Silver Spring Public Safety Community Meeting

Despite the cold , snow on the sidewalks and the holiday season in full swing, about 30 concerned Silver Spring residents attended a public safety community meeting hosted by Councilmember Valerie Ervin on Tuesday, December 22. Commander Donald M. Johnson (3rd District – Silver Spring) of the Montgomery County Police Department and Chief Darien Manley and Sgt. Lauryn McNeill of the Maryland-National Park Police discussed crime trends and provided information about ongoing investigations. Wil Gutierrez attended on behalf of Councilmember Trachtenberg’s office.

According to both police departments, crime is down in the Silver Spring area. However, they reiterated that the departments need the help of residents to keep this trend down in 2010. If you see a suspicious or criminal activity, report it to the police immediately so they can provide an appropriate response. The following are the numbers for non-emergency situations:

Montgomery County Police Department: 301-279-8000

Maryland-National Park Police (for suspicious or criminal activities in parks): 301-949-3010

Maryland State Police (for suspicious or criminal activities on highways i.e. I-270, I-495): #77

For life-threatening emergencies, call 911.

The Park Police also provided helpful tips to prevent thefts, such as:

• Lock it
• Alarm it
• Hide it
• Leave it at home
• Beware of surroundings
• Don’t wear earphones (so you can hear what’s going on around you)
• Use the buddy system
• Call the police immediately if you’re a victim

The Park Police also wants you to write down the serial numbers of your electronics. In doing so, you help the police track down your belongings if they ever are stolen.

Additionally, the Park Police described their Park Watch program. Both the County Police Department and Park Police answered questions from residents and address community concerns. Reemberto Rodriguez, director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center, was also in attendance.