New United States Park Police Officers

The United States Park Police would like to welcome eighteen new officers to its ranks. These officers received their badges from Chief of Police Lauro on December 18, 2009.

• Jean R. Augustin
• William H. Bachmann, Jr.
• Joseph Barracato
• Cameron G. Easter
• Ryan M. Evasick
• Joshua L. Gowdie
• Michael D. Green
• Farouk E. Henry
• Jonathan M. Hope
• Vincent T. Laddaga
• Andrew N. Lauro
• Christian N. Ngassa
• David B. Paik
• Craig Phoenix
• Anthony D. Pierelli
• Michael E. Shalton, Jr.
• Renee L. Stone
• Caleb R. Williams

Congratulations to all of them. They put an enormous effort into this accomplishment.

In Memory Of Fallen Officers

The eighteen new officers joining the ranks of the United States Park Police had their last training run as recruits downtown around the monuments and memorials they will soon protect.

Physical fitness is paramount for police officers and this run only added to their high level of conditioning.

Since the commanders of the United States Park Police firmly believe in leading by example, the Chief of Police, a Deputy Chief of Police, two Majors, and a Captain joined the newest members of the Force for this fitness run.

Fitness is critical, however equally important is the sense of community all officers must share. This family of law enforcement must never forget those officers who gave their lives serving with us. The new officers were told of those United States Park Police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the people they serve.

Bringing this point home firmly was the presence of the surviving son of one of our fallen.

Hakim Farthing died in the line of duty on August 10, 2002. He is survived by his now eleven year old son, Eric.

Eric met the new officers and followed them as they ran the National Mall. When the runners finnished at Headquarters, Eric was presented with the recruit class "guidon."

This run clearly established the link all of us have with those who served before.

Eric will always be part of our family.

http://www.wusa9.com/video/default.aspx?bctid=57964955001

Fatal Crash On Suitland Parkway

One person died in a crash on the Suitland Parkway.

This crash happened on Monday December 14, 2009 at about 6:37 am eastbound Suitland Parkway at Meadowview Drive, which is between Silver Hill Road and Forestville Road in Suitland, Maryland.

The decedent, 32 year old Shawn Bowman of Suitland, Maryland sustained critical injuries in the crash where his vehicle overturned. He was transported to Prince Georges Hospital Center in Cheverly, Maryland by Prince Georges County Fire Department ambulance. Shortly after his arrival at Prince Georges Hospital Center, he succumbed to the injuries.

The other vehicle involved in the crash was occupied by an adult female and a baby, both of whom sustained non life threatening injuries, and transported to Southern Maryland Hospital in Clinton, Maryland.

United States Park Police Detectives and Crash Reconstructionists are investigating this crash.

Any witnesses are asked to contact the United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Tip Line at (202) 610-8737.

Fatal Crash Baltimore Washington Parkway

One person is dead following a car crash northbound on the Baltimore Washington Parkway at Maryland Route 198.

This crash happened at about 5:00 am on Friday December 11, 2009.

The crash involved one vehicle occupied only by the driver. The car left the roadway and struck the stone bridge abutment head on.

The driver, David A. WEEDON, 52 years old from Laurel, Maryland, died at the scene.

United States Park Police Detectives and Crash Reconstructionists are investigating this scene to ascertain causitive factors.

Any witnesses to this crash are asked to call the United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch "Tipline" at (202) 610-8737.

Fallen Tree Snarls Rush Hour On The GWMP

A large tree fell across the George Washington Memorial Parkway at the height of morning rush hour.

On Tuesday November 24, 2009, shortly before 7:00 am, the tree fell across the northbound lanes near Turkey Run. This tree fell on six cars. Fortunately, no one in the cars was injured.

This snarled traffic for about two and one half hours while the National Park Service tree crews sawed and chipped the tree. All traffic was diverted onto Rt. 123 at McLean.

Apparently saturated ground from recent rains loosened the tree.

Family Seeking Closure In Theft Of Loved One's Remains

A bronze cremation urn containing the remains of a decorated US Army veteran was stolen from a parked car in the 300 block of Jefferson Drive SW Washington, DC on November 12, 2009. This theft occurred between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Initially the theft was reported to the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department; however this incident occurred on jurisdiction of the United States Park Police.

The stolen urn is 8.5” X 5.5” X 5.5” in size, manufactured in bronze, with a cross on the lower right front.

United States Park Police Detectives are making the recovery of this urn and contents a priority to assist the family with the mourning process and crime victimization.

While closure of all criminal incidents is paramount, we understand that simply recovering this item is more important.

A reward is offered to anyone with information about this theft or information about the whereabouts of the urn and contents.

Should anyone possess this urn and desire to help close this unfortunate tragedy for this family and wishes to remain anonymous, he or she is asked to contact their local police department and describe where we may find the urn.

Please contact the United States Park Police Crime Tip line at (202) 610-8737 with any information.

Pedestrian Struck on National Mall Dies

One person is dead after being struck by a car on the National Mall.

Richard Greenstein and his wife Rhonda Ratner were crossing Madison Drive at 12th Street in the National Mall on Sunday November 15, 2009 at about 12:00 pm. Both were in the marked crosswalk. A vehicle backing up on Madison Drive struck both of these pedestrians. Both Richard Greenstein and Rhoda Ratner were injured after being struck and were transported to George Washington University Hospital.

Rhonda Ratner was treated and released with minor injuries.

Richard Greenstein was admitted to the hospital and succumbed to his injuries on Monday November 16, 2009. Mr. Greenstein is a 76 year old male from Northwest Washington, DC.

United States Park Police Crash Reconstructionists and Detectives are investigating this incident.

The driver of the striking vehicle remained on the scene for the investigation.

The driver’s name is not being released at this time pending consultation with the United States Attorney’s Office.

The cause of death will be determined after examination by the Medical Examiner for the District of Columbia.

Anyone who witnessed this crash is requested to contact United States Park Police Detective Freeman at (202) 610-8760.

Unusual Crash Near Arlington Cemetary

A taxi driving on Memorial Avenue near Arlington National Cemetary lost control on wet pavement, jumped a curb, crossed a sidewalk and struck the concrete rail of the bridge that takes Memorial Avenue over the southbound George Washington Parkway.

When the taxi struck the railing, it knocked out about ten of the concrete vertical posts and pushed them off the bridge. These heavy concrete pieces crashed to the Parkway below; fortunately they did not strike any cars. This is a drop of about twenty five feet.

The concrete railing remained intact, however it was not secure enough to allow traffic to flow below.

Traffic has been diverted on the southbound George Washington Parkway to Theodore Roosevelt Bridge until National Park Service personnel can stabilize this heavy concrete rail.

Besides the rail damage and damage to the taxi, one vehicle below struck a large piece and sustained undercarriage damage.

No one was hurt.

Pedestrian Fatality Suitland Parkway

One pedestrian is dead after being struck by two vehicles in the intersection of Suitland Parkway at Naylor Road in Temple Hills, Maryland.

On November 11, 2009 at about 2:27 am, United States Park Police Officers responded to this crash, and found that two vehicles travelling together struck this pedestrian. The pedestrian was transported to Prince Georges Hospital Center in Cheverly, Maryland with multiple critical injuries. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

The striking vehicles are owned and operated by the United States Secret Service. The operators of these vehicles remained on the scene for the investigation.

The decedent has been identified as Larry Donnall Moore from Temple Hills, Maryland.

United States Park Police Crash Reconstructionists and Detectives are investigating this incident. No causative factors have been determined yet.

Park Police Vacancy Announcement Extended

The vacancy announcement for new police officers with the United States Park Police has been extended.

If you think this is the career for you, you now have until Friday November 27, 2009 to apply!!

Click on the title for the link to the announcement.

Fatal Crash Baltimore Washington Parkway

One person is dead following an overnight car crash on the Baltimore Washington Parkway.

Jabari OUTTZ, a 32 year old Greenbelt, Maryland resident, died in a single vehicle car crash southbound on the Baltimore Washington Parkway north of New York Avenue. This crash happened on 10/31/09 at about 3:30 am.

Mr. OUTTZ was a passenger in a vehicle that was travelling northbound on the Baltimore Washington Parkway. This vehicle crossed the center median of the Parkway and came to rest in the southbound lanes.

Mr. OUTTZ was declared deceased at the scene.

The driver was transported to Prince Georges Hospital Center with minor injuries.

There were no other occupants in the car.

This car crash is being investigated by United States Park Police Detectives and Crash Reconstructionists.

The driver’s name will be released when authorized by United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch.

Anyone with information about this incident, please call the United States Park Police, Criminal Investigations Branch on (202) 610-8737.

Halloween Drunk Driving

Halloween is one of the biggest evenings for drunk driving offenses.

If you choose to drive drunk, the United States Park Police would love to meet you!

We will offer you several hours of interesting conversation, introduction to some high tech devices such as breath testing equipment, some fascinating reading material including copies of citations, notices to appear in court, and driver’s license suspension forms, and of course conversation that will include discussions about how your future driving expenses will increase.

If you desire to stay with us for longer than our normal processing times, we can expand your experience by helping you pick a new wardrobe including such cutting edge fashions as orange jumpsuits, no belts, and shoes with no laces.

Our officers are very nice people, but you probably would not like to meet them under these conditions.

If you drive drunk and are arrested, you will face enormous fines, legal bills, possible jail time, sky high insurance premiums, and huge amounts of time in court.

That’s if you manage not to crash your car.

If you crash your car, add in the high cost of body and fender shop work.

If you crash your car and injure or kill someone, you will go to jail. You might lose everything you own or may own in the future.

Most importantly, you will live with the knowledge that you have destroyed many lives, your life, the life of the one you hurt or killed, and the family, friends, and co workers of that victim.

It can be avoided.

If you drink too much, get a sober friend or family member to bring you home. If you need, you can get a free taxi ride home in the Washington, DC area. To get a free ride home, call 1-800-200-TAXI (8294) or ATT Wireless customers dial #TAXI. This is a service provided by the Washington Regional Alcohol Program. They have details at www.wrap.org.

From the WRAP website:

WRAP's 2009 Halloween SoberRide program will be offered from 10:00 pm Saturday, October 31 to 6:00 am Sunday, November 1. To receive a free cab ride home (up to a $50.00 fare), please call 800-200-8294 (TAXI) or #8294 (TAXI) on your AT&T wireless phone. Please refer to the SoberRide information listed below for important details concerning this program. You must be 21 or older to use the SoberRide service.

General SoberRide Information

WRAP's SoberRide , called one of the nation's most successful free cab ride programs for would-be impaired drivers, has helped to ensure greater Washington, DC residents have a safe way home on high-risk holidays. Since 1993, WRAP has provided over 43,000 safe rides home.

Currently, SoberRide operates during the December/January holiday season, St. Patrick's Day, Independence Day and Halloween.

WRAP's SoberRide provides a free cab ride home up to a $50 fare.
Callers are financially responsible for anything over $50.

You must be 21 or older to use the SoberRide service. All calls must originate in Montgomery and Prince George's Counties in Maryland; the Cities of Rockville, Bowie, College Park, Gaithersburg, Greenbelt and Takoma Park in Maryland; the District of Columbia; Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William and Eastern Loudoun Counties in Virginia; and the Cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas and Manassas Park in Virginia.

You cannot reserve a SoberRide or schedule a pickup in advance. To receive a ride, you must call 1-800-200-8294 (TAXI) or #8294 (TAXI) on your AT&T wireless phone during the program hours. A SoberRide call operator will direct your request to the correct participating cab company.

Participating Taxi Companies:
Alexandria Yellow Cab (Alexandria)
Barwood, Inc. (Montgomery County)
Fairfax Yellow Cab (Fairfax County)
Loudoun Yellow Cab (Eastern Loudoun County)
Manassas Cab Company (Prince William County)
Red Top Cab Company (Arlington County)
Silver Cab of Prince George's County (Prince George's County)
Yellow Cab of District of Columbia (District of Columbia)
Yellow Cab of Prince William County (Prince William County)

When waiting for a SoberRide, please watch for a cab from the participating taxi company in the area from which you are calling.

En espanol

Información General sobre SoberRide


La campaña SoberRide 2009 de WRAP para Halloween se ofrecerá el sábado 31 de octubre a partir de las 10:00 pm hasta las 6:00 am del domingo 1 de noviembre del 2009. Para obtener un servicio de taxi gratis a su casa (hasta $50 de pasaje) llame al 1-800-200-8294 (TAXI) o si es un usuario de AT&T marque #8294 (TAXI). Por favor refiérase a la información a continuación para más detalles sobre este programa. Usted debe ser mayor de 21 años para obtener el servicio de SoberRide.

El Programa SoberRide de WRAP, considerado uno de los programas de taxi gratis más exitosos para chóferes potencialmente inhabilitados, ha permitido que los residentes del área de Washington DC tengan transporte seguro a sus casas los días feriados de alto riesgo. Desde 1993, WRAP ha proveído más de 43,000 viajes gratis a casa.

Actualmente, SoberRide ofrece servicios durante los feriados de navidad y año nuevo, el día de San Patricio, el día de la independencia de los Estados Unidos y el día de las brujas (Halloween).

El programa de SoberRide ofrece servicio de taxi gratis a casa hasta por un valor de $50 de pasaje.
Las personas que solicitan este servicio son responsables financieramente por cualquier monto superior a $50.

Usted debe ser mayor de 21 años para obtener el servicio de SoberRide. Todas las llamadas deben originarse en los condados de Montgomery y Prince George y las ciudades de Rockville, Bowie, College Park, Gaithersburg, Greenbelt y Takoma Park en Maryland; el Distrito de Columbia; los condados de Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William, el este de Loudoun y las ciudades de Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas y Manassas Park en Virginia.

No se permite hacer reservaciones de SoberRide o programar anticipadamente que el taxi le recoja a una hora y lugar determinado. Para recibir servicios de taxi gratis, usted debe llamar al 1-800-200-8294 (TAXI) o marcar #8294 (TAXI) en su teléfono AT&T, durante las horas del programa. Un operador de SoberRide le remitirá su pedido a la compañía de taxi correspondiente.

Compañías de taxi participantes:
Alexandria Yellow Cab (Alexandria)
Barwood, Inc. (Montgomery County)
Fairfax Yellow Cab (Fairfax County)
Loudoun Yellow Cab (Eastern Loudoun County)
Manassas Cab Company (Prince William County)
Red Top Cab Company (Arlington County)
Silver Cab of Prince George's County (Prince George's County)
Yellow Cab of District of Columbia (District of Columbia)
Yellow Cab of Prince William County (Prince William County)

Cuando espere por SoberRide, por favor asegúrese de que sea un taxi de la compañía participante del área de donde usted ha llamado.

We DO NOT look forward to seeing you drunk and driving.

Wanted Person - Ronald Bost, Jr.

The United States Park Police is seeking Ronald Edward BOST, Jr. who is wanted by the United States Marshal’s Service.

BOST is wanted by the United States Marshal’s Service for a Probation Violation. He frequents Arlington County Public Libraries, the National Mall, Columbia Island, the Iwo Jima Memorial, and the George Washington Parkway.

The United States Park Police suspect him for acts of racist vandalism and damage to Government property at Rosslyn Circle and the Iwo Jima Memorial.

Should you have information concerning BOST, please contact United States Park Police Detective KB Fornshill at 202-610-8751. Should you see BOST, DO NOT APPROACH, rather call local police for assistance.

Ronald Edward BOST, Jr.
Date of Birth 09/05/1959
6’2” 210 lbs
Scar on upper lip
Large scar back of the head
Tattoos on both arms, including faded swastikas on left knuckles

"Oh Deer."

“Please slow down, Deer.”

No, that comment is not directed towards the driver from his or her companion.

Deer are a hazard on all roads in the Washington Metropolitan area, but more especially in the fall. This is the Rut, or deer breeding season. Deer are very active and they tend to focus more on the next generation than on traffic safety!

The United States Park Police sees an increase in collisions with deer on all of our roadways. Clearly there are large numbers of deer on the Parkways outside of the city, but we see deer even in our downtown areas.

Some things to keep in mind while driving that can help prevent or mitigate deer collisions:

• Deer are especially active pre-dawn to mid-morning and dusk to early evening.

• Deer typically travel in herds. If you see one, likely more are around.

• Always drive the posted speed limit. This will give you more time to see deer in the roadway.

• Always wear your seat belt when in a vehicle. It is the law, but it clearly increases the survivability of any crash including those with deer.

• Watch for eye shine along roadsides. As you approach deer, often you will see the glimmer of their eyes.

• Be aware of posted “Deer Crossing” signs. These are placed in areas where many deer have typically been seen. No, the Police and wildlife management people have not trained the deer to cross in these areas, despite the jokes!

• Never swerve to avoid deer on the road. Our officers have seen instances where drivers have crashed into trees and ditches avoiding deer, resulting in injury.

If you strike a deer while driving on our roadways and need the assistance of the United States Park Police, please call us at (202) 610-7500.

Marine Corps Marathon Street Closures

The Marine Corps Marathon will be run this Sunday, October 25, 2008. The race begins at 8 a.m. in Arlington, Virginia, and then crosses the Potomac River into the District. The Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Park Police will close numerous streets along the race route in the District between 4 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

These are the expected street closures in the District:

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Canal Road, NW from M Street to Reservoir Road
• Reservoir Road, NW from MacArthur Blvd. to Canal Road
• MacArthur Blvd., NW from Foxhall Road to Reservoir Road
• Foxhall Road, NW from Canal Road to MacArthur Blvd.
• M Street, NW from Canal Road to Wisconsin Avenue
• Wisconsin Ave, NW from M Street to K Street
• K Street, NW from Wisconsin Avenue to Rock Creek and Potomac Pkwy.
• Rock Creek and Potomac Pkwy., NW from K Street to Independence Ave.
• Memorial Bridge
• West Potomac Park
• East Potomac Park (Access to Golf Course and Tennis Courts will be Available)
• Maine Avenue, SW from East Basin Drive to Independence Avenue
• Independence Avenue, SW from Maine Avenue to Ohio Drive
• Ohio Drive, SW between Independence Avenue and Lincoln Circle
• Lincoln Circle from Ohio Drive, SW to Henry Bacon Drive, NW
• 23rd Street, NW from Lincoln Circle to Constitution Avenue
• Constitution Avenue, NW from Henry Bacon Drive to 15th Street
• 15th Street from Constitution Avenue, NW to Independence Avenue, SW
• 17th Street from Constitution Avenue, NW to Independence Avenue, SW
• Madison Drive, NW from 15th Street to 3rd Street
• 3rd Street, NW from Pennsylvania Ave, NW to Maryland Ave., SW
• Pennsylvania Avenue, NW from 3rd Street to E. Capitol Circle
• 1st Street from Pennsylvania Ave., NW to Maryland Ave., SW
• Maryland Avenue, SW from S. Capitol Circle to 3rd Street
• Jefferson Drive, SW from 3rd Street to 15th Street
• 14th Street, SW from Jefferson Drive to northbound HOV lanes
• HOV lanes from 14th Street, SW to HOV ramp at S. Eads Street

Police will reopen the roadways as soon as possible provided doing so does not interfere with the race.

Motorists traveling in the area of this event may experience traffic delays. Race participants and spectators are encouraged to use public transportation. Metrorail will begin service at 5 a.m. on Sunday.

A course map is posted at www.marinemarathon.com, the official race website. There is also a press release with additional information about street closures in Arlington County and the specific times organizers anticipate each street will be closed.

Fatal Pedestrian Crash Baltimore Washington Parkway

The United States Park Police is investigating a fatal pedestrian crash on the Baltimore Washington Parkway.

Shortly after 1:00 am on October 10, 2009, a pedestrian was struck by multiple vehicles on the ramp from southbound Baltimore Washington Parkway to westbound New York Avenue, which leads to Northeast Washington, DC.

The victim in this crash is an Hispanic male in his mid thirties. He is about 5’ to 5’3” tall and weighs about 125 pounds. At the time of this crash, the victim was wearing a white t shirt with blue crossed ax images and the wording “Semper Paratus” beneath as the front image. On the back is a smaller image of the same blue crossed axes and the wording “Royal Ruthlessness.”

This pedestrian was struck by multiple vehicles, which remained on the scene.

Because of the complexity of this crash reconstruction, the United States Park Police Criminal Investigators would like to talk to any person who may have seen the victim or scene.

Further, the victim possessed documents which may indicate he was of Guatemalan origin, however, there are conflicting issues which have precluded a positive identification. Should anyone know the identity of this victim, we ask that they contact the United States Park Police.

Anyone with information about this incident, please call the United States Park Police, Criminal Investigations Branch on (202) 610-8737.

We will be able to translate information provided in languages other than English.

Below are images of the shirt the victim was wearing:

Park Police Hiring

With October employment figures recently released, many are seeking stable employment with excellent benefits. Those seeking rewarding careers in public service need look no further than the United States Park Police.

Our officers are responsible for patrolling some of the greatest areas of our country. With offices in Washington, DC, New York City, and San Francisco, we have the law enforcement responsibilty of the most majestic and important icons of our nation.

Do you desire to be a police officer in places where people wait all their lives and save money for years to visit?

Join the United States Park Police.

Do you desire to police major roadways leading into major cities?

Join the United States Park Police.

Do you desire to police the beaches of New York City, the Presido in San Francisco, and the National Mall as a mounted police officer?

Join the United States Park Police.

How about flying over the skies of Washington, DC with one of the Nation's most advanced police aviation units, performing medevacs, law enforcement, and Presidential escorts?

Join the United States Park Police.

Criminal investigations your idea of a great career?

Join the United States Park Police.

How about serving on a SWAT team protecting the President one day and executing a narcotics search warrant the next?

Join the United States Park Police.

Are motorcycles your interest? Do you want to ride with one of the elite police motor units?

Join the United States Park Police.


Many people are concerned about health care coverage. If you become a United States Park Police Officer, you are a Federal Employee. That means that you can join one of the tremedous numbers of health plans offered to National Park Service employees.

We seek college graduates, military members leaving the service, minorities, women, and all who have a strong desire to serve the public doing important duties.

Some days are long, some cold or hot, some hectic, but all are satisfying!

If this interests you, please see our announcement at www.usajobs.opm.gov and refer to vacancy number NPSWASO-PP-09-285624.

Theft From Auto Suspects

The United States Park Police is investigating several thefts from vehicles that were parked in the Good Luck Road parking area of Greenbelt Park.

These offenses occurred from April until August of 2009.

The investigation has located several store videos of people making purchases with credit cards stolen from these parked vehicles. The identity of these suspects is not known.

The United States Park Police is working with the Prince Georges County Police, Montgomery County Police, and Maryland National Capital Park Police who have similar open cases.

Anyone with knowledge of these offenses or the identity of the people in the photographs, or known to operate the pictured vehicle is requested to contact United States Park Police Detective Michael Horman at (202) 610-8759 or the United States Park Police Tip Line at (202) 610-8737.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Reward money will be provided to anyone providing information leading to an arrest and conviction for these offenses.

Remembering A Lost Officer

Again we reflect on an Officer who gave his life serving with the United States Park Police.

September 25 marks the anniversary of the loss of Officer Michael Petrella.

Officer Petrella was killed in a motorcycle accident on Memorial Bridge in Washington, DC, during a period of rain. His motorcycle struck the side of a car next to him. He was transported to George Washington Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Officer Petrella had served with the agency for 6 years. He was survived by his wife, two sons, and mother.

September 13, 2009 Road Closures For Triathlon

Several streets will be closed on Sunday September 13, 2009 to accommodate a Triathlon in Washington, DC.

12:00 am - Ohio Drive between West Basin Drive and Inlet Bridge will be closed

5:00 am - Ohio Drive at Independence Avenue will be closed with an anticipated reopening at 6:00 pm

6:00 am - Independence Avenue will be closed from 23rd Street to 15th Street SW

6:00 am – Rock Creek Parkway from 23rd Street to Virginia Avenue

6:50 am – Rock Creek Parkway from Virginia Avenue to Calvert Street

6:50 am – The Clara Barton Parkway and Cabin John Parkway inside of the Beltway

Roads north of Independence Avenue will reopen at 11:30 am

At 1:30 pm, with the exception of Ohio Drive, all other roads will reopen.

United States Park Police Officers will be on scene to assist motorists and pedestrians.

US Park Police Officers Help Cancer Charity

On August 28, 2009 the United States Park Police held the 9th Annual Charity Golf Tournament to honor members of the Force that have had cancer and lost that fight. All money raised during the event goes to Johns Hopkins Cancer Research Hospital. In the nine years since the inception of the tournament, the United States Park Police has raised and donated over $150,000 dollars for cancer research at Johns Hopkins.

In addition to the annual golf tournament, this year a local Harley Davidson distributor donated a 2009 Harley Davidson Street Glide motorcycle for raffle. The drawing was held at the conclusion of the tournament during the awards banquet. The chairman of the golf tournament, Sergeant Franz Ferstl, asked a cancer patient from Johns Hopkins, Zoe Boone, to come to the tournament and draw the winning raffle ticket for the motorcycle.

Zoe Boone was diagnosed with Leukemia when she was 6 years old and was fortunate to have a bone marrow match with her sister, Maxine. After the transplant, Zoe spent an entire year in the hospital recovering. Doctors are hopeful she will be in remission soon. Zoe lives with her dad Vincent and sister Maxine in Bowie, Maryland. She is very serious about her school studies and her future. Zoe hopes to one day join the WNBA as a professional basketball player as well as pursue a career as a famous fashion model and designer.

Love On The Rocks

Two local residents had a rocky start to their future together.

While hiking the Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls Park in Potomac, Maryland, on September 6, 2009 the couple paused to admire the beautiful scenery. The setting was perfect on a late summer day with the sun glinting off the Potomac River below, the breeze pushing through the thick tree canopy, and the grey rocky trail weaving up and down with steep crevasses and a long drop to the water.

The setting was perfect for a hike, but also for more romantic purposes…

A marriage proposal!

Without question many couples have become engaged in this area, however, this engagement also engaged the services of the Montgomery County, Maryland Department of Fire and Rescue Services and the United States Park Police Aviation Section.

The bride to be was swept off her feet.

After the magic moment, she slipped on the rocks and fell a short distance. This fall left her with head and chest injuries.

Montgomery County Fire medics could only reach her by boat followed by a scramble up a steep rock face. After the medics evaluated the patient and packaged her on a back board and stokes basket, they realized that she would either need to be lowered down the steep rocks or carried over a mile of rough terrain. Neither option was good considering her injuries.

This is where United States Park Police Aviation personnel excel in difficult technical rescue operations.

Eagle 2 with Sgt. Kevin Chittick in command, Sgt. Ken Burchell as co-pilot, and Sgt. Chris Perkins working the medic/rescue technician position responded to perform a hoist rescue of the patient.

Hoist rescues are difficult and dangerous as the aircraft must remain at a hover with minimal movement that would injure the patient. Should an engine failure happen, the pilot has few options for recovery with no forward air speed on the aircraft. Despite these dangers, United States Park Police Aviation practices this skill and the personnel are well equipped to perform a hoist.

The patient was hoisted aboard Eagle 2 and transported to Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland.

An adult female was treated for head and chest injuries and later released.

The injured woman slipped on the rocks even though she was properly attired for rough hiking wearing appropriate footwear and clothing. It was simply an accident.

Prior to her fall this woman answered the question posed to her.

“Yes!”

United States Park Police Officer Injured in Crash on the Baltimore Washington Parkway

On Tuesday, August 25, 2009, at approximately 7:37 a.m., a United States Park Police officer with nineteen years of service was injured while on a traffic stop in the safety shoulder of the Baltimore Washington Parkway southbound lanes, south of Route 197.

The officer was standing outside the violator’s vehicle speaking to the operator when his cruiser was struck by a truck that had left the southbound roadway, traveled onto the safety shoulder, and rear ended the Force cruiser pushing it into the violator’s vehicle.

At the time of impact, the officer was pulled under his cruiser and dragged for approximately 40 feet along the road surface before the vehicle finally came to a stop. The officer was pinned under his cruiser until rescuers could remove him. He was transported by the United States Park Police Helicopter to the Washington Hospital Center with non life threatening injuries.

This case is being investigated by the United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch.

Difficult Aviation Rescue

One hiker on Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park is safe following a difficult hoist rescue by United States Park Police Aviation Eagle 2.

Eagle 2 was dispatched to Old Rag Mountain on August 11, 2009 at about 10:00 am to help National Park Service Rangers in extracting an injured person. The Park Rangers were responding to a hiker who had injured his leg in a fall. These Rangers knew that they faced a difficult rescue because the patient was so deeply in the woods on the mountain that they would need to hike for almost two hours just to find him. After that, they would likely need to carry the injured person for several hours up and down the highest mountain in Shenandoah National Park just to get him to a waiting ambulance.

The temperature was approaching 100 degrees with high humidity.

This is exactly the type of rescue that demonstrates the value of airborne law enforcement.

Eagle 2 piloted by Sergeant Kevin Chittick and staffed with Rescue Technicians Paramedic Sergeant Christopher Perkins and Paramedic Officer David Hurley flew eighty miles to this scene.

After the aircraft arrived, the crew spotted the injured person on a rock. The area was surrounded by trees, had steep rocky faces, and unpredictable winds coming off the mountain.

Sgt. Chittick located an area near the patient where he could discharge a Paramedic using a step off. Ofc. Hurley leapt to the ground, and carrying medical supplies hiked to the patient.

After the patient was evaluated and treated, Sgt. Perkins, operating a hoist with a rescue net, lifted the patient out of the scene, and to a waiting ambulance. Once the patient was picked up by the ambulance, Eagle 2 returned to retrieve Ofc. Hurley by hoisting him up with the "Jungle Penetrator."

Dropping the rescue net and penetrator through the trees is hazardous as if the equipment caught on a tree, it would need to be detached from the aircraft.

Officer Of The Month

The following is taken from the official release of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund:




"The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund has announced the selection of Officer Adam E. Zielinski of the United States Park Police as its Officer of the Month for July 2009.

"Established in 1791 by President George Washington, the United States Park Police (USPP) is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the country. Providing law enforcement services to designated areas within the National Park Service, the USPP's major deployments are in Washington, DC, New York City and San Francisco. In the nation's capital, the agency is tasked with protecting some of the most recognizable and visited monuments and memorials in the world, while providing law enforcement services for some of the busiest roadways in the country.

"In 2003, Officer Adam Zielinski joined the U.S. Park Police. Just six years into his service with the department, Officer Zielinski's file is full of commendations and awards for lifesaving actions as well as his commitment to exceptional police work.

"One shining example occurred on the evening of November 30, 2008, when USPP officers responded to the scene of a motor vehicle crash on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. One of the parties involved in the crash had sustained multiple injuries including a compound fracture of his right leg that resulted in excessive blood loss. Observing the man's injuries, Sergeant Russell E. Fennelly immediately contacted Officer Zielinski, a Maryland certified and insured paramedic, for assistance.

"Once on the scene, Officer Zielinski immediately took charge of the situation. Requesting a Hare Traction Splint from the ambulance personnel, Officer Zielinski worked to control the bleeding, treated the victim for shock, and applied the splint to the victim's leg in order to stabilize him enough to be transported. During the surgery to repair his leg, the victim required more than six pints of blood, indicating just how close he had came to dying of blood loss.

"For his efforts, Officer Zielinski received the USPP's Lifesaving Award. The victim was so grateful that in a letter to Park Police Chief Salvatore Lauro he wrote, 'I had a severe injury that would have ended my life if it wasn't for the quick thinking of Officer Adam Zielinski. He should truly be recognized for his knowledge, bravery, quick thinking and caring for others in the community.'

"This lifesaving effort was one of many heroic actions taken by Officer Zielinski during his law enforcement career. Others included jumping into the frigid waters of a creek to make sure everyone was out of an overturned vehicle; keeping a man who was under the influence of alcohol and PCP calm in order to make a peaceful arrest; and using his paramedic skills to save the life of a man in cardiac arrest before backup arrived. In nominating Officer Zielinski for the Officer of the Month Award, Sergeant Mark Schuette wrote, 'Officer Zielinski consistently performs in an exemplary manner as evidenced by his numerous awards, as well as achieving the highest level evaluation in his performance appraisals for 2007 and 2008.'

"As a member of the USPP, Officer Zielinski continues to serve and protect both residents and visitors in the Washington, DC area. He is also a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, DC Lodge 1. Officer Zielinski is the second United States Park Police officer to be awarded the NLEOMF's Officer of the Month Award. Officer Jeffrey Muller received the May 1997 award for diving into the Anacostia River to rescue an elderly woman trapped inside a vehicle that had rolled into the icy river.

"Officer Zielinski, along with the other Officers of the Month for 2009, will be honored at a special awards luncheon in Washington, DC, in May 2010 during National Police Week. In addition, their stories of heroism and service will be featured in the Memorial Fund's 2011 calendar."

A Time To Reflect

The loss of any police officer's life brings sadness to all officers and most especially to the surviving members of the lost officer's Police Department. August is a difficult time for the United States Park Police as several officers with this Department died during this month. Please remember these officers who gave their lives for their community.




Officer Hakim Azim Farthing

End of Watch: Saturday, August 10, 2002

Officer Hakim Farthing was struck and killed by a drunk driver on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.




Sergeant Ricardo Michael Preston

End of Watch: Thursday, August 11, 1988

Sergeant Preston suffered a heart attack while participating in a SWAT team training excercise and subsequently died.




Officer Thomas P. Fogarty

End of Watch: Wednesday, August 6, 1941

Officer Fogarty was killed in a hit-and-run accident while on his police motorcycle.





Officer Milo John Kennedy

End of Watch: Sunday, August 7, 1932

Officer Kennedy was killed after being attacked by a mob. He was on patrol at Logan Circle in Washington, DC, when he was attacked by a mob of up to 21 people and was beaten to death.

Pedestrian Fataly Struck Baltimore Washington Parkway

One person is dead after being struck by a car on the Baltimore Washington Parkway in Prince Georges County, Maryland.

Shortly after 9:00 pm on August 4, 2009, an adult male pedestrian was attempting to cross the northbound lanes of the Baltimore Washington Parkway just south of Maryland Route 450. He was struck by a northbound car. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

United States Park Police Detectives and Crash Reconstructionists are investigating this scene to ascertain causative factors.

New Assistant Chief Bill Lynch

The United States Park Police is pleased to announce the selection of William Lynch as Assistant Chief of Police.

Bill Lynch has a significant history of service with the Department of the Interior starting with the United States Park Police as a Patrol Officer in 1978. He served in the Central District and Rock Creek Stations.He was later assigned to the newly formed plainclothes narcotics enforcement unit.

After serving as a Sergeant in the George Washington Parkway and Central District Stations, he was promoted to Lieutenant. He was a Shift Commander, Assistant Commander of Planning and Development, and Commander of the Protection Detail for the Secretary of the Department of the Interior. Lynch was detailed to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and commanded the security for the 9th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

When Bill Lynch was promoted to Captain, he was the Regional Law Enforcement Specialist for the National Capital Region, Watch Commander, East District Commander, and Assistant Commander of the Administrative Branch.

Bill Lynch retired from the United States Park Police in 2002 to accept a position as the Bureau Security Officer for the Mineral Management Service of the Department of the Interior. In 2006 Lynch became a Supervisory Special Agent of the Department of the Interior Office of Law Enforcement and Security where he was the Critical Asset Coordinator.

Bill Lynch was detailed to the United States Park Police as the Acting Deputy Chief of Operations through the 2009 Presidential Inauguration.

Assistant Chief Lynch is the second in command of the Nation’s oldest uniformed law enforcement agency responsible for 600 officers and 125 civilians serving in Washington, DC, New York City, and San Francisco.

Assistant Chief Lynch is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, and the State University of New York College at Buffalo with a BS in Criminal Justice.

Rock Creek Park Assailant Sought

A woman was assaulted in Rock Creek Park during a morning jog.

The victim of this assault was jogging along the bike path in Rock Creek Park near Bingham Drive on July 22, 2009 at about 7:00 am. The initial assault involved her being grabbed by the assailant.

United States Park Police Detectives are seeking information about this assault. We are looking for an Hispanic male in his 30’s about 5’7” to 5’10” tall. He has a stocky or large build, wavy shoulder length black hair, he seemed to be unshaven, and he smelled of alcohol. He was wearing a cotton t shirt and jeans.

Prior to her being assaulted, the victim recalls passing this suspect on the trail and heard him talking to himself in Spanish.

We would like to talk to anyone who may have any details to add or may have seen this suspect or crime. Please call the United States Park Police at 202-610-8737. We will be able to translate any information provided in foreign languages.

Serious Motor Vehicle Crash

One driver was seriously injured in a single vehicle motor vehicle crash on Beach Drive.

United States Park Police Officers responded to this crash on Beach Drive just south of the District 3 Substation on July 21, 2009 at about noon.

Officers found that a Jeep had rolled over leaving the lone occupant pinned in the vehicle. A large volume of automotive fluids were also spilled and were contained prior to flowing into Rock Creek.

The District of Columbia Fire Department dispatched an Engine Company, Truck Company, Rescue Squad, Medic Unit, and Command Officials to the scene. These Fire Department units performed a difficult extrication and found the patient suffering from multiple injuries. This patient was flown by United States Park Police Aviation to a local Trauma Center.

District of Columbia Fire Department Hazardous Materials specialists mitigated the fluid spills.

United States Park Police Criminal Investigators and Traffic Crash Reconstructionists responded to assist in the investigation of causitive factors.

When this crash occured, the vehicle also contained two Schnauzers. These friendly dogs were taken by District of Columbia Animal Control for safe keeping after Fire Department staff fed them dog biscuits to gain their trust.

Critical Missing Person

The United States Park Police is seeking assistance in locating a critical missing juvenile. The missing person is:

Trayvon Thomas RICHARDSON

This person has been found. Thanks for all assistance!

Deputy Chief Jeanne O'Toole

Jeanne O’Toole has been promoted to Deputy Chief of Police for Operations for the United States Park Police.

O’Toole began her career with the National Park Service in 1984 as a seasonal park ranger at Gateway NRA in New York.

In 1987, she entered service with the United States Park Police. She began her career as a uniformed officer in the Glen Echo Station, during which time she was detailed to an assignment as a plainclothes drug officer. While in this plainclothes assignment, O’Toole and her unit received a unit citation award from the chief of police for making 180 arrests in six months, primarily in Meridian Hill Park in Washington.

O’Toole then served as a firearms and physical skills instructor and as a patrol Sergeant. As a Lieutenant, she served as a Shift Commander, Central District Station Commander, Major Crimes Unit Commander, and George Washington Memorial Parkway Station Commander.

Promoted to Captain, O’Toole Commanded the West District and was the Assistant Commander for Criminal Investigations.

When O’Toole was promoted to Major, she served as the Commander of the US Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch.

As Deputy Chief, O’Toole is responsible for a large segment of the United States Park Police.

O’Toole is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (Class 209), has received a masters degree from Columbia University in New York, and was a facilitator for the National Park Service leadership seminar program.

Six Escapees Captured By United States Park Police

Six juvenile prisoners escaped from the New Beginnings Youth Center in Laurel, Maryland. This youth detention center is a District of Columbia facility previously known as “Oak Hill.”

These absconders were reported to the United States Park Police at about 2:45pm.

A United States Park Police Officer searching the area of the Baltimore Washington Parkway near Maryland Route 198 saw six juveniles matching the lookout, stopped to investigate, and these six attempted to flee on foot. One absconder struggled with this officer, was able to break free of him, crossed the roadway and joined three others hiding in a drainage pipe.

After a perimeter was established, the United States Park Police Aviation section located these absconders in the drainage pipe. Officers from the Maryland State Police, the Anne Arundel County Police, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service assisted United States Park Police Officers in apprehending four people.

Anne Arundel County Police located and apprehended the remaining two absconders in the nearby Russet Green neighborhood.

All six were returned to the New Beginnings facility.

Marion Barry Arrested By United States Park Police

District of Columbia Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry was arrested by the United States Park Police.

On July 4th at about 8:45 pm, a United States Park Police Officer was patrolling Anacostia Park in the area of Good Hope Road. This officer was flagged down by a female DC resident who pointed to the occupant of another nearby car. This woman stated that she was being stalked by that other person.

This woman, who requested the assistance of the United States Park Police, was interviewed. After she was interviewed, the person she pointed out was interviewed.

As a result of this investigation, Marion Barry, was arrested.

United States Park Police Detectives consulted with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and subsequently placed the charge of “Misdemeanor Stalking.”

Mr. Barry was interviewed at the United States Park Police Criminal Investigation’s Branch and released on citation with a mandatory court appearance in the Superior Court for the District of Columbia.

This release was made after consultation with pretrial services for the District of Columbia.

Critical Missing Person

The United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch is seeking information in locating a critical missing person.

Julien Pope, a white male 13 years old, 5'1" 120 pounds with shoulder length brown hair and light brown eyes is missing from the area of the Smthsonian Metro Station in Washington, DC.

JULIEN POPE HAS BEEN LOCATED AND IS SAFE.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP IN CLOSING THIS CASE.

Do's and Don'ts for the 4th of July Celebration

Do bring lots of water. Dehydration can make a great day not so great quickly. When you get thirsty, you are already getting dehydrated, so sip water frequently.

Do bring sunblock. A bad sunburn will ruin an otherwise enjoyable day.

Do bring some food, but be aware of foodborne illnesses and pack accordingly.

Do bring a Metro Farecard with sufficient balance on it to get home. Waiting in line at the end of the event is no fun.

Do report any suspicous activity to any police officer or uniformed National Park Service employee. We take all reports seriously and welcome the partnership with our community to make this a safe and enjoyable event.

Don't bring firearms, fireworks, alcoholic beverages, glass bottles, tents or other dangerous items. All people and packages are subject to examination to make this event safe for all of us.

Please don't bring your dog. While it is legal to bring your dog, dogs really don't enjoy being in the sun all day, and the fireworks will scare them. If you must bring your dog, it must be on a leash six feet or shorter.

Most of all, bring all your family and friends. There is a lot to do other than watching the fireworks. Make certain to visit the White House Visitor's Center for some special events. The National Mall also will host the Folk Life Festival.

Traffic Closures For The 4th of July

There will be numerous traffic closures in Washington, DC and Virginia to facilitate the 4th of July.

The following roads will be closed by the United States Park Police and Allied Agencies.

From 6:00 am until 10:00 pm:

• Memorial Bridge
• Rock Creek Parkway from Virginia Ave to Parkway Drive
• Parkway Drive from Rock Creek Parkway to Lincoln Memorial Circle
• Independence Ave from 15th Street to 23rd Street
• Constitution Ave from 15th Street to 23rd Street
• West Potomac Park from Inlet Bridge to 23rd Street, to include FDR Memorial
• Maine Avenue from SE Freeway to Independence Avenue
• 15th Street from Maine Avenue to Constitution Avenue
• 17th Street from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue
• Jefferson Drive from 15th Street to 3rd Street
• Madison Drive from 15th Street to 3rd Street
• Daniel French Drive
• Henry Bacon Drive
• Holocaust Museum alley btw 14th - 15th Street
• Bureau of Engraving & Printing alley btw 14th - 15th Street


From 6:00 am until 11:00 pm:

• Teddy Roosevelt Bridge to Constitution Ave, NW
• 4th Street from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue NW
• 7th Street from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue NW
• 15th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue NW to Constitution Ave NW
• 17th Street from Independence Avenue to E Street NW
• 19th Street NW, from C Street to Constitution Avenue
• 21st Street NW, from C Street to Constitution Avenue
• Constitution Avenue from 14th Street to 23rd Street
• Independence Avenue from 14th Street to 23rd Street

From 11:00 am until 2:30 pm:

• Constitution Ave 6th - 14th Streets, NW

From 11:00 am until 11:00 pm:

• 14th Street from Independence Ave to Constitution Ave, NW
• 3rd Street from Independence Ave to Pennsylvania Ave, NW

• The 9th Street Tunnel and the 12th Street Tunnel will remain open except during the Independence Day Parade, which will begin at approximately 1145 hours and continue until approximately 1430 hours.

From 6:00 am until Midnight:

• Memorial Bridge and Memorial Circle will be closed
• Ramp from southbound George Washington Parkway to Memorial Avenue
• Ramp from Northbound Route 110 to Memorial Avenue
• Ramp to westbound Rte. 50 from southbound George Washington Parkway to Roosevelt Bridge

From 9:00 pm until 9:45 pm:

• Southbound George Washington Parkway ramp to 14th Street Bridge
• Northbound George Washington Parkway ramp to 14th Street Bridge

From 3:00 pm until 10:00 pm:

• Northbound I-395 ramp “G” to HOVs
• Eastbound Rte 27. To Memorial Ave. (exit 8b) between I395 & Exit 8b Memorial Bridge
• Eastbound Rte. 50 ramp to Rhodes St.
• Eastbound Rte. 50 ramp to Key Bridge
• Rte. 110 Northbound turn lane to Iwo Jima
• Meade Street at Ft. Myer Dr.
• Rte. 50 ramp to westbound Meade St.

From 8:30 pm until 10:00 pm:

• southbound I-395 ramp to Northbound George Washington Parkway
• Northbound I-395 exit 8B
• Eastbound Rte. 50 prior Pershing Drive
• westbound Rte. 27 prior Rte. 50
• Northbound George Washington Parkway north of I-395
• southbound George Washington Parkway south of Rosslyn

From 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm:

• N Meade St from Marshall Drive to Arlington Blvd. (Rte. 50)
• Marshall Drive from Rte. 110 to N. Meade St
• Eastbound N Fairfax Dr from N Pierce St to N Fort Myer Dr (westbound traffic allowed)
• All Arlington Blvd. Exits onto N Lynn St

From Noon until Midnight:

• Ramps from Pentagon parking lots to Rte. 110

Missing Swimmers Near Great Falls Park

Two swimmers are missing after a late afternoon swim in the Potomac River near Great Falls Park in Cabin John, Maryland.

On June 21, 2009, a group of six swimmers illegally entered the Potomac River south of the main falls near Purple Horse Beach. This group attempted to swim across the river. Four swimmers self rescued and came ashore noticing that two were unaccounted for.

The Montgomery County Department of Fire and Rescue Services deployed a swift water rescue team from the Cabin John Park Fire Department. United States Park Police Aviation also responded to attempt to locate and rescue these missing people.

After a search of over two hours, the search was scaled back to await morning light.

The next day, the river rescue teams and United States Park Police units including Eagle One returned to continue looking.

As of June 23, 2009, the missing swimmers have not been found. For the past several weeks, a significant amount of rain has fallen in the area bringing high water levels to the Potomac River.

The United States Park Police stresses the importance of staying out of the Potomac River in the Gorge area from Great Falls towards Key Bridge as this area has treacherous currents that may be fatal to even strong swimmers.

Metro Disaster In Washington, DC

At least seven people have died in a train accident in Northeast Washington, DC. During the evening rush hour on June 22, 2009, two Metro trains collided on the Red Line between the Fort Totten and Takoma Park Stations.

With over seventy people injured and some in critical condition, the on scene commanders utilized United States Park Police Aviation assets to medevac multiple patients to area trauma centers.

Eagle One was an integral link in the disaster mitigation efforts providing needed advanced critical care and transport for this incident.

Road Closures For Sunday June 21, 2009

There will be several road closures on Sunday June 21, 2009 to accommodate the Dextro Energy Triathlon event in downtown Washington, DC.

These road closures will take effect at 4:00 am and reopen at 2:00 pm.

US Park Police officers will be on site to assist visitors and motorists.

• Lincoln Memorial Circle s/b to include 23rd Street to Independence Avenue
• Rock Creek Parkway from Virginia Ave to Parkway Drive
• Parkway Drive from Rock Creek Parkway to Lincoln Memorial Circle
• Independence Ave from 15th Street to 23rd Street
• Constitution Ave from 15th Street to 23rd Street
• West Potomac Park from Inlet Bridge to 23rd Street, to include West Basin Drive
• Maine Avenue from SE Freeway to Independence Avenue
• 15th Street from Maine Avenue to Constitution Avenue
• 17th Street from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue
• Jefferson Drive from 15th Street to 3rd Street
• Madison Drive from 15th Street to 3rd Street
• Daniel French Drive
• Henry Bacon Drive
• Holocaust Museum alley between 14th and 15th Street
• Bureau of Engraving and Printing alley between 14th – 15th Street
• East Basin Drive @ ramp to 14th Street Bridge (2100-2145)

Welcome To New Officers

The United States Park Police is pleased to announce the addition of thirty five new officers. These new officers join our ranks following an extensive training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, Georgia and further agency specific training in Washington, DC.

The new officers are:

• Peter Bechtold
• Brian Biggs
• Jessica Childress
• Sherice Clanton
• James Dingeldein
• Vincet Fors
• Martin Gibson
• Anthony Glaze
• Joseph Griess
• Valerie Hall
• Michael Harris
• Christian Kaikai
• Kyle Kefer
• David Lagrossa
• Ronson Leiter
• Matthew Manning
• Bruce Martin
• Tara McBride
• Michael Miller
• James Moran
• Jessup Olson
• Kaori Ozawa
• Francisco Pacheco
• Russell Phillips
• Tiffany Reed
• Jeffrey Soja
• Alan Szulwach
• Glenn Thompson II
• Benjamin Tomasiello
• Thomas Twiname
• Robert Usher
• Tron Vi
• Allen Ward
• Omari Wilson
• Joshua Worrell

The United States Park Police wishes these new officers the best of luck in their new careers and looks forward to working with all of them.

Congratulations for a job well done.

Death Investigation In Constitution Gardens

A body was found in Constitution Gardens Park in Washington, DC located east of the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial.

At about 7:00 am on June 9, 2009, Officers from the United States Park Police located an adult male who was found deceased in the Park area between the 1900 block of Constitution Avenue and the lake of Constitution Gardens.

Washington, DC Metropolitan Police are leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. The United States Park Police is assisting in the investigation.

All death investigations in Washington, DC are performed by the Metropolitan Police.

Police Involved Shooting

One person is dead following an investigation of an armed subject in the 1200 block of Holbrook Street NE Washington, DC.

On Monday June 8, 2009 at about 8:30 pm, four United States Park Police Detective were investigating information that a subject was in possession of a gun. The suspect was located and he was followed into a nearby alley.

Once in the alley, the United States Park Police Detectives were forced to open fire upon the suspect. The suspect was transported to Washington Hospital Center Medstar where he was pronounced dead.

A firearm was found at the scene.

The Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department is conducting the investigation of this incident. All death investigations in Washington, DC are investigated by Metropolitan Police.

Fatal Car Crash Suitland Parkway

Sunday June 7, 2009 at 11:20 pm, the United States Park Police responded to a single vehicle car crash eastbound Suitland Parkway between Suitland Road and Forestville Road. Officers found a single vehicle in the wood line on its side against a tree with four passengers inside.

The two male passengers in the rear were removed and transported to Prince Georges Hospital Center in Cheverly, Md.

The front seat passenger, an adult female, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver, an adult female, was severely pinned with her legs trapped under the dashboard. Prince Georges County Fire Department units from Morningside, District Heights, and Seat Pleasant utilizing two Heavy Rescue Squads, one Engine, two ALS and one BLS unit spent over two hours extricating this person from the car. She was transported by United States Park Police Aviation Eagle 1 to Washington Hospital Center Medstar with serious injuries.

The decedent is Keyanna Bowser, 19 years old, of Capitol Heights, Maryland.

The United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch and Crash Reconstructionists are continuing their investigation. No causitive factors have been determined at this time.

New United States Park Police Sergeants

The United States Park Police is pleased to announce several promotions.

On June 7, 2009 the following promotions will take effect:

• Brandi Adamchik from Officer, Horse Mounted Patrol to Sergeant, District 3

• Eric Haapapuro from Officer, Aviation to Sergeant, Aviation

• Patrick Kaiser from Officer, District 2 to Sergeant, District 1

• James Murphy from Officer, Horse Mounted Patrol to Sergeant, District 3

• Heathar Putnam from Officer, District 4 to Sergeant, District 1

• David Whitehorn from Officer, District 2 to Sergeant, District 4

Congratulations to these new Sergeants.

Komen Race For The Cure Road Closures

On Saturday June 6, 2009 the United States Park Police will implement several road closures to accommodate the Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure.

• Constitution Avenue will be closed from 15th Street to 23rd Street NW at 7:00 am and reopened at 10:00 am.

• Madison and Jefferson Drives in the National Mall will be closed from 15th Street to 3rd Street at 6:00 am and reopened at 10:00 am.

• 15th and 17th Streets will be closed from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue at 7:00 am and reopened at 10:00 am.

• Other street closures will be made by the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department.

United States Park Police officers will be on site to assist visitors in these areas.

Dramatic Aviation Rescue

Shortly after 1:00 pm on May 31, 2009, the United States Park Police Aviation Section responded to the Occoquan River Dam to assist Prince William County Fire Department with a hoist rescue.

When the motor on a boat became disabled, two fishermen on the river abandoned their boat as it was being swept towards the dam. The seventy two foot drop over the dam is described by one rescuer as, “Definitely fatal.” The unmanned boat was swept over the dam and dropped seventy two feet.

The two fishermen grabbed onto a pole affixed to the top of the dam. Fairfax County Police and United States Park Police Aviation effected a rescue.

United States Park Police Eagle 1 with Sgt. Kevin Chittick as Pilot in Command and Sgt. Ken Burchell as Co-Pilot approached the scene. Rescue Technicians Sgt. Mark Varanelli and Officer David Hurley prepared the hoist.

One fisherman was pulled to the shore by the Fairfax Police Helicopter. The other fisherman was rapidly approaching the dam. The second fisherman was only a few feet from being swept over the dam when the United States Park Police Aviation Officers hoisted him to safety.

Missing Girl and Wanted Person Located

On May 22, 2009 shortly after 6:00 pm, the United States Park Police dispatchers received a telephone report that a critical missing teenage girl from Montgomery County, MD was in Dupont Circle Park. The caller also said that she was accompanied by a person who was wanted by the police for a child pornography violation.

This caller learned of the missing girl and her wanted companion from a story run this afternoon on the local Washington, DC NBC affiliate’s 5:00pm news broadcast. He referred to this story when he spoke with United States Park Police dispatchers.

The United States Park Police located the person wanted in Arlington County for child pornography violations. He was arrested.

The critical missing girl was located shortly after.

The girl was taken to a United States Park Police facility to arrange for her return to Montgomery County.

Major Jon Pierce Retires

United States Park Police Major Jon Pierce will retire on May 24, 2009. Major Pierce completed a distinguished career with many notable accomplishments ranging from local and significant criminal cases in Washington, DC to international events including serving as Incident Commander of the United States Park Police actions for President Obama’s Inauguration.

Major Pierce entered service with the National Park Service in 1979 as a seasonal Park Ranger in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

In May 1987, he joined the United States Park Police where he was a distinguished graduate of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. While in training, he received the Hawkins Award, given to the highest achieving recruit in United States Park Police basic training.

Major Pierce served as a patrol officer at the Rock Creek Station and also was a plainclothes tactical officer where he investigated many narcotics offenses. Major Pierce’s career advanced to firearms instructor, Sergeant at the United States Park Police Greenbelt and Rock Creek Stations and then as a SWAT team Sergeant.

When Jon Pierce was promoted to Lieutenant, he served as a Shift Commander, the Commander of SWAT, Commander of Aviation, Commander of the Planning and Development Unit, and Commander of the Horse Mounted Patrol.

Promoted to Captain, Jon Pierce served as the Regional Law Enforcement Specialist for the Southeast region in Atlanta, GA.

He was promoted to Major as the Commander of the Special Forces Branch and the Icon Protection Branch.

Jon Pierce’s greatest challenge perhaps, was as the United States Park Police Incident Commander for the 56th Presidential Inauguration of President Obama. This event was one of the largest public gatherings in Washington, DC history coupled with some of the most intense law enforcement and security challenges the Department has faced. With record crowd numbers and dangerously cold weather, the Inauguration was completed with no arrests and no significant incidents, injuries, or illness.

Major Pierce will return to his roots with the National Park Service as the Regional Law Enforcement Specialist in Atlanta, GA.

The United States Park Police wishes Major Pierce well in his future National Park Service endeavors and looks forward to continually working with him and using his expertise.

Road Closures Memorial Day Weekend 2009

There will be several road closures for different events during the Memorial Day Weekend.

Friday May 22, 2009:

Rolling Thunder events. Henry Bacon Drive will be closed from Constitution Avenue to the Lincoln Memorial from 7:00 PM until 11:00 PM.

Saturday May 23, 2009:

No road closures scheduled.

Sunday May 24, 2009:

Rolling Thunder. Closed from 11:30 AM until 4:00PM will be Arlington memorial Circle, memorial Bridge, Lincoln memorial Circle, 23rd Street south of Constitution Avenue, Henry Bacon Drive, Constitution Avenue from Theodore Roosevelt Bridge to 3rd Street, 3rd Street from Constitution Avenue to Independence Avenue, Independence from 23rd Street to 3rd Street, West Potomac Park-Ohio Drive Riverside between Independence Avenue and Inlet Bridge, West Basin Drive, Jefferson drive, and Madison Drive.

Monday May 25, 2009:

Memorial Day Parade. Henry Bacon Drive closes at 5:00 AM and remains closed throughout the Memorial Day Parade. During the Memorial Day parade, from 12:00 noon until 4:00 PM, Constitution Avenue from 7th Street to 23rd Street NW. Jefferson and Madison Drives (in the Mall) from 4t Street to 15th Street, and 15th Street and 17th Streets from Independence Avenue to Constitution Avenue.

Critically Missing Person Found In East Potomac Park

On Sunday May 17, 2009 family members of a critically missing person came to the United States Park Police Central District Station seeking assistance in locating their missing relative.

These two stated that their relative had been reported missing to the Washington DC Metropolitan Police on May 8, 2009, that he had not been heard from since, and that he had significant health issues that could preclude him from seeking assistance. Further, the missing man also suffered from diabetes, which without routine medication could cause significant illness.

The family members felt that since their relative had ties to the Downtown area, specifically East Potomac Park, that he may be in this area.

United States Park Police Officer Antolik commenced a diligent search of areas that the missing man might be in. After about an hour of searching, Officer Antolik located the man.

The missing man was treated by DC Fire Department EMS Personnel and transported to George Washington University Hospital. He appeared to be healthy and is expected to recover well.

Search For Missing Child On Haines Point

On May 17, 2009 at about 6:00 pm, United States Park Police Officers were alerted to a child’s bicycle leaning against the sea wall on Haines Point at Bay 9 and a fishing pole next to it with the line in the water. There were no people around the bicycle.

Concerned that a child may have gone into the water and be unaccounted for, the United States Park Police and the Washington, DC Police Harbor Patrol commenced a search to ascertain the welfare of the bicycle’s owner.

While United States Park Police Officers scoured the area and interviewed passersby, the Harbor Patrol deployed divers into the water to assure that there was no one in the water.

In the course of this investigation, the ownership of the bicycle determined. United States Park Police Officers went to the home of the owner of the bicycle and learned that the child was accounted for. The bicycle had been stolen from the owner over a week ago. The water search was completed to assure that even if the rider was not the owner, he or she could be accounted for. The extensive dive search did not indicate anyone in the water.

The United States Park Police reminds the public that bicycle registration with your local government can greatly assist in the return of lost and stolen property, as well as assist authorities in accounting for people who may have been the victims of accidents or crimes.

Sgt. Giannino Receives Hakim Farthing Award

Officer Hakim A. Farthing was killed in the line of duty on August 10th 2002. He was a Patrol Officer assigned to District Five Anacostia Station. While assisting units from the District Four Greenbelt Station with traffic control at a motor vehicle crash on the southbound lanes of the B-W Parkway at the split to New York Avenue, an intoxicated motorist drove past a barricade and fatally struck Officer Farthing. The motorist attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended a short distance away by the United States Park Police.

In 2002 the United States Park Police and Fraternal Order of Police jointly created the Hakim Farthing Award for Excellence in DWI and Traffic Enforcement. This award honors and rewards the diligence and dedication of Force members who keep our streets safe through active enforcement of traffic law. In addition, this award pays homage to the memory of Officer Hakim Farthing, who was killed in the line of duty by a drunk driver on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

In 2008, Master Patrol Officer (MPO) Anthony Giannino was assigned to the Central District Station. MPO Giannino consistently led his squad and station in arrests of impaired operators of motor vehicles. His dedication to improving the safety of our roadways was highlighted by MPO Gianninno leading his squad in a majority of the 2008 Smooth Operator campaign.

MPO Giannino’s efforts to protect our park lands and reduce motor vehicle accidents led to his selection as the 7th annual Farthing Award winner. During 2008 MPO Giannino made ninety traffic arrests, with sixty three of them for DWI/DUI. He issued three hundred and fifty eight traffic citations. MPO Giannino provided assistance to other Force members and other law enforcement agencies in the development of their DWI/DUI cases by conducting seventeen Breath Tests for suspected impaired operators.

For these actions, Anthony Giannino received the 2008 Farthing Award.

Anthony Giannino was promoted to Sergeant in 2009.

Successful Search Potomac River

Saturday May 9, 2009 United States Park Police patrolling the George Washington Memorial Parkway were approached by two hikers stating that their hiking companion was separated from them and may be lost in the Potomac River in the area of Gulf Branch. These two hikers had scaled a cliff in the area of the Potomac Overlooks along the Parkway.

Lt. Libby, the US Park Police Officer originally contacted, implemented a multi agency search involving the United States Park Police, the DC Fire Department, the Washington DC Metropolitan Police Department, and the Arlington County Fire Department.

Resources including marine and aviation assets commenced a search of the Potomac and the shoreline from the original location south to the area of Key Bridge.

After extensive searching, the United States Park Police officers along the Potomac shoreline located the missing person, a 60 year old visiting resident from Australia.

It was determined that this was in fact the missing person. He had not entered the Potomac River. He suffered from minor bruises and scrapes from his efforts to exit the area by climbing a cliff. He refused medical treatment and is expected to recover well.

US Park Police Seek Suspect

The United States Park Police is seeking the public’s help in locating Stephen Foxwell who is wanted for “Harassment by Computer.”

Foxwell has emailed a series of threatening messages containing profanity and threats of physical harm to prior employers. His threats are also anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic in nature.

Foxwell was born in the United Kingdom and speaks with a British accent.

He is known to live for short periods in various apartment complexes in the Northern Virginia area.

Those who know his whereabouts should contact local law enforcement authorities or the United States Park Police Criminal Investigations Branch at (202) 610-8737 or Detective Kevin Fornshill at (202) 610-8751.

US Park Police Promotion Committee Receives Award

United States Park Police Chief Salvatore Lauro presented the Chief’s Certificate of Appreciation to the US Park Police Promotion Committee.

In March 2008 the Core Promotion Committee was appointed and began work on the process for the ranks of Lieutenant and Sergeant. The Force had not conducted a promotion process for these two ranks since 2003.

Achievements of the Core committee included the following:

Review and approval of test items and exercises

Completion of a crediting plan to rate and rank candidates for each position

Validation of Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) needed to perform duties and development of benchmarks for each KSA

Provision of Assessment Center methodology training and a written examination sample pre-test

Administering of the written examination to candidates simultaneously in four distant geographical locations

Development of video exercise scenarios for the Assessment Centers and training of outside assessors to be used as evaluators

Administration of the Assessment Center to candidates simultaneously in Washington, DC, New York, and San Francisco

The Promotion Committee, through their focus, intensity, and persistence made the entire process a very positive experience for the candidates and provided the Force with a quality pool of future leaders.

The recipients are:

Major Jeanne O'Toole
Captain Jackie Burks
Captain Richard Pope
Lieutenant Dennis Maroney
Lieutenant Stacey Collins
Lieutenant Keith Rogers
Lieutenant David Buckley
Lieutenant Constance Leonard
Ms. Yvonne Buggs

US Park Police Aviation Paramedic Receives Lifesaving Award

Park Police Chief Salvatore Lauro presented the United States Park Police Lifesaving Award to an Aviation Paramedic.

On November 15 2008, Aviation Rescue Technician Officer Timothy Ryan aboard Helicopter Eagle 1 responded to a two car crash involving serious injury. This crash was on the Baltimore Washington Parkway at Beaverdam Road.

Officer Ryan was directed to one of the two ambulances to render assistance to a patient with an injury described as an “isolated arm injury.”

Officer Ryan instantly realized that his patient might be suffering from two collapsed lungs that were filling with blood. He upgraded the status of his patient to Priority One – the most serious classification - indicating injuries that are immediately life-threatening.

Officer Ryan inserted a needle into the patient’s chest cavity to relieve internal pressure on the lungs. Almost immediately, the patient’s oxygen levels rose and the patient stated that he had far less difficulty breathing.

Listening to the patient’s lungs, Officer Ryan confirmed the presence of breath sounds which had been absent prior to the decompression. This procedure, needle decompression thoracostomy, is rarely performed in the field, let alone in the stressful chaotic environment of a vehicle crash on a highway.

Officer Ryan looked beyond obvious injuries, and identified and effectively treated the condition that could have had dire consequences for the patient.

San Francisco Personnel Receive Lifesaving Award

Park Police Chief Salvatore Lauro presented the United States Park Police Lifesaving Award to San Francisco Field Office personnel.

On February 19, 2009, Officer Scott Huther observed a vehicle stopped in the right lane of Highway 101 on the Golden Gate Bridge. The driver had exited the car and climbed over the guard rail and the pedestrian rail apparently intending to jump. Officer Huther followed the woman onto the walkway calling to her not to jump. The woman climbed over the guard rail to the outer girders and said that if Officer Huther came any closer, she would jump. Officer Huther continued to talk to the woman, attempting to calm her.

Sergeant Todd Roth, a Crisis Negotiator, arrived to assist Officer Huther. Sergeant Roth established a rapport with the woman and moved to a position near her to continue the dialogue. After thirty minutes, Sergeant Roth persuaded the woman back over the guard rail where trained bridge crewmen, secured with safety tethers, grabbed her and pulled her to safety.

Officer Huther and Sergeant Roth demonstrated alertness, highly effective communication skills, and split-second timing to prevent a tragic loss of life