April 23, 2002  

                              Regarding: Attempted Robbery and Assault - 
                           2700 block of  Claremont Avenue

Safety Alert

Since the beginning of April there have been several small, suspicious fires in the neighborhood north of University Avenue, as far as Gilman Street, and east of San Pablo Avenue, as far as McGee Street.  Some of these have been in apartment building laundry rooms and others have been set to vehicles or outside debris. No suspects have been seen.

In the same area, there have also been three incidents of prowling where a suspicious person was seen. His description is:

White or Hispanic male, 20-32 yrs old,
Dark hair, 6’0” to 6’4"
Medium or muscular build  

The Berkeley Police Department is releasing this information to help our community better protect themselves. We also need your help. If you witness a crime in progress, or see a prowler, don’t hesitate to call 911. If you have seen other suspicious behavior or have an incident to report, please call our non-emergency number 981-5900.

Your personal security is important. Pay attention to your surroundings and lock your doors when you’re home. Most burglaries in Berkeley occur via unlocked or even open doors. Close windows that are easily accessible from outside and trim vegetation.

If you would like more information about home security, or would like to make an appointment for a home security survey, please call our Community Services Bureau at (510) 981-5808.