DATE: 03/21/22
CONTACT: Sean J. Dolan – HPD Public Information Officer
PHONE: 203-230-4065
PIO #: 22-030
Town of Hamden Addresses Public Safety Concerns in Shopping Areas & Announces Crime Prevention Discussion
The Town of Hamden 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. With this in mind, the Hamden Police Department has taken several initiatives including:
Increased Patrols – Additional officers have been assigned to high visibility patrols in the shopping centers throughout town. These patrols include area patrol cars, bicycle patrols and walking beats that are utilized in strategic areas. Hamden’s Crime Deterrent Unit will also be assisting in these crime prevention efforts.
Collaboration with Local Businesses – Officers have met with owners of businesses located in the Hamden Mart and Hamden Plaza as part of several crime prevention initiatives. As a result, lighting and security cameras have been enhanced in the shopping areas. Additional extra duty officers and security patrols have also been established at various stores and shopping areas in town.
Crime Prevention Meetings – Officers have been meeting with neighborhood watch groups and various civic groups to discuss crime prevention measures in an effort to help deter crime and keep the community informed.
The Hamden Miller Senior Center will be hosting a Crime Prevention Discussion with the Hamden Police Department on Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at 1:30 PM. The meeting will take place at the Thornton Wilder Hall located in the Miller Memorial Library & Cultural Complex; 2901 Dixwell Avenue.
Mayor Lauren Garrett, along with Hamden Police Chief John Sullivan and members of the HPD command staff, will be on hand to speak with concerned community members.
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. Don't look like an easy target. 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!