Security forces provides way to report crimes anonymously

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Irasema Reed
  • 66th Security Forces Squadron
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Operation Crime Stop is a program designed to help overcome the reluctance of community members to get involved with the 66th Security Forces Squadron by providing an anonymous means of reporting suspected or actual crimes. Anonymous crime reports can include school crimes, such as persistent bullying, domestic violence, suspicious activity, threatening acts or behavior, possession of weapons and the use or sale of illegal drugs.

Based on Hanscom's population of 7,763 people, the crime rate for the month of July 2011 was at 1.54 percent, according to the 66th Security Forces Squadron. There was only one crime against persons. There were 11 crimes against property, with damage to property, such as minor scratches on vehicles, being the trend.

Historically, Hanscom has enjoyed a low average crime rate. The low rate is due to constant vigilance and support from the entire community.

To anonymously report a crime through Operation Crime Stop, call 781-377-0881. For security forces specific questions, contact Staff Sgt. Irasema Reed, NCO in charge of Police Services, by email at Hanscom.Police.Services@hanscom.af.mil.

The following tips are provided to help protect community members and their property from becoming the victim of a crime:

· Secure all doors and windows when leaving the home or dormitory room, to include basements and garages, even if only going away for a moment. Unlocked doors and windows leave households susceptible to theft.
· Lock doors at night to protect from robberies and sexual assault.
· Don't hide spare keys in obvious places like under door mats.
· Don't leave valuables, such as bicycles, outside unattended.
· Put away high theft items, like wallets, purses or mp3 players when leaving a work area.
· Get to know neighbors and inform them when going away for an extended period of time, so that they can keep watch over the house.
· Challenge any unknown people at work or around the neighborhood. A criminal's main concern is to go unrecognized, but challenging someone may thwart the threat.
· Secure lockers at the gym. At the Hanscom gym, if a person forgets their lock, they may borrow one from front desk.