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Thursday, April 27, 2017

PGPD Searches For Missing Man



Bryan Leon Diggs 

The Prince George’s County Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in searching for a missing person. He is 31-year-old Bryan Leon Diggs.

Diggs was last seen in the 7500 block of Burgess Lane in Fort Washington on April 18th at about 10:00 am.

Diggs is described as an African American male, 6’1”, and 245 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and black sweatpants with a white strip.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Regional Investigation Division – Southern Region at (301) 749-5064.



Wednesday, April 26, 2017

PGPD Officers Honored at Annual Valor Awards Ceremony

 
Prince George’s County Police officers and our public safety partners proudly work for the people of Prince George’s County. These first responders perform with honor and distinction every day – their good works often going unnoticed.  Earlier today, a group of police officers and other first responders who went above and beyond in the line of duty were honored at the 40th Annual Valor Awards ceremony. Here are the Prince George’s County Police officers who were recognized for their heroic efforts.

Officer of the Year, Gold and Silver Medal of Valor
 
On March 13, 2016, an armed suspect approached the District III police station in Palmer Park with the intent of harming police officers and civilians. The armed suspect began firing a handgun indiscriminately at passing motorists and at the District III station.  As gunfire continued, several police officers inside District III rushed to the front and side entrances to investigate. While on his way to District III, Detective Jacai Colson was made aware of the impending situation developing at the station. Corporal Jason Wells, Corporal John Wynkoop, Officer Brian Melius, and Officer Matthew Scott, along with other officers responded and were immediately met with gunfire as they confronted the gunman. The officers gained cover and subsequently began engaging the gunman and returning fire. Upon approaching District III in his vehicle, Detective Colson observed the gunman engaged with officers. Without hesitation, Detective Colson exited his vehicle and effectively engaged the gunman, discharging several rounds from his firearm. In doing so, Detective Colson was able to draw the gunman’s fire and allow the officers to advance.  As the gun battle ensued, Detective Colson continued to engage the gunman while attempting to gain adequate cover. Ultimately, the gunman was subdued and apprehended.  Tragically, Detective Colson was critically wounded during the exchange of gunfire.  Police Officer Cody Katzenmaier tirelessly attempted to save Detective Colson’s life while officers transported him to the hospital, but Detective Colson succumbed to his injuries.

Corporal Jacai Colson is posthumously awarded the Gold Medal of Valor and was selected Police Officer of the Year thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Prince George’s County Police Department.

Corporal Jason Wells’ and Police Officer Brian Melius’ courageous actions and unrelenting determination, while exposing themselves to extreme danger, are awarded the Gold Medal of Valor. Due to their selfless dedication to duty, steadfast courage, and without regard for their own personal safety Corporal John Wynkoop, Police Officer Cody Katzenmaier, and Police Officer Matthew Scott are awarded the Silver Medal of Valor.    

Gold Medal of Valor
Police Officer First Class Anthony Sciaretta
Police Officer Christopher Malinowski


On November 2, 2015, PGPD officers were dispatched to an armed carjacking on River Bend Road in Fort Washington.  The victim provided a detailed description of his vehicle and of the suspect, who displayed a handgun, demanded the vehicle, and pistol-whipped him prior to taking the vehicle.

Moments later, Police Officer First Class Anthony Sciaretta spotted the carjacked vehicle leaving the scene.  Police Officer First Class Sciaretta attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect refused to stop and a pursuit began.  Police Officer Christopher Malinowski joined the pursuit and assumed control of the radio transmission. The pursuit continued through residential streets, the jurisdiction of Forest Heights, onto Indian Head Highway and into the District of Columbia.  

After getting a flat tire, the suspect vehicle continued at a slow speed until it came to a stop on Gainsville Street in Southeast Washington. The suspect ran from the vehicle while brandishing a handgun.  Police Officer First Class Sciaretta and Police Officer Malinowski pursued on foot, giving verbal commands for the suspect to stop and drop the weapon.  The suspect did not obey those commands and began firing at the officers.  Police Officer First Class Sciaretta and Police Officer Malinowski returned fire, striking and killing the suspect.

For their keen patrol instincts, sound pursuit techniques, and decisive actions while placing themselves in extreme danger while being fired upon, Police Officer First Class Anthony Sciaretta and Police Officer Christopher Malinowski are awarded the Gold Medal of Valor.



Silver and Bronze Medal of Valor
On June 3, 2016, PGPD officers responded to 15th Avenue in Langley Park for a domestic assault call.  A citizen called the police to report she heard a woman screaming for help and saw a man lying in the street. 

Upon arrival, they discovered a small fire burning inside of an apartment. Corporal Gainey located a witness who advised the occupants of the apartment were involved in a domestic dispute and the male occupant started a fire inside the apartment and fled the scene. He was later found and arrested.

Officers could see smoke billowing from the apartment building. They were forced to kick in several doors in order to warn sleeping residents. Police Officer First Class Batista and Police Officer Benitez, who were fluent in Spanish, were instrumental in relaying the danger to the residents. 

Corporal Cheatham ran into the hallway and grabbed an infant from a young mother, swaddled the child and carried the infant outside. Corporal Gainey grabbed the mother and carried her outside.  Police Officer First Class Penafiel grabbed a man and carried him to safety.  Police Officer Benitez and Police Officer First Class Batista also each grabbed a child.  In all, at least a dozen people were safely evacuated.  Once all of the residents in the hallway were evacuated, Corporal Gainey, Police Officer First Class Penafiel, Police Officer First Class Batista and Police Officer Benitez ran back into the building to search the apartments one by one looking for any residents they may have missed. 

Lieutenant Smith recognized the danger to these officers were too great and ordered them to evacuate.  Police Officer Benitez did not hear the order to evacuate as he had gone up to the second floor to check the only apartment that wasn’t cleared. Lieutenant Smith was afraid that Police Officer Benitez would be overcome with smoke, so he entered the building, ran upstairs, and located him in the back room of the apartment. They exited the building safely.

For their heroic actions, while placing themselves in extreme danger, Lieutenant Jason Smith and Police Officer Leonardo Benitez are awarded the Silver Medal of Valor.  Corporal David Cheatham, Corporal Michael Gainey, Corporal William Watson, Police Officer First Class Juan Penafiel and Police Officer First Class Victor Batista are awarded the Bronze Medal of Valor. 



Wanted Wednesday

Theft Investigation

Up first this Wanted Wednesday, a photo of the suspect wanted in connection with a theft investigation. Detectives would like to talk to him about a theft at a gas station in the 2000 block of University Boulevard. The theft happened on April 14th.  Anyone with information on his identity is asked to please call 301-699-2601 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

Package Theft Investigation

Detectives are also working to identify this suspect in connection with the theft of a package. The package was at a home on Dynasty Drive in District Heights on April 18th. Please call 301-390-2160 or 1-866-411-TIPS with any information on this investigation.

Robbery Suspect

Our Robbery Unit is investigating an armed robbery at a business in the 1400 block of Addison Road South. The suspect walked in, displayed a gun and demanded cash. He ran out once he had money. This robbery took place on April 22nd at about noon. Please call 301-772-4905 or 1-866-411-TIPS. A cash reward is available and tipsters won’t have to give their name.

Sub Shop Robbery

These two suspects are wanted for robbing a sub shop in Capitol Heights. They targeted the restaurant in the 1400 hundred block of Addison Road South on April 23rd shortly before 8:00 pm.  If you have information that could help detectives, please call 301-772-4905 or Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

Guidance For Drone Operators in Prince George’s County

In light of Monday's arrest of a 24-year-old College Park man whose personal drone almost collided with a Prince George's County Police Helicopter while in flight, we would like to remind the public of the following critical information.   

While drones are easily acquired for purchase, drone operators must adhere to strict rules surrounding their actual use.  

All drones must be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) which is responsible for investigation and enforcement of restricted airspace violations. 

Prince George’s County lies completely within the National Capital Region (NCR) restricted airspace which is particularly important with respect to drone flights. 

We are providing a map to explain current laws, rules, and regulations.

The majority of our county lies within the Federal Aviation Administration's designated Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) where drone flights are completely prohibited.

(The red circle in map reflects the Flight Restricted Zone.)  

However, a small portion of the county lies within the Special Flight Rules Area (SRFA) where drone flights are limited to daylight hours and no higher than 400 feet above ground level.

(The yellow circle in map reflects the Special Flight Rules Area.)



If you own a drone, it's critical to know where you are and the relevant rules specific to your location before you operate the drone.

Illegal use of drones can put lives at risk.  Our helicopter pilots had to perform evasive maneuvers to avoid colliding with the drone in Monday's incident.   When drones are seen being flown in the restricted no fly zone or witnessed being flown against regulations as noted above, our officers are notified and we do respond.  If, and, when the operator is identified, they face serious consequences including arrest and could be charged federally.   


If you are a drone hobbyist and would like more information please go to faa.gov or call 1-866-TELL-FAA (866-835-5322.) 

Monday, April 24, 2017

PGPD Arrests Drone Operator in College Park

 Trevon Miller

Our Homeland Security Division has arrested a suspect after he was caught flying a drone in restricted airspace in the area of the five-alarm fire in College Park today. The suspect is 24-year-old Trevon Miller of Baltimore Avenue in College Park.

On April 24th around 12:30 pm, our police helicopter was flying to assist firefighters as they worked to contain the massive fire. While assisting, the suspect flew his privately-owned drone into the direct flight path of our helicopter. The pilot performed evasive maneuvers and was able to prevent a collision. The suspect who was piloting the drone was located and arrested by officers on the ground.


Miller is charged with interfering with police and fire response, along with reckless endangerment. Detectives will consult the Federal Aviation Administration for consideration of additional criminal charges. 

The Federal Aviation Administration has established rules for hobbyists to operate drone devices inside of any restricted airspace.  The National Capital Region is considered restricted airspace.  It is also illegal to fly a drone within five miles of an airport. 


We would like to remind our residents to be mindful of specific laws when operating a drone device and to check with the Federal Aviation Administration regarding any questions on appropriate use of these devices. Anyone who observes suspicious or dangerous drone use is urged to call 911. 

PGPD to Participate in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Initiative


This Saturday, the Prince George’s County Police Department, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, will be collecting potentially dangerous, expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction. The effort is part of the “National Prescription Drug Take-Back Initiative.”

The PGPD will have three collection locations on Saturday. The medications do not need to be in their original packaging. We will not be able to accept liquids or needles/injectable pens. This collection service is free and anonymous. 

 PGPD collection locations:  

*District I Station at 5000 Rhode Island Avenue in Hyattsville 

*District III Station at 7600 Barlowe Road in Palmer Park 
*District IV Station at 5135 Indian Head Highway in Oxon Hill

When:   Saturday, April 29, 2017


Time:    10:00 am – 2:00 pm

PGPD Taking Part in Regional Terror Attack Preparedness Exercise

We would like to inform county residents about a training exercise we are participating in this Wednesday. Law enforcement agencies across the region are taking part. The exercise is designed to prepare for the possibility of a terror attack. The exercise will be staged at six sites including two locations in Prince George’s County.

Residents who live in and drive around Bowie and Cheltenham will likely see an increased police presence throughout the day Wednesday as part of the exercise.


This full-scale exercise is being organized by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. Here is additional information regarding the exercise: http://bit.ly/2pcJYag


Thursday, April 20, 2017

PGPD Searches for Missing Woman

Updated April 24, 2017: Ms. Johnson has been safely located in Virginia. 


The Prince George’s County Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in searching for a missing person. She is identified as 72-year-old Helen Johnson.

Johnson was last seen in the 5600 Helmont Drive in Oxon Hill on April 10th, at 4:00 pm. Ms. Johnson could be driving a gray Ford Taurus, bearing Maryland registration 4ALD25.

Not Actual Car 

Johnson is described as an African American female, 5’5”, and 150 pounds. She was wearing a light colored top and a long blue jean skirt.


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Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Regional Investigation Division – Southern Region at (301) 749-5064.

Detectives Arrest Suspect in Fatal Shooting of Jan Cotto

The Homicide Unit arrested the suspect wanted for the fatal shooting of 51-year-old Jan Cotto earlier this month in Capitol Heights. The suspect is 30-year-old Christopher Carl Green of no fixed address. Cotto was killed as she walked near her home. Detectives believe she may have been walking to a Metro station to head to work. The victim and suspect were acquaintances.

On April 6th, at about 11:00 pm, patrol officers responded to the 200 block of Zelma Avenue for the report of a shooting. When they arrived, the officers found the victim outside suffering from gunshot wounds. She died a short time later at a hospital.

Preliminarily, detectives believe the shooting stemmed from a robbery attempt. Green is charged with first and second degree murder and related charges. He is in the custody of the Department of Corrections on a no-bond status. 


Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go towww.pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online.

One Suspect in College Park Homicide in Custody; Video Released of Two Additional Suspects

William George Moore, Jr.


Homicide Unit detectives have arrested and charged one of three suspects wanted in connection with a fatal shooting at a College Park apartment building late last month. The arrested suspect is 31-year-old William George Moore, Jr., of the 2100 block of Cameron Drive in Dundalk. He’s charged with first degree murder in the fatal shooting of 36-year-old Rawle Farley on March 26th.

Detectives today also released new surveillance video of the three suspects walking into the victim’s apartment building just prior to the shooting. Moore is the first suspect who walks in and is wearing red. Investigators are asking the community to help identify the two additional suspects who follow Moore into the building on Milestone Way.

The investigation reveals Farley was shot during a robbery. A second victim was also hurt but survived his injuries. The suspects and victims were acquaintances.


A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment is this case. Tipsters do not need to ever give their names. Anyone with information is asked to please call the our Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers who want to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text, “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgpolice.org and submit a tip online. 

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

PGPD Alerts Landover Neighborhood After Man is Captured on Camera Exposing Himself

Update April 19, 2017: The suspect is in custody and being questioned.


The Prince George’s County Police Department wants residents of the Maple Ridge Apartments in Landover to be aware of a man seen exposing himself in the community. Residents who see this man are urged to immediately call 911.


Additional patrol officers are now assigned to monitor the complex in the 2200 block of Brightseat Road. On three occasions in recent weeks, the man was seen exposing himself. No one has been reported injured in any of these incidents.


Investigators would like to talk to the man in this photo in connection with this investigation. Investigators would also like to talk to anyone with information on this investigation. Please call us at Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

WANTED WEDNESDAY

Suspect Commits Two Robberies in One Day

The surveillance photos give us a good look at the man now linked to two robberies last Friday.  At 4:10 pm on April 14th, he robbed a car wash in the 4000 block of St. Barnabas Road in Temple Hills.
    (actual car)

Following the robbery, the investigation reveals he got into a passenger seat of this car. It’s described as a silver, early 2000s Chrysler Sebring.
Earlier that morning, the same suspect is wanted for robbing a convenience store one block away – in the 5000 block of St. Barnabas Road. If you have any information on either case, please call our Robbery Unit detectives at 301-772-4905 or 1-866-411-TIPS. A cash reward is available.



Homicide Investigation
Homicide Unit detectives released a composite sketch of the victim who was fatally stabbed on Sunday. Investigators are asking for the community’s help in identifying her so we can notify her loved ones. Detectives also released photos of the victim’s clothing, to include a knit cap, a shirt, jeans and her socks. On April 16th, around 8:25 am, patrol officers responded to the 3300 block of Springdale Avenue in Forestville. The victim had knocked on a resident’s door looking for help before collapsing in the front yard. The victim is an African American female, estimated to be between the ages of 20-23, 5’11” and 126 pounds. She did not have any scars, birthmarks or tattoos.  Anyone with information on this homicide is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925 or 1-866-411-TIPS.



Robbery Investigation
The suspect in these photos is wanted for committing an armed robbery at a mini mart in the 2000 block of Brooks Drive in District Heights. This robbery happened late last month on March 23rd. If you recognize this suspect, please call 301-772-4905 or 1-866-411-TIPS.










Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Detectives Seek Community’s Help to Identify Homicide Victim

Update April 21, 2017: The victim has been identified as 17-year-old Te'yja Chase of Rena Road in Suitland. Please call 1-866-411-TIPS with any information regarding this case. A cash reward is available. 

 Homicide Unit detectives today released a composite sketch of the victim who was fatally stabbed on Sunday. Investigators are asking for the community’s help in identifying her so we can notify her loved ones. Detectives also released photos of the victim’s clothing, to include a knit cap, a shirt, jeans and her socks.


 On April 16th, around 8:25 am, patrol officers responded to the 3300 block of Springdale Avenue in Forestville. The victim had knocked on a resident’s door looking for help before collapsing in the front yard. The victim and the resident did not know one another.  

The victim is an African American female, estimated to be between the ages of 20-23, 5’11” and 126 pounds. She did not have any scars, birthmarks or tattoos.

Detectives are actively working to identify the suspect(s) and motive in this investigation. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case.


Anyone with information on this homicide is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Detectives Investigate Homicide in Forestville

Homicide Unit detectives are investigating a fatal stabbing on Sunday. Investigators are working to identify the victim and then notify her loved ones. Her name will be released once that’s taken place.

On April 16th, around 8:25 am, patrol officers responded to the 3300 block of Springdale Avenue to assist a woman who had been stabbed. The victim died at a hospital a short time later.

Detectives are working to identify the suspect(s) and motive in this investigation.


Anyone with information on this homicide is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Detectives to Canvass for Information in Fatal Shooting of Jan Cotto


This evening, Homicide Unit detectives will canvass a Capitol Heights neighborhood as they continue to investigate the fatal shooting of Jan Cotto. The 51-year-old was shot and killed last week as she walked near her home. Detectives believe she may have been walking to a Metro station to head to work in the District. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case. Tipsters will never have to give their names.

On April 6th, at about 11:00 pm, patrol officers responded to the 200 block of Zelma Avenue for the report of a shooting. When they arrived, the officers found the victim outside suffering from gunshot wounds. She died a short time later at a hospital.

Detectives are working to identify a suspect(s) and motive in this case. The canvass will begin at 6:00 pm in the 200 block of Zelma Avenue.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

PGPD Searches for Missing Man

UPDATE April 13, 2017: William Butler has been safely located in Washington, D.C. He is now back home with his family. 


The Prince George’s County Police Department is seeking the public’s help in finding a missing man. He is identified as 66-year-old William Butler. He was last seen in the 6200 block of Oxon Hill Road in Oxon Hill, MD at about 2:30 pm on April 11, 2017.

Bulter is described as an African American male, 5’10”, and 240 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue hat, black & tan striped polo shirt, black jeans and black dress shoes.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Regional Investigation Division – Southern Region at (301) 749-5064.