MINUTES OCTOBER 18 MEETING

MINUTES WEST SEATTLE CRIME PREVENTION COUNCIL

OCTOBER 18, 2011

7:00 pm: The meeting was called to order by Richard Miller. The audience was asked to identify themselves and tell something about why they were at the meeting. The Police Officers in attendance also introduced themselves.

7:15 pm: POLICE REPORTS: Lt. Davis gave an update on current crime rates, stressing that recent success in reducing certain crimes was bolstered by a combination of quick response of citizens in contacting 911 and giving very helpful information about crimes in progress. Reports to 911 help the police in finding patterns of activities and allows them to pinpoint the areas which are being the victim of crimes. The police are then alerted to give these areas special attention. There is a quick reduction in crime when a number of criminals are arrested at the same time.

Generally speaking residential burglaries, auto thefts and car prowls are down. With the holidays coming up it is expected that these and other crimes such as mail and delivery thefts will begin to rise. People should be especially alert with leaving nothing in their cars, on porches or in view through windows. Lock all doors and windows if the house is empty during the day.

8:15 pm: Due to the unexpected arrival of Officer Ronald Ready, Arson and Fire Investigation Unit, and Dana Catts, Education Specialist, from the Seattle Fire Department, the discussions planned for the evening were set aside in favor the Fire Safety Program.

Officer Ready presented case histories to demonstrate the problems with combustibles. It was very informative and alerted the audience to the dangers in storing certain items in enclosed spaces. He also cautioned against fraud and greed in setting your own property on fire to collect insurance, etc. It is extremely difficult to cover up intentionally set fires.

Dana Catts, presented the various ways in which the public can be educated about the dangers of fire. A “Fire Setter” program for at risk children which has had some good results for those who do the work and finish the course.

The presenters answered many questions from the audience. A very stimulating meeting.

8:00 pm: Community Concerns and Announcements:

Very little time left for these reports.

Next meeting: November 15, 2011

Lisa Mulligan, Metro Transit Chief of Police, will present a program about security on bus, at bus stops and in the tunnel.

Meeting adjourned.

Submitted by: Betty Wiberg, Secretary