Trooper Timothy
Gould of the Vermont State Police (VSP) spoke to a small audience on Oct. 25
about Neighborhood watches and other ways crime can be deterred. Gould
explained that alarms in and of themselves are a deterrent, particularly if
they are audible.
Alarm calls that
are received by the State Police are generally attributable to an animal, wind,
or something other than an intruder. The rate of “false” alarms is 95% or
higher. Consequently, unless the
person has registered with the state police, or there is evidence of a
break-in, the state police will not respond. VSP responding to a routine alarm,
where the residence is registered, is generally not treated as an emergency.
If something
occurs in your neighborhood that concerns you, report it to the state police.
You can use the on-line Confidential Web Tip Information System, which allows citizens to submit information anonymously. Tips submitted are
encrypted, confidential, anonymous and are immediately and securely transferred
directly to VSP.
Among the most
important pieces of information are vehicle descriptions (make, year, model and
license), as most crimes involve cars in some way.
The role of the
town constable, Seth Perry, was discussed. In general, he is dispatched by the
town office or VSP. Consequently, for non-emergencies, such as stray animals,
during regular business hours, call the town office 226-7292. For emergencies
call 911. For non-emergencies when the town office is closed, call the
Rockingham Barracks of the VSP 875-2112. Seth Perry can be reached by e-mail.
The number of
burglaries for Cavendish this summer was small-four. In general, there are approximately
one or fewer instances per week in the town, which involve the state police.
However, speeding, driving under the influence, crashes and domestic violence
are quality of life issues that are of concern to VSP. Gould was particularly
concerned about domestic violence, since it is an underreported crime, only
about 10% of the time. However, he noted that people knowing their neighbors
and strong community support could reduce both domestic violence and other
crimes.
Since there has
been discussion about Cavendish having its own police force, Rich Svec, town
manager, provided rough cost estimates. To start a police force - two officers,
cars, office space, computers, equipment, radios etc.- the cost would be
approximately $430,000. This would increase taxes by $329.44 for a house
assessed at $200,000.
Svec also noted
that new signs have just been received for Depot Street in Proctorsville. They
are yellow (advisory) for 25 miles an hour and indicate a sharp bend in the
road. It is hoped that once they are up, they will help to control speed.
Seth Perry noted
that he now has radar and has been able to monitor areas where people are
reporting speeding issues. Perry drives an unmarked white Impala.
Sgt Gould provided
the following resource links for people to check:
No comments:
Post a Comment