News

5/15/2023 - 5/15/23 - Tips on How to Stay Safe with Increased Crime

Hamden Police - News Release

DATE: 05/15/2023

CONTACT: Acting Chief of Police Timothy F. Wydra

PHONE: 203-230-4015

PIO #: 23-24

The Town of Hamden, along with other Towns in the surrounding region, has experienced a recent increase in crimes in shopping areas, specifically pertaining to robberies and stolen motor vehicles. The safety and well-being of our residents, and those who visit and work in the Town of Hamden, is our primary goal.

Recent Purse Thefts - Hamden

On May 12, 2023, at 5:32 pm, Hamden Police Officers responded to Aldi Supermarket located at 2300 Dixwell Avenue for a complaint of a strong-arm robbery/purse snatching. The victim, a 60-year-old woman received on scene medical treatment for minor injuries. A subject entered the woman’s vehicle as she was placing her shoulder bag in the front seat and grabbed it from her and fled in a dark sedan vehicle.

On May 9, 2023, at 11:58 pm, Hamden Police Officers responded to Kohls, 2380 Dixwell Avenue, for an attempted purse snatching of an 81-year-old woman. The woman was walking towards the parking lot when a subject came up from behind her trying to grab her purse off her shoulder. This caused the woman to be taken to the ground. She was later transported to Yale New Haven Hospital for treatment. The suspect in this incident was described as a thin black male, approximately 5"6 tall in height. Officers later located the suspect’s vehicle, which was later determined to be stolen out of West Haven.

The Hamden Police Department continues to work diligently and in coordination with other Law Enforcement partners to identify and apprehend those responsible for these crimes. These incidents generally involve young persons in stolen motor vehicles driving through shopping centers and gas stations parking lots.
Increased Patrols – Additional Officers have been assigned to high visibility patrols in the shopping centers throughout Town. Hamden’s Crime Deterrent Unit will also be assisting in these crime prevention efforts.

The Hamden Police Department would also like to remind the community of some very important crime-prevention safety tips:

1. Park in well-lit areas.
2. Avoid driving or shopping alone whenever possible.
3. Don’t leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart.
4. If possible, leave your purse at home. Carry only essentials, such as money, credit cards and identification in your pockets. Avoid carrying a large amount of money.
5. Close and lock all windows and doors when you park. Do not leave any valuables inside your vehicle.
6. If you sense trouble, get away as soon as possible.
7. Walk with your head up and eyes alert.
8. When returning to your vehicle, have your keys accessible. You want to unlock the door to your vehicle as quickly as possible. Lock your vehicle upon re-entering it.
9. If you are robbed, make personal safety your number one priority. Money and property can always be replaced. Please contact the Hamden Police Department for assistance by dialing 911 or calling (203) 230-4000.

Most importantly…Always be ALERT and AWARE of your surroundings!

Statement from Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett:

“Thank you to the Hamden Police Department for their quick response, investigation, and for being more visible in and out of shopping centers. Community safety is everyone’s responsibility. When we work together and take proactive measures, we create a safe and secure environment for our community.”