Alpine Township Neighborhood Watch News

Possible suspicious activity in Westgate Neighborhood

2012-01-27T09:38:00.000-08:00

Following is information picked up from friends on Facebook. There have not been any official complaints reported with the Kent County Sheriff's Department so far this year in this community but that does not mean that somebody is not trying to be opportunistic and break ino unlocked cars and garages. Keep garages, homes, and car doors locked and never leave valuables in your car even when locked.

"We had some attempted break-ins last night around 2 am....keep your porch lights on and your doors locked up."

"Someone attempted to break into our garage on Tuesday at 2 in the morning but they were unsuccessful and got into 2 of our neighbors garages, we live on Stony cCreek, the car seen out front was silver/ grey, it was a car and it had a "fin/ spoiler" on the back!"

"My husband said the vehicle he saw was definitely silver/gray and was a small truck. Like a ranger with a step side. They stopped under the street light. Not good." (on Wallingford Dr)

Interested where crime is occurring in Alpine Township? Go to https://www.crimereports.com/ and you can check in short and long time frames and select any specific crime.

Two suspects arrested in York Creek Apartments Armed Robbery

2012-01-25T09:32:00.000-08:00

NEWS RELEASE, KENT COUNTY SHERIFF

The Kent County Sheriff Department has arrested two men in connection with an armed robbery that occurred Saturday afternoon, January 21, 2012, in a parking lot of the York Creek Apartment Complex. The victims were sitting in their vehicle when the two suspects approached demanding money. One of the suspects held two handguns while ordering the victims out of their vehicle. The second suspect then rifled through their vehicle for property. The suspects then told the victims to leave only to shoot numerous rounds at the vehicle as they attempted to flee. Neither victim was injured by the gunfire though the vehicle was struck with a round going through the rear window narrowly missing the occupants.

Road Patrol deputies have had numerous recent home invasions in this area of the complex and quickly identified a potential suspect. Investigators located both suspects near the crime scene where they lived in an adjacent apartment building. Both men were identified by the victims and arrested.

Search warrants were executed on both suspects’ homes and the weapons were recovered along with other evidence from the robbery. In addition, investigators seized stolen property that had been taken from the recent home invasions.

Arrested and charged were:

Ryan Campbell, 24 yr old

Armed Robbery

Campbell is also wanted out of Chicago for another Aggravated Robbery

Joseph Whitaker, 19 yr old

Armed Robbery
Assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder
Felony firearm

Media contact: Undersheriff Jon Hess at 616-632-6236

Ryan Campbell

Joseph A. Whitaker

Reduced Crime Rate Credited to Crime Prevention Efforts

2012-01-21T18:31:00.000-08:00

(CBS News)

WASHINGTON - The latest FBI figures show there's a lot less violent crime across the country this year, a trend experts attribute to a larger investment in crime prevention by government and law enforcement.

The 6.5 percent drop in violent crime continues a five-year decline that shows the numbers of murders, rapes and robberies steadily falling.

Crime analysts credit an aging population, stiffer prison sentences and better policing.

FBI sees drop in violent and property crimes

Bill Bratton, the former chief of police in Boston, Los Angeles and New York City who's now chairman of worldwide investigative company Kroll, said on CBS' "The Early Show" Tuesday that the country's feeling the residual effects of methods and strategies put into place more than a decade ago.

"In the 1990s, policing got it right," Bratton told "Early Show" anchor Chris Wragge. "We began to focus once again on preventing crime; '60s, '70s, '80s, we focused on responding to crime. It's a lot different to try to prevent it, and we've become very successful at preventing it."

Northeastern University criminologist James Alan Fox disputes the popular myth that crime should be going up in a bad economy.

"They're using technology; they're using data, crime patterns, maps to figure out where are the hot spots, what's the trend in terms of crime and trying to be proactive," Fox said of law enforcement agencies. "People are either criminals or not, independent of whether they have a job.

In the first six months of 2011, robberies in Los Angeles dropped 10 percent from the number reported in the first half of the 2010.

Over the same time period, Chicago recorded 14 percent fewer murders, and in Dallas the number of rapes fell by 22 percent.

The FBI said these are not statistical flukes. Between January and June nationwide, violent crime fell sharply across all categories:

Murder down 5.7 percent

Rape down 5.1 percent

Robbery down 7.7 percent

Assault down 5.9 percent

Crime is down in big and small cities in every geographic region.

The Northeast saw a drop of 3.6 percent in the first half of the year. In the South, crime fell 5.8 percent and 6.6 percent in the West. The biggest decrease was in the Midwest, where violent crime dropped 9.7 percent.

Property crimes, burglaries and arson also all dropped in the first six months of the year. It could be a challenge to keep driving these crime rates lower with all police departments virtually under constant budget pressures.

Burglary Suspect Arrested at Michigan Natural Storage Facility

2012-01-11T09:37:00.000-08:00

From WZZM TV January 10, 2011

ALPINE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WZZM) -- Kent County Deputies responded to an early Wednesday morning break-in at Michigan Natural Storage on Comstock Park Drive in Alpine Township.

The break-in happened just after 12:30 a.m. Deputies set up a perimeter around the building and used K9 teams to search the area. After a two hour search authorities located the suspect.

The suspect was indentified as 40 year-old man from Grand Rapids. Deputies say he was attempting to steal a large amount of food from the storage freezers.

Story at http://grnorth.wzzm13.com/news/news/65464-man-arrested-trying-steal-food

Home Invasion Suspect Arrested

2012-01-10T14:10:00.000-08:00

The second suspect in a recent number of home invasions turned himself in today. 32 year old Daniel Shears turned himself in at the Kent County Sheriff's Correctional Facility and was arraigned on charges of second-degree home invasion and receiving and concealing stolen property.

Search on for man believed to be connected to home invasions

2012-01-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

Daniel Shears

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Sheriff deputies are looking for a person they say is connected to several Kent County home invasions.

The Kent County Sheriff's Department tells 24 Hour News 8 they are looking for 32-year-old Daniel Shears. Authorities believe Shears is connected to home invasions throughout Kent County and neighboring counties. Investigators have recovered miscellaneous property and are working to identify victims.

This alert comes after Friday's incident in the 900 block of Baldwin Street in Grand Rapids . A suspect inside a home wouldn't come out and authorities were worried he had a cache of stolen weapons in the house.

Authorities arrested 23-year-old Samuel Domonique Gonzales III and charged him with 2nd degree home invasion and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Anyone who may know the whereabouts of Daniel Shears is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency, the Kent County Sheriff's Department at (616) 632-6125 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345.

Story from Wood TV found at http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/news/local/kent_county/search-is-on-for-home-invasion-suspect

Samuel D. Gonzales III

Daytime Home Invasions

2012-01-06T12:15:00.000-08:00

It has been confirmed that there was a daytime home invasion on the 1600 block of 8 Mile Rd. NW in Alpine Township this Wednesday January 4, 2012. Valuables as well as cash were taken from the home. Another attempt occurred in Plainfield Township while the homeowner was home. These two incidents may be associated. The Kent County Sheriff's Department is conducting an active investigation and has some good leads. It is anticipated that these crimes will be solved.

Following is a repeat of a Press Release issued by the Kent County Sheriff's Department last week:

Break-ins can occur at all times of day, in any season and in all neighborhoods. Please be aware of, and report, any suspicious persons or vehicles. When possible, write down license plate numbers. Protect your home by being discrete. Don’t advertise your items of value. Keep valuables out of plain sight of doors and windows. If you are throwing away boxes or bags that depict valuable items such as TVs, computers or

jewelry, make sure they fit in you trash or recycling can. Cut or shred as much information as possible.

Keep all exterior doors and windows locked. Make sure your home is well lit. Keep criminals guessing as to whether or not you are home. Utilize interior lights and if possible different lights through-out the home when you are not home.

Keep an eye on your neighbor’s house as well and report anything out of the ordinary.

To report any crimes or suspicious activity, call the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at 632-6100 or 911.

Kent County Wide Daytime Home Invasions

2011-12-28T12:28:00.000-08:00

The Kent County Sheriff's Department is once again alerting the general public about daytime home invasions which are occurring in different parts of the County. For more information, and recommendations, please go to County Wide Daytime Home Invasions

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday!

2011-12-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

Here is a friendly reminder from the Colorado Crime Prevention Association

Upgrade Farm Security

2011-12-17T11:41:00.000-08:00

Copied from: Daily Herd Network

Good news! In 2010, the FBI’s national crime statistics indicate a drop in overall crime rates across the U.S. In fact, all regions of the country experienced an overall decline in property crime during 2010 compared to 2009 rates (down 3.8 percent in the South, 2.7 percent in the Midwest, 2.5 percent in the West, and 0.5 percent in the Northeast). All city-dwelling population groups saw decreases in violent crime as well. These are all good things for our nation and communities. But, with the good, also comes the not so good. This same report indicates that non-metropolitan (e.g. suburban and rural) counties saw slight increases in burglaries (1.2 percent) and larceny-theft (3.2 percent). Small increases to be sure, but a reminder that although rural communities are often thought of as “safe”, crime is still present.

There are two avenues to limiting farm-related property crime. First, are the on-farm aspects, which would include activities aimed at reducing a farm’s most significant vulnerabilities. In other words, make the farm a less attractive place for criminals to target. The primary goal for a farm operator is to make getting to the sensitive or vulnerable areas on a farm, to commit a crime, more difficult. Here are some things that can be done to improve farm security:

Limit the number of entryways into the farm. Ensure the farmstead and production areas are well-fenced and gates that are not in use are locked. A single farm entry, parking area and exit point ensures anyone coming to the farm will be more easily noticed and identified. This strategy also enables the use of a visitor’s policy to manage and track farm visitors and vendors for business and biosecurity purposes.
Provide external lighting around sensitive areas on the farm. Much like cockroaches, those interested in property crime are less likely to be out in the open when potential targets are well-lit. Consider adding security lighting to areas such as: farm shops and tool storage areas, fuel, pesticide, fertilizer and chemical storage structures and tanks, grain bins and loading/unloading areas. Place the master switches for fuel pumps and grain-handling equipment inside a locked building. Lock feed valves and valve handles. Some farms have even made the move to using surveillance cameras. There is also evidence that the visibility of the farm structures and equipment from the farm residence is related to a reduced likelihood of theft.
Store high-value tractors and harvesting equipment in visible areas if there are no buildings available. If equipment is left in the field overnight, remove rotors, distributor caps or batteries to limit the potential for theft. Lock tool boxes and fuel caps to limit potential vandalism opportunities. Consider placing a permanent identification number on farm equipment to help identify stolen equipment. At the same time the prominent placement of signage indicating that equipment is “tagged” may help serve as a further deterrent to theft and help identify stolen equipment later. There are a number of “Owner Applied Numbering” schemes in use across the U.S. Check with local law enforcement to see if there is a program at work in your state. There are also privately operated equipment registries such as the National Equipment Registry where individual pieces of equipment can be registered for a fee.
Livestock should be permanently identified and regularly inventoried to speed the discovery of loss and aid in returning them. FBI statistics indicate that the value of livestock stolen in U.S. in 2010 was over $19 million and only 12.8 percent of that was later recovered. Youngstock in pens or hutches should not be housed or fed by the roadside. Cattle on pasture (particularly pasture not visible from the farmstead) should be checked daily. Posting signage communicating the fact that each animal is permanently identified can act as a deterrent to theft.

The second major leg of improved farm security involves engagement with the local law enforcement and community. Because farm operations often sprawl across multiple sections or miles, it can be difficult to keep all parts of the operation under regular observation. To do so would require many eyes and significant time. Farm operators can add to the available eyes by engaging with the surrounding community in a Rural Neighborhood Watch program and coordinating with local law enforcement.

The Neighborhood Watch process is designed to build community resiliency and preparedness by helping community members work together while looking out for each other. In such a program, rural homeowners would be encouraged to keep their eyes open for unusual traffic or activity in their area. They might be in position to see outlying pastures, irrigation or other farm equipment not directly viewable from the farmstead. They would also be able to properly report to local farms or law enforcement when they see suspicious activity. Participation in such a program builds a sense of togetherness and community which can be helpful for agricultural producers in many other ways. Rural neighborhood watch programs have been successfully run in states all across the U.S., with example programs run through the land-grant universities in Oklahoma and New Mexico. The added benefit to a rural neighborhood watch program is that it also helps build good neighbor relations, which has become an important activity for most livestock operations in recent years.

Engaging in a neighborhood watch program and increasing overall security features on the farmstead strengthens agricultural businesses and promotes safety in the community.

Dean Ross is an Agrosecurity consultant based in Michigan. Contact him at: deanross@cablespeed.com

Community Alert: Daytime Home Invasions in Neighboring Communities

2011-12-09T07:33:00.000-08:00

Three daytime home invasions occurred Thursday, 12/8/11 in Cannonsburg area (Cannon, Ada, Vergennes Twp) They occurred in the:

5100 block of Egypt Valley NE

10800 block of 3 Mile Rd NE

6600 block of Blakely Dr NE

Each home was broke into while residents were not home between 8 AM – 5 PM. Taken were electronics, guns, cash and jewelry.

Always keep doors and windows locked, including garage doors. Keep guns and high end valuables secured in a safe. Report any suspicious persons/vehicles. Beware of and report any persons who come to your home asking for directions or who claim to be lost. If possible, obtain a license plate number of any suspicious vehicles.

If you have any information about these chimes, contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Department, 632-6100.

KENT COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT
701 Ball Avenue, N.E. • Grand Rapids • Michigan • 49503
Lawrence A. Stelma – Sheriff

WARNING: Cleverest scam hits Facebook

2011-12-02T18:25:00.000-08:00

From Hindustan Times 11/29/2011

A new Internet scam, dubbed the cleverest yet, is designed to steal Facebook users’ passwords and financial details by accusing them of violating the social network’s policy and threatening to delete their account. According to experts, the latest Facebook scam is among the most sophisticated yet because it mimics the security procedures that sites use to defend against Internet trolls and other bad behaviour online.

The scam comes in an email accusing the user of insulting or annoying another Facebook user and saying their account will be deleted in 24 hours, News.com.au reports.

The email requires Facebook login details and parts of a person''s credit card details for ‘authentication’ purposes.

The email links to a fake account disabled page that asks for personal details, including credit card information.

The access to login details helps the scam travel farther and faster by sending it to new users from trusted friends, the report said.

Algoma Township Daytime Home Invasions - Kent County Sheriff's Department Community Alert

2011-11-21T06:38:00.000-08:00

Algoma Township Daytime Home Invasions in Algoma Township

3 home invasions occurred between 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM on Thursday 11/17/11 in Algoma Township. They occurred in the 12600 block of White Creek Ave, 11300 block of Summit Ave and 8400 block of Wolven Ave. At the Wolven home, owner interrupted suspects at approximately 11:30 AM. Suspect said they were looking for a “construction” company. They are described as 2 black males with no facial hair, medium build, approximately 6 feet tall. The vehicle is described as a dull red compact car.

Item stolen include coins, cash, electronics and jewelry. Keep all exterior door and windows locked, including the exterior doors of your garage. If you have any information or if you observe any suspicious activity, contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at 632-6100.

To receive alerts directly from the Kent County Sheriff's Department, please sign up at: http://www.accesskent.com/CourtsAndLawEnforcement/SheriffsDepartment/sheriff_index.htm

Community Alerts - Kent County Sheriff's Department Press Release

2011-11-17T16:00:00.000-08:00

In an effort to communicate with our residents about crimes and events that can impact their lives, The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is offering a new service. Community Alerts is a free service that allows citizens to register for e-mail and text messages from the Sheriff’s Office. Through this free service, participants can receive information about crimes, scams, and other situations so that they can be more vigilant and prepared. Messages can range from wanted persons, to crime patterns, to traffic situations to avoid.

You can register for Kent County Community Alerts by going to https://www.accesskent.com/CommAlerts/.

Or by going to the Sheriff’s Department webpage at http://www.accesskent.com/CourtsAndLawEnforcement/SheriffsDepartment/sheriff_index.htm and clicking on the online service: Community Alerts.

Once there, register your name, address, e-mail, text provider and the township(s) that you would like to receive information about.

The Kent County Sheriff’s Office believes in partnering with its citizens to prevent and solve crime. Community Alerts, along with our crime mapping at crimereports.com, is a dual approach in keeping citizens informed, aware and prepared.

Alpine Township Business Watch Meeting to Address Armed Robberies

2011-11-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

A Business Watch meeting for all Alpine Township Businesses is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at the Alpine Township Hall, 5255 Alpine Ave NW in Comstock Park. All interested Alpine Township businesses are invited to attend. The topic will be Armed Robbery and discussion and training will include prevention, response, and what to do after a robbery. RSVP is requested at 784-1262. Alpine Township was the first municipality in Kent County to establish a Business Watch, although it has not been that active in recent years. For more information on the meeting, click here.

Alpine Township Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested

2011-11-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Taken from official News Release issued by Undersheriff John Hess.
On October 31, 2011, the Kent County Sheriff Department responded to an armed robbery at 3730 Alpine Avenue NW (Advance America). Witnesses described the vehicle as a black Grand Prix with a Texas license plate and followed the vehicle into York Creek Apartments. Investigators located the vehicle inside a garage and executed a search warrant on the vehicle, garage, and apartment. Evidence was found in connection to the Advance America robbery and is currently being processed. Investigators detained five individuals located at the York Creek address and lodged one adult male for armed robbery. The arraignment will be Wednesday, November 2, 2011, in the 63^rd District Court. This investigation is ongoing and being compared to the other armed robberies that have occurred along Alpine Avenue during the past three weeks.

The Sheriff's Department is working with Grand Rapids Police and Walker Police on the robberies they are investigating that appear to be similar. If information or evidence obtained during search warrants is connected to other armed robbery cases, an updated news release will be sent out.

If you have any information, you are asked to contact the Kent County Sheriff Department at 616-632-6125 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345.

Robbery suspect arrested

2011-10-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM)- Police say they have arrested a man who may be connected to a series of robberies this month in northwest Grand Rapids.

They say the man robbed the Shell station at Monroe and Ann St. last night and then got into a van. When police spotted them, the suspect ran out the passenger side but broke his ankle while jumping a fence.

Detectives are now trying to link him to at least eight other robberies at businesses on Leonard, Stocking, Bridge St. and Alpine Ave.

The name of the 39-year old man will be released Tuesday when he appears in court.

Many of the northwest Grand Rapids crimes are similar to other robberies in Walker and Alpine Township. Grand Rapids detectives are working with Walker Police and Kent County deputies to determine if the suspect had a role in those hold-ups.

http://walker.wzzm13.com/news/news/63194-robbery-suspect-arrested

2011-09-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

Neighborhood Watch in Full Swing at Alpine Meadows

Alpine Meadows Neighborhood
Watch President Joyce Garcia

Participation in the Neighborhood Watch Program at Alpine Meadows Mobile Village on Fruitridge Ave is in full swing and the rewards are apparent. Only 13 police complaints were filed this past month which is about half of the complaints filed in previous months, and most of those complaints were of a minor nature. The residents in the community are aware of what is going on in their community and are in touch with management when issues arrive. Family activities that are planned over the next few months include a Halloween Trick or Treat program and Breakfast with Santa. Curfews for children and young teens have been established and are enforced. Bus stops are being monitored by parents. Residents who have lived in the village for some years are encouraged by the many improvements that have originated with the current management. A significant number of new mobile homes are occupying once vacant spots. Kent County Community Policing Office Nate Ertle is excited about the policies being put in place by community manager Dawn Hamblin to improve the quality of life of the residents. At Thursday night's meeting of the Neighborhood Watch group, recently elected president Joyce Garcia stressed the importance of parents taking responsibility for their children's action, and doing whatever possible to keep drugs away from the youth in the community.

Alpine Meadows is located in Alpine Township at 3800 Fruitridge Avenue N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49544. It has over 400 mobile home sites.

Dawn Hamblin and Nate Ertle

Two men charged in connection with Armed Robbery at McDonald's

2011-09-07T02:35:00.000-07:00

The Kent County Prosecutor’s Office charged the following subjects in connection with the armed robbery that occurred on September 1, 2011 at the McDonalds, 3917 Alpine Ave NW, Alpine Township.

Albert Lewis Woods Jr., 21 Years Old, Gaines Township

Cedric Lee Welch Jr., 22 Years Old, Grand Rapids

Armed Robbery (MCL 750.529)

On September 6, 2011, both subjects were arraigned in the 63^rd District Court with a $100,000 Cash Surety Bond.

Media Contact: Undersheriff Jon Hess (616) 632-6103

Pair arrested believed connected to a string of robberies in rural areas

2011-09-07T02:33:00.000-07:00

By Jeff Cunningham | Advance Newspapers

Two men arrested in connection with a break-in Grand Haven Township have been connected to several dozen break-ins and thefts in eastern Ottawa and western Kent counties, according to Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Mark Bennett.

“We believe that these two have been actively working the two-county area since December of 2010, Bennett said. “We believe they are responsible for a large number of the thefts that have occurred in Allendale, Chester, and Wright townships in Ottawa County and in the northwestern part of Kent County.”

He said Joel Wood, 32, and Mark McGregor, 42, both of Grand Rapids, were arrested Aug. 26 after they allegedly robbed the Lake Cycles shop, 12200 U.S. 31 in Grand Haven Township. “We had gotten a tip from the public earlier in the week that these two might be involved in the rash of thefts and break-ins that had been going on across the area,” Bennett said.
From that lead, Bennett said several area police departments were able to develop information on the pair and had them under surveillance when they broke into the cycle shop early the morning of Aug. 26. “We had deputies make a routine traffic stop after the two men left the shop,” Bennett said. “Deputies identified stolen items in their vehicle and were able to make an arrest without incident.”

From there, Bennett said that deputies from the City of Walker, Kent County Sheriff’s Department, and Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office worked together to bring together other information to locate other stolen goods the two had at their home on Bristol Avenue and 3 Mile Road. “We were able to recover electronics, ATVs, farm equipment, and other stolen goods, much of which has been returned to its rightful owner,” Bennett said.

As to the three police departments working together – Bennett said that this is another case of exemplary law enforcement relationships leading to solution of a major case. “We have been given tools by Homeland Security that allow our departments to share information and to work together,” he said. “But the department always have to want to work together and in West Michigan, we have always shown that we will do everything we can to bring criminals to justice.”

McGregor and Woods were arraigned in 58th District Court in Grand Haven earlier this week. Both were given bond. Wood remains in the Ottawa County Fillmore Street Jail while McGregor was given a $5,000 bond, which he has posted.

The two are expected to face several more charges either late this week or early next as Ottawa County Prosecutor Ronald Frantz is looking at all of the evidence and currently deciding how to charge the pair for the extensive number of burglaries and thefts which occurred in Ottawa County. The Kent County prosecutor is reportedly doing the same.

As the two both have long criminal histories, according to court documents, they both are expected to be charged as habitual criminals, Bennett said.

Armed Robbery at Alpine Township McDonald

2011-09-01T05:31:00.000-07:00

From WZZM My Hometown Page

COMSTOCK PARK, Mich. (WZZM) - Kent County Sheriff's Deputies are looking for two men suspected of robbing the McDonald's restaurant on Alpine Avenue in Comstock Park.

Two men entered the restaurant through an unlocked door about 2:30 am Thursday. The restaurant was closed at the time, but the drive-thru was still open.

The Kent County Sheriff's Department says the suspects were wearing all black and ski masks, and one had a handgun.

The suspects told the employees to lay on the ground. They also forced them to open a safe so they could get the money out.

Police used dogs to track the suspects, but no one was found.

No one was injured in the robbery.

..

Arrests Made for Theft in our Rural Communities

2011-08-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

A Joint Investigation with Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Kent County Sheriff’s Office, and City of Walker Police Department resulted in the arrest of two subjects believed to be responsible for a large number of thefts in Alpine Township and neighboring communities. Ottawa County Sheriff's Department issued a news release of which a copy can be downloaded from here.

More information will be passed on when made available.

Special Informational Meeting - Thefts in Rural Communities.

2011-08-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

There have been an alarming number of thefts from local farms over the past few weeks. Many of these thefts occurred in nearby Townships located in Ottawa County but they have now spread to a number of Townships in Kent County including Alpine Township, particularly along Peach Ridge Ave.

B indicates a larceny from an unoccupied building

An informational meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 9th, for farmers and residents in the rural community, at 7:00 PM at the Alpine Township Center, 5255 Alpine Ave. NW. (Corner of 6 Mile Rd NW) Farmers from neighboring communities are also invited to attend.

The main purpose of the meeting is for the Kent County Sheriff's Department to inform the public about these incidents and what is being done by local law enforcement agencies. Ottawa County Sheriff's Department has also been invited to attend.

Kent County Sheriff’s Department 911

Non Emergency: 632-6100

Reports of vandalism along Westshire Ave.

2011-06-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

There have been several reports of vandalism to homes on or near Westshire Ave NW in the Westgate neighborhood. There may also have been an unreported theft in the same neighborhood. After several years without an incident, the bathrooms at Westgate Park were covered with obscene graphics ealier this month. All these incidents began around the first of June. Anyone with information is requested to contact the Kent County Sheriff Department at 616-632-6125 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Downtown Grand Rapids Parking Alert - Theft from Vehicles

2011-04-07T05:31:00.000-07:00

A rash of overnight vehicle break-ins in downtown Grand Rapids has Grand Rapids police on alert.

Vehicle windows are being smashed and property is being stolen -- things like GPS units, laptops, purses and anything someone might see and think is valuable.

Police said it has been happening more often in recent weeks in the covered parking ramps and on streets. Grand Rapids police even sent out an alert on their Facebook page warning people to be on the lookout and protect their personal property.

Story at http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/news/local/grand_rapids/Car-windows-smashed-valuables-stolen WOOD TV

Kent County Sheriff Provides On Line Mapping

2011-03-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

According to an official news release, The Kent County Sheriff Department has partnered with CrimeReports to provide the public with on-line crime mapping. By connecting to www.CrimeReports.com, the public can see a daily updated crime map showing when and where the sheriff’s department has responded to calls for service. Primarily, township residents will be able to view a crime map showing activity in and around their neighborhoods.

Providing reliable, timely information to our citizens is one of our top priorities. The CrimeReports service gives us the ability to keep the public informed on a regular basis as to what is going on in the community. The public can access the crime map 24 hours a day through the website, www.crimereports.com, or through the CrimeReports iPhone app, available for free download in the Apple iTunes store. There is also a link on the Kent County Sheriff Department website:

http://www.accesskent.com/CourtsAndLawEnforcement/SheriffsDepartment/sheriff_index.htm

The CrimeReports service lets local citizens sign up for free customizable email alerts, so they can stay on top of crime in their neighborhood and allows citizens to submit tips about area crimes directly to Silent Observer. We hope that giving the community this information will help them prevent and solve crime in their neighborhoods.

Contact: Undersheriff Jon Hess at 616-632-6236

Scam Alert

2011-02-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance regulation is warning Grand Rapids area residents to be on the lookout for fake health insurance plans affiliated with "Consumer Health Benefits Association," "National Association for Americans," "National Benefits Concepts" or "National Benefit Solution." These bogus medical discount plans are designed to look like legitimate health carriers. These scams are not insurance and offer no health benefits. Victims didn't even know they were being bamboozled until after they had paid fees. If you believe you are a victim of this scam, call OFIR at 877-999-6442.

If You see Something, Say Something

2010-12-07T03:35:00.000-08:00

If you see something, say something, comes to Walmart. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today announced the expansion of the Department’s national “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign to hundreds of Walmart stores across the country – launching a new partnership between DHS and Walmart to help the American public play an active role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation.

READ MORE

Area Breaking and Entering Incidents

2010-09-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Kent County Sheriff's Department is investigating several breaking and enterings to businesses that have occurred in the Alpine and Plainfield Township areas. The suspects have been targeting businesses in these townships and breaking in in the early morning hours, usually between 2am and 4 am. They gain entry by smashing out a window or door and grabbing what is visible. Some of the businesses have had alarms but that did not stop them from quickly going in and grabbing items.

The suspect description is a white male of average build, approximately 6ft tall with no noticeable facial hair that is driving a white four door sedan. The vehicle is possible an older model white Ford Taurus or Mercury Sable.

Anyone with information is requested to contact the Kent County Sheriff Department at 616-632-6125 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Home Invasion, Baumhoff NW

2010-09-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

A Home Invasion occurred sometime on Friday night, August 27, between 5:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. at 4823 Baumhoff, NW. in Alpine Township. Someone gained entry by removing/breaking a screen from a window on the west side. The window was open, so the intruder gained access relatively easily. They took gold jewelry items prescription medication and old credit cards. They left three double hung windows askew on one side so that they might return again. A complaint was filed with the Kent County Sheriff's Department , Case No. 10-47294.

Churches, Business and Car Break-Ins Solved. Sheriff'sDepartment Looking for more Victims

2010-07-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday July 6th the Kent County Sheriff Department responded to a call for found suspicious property. During the course of the investigation the property was linked to two church breaking and entering reports, eight business breaking and entering reports, as well as multiple car larcenies. It is believed that these crimes happened over the last two to three months in the Plainfield and Alpine Township areas.

Some of the known areas these crimes happened in are Westgate Neighborhood, Buth and Westriver, Windflower Neighborhood, Scott Creek and Post Drive, as well as several side streets running off of 6 Mile and 7 Mile Road between Division and M-37.

Multiple suspects have been identified and are all juveniles.

This case is still being investigated. If you have any additional information, or have been a victim of a similar crime and have not yet reported it, please contact the Kent County Sheriff Department at 632-6125 or Silent Observer at 774-2345.

Kent County Sheriff’s Office Official News Release

Lieutenant Kevin Kelley- Public Information Officer (616)632-6236
kevin.kelley@kentcountymi.gov

Be Cautious of Door to Door Sales People

2010-07-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Last week the Kent County Sheriff's Department cautioned the community to be aware of unscrupulous sales people selling magazine subscriptions. Sheriff’s deputies have reported that numerous residents in Grand Rapids and Ada Township are being contacted by traveling magazine sales persons, often young people who themselves end up being victimized by unscrupulous management.

Alpine Township residents should be cautious of any door to door crews. A resident on Walker Ave NW in Alpine Township was approached last night by a group of three men alleging to be selling vacuum cleaners. They rang the door bell and offered a spray can of Febreeze. They then offered to sell a vacuum cleaner. In conversation on of the men expressed an interest in the home owner's vehicles which were parked in the garage. Situations like this may be legitimate but they can also be part of a theft operation that may strike when the home owner is away, or come back at a later time. The persons involved did not have a license from Alpine Township to solicit as is required.

If you suspect foul play or want to report an identical incident, contact the Sheriff's department at 632-6100 or call 911 if you feel in immediate danger.

Can you spot the imposter?

Stabbing Report Fabricated

2010-03-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

Alpine Township man lied about stabbing because he was late for work, police said
By Tim Devaney The Grand Rapids Press
March 11, 2010, 5:46PM

ALPINE TOWNSHIP -- After he overslept and needed a good excuse for being late to work, a 22-year-old man stabbed himself in the thigh and then sent police on a wild goose chase for a suspect who didn't exist, authorities said.

Kent County sheriff's officials say they now are seeking charges against the Alpine Township man, who last Sunday told police he was approached in the York Creek Apartment complex by a man who asked for a cigarette, then stabbed him in the leg.

On Monday, authorities say they determined the man was lying when they interviewed him a second time.

He likely will be charged with filing a false report.

Drive-By Shooting

2010-03-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

On Monday, March 1st, 2010, at approximately 2:30 AM, the Kent County Sheriff Office responded to three drive-by shootings that appear to be related.

The first occurred in Alpine Township on M37 near 8 Mile Road. The victim, a 39 year old male from Grant, was on his way to work traveling southbound on M37 when his vehicle was passed by a passenger car at a high rate of speed. While being passed, the victim’s car was struck by something. Not knowing what occurred, he pulled to the side of the road and discovered his car had been shot at. The round hit the driver’s side passenger door, traveled through the driver’s headrest and punctured the victim’s coat. The driver was uninjured. Please see attached photos.

The second and third incidents took place at the Arbys and Taco Bell on Northland Drive near Plainfield Avenue. The businesses were closed at this time but there were employees inside. No one was injured. The bullets struck the front entry door and windows of the establishments.

Kent County Detectives are asking anyone with information to call the Kent County Sheriff Department Dispatch at 632-6100 option 1 or Silent Observer at 774-2345.

Update on Alpine Township Home Invasion

2010-01-27T15:54:00.000-08:00

January 26th at 3:00 PM

On Tuesday 01-26-10, the Kent County Sheriff Department responded to a suspicious situation in the 2000 block of 7 Mile Rd NW. What started out as a Good Samaritan stopping to help two individuals who were stuck in the ditch, quickly turned into the two individuals being arrested for home invasion.

A passing motorist, who lives in Alpine township, stopped to check on two males who had gotten their vehicle stuck in the ditch. While helping them get their vehicle out of the ditch the Good Samaritan noticed that they were very anxious to leave. After they left he noticed a shovel on the ground and thought that it had been borrowed from the house they were in front of. Because he lived in the area and new the home owner he went to return the shovel and discovered the house had been broken into. He then called the Sheriff Department to report the crime.

Deputy Nathan Ertle (616)632-6224 nathan.ertle@kentcountymi.gov

As the Sheriff Department responded to the call the two suspects, identified as Christopher Fales a 30 year old male from Hudsonville and Zachary Wolf a 19 year old from Marne, noticed they left the shovel and returned to get it. They were back in the driveway of the residence they had broken into when the Sheriff Department arrived.

A two count felony warrant was issued for home invasion and conspiracy to commit home invasion for both Christopher Fales and Zachary Wolf.

Deputy Nathan Ertle (616)632-6224 nathan.ertle@kentcountymi.gov

Home Invasion Alpine Township

2010-01-26T16:30:00.000-08:00

The Kent County Sheriff's Department responded to a call for a possible home invasion in the 2000 block of 7 Mile Rd. NW. Based on the information given by the caller responding deputies were able to stop the suspect vehicle as it attempted to leave the area and two suspects were arrested.

A neighborhood resident noticed suspicious behavior of the two after stopping to help them get out of a ditch. Without his quick thinking and action this would have been much harder to solve.

Deputy Nathan Ertle (616)632-6224

Home Invasions and Theft from Vehicles

2009-12-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

This is another Westgate Neighborhood Watch success story.

There was a home invasion late this morning in the 500 block of Shadowood NW in Alpine Township's Westgate community. An alert neighbor contacted the police because of suspicious activity. The police arrested a 16 year old Alpine Township youth who also lives in the area. He may have been in the presence of a second youth who was a person of interest in a string of car break-ins last year.

If you have further information or experienced a recent home invasion or car break-in in Alpine Township’s Westgate or neighboring communities, please contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at 632-6100.

2009-09-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

It has been relatively quiet in the Westgate neighborhood area. There have been a few complaints about noise and loud stereos but overall there has not been a lot of criminal activity reported. Alpine Township has passed a noise ordinance at the September 21, 2009 meeting and hopefully it will contribute to keeping Westgate a peaceful community. There have also been a few complaints about teenagers openly purchasing and smoking marijuana in Westgate Park. Neighbor complaints recently resulted in the arrest of several teenagers. It means Neighborhood Watch is working! Westgate has been a safe park for our children and grandchildren and it should continue to be such.

The noise ordinance takes effect 4 weeks after publication. A copy of the ordinance can be found here.

Door to door sales in Alpine Township

2009-05-19T16:21:00.000-07:00

On Friday night we had some door to door sales women in the Alpine and Plainfield area trying to sell Kirby Vacuum cleaners and Kirby cleaning products. The women were very pushy with senior citizens in trying to get into the houses and left a couple of homeowners feeling threatened. Please click here for more information.

Home Invasions

2009-04-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

Community Policing Officer Nate Ertle reports that the Kent County Sheriff Department is currently investigating several home invasions in the West and North West area of Kent County. The home invasions have taken place on 4 mile and Alpine Church Rd in Alpine, Pine Island in Plainfield Township, and in Tyrone and Solon Townships.

These are mostly day time home invasions with the suspects posing as salesmen or pretending to be lost and asking for directions. If someone comes to your door that is suspicious please call the Sheriff Department (632-6100).

Common stories used are:

I lost my pet and wondered if you have seen it.
Pretend to have a package to deliver but leave when the door is answered
Saying they are lost looking for directions
Saying that they thought there was something for sale at this address
That they were looking for a friend that they thought lived at this address

We do not have any suspect information at this time. If you have any information about these home invasions contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Office 616 632-6100 or Silent Observer at 774-2345

ONLINE REPORTING OF MINOR CRIMES

2009-02-27T06:21:00.000-08:00

The Kent County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce the implementation of a new online citizen reporting system called Coplogic. Using this web-based system, citizens will be able to file minor crime reports at home, at their convenience by going online to the accesskent.com website. These reports will be automatically integrated into the records management system of the Sheriff's Office. As a result of this reporting network, patrol resources will be more effectively managed. Sheriff Stelma believes that this type of citizen report system will have a tremendous benefit to the community, the department and the individual.

The Kent County Sheriff's Department will be the first in Michigan to employ this type of system. Other police agencies throughout the nation have been using Coplogic with measurable success. Some of the agencies, such as the San Francisco Police Department and the Anchorage Police Department are taking twenty five percent of their reports online without having to dispatch an officer.

The necessary information for crime analysis, state reporting and investigation is still collected just as effectively while simultaneously offering citizens enhanced options for report filing.

Home Invasions

2009-02-18T03:16:00.000-08:00

Alpine/ Plainfield Township area: The Kent County Sheriff Department has taken several complaints of home invasions in the last couple of days. The home invasions have occurred during the day time after the suspects check and believe that no one is home. They have occurred in Alpine, Plainfield, and Algoma townships with electronics being the main target. There are two different suspect descriptions; one is a white 4 door sedan with two white males in their early 20’s or teens wearing hooded sweatshirts, and the other is a Chevy Astro Van with several individuals going door to door pretending to sell soap. If you see suspicious activity or have a solicitor come to your door that does not seem legitimate please call the Kent County Sheriff Department at 632-6100.

E-MAIL ALERTS

2009-02-12T03:08:00.000-08:00

At this time, nearly 50 households are signed up for e-mail alerts, in the event of significant events occuring in or near our community. This seems to be the most practical and efficient way to communicate, particularly during this time of minimal criminal activity in the Westgate Neighborhood. . If you are interested in receiving alerts, please e-mail westgateneighborhoodwatch@gmail.com. If you have any ideas or suggestions, or information you feel needs to be shared, please e-mail to the same address.

SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR

2008-11-20T15:13:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday November 12th, an elementary aged male was approached by a stranger who was driving past him on the street. The driver told the boy to come over and talk to him, but when the boy did not recognize the man he ran home and reported this to his mother who called the Sheriff Department. The vehicle that was involved in this incident was described as an older white GMC SUV with mud on the sides and a loud exhaust. The vehicle was being driven by a white male possible in his 50’s. The incident happened on Alpenhorn near Lamoreaux where the child’s bus stop is located. If you have any information on this or identical situations, please contact the Kent CountySheriff Department at 632-6100 or Silent Observer at 774-2345.

DOOR TO DOOR SALES

2008-11-20T15:02:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a situation that happened to me last week. I was in the yard working when I was approached by a young man trying to sell home improvements. They started off by telling me a bit about my house and how they could help me make it nicer. After telling the gentlemen I was not interested multiple times I asked him if they had a permit to solicit in Alpine Township. He took me to the Manager who was driving a white van with about six other people in it. She advised me that they were not aware that you needed a permit to solicit in this area. I told her to go to the township offices and obtain that permit and then they could come back.After about a half hour I drove around Westgate and found them again in the area of Bekinshire they made eye contact with me and knew they were wrong. I contacted the township hall and asked if a permit was pulled and she told me no. The township officer was contacted to go and locate the people and ask them again to leave and possibly issue a citation. Deputy Roe found the team down on Stoney Creek and pulled them over. He further checked the occupants in the vehicle and found that two of them had felony warrants out for there arrests.So remember that you must have a permit to solicit in Alpine Township and be careful on who you let in your home. I always ask for picture id from the company that are working for and if you are having an estimate ask them for proof of liability insurance and if they are bonded. You don't want people working for you if they are not insured unless you know them well and trust them.This is what keeps our neighborhood safe. Keep your eyes and ears open.

Jeremy Kelly

It's not too late!

2008-11-05T06:27:00.000-08:00

If you live in the vincinity of Westgate, it's never too late to become a participant in Westgate Neighborhood Watch. To get a brief outline of the reorganizational meeting conducted last Monday, please click here. To obtain a copy of the Family Information Form, please click here. It is highly recommended that you do not e-mail this form nor release it without verifying that the person you send/give it to is an active Neighborhood Watch organizer or block captain,

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING A HUGE SUCCESS

2008-11-04T04:53:00.000-08:00

Fifty concerned citizens crammed into a room at Stoney Creek School, eager to learn about Westgate Neighborhood Watch and what they can do to reduce their risk of being victimized.Nate Ertle, Community Policing Officer for Alpine and Plainfield Township explained that one way for a resident to reduce that risk is to make their house less of a target than their neighbor's. "Neighborhood Watch has the same concept" Deputy Ertle said, “except instead of making your home safer, you are making your entire community safer and less attractive to lawbreakers than other communities."

The organizers of Westgate Neighborhood Watch were almost a victim of their own success, with the room filled to capacity. Another twenty residents expressed an interest in becoming involved in Neighborhood Watch but were unable to attend the meeting. Westgate Neighborhood Watch Chairman Jeremy Kelly said his committee will be busy over the next few weeks, breaking the area into grids and assigning block captains.Neighborhood Watch is a community crime prevention program endorsed by the National Sheriff's Association.

Alpine Township has over ten Neighborhood Watch programs, including a Rural Neighborhood Watch and, and the first Business Crime Watch in Kent County.

Many thanks to those who took the initiative to reorganize Westgate Community Watch, and for canvassing the entire neighborhood. Special thanks to Jeremy and Amber Kelly, Derreck and Sarah DeMey, Carol Spence, and Jon and Jennifer Jenkins. Thanks also to Polly Vandenbroek for sharing her expertise as one of the original organizers about twenty years ago. Thanks also to Deputy Ertle and Sergeant Steve Dombrowski from the Kent County Sheriff's Department, and Bob Fidler, Principal of Stoney Creek School for being our gracious host.

hello

2008-10-23T08:57:00.001-07:00

Just checking in to say hi and see how the blog is working out for everyone.

Westgate Neighborhood Watch Reorganization

2008-10-15T04:46:00.000-07:00

Some years ago, when Westgate was the main residential area in Alpine Township, there was a significant outbreak in residential burglaries and other property crimes in the area. Upon the prodding of the Kent County Sheriff's department, and a serious concern by the community, a Neighborhood Watch Group was organized. This resulted in community awareness and a reduction in crime that has lasted for decades. The Westgate Neighborhood Watch was one of the most active groups in the area for a long time, but with a decrease in criminal activity, the Neighborhood Watch group became less active.With a number of recent major crimes in the area, and a decline in the economy, the need for an active Neighborhood Watch group is great once again. . A number of concerned citizens met with our community policing officer Nate Ertle this week and expressed a desire to reorganize the Westgate Neighborhood Watch.

If you live in or in the near vincinity of the Westgate area, you are invited to an organizational meeting scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2008, at Stoney Creek School, 200 Lantern Drive N.W. To view or print copies of the brochure, click here.