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Crime Incidents & News

Each week, crime and other unusual incidents are reported in the local newspaper.  Many residents and business people miss the opportunity to read these stories.   This web section will be used to report crime and other regional events.

Updated February 23, 2005

Please Note: We are in the process of compiling police log information to provide more consistent updates to this page. We ask that you check back periodically for recent activity. 

Armed Robberies  

Thefts from Motor Vehicles 

ALERT – Please do not leave valuables visible within your motor vehicle.  Laptops and wallets are extremely attractive items to steal.  Hide items of value and lock your car.  Professional thieves are targeting the Boston Sports Club and Hartwell House – probably.

Theft of Vehicle Parts 

An apparent ‘steal to order’ group is targeting this region.  During the past couple years, approximately 2 or 3 times per year, residents are experiencing the loss of tires & rims, and other car parts.  These components are expensive and are clearly being stolen in order to equip other vehicles.  Residents should be alert to what is suspected to be 2 or more individuals, with a truck/van/pickup, who quickly target a vehicle. 

Recent House Breaks   

ALERT –  It is important to lock doors and windows while also keeping valuables where they cannot be seen from a window.  Be alert to individuals who approach your home to offer services.  Do not hesitate to ask for identification.  Consider the possibility that you are being distracted at the door; when in doubt, ask the person to wait – close and lock the door – then check your home and back doors.

Violent Assaults 

Vending & Commercial Breaks     

Shoplifting: 

 Although shoplifting is considered by many to be a minor crime, Lexington Police will prosecute for larceny; a felony when the value of the property exceeds $250.  Recent shoplifters at the Stop & Shop, Kitchen Etc., Wilson’s Farm, CVS and two liquor stores were identified and prosecuted.    

Vandalism    

Tagging: 

Tagging is a crime of marking, painting, scratching or placing stickers on the property of others and usually causes damage and/or expense to remove.  Tagging is a signature or moniker.  The crime of tagging is a 2-year misdemeanor with fines treble the damage done and a one-year loss of license.     

Note to Parents and Young Adults:  Vandalism is an inconvenience and a source of frustration for many residents.  Many times, a motor vehicle is typically driven in a dangerous manner to commit this type of damage.  If caught, violators can be charged with malicious destruction of property (a felony in Massachusetts).  We strongly encourage parents to this issue with their young adult children.

Drugs and Alcohol  

During the past several months, a number of youths have been arrested or criminally charged for drug violations.   Several youths have been found in possession of drugs at the schools resulting in expulsion and criminal prosecution.

 

Indecent Exposure    

Precaution:  It is important for victims not to approach motor vehicles.  Individuals who are lost or need information may approach adults and older students innocently enough.  Speak to these individuals from a safe distance.  It is inappropriate for adults to stop or detain smaller children.   

If you are a victim of indecent exposure, make sure that you are safe and can move quickly away from any threat.  Remember what you see – record a license plate if possible – report the incident immediately to the police.   

 

Motor Vehicle Thefts        

If you have information, please do not hesitate to call the Lexington Police Department at (781) 862 – 1212 or e-mail policeinfo@ci.lexington.ma.us . 

 

  

 

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