Delaware State Police Personal Safety Presentation

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Delaware State Police Personal Safety
Presentation
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Why is this important?

• Late 2006 to early 2007 saw a drastic increase in
  the number of robberies.
• Several of the most recent robberies involved
  suspects targeting women.
• The law enforcement community has an obligation
  to present information to the public to assist in
  keeping our citizens safe.

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Why have woman been targeted?

• Feeling of power by the suspects.
• Low threat level.
• Woman historically carry purses and wear more
  jewelry.
• Suspects have the time to be selective- predatory
  approach.

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Where have these crimes occurred?

• Shopping centers
• Parking lots
• Restaurants
• Convenience Stores

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Lessons Learned

• What can you do
• Walk with a purpose.
• Dont advertise YOUR belongings.
• Take only what you may need.
• Keep hands free when possible.
• Dont be idle- targets are easiest located when
  stationary.
• Other suggestions?

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Lessons Learned Cont.

• Trust your instincts
• If something tells you to be cautions, trust your
  gut.
• Dont force yourself to be in situations where
  you dont feel comfortable.
• Do not be predictable.
• Keep keys and cell phone readily available.

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Staying Safe Means Being Aware

• Stay in your comfort zone- but dont be too
  comfortable.
• Scan and look around
• I thought he looked funny.
• I knew that guy was looking at me.
• He just looked suspicious.
• Crime occurs when we least expect it.

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There is Safety in Numbers

• Try not to walk alone.
• Dont enter and leave stores by yourself.
• Park in high traffic visible areas.

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Pick Pockets

• Work in teams.
• Look for targets.
• Primarily woman with purses.
• Wallets removed, credit cards and cash taken, and
  the wallets are returned.
• Crimes occur quickly after the original theft.

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What You Can Do

• Keep your purse in view.
• Keep your items secure inside.
• Know what you are carrying.
• Check your purse often.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a list of important numbers and phone
  numbers at home.

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What Happens if a Robbery Occurs?

• Stay reasonably calm and focused.
• Recognize a no-win situation.
• Dont put yourself in harms way!

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Be a Good Witness

• Make this a priority.
• Carry a pen / pencil and paper in vehicle and
  record details immediately.
• Utilize cell phone if possible.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Identify other witnesses and ask them to stay.

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Good Descriptions Solve Crimes

• The suspect is described as
• White male.
• 510 tall.
• Wearing a green shirt displaying Nike in white
  writing.
• He wore black track pants with two white stripes
  down the side of the leg.
• The suspect had a scar on his left cheek.
• He spoke with a low raspy voice.
• His hair was close cut on the sides and long on
  top.

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Vehicle Descriptions Help Too!

• The vehicle is described as
• Blue Honda two door
• Displayed DE 12345
• There was a scratch along the hood
• Two air-fresheners hung from the rear view mirror.

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How is a Crime Investigated?

• Call for service- 911
• Officer responds and initial report is taken.
• Suspect description and vehicle description are
  broadcasted to police agencies for specified
  time.
• Report forwarded to detective for follow-up.
• Cases compared and leads followed.

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Questions?