Crime Prevention Discussion Tomorrow

hamden
March 22, 2022

 

As you may be aware, there has been an unfortunate increase in high profile crimes in our town, notably at the Hamden Plaza. I want you to know that we are working here in the legislature on revisions to our laws to address this, particularly with respect to repeat juvenile offenders. In the meantime, the Mayor’s Office and Hamden Police Department have released a collaborative statement on what additional steps they are taking, including an upcoming Crime Prevention Discussion tomorrow, March 23rd at 1:30PM.
The Hamden Police Department has implemented a number of initiatives, including:
  • Increased Patrols – Additional officers have been assigned to high visibility patrols in the shopping centers throughout town. These patrols include area patrol cars, bicycle patrols and walking beats that are utilized in strategic areas. Hamden's Crime Deterrent Unit will also be assisting in these crime prevention efforts.
  • Collaboration with Local Businesses – Officers have met with owners of businesses located in the Hamden Mart and Hamden Plaza as part of several crime prevention initiatives. As a result, lighting and security cameras have been enhanced in the shopping areas. Additional extra duty officers and security patrols have also been established at various stores and shopping areas in town.
  • Crime Prevention Meetings – Officers have been meeting with neighborhood watch groups and various civic groups to discuss crime prevention measures in an effort to help deter crime and keep the community informed.

Additionally, the Hamden Senior Center is hosting a Crime Prevention Discussion tomorrow at 1:30PM at the Thornton Wilder Hall located in the Miller Memorial Library & Cultural Complex; 2901 Dixwell Avenue. Mayor Lauren Garrett, Hamden Police Chief John Sullivan and members of the HPD command staff, will be on hand to speak with concerned community members. This is a great opportunity to ask questions to those who work hard to keep our community safe.
 
While both the Mayor's Office and Police Department are implementing a number of initiatives – shared above – here are some additional crime-prevention safety tips you can take:

  1. Park in well-lit areas
  2. Avoid driving or shopping alone whenever possible
  3. Don't leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart
  4. Carry only essentials, such as money, credit cards and identification in your pockets
  5. Avoid carrying a large amount of money
  6. Close and lock all windows and doors when you park and do not leave any valuables inside your vehicle
  7. If you sense trouble, get away as soon as possible
  8. Walk with your head up and eyes alert
  9. When returning to your vehicle, have your keys accessible
    • You want to unlock the door to your vehicle as quickly as possible
    • Lock your vehicle upon re-entering it.
  10. Always be alert of your surroundings

If you are robbed, make personal safety your number one priority, as money and property can always be replaced. Please contact the Hamden Police Department for assistance by dialing 911 or calling (203) 230-4000.