COMMUNITY ALERT: BOSTON POLICE INVESTIGATE INCIDENT ON SHERRIN ROAD IN HYDE PARK

On December 14, 2010 at 2:00pm, a female who lives on Sherrin Street in Hyde Park reports that she was approached at her home by two white male individuals clad in dark blue jackets and jeans with an unknown logo on the left breast area of the jackets. Neither was wearing a hat.

According to the female resident, these males inquired about her pitbull in the front yard and demanded to be let in the house to make a visual on the second dog that she owns. She refused. She stated to them that they could go into her back yard and she would let the second dog out, but the individuals threatened her with a ticket and stated that she would be getting one in the mail.

She reports that the two males then walked up Sherrin Street on foot. Police inquired with Animal Control who stated that no one from Boston Animal Control were at this address. Both dogs are properly licensed.

The white males are described as follows: The first male is described as approximately 40 years of age, stocky build, 5’8” tall, black hair. The second male is described as late 40’s, 5’10”-5’11” with brown hair and moustache. Neither was wearing glasses. The suspects then walked up Sherrin Street. The female did not see them getting into any vehicle.

At this time, the Boston Police Department has received no other reports of similar incidents.

Residents are reminded that Animal Control officers always carry photo identification and drive marked city vehicles.   Animal Control would never request to enter a person’s residence without the presence of the Boston Police Department, and only in an emergency situation.   If you are approached by a person claiming to be an Animal Control officer, you can call the Animal Control office at 617-635-5348 to confirm that an officer has been dispatched to your location and if you are uncomfortable in any situation you can call the Boston Police Department or 911.

Contact Information:

Boston Police District E-18 detectives are actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. The Boston Police Department urges anyone with information, regardless how unimportant it may seem, to contact detectives at (617) 343-5607.

Community members who wish to remain anonymous may contact the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1(800) 494-TIPS or text a ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department is interested only in what you know, not who you are.

Safety Tips:

To safeguard yourself, there are measures to keep in mind when interacting with individuals you suspect are impersonators.

• Look for an official uniform and official patches, jackets and other easily identifiable equipment.

• Always ask to be presented with official identification.

• If still uncomfortable, call 9-1-1 to report the incident.