative to placing ones purse on the ground is putting it on the chair behind you (between you and the chair at your lower back).  This keeps the bag out of view and it creates a secure place close to you.

As always please call 9-1-1 for police assistance.  If you have been victimized by a crime please inform your local police station.  For any questions or concerns on this type of crime please contact the

District 5 Community Service Office at 617.343.4564.

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Date: 11:01:01 AM 12/8/2008 EST