Today Boston Police announce that they have increased patrols to Newbury Street and the surrounding areas as a proactive public safety measure throughout the busy holiday season. Patrols include holiday walking beats, directed patrols and additional coordination with specialized units and plain-clothes officers. In addition, one mounted unit will also be on patrol throughout the neighborhood.It is important to note that despite recent news reports, the Boston Police have not detected an increase in the number of robberies or break-ins in the area. It is not unusual during the holiday season to experience an increase in shoplifting incidents. In an effort to deter those incidents from occurring, the Boston Police have assigned additional units, which include undercover efforts to address this issue. Since October 1, 2006, there has been one reported incident of an armed robbery and the suspect responsible has been apprehended. Since October 9, 2006, there have been four confirmed Breaking and Entering incidents.
See also a map showing Robberies and Commercial Burglaries on Newbury St. October 1st through November 26th, 2006 (PDF file)
Recent Incident Descriptions:
- On 11/25/06 at approximately 12:49am, Boston Police responded to a radio call for a broken window at Valentino’s located at 45 Newbury Street. Upon arrival, officers observed damage to two display cases. Several items were reported stolen. Boston Police are actively investigating this matter. The suspect/suspects remain at-large.
- On 11/24/06 at approximately 7:14pm, officers assigned to the BPD Anti-Crime Unit conducted foot surveillance and witnessed two suspects behaving in a suspicious manner. Based upon the officers’ training, it was deducted that their behavior was consistent with that of shoplifters. Officers followed the suspects into 136 Newbury Street (American Apparel) where they observed suspects placing merchandise into their bags. The undercover officers approached the suspects. Suspect #1 attempted to flee and was apprehended. Suspect #2 was also placed under arrest. The suspects were found to be in possession of hundreds of dollars worth of stolen merchandise. Both were charged with Larceny Shoplifting $200 & over.
- On November 24, 2006 at approximately 2:01 pm, a District 4 walking beat responded to a radio call for a theft at 182 Newbury Street (Sunglass Hut). Upon arrival, the officer received information about a suspect who reportedly stole several pairs of sunglasses. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, approximately 20 years of age and 5 ft. 6 in. tall. This incident remains under investigation.
- On 11/20/06 at approximately 8:03 am, officers from District 4 responded to a radio call for a B&E at 139 Newbury Street (Longchamp). Upon arrival, officers observed a broken glass and received a report from the store manager of a stolen ‘display’ purse. BPD detectives continue to investigate this matter.
Anyone with information related to these incidents is urged to call District 4 detectives at 617-343-5619 or BPD CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS. Callers may remain anonymous.
The holiday season is an exciting and busy time for many. The Boston Police would like to take this opportunity to remind individuals to be alert to your surroundings and use common sense. A complete guide to BPD holiday safety tips is also avaiable at this site. Following a few simple safety precautions will ensure that you and yours enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.