OCPD OFFICIAL BLOG

OCEAN CITY POLICE DETECTIVE 1ST CLASS JEFFREY JOHNS NAMED 2011 NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH OFFICER OF THE YEAR

2012-01-18T11:18:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, January 12, 2012, the Ocean City Neighborhood Watch Association gathered at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center for their annual “Officer of the Year” recognition dinner. Nearly 150 guests attended the event, including Mayor Rick Meehan, Council Members, Mary Knight, Margaret Pillas, Brent Ashley and Doug Cymek as well as several Ocean City Police employees, residents and members of the eight Neighborhood Watch Associations in Ocean City, the Boardwalk Group, Bayshore Drive, Caine Keys II, Caine Woods, Edgewater Avenue, Little Salisbury, Montego Bay and Sundowner Park.

Ocean City Police Detective 1^st Class Jeffery Johns was selected the honorable recipient of the Ocean City Neighborhood Watch Association’s 2011 “Officer of the Year” award. Also nominated for the 2011 “Officer of the Year” award were Ocean City Police Officer Justin Hoban, PFC Daniel Jacobs, PFC Chris Snyder, PFC Mike Richardson and Corporal Rick Wawrzeniak.

Detective 1^st Class Jeffrey Johns is originally from Pennsylvania and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He worked as a seasonal officer for two years before being hired full time in 2004. Detective Johns worked in the patrol division before being assigned to the Vice and Narcotics unit. This was a very special night of recognition as Detective Johns was not only named the 2011 Officer of the Year, earlier in the evening Police Chief Bernadette DiPino presented Detective Johns with the highest police department recognition, “The Medal of Honor.” Detective Johns received this honor as a result of being attacked and seriously injured this past summer when he was working in an undercover capacity.

“I am a very lucky guy, it is such an honor to have even been nominated, and I thank my fellow officers who are like my family,” said Detective Johns. This is a great community to be a policeman in. Every resident and especially the Neighborhood Watch members are an incredible resource, and it really is a partnership. I wouldn’t be standing here right now if it wasn’t for them.”

In addition to being named “Officer of the Year,” Detective Johns and 18 other departmental members received a “Unit Citation.” Detective Johns also received the Bronze Star. Both of these honors stemmed from a burglary investigation that helped recover 11 flat screen televisions and numerous other home electronic components.

Long time Neighborhood Watch members William and Anna Neimiller were recognized for their service with the Montego Bay Neighborhood Watch group for over 15 years, during which William Neimiller served as the Area Coordinator for the group.

During the awards banquet 17 members of the Ocean City Police were recognized for their recent promotions as follows:

PROMOTIONS FOR 2011

The promotions for each rank from lowest to highest:

Police Officer 1^st Class

PFC Joseph Centofranchi
PFC Gregory Eastman
PFC Kyle Murray
PFC David Whitmer

Corporal

CPL Freddie Howard
CPL Charles “Josh” Kelley
CPL Frank Soscia
CPL Joseph Lotito

Sergeant

SGT Gregory DeGiovanni
SGTY Regina Custer
SGT Dennis Eade
SGT James Grady
SGT Glenn McIntyre

Lieutenant

LT Scott Harner
LT Elton “Jr” Harmon
LT Todd Wood

Captain

CAPT Gregory Guiton

Officers also received the following awards and recognitions during the ceremony:

Unit Citation: Awarded to a division, shift or section for meritorious service or outstanding achievement, wherein the designed unit is clearly set above and apart from other units.

Unit Citation for 2011: Capt Robert Bokinsky, Lt. Mark Pacini, Lt. Ray Austin, Sgt. Todd Wood, Cpl Brett Case, Cpl James Schwartz, Cpl Shawn Jones, Cpl Jeffrey Heiser, DFC Nicholas Simpson, Cpl Ronnie Townsend, DFC Todd Speigle, DFC James Rodriguez, DFC Matthew Forman, PFC Sara Dorsey, Officer Joseph Melena, CST Sharon Schultz, CST Robert Luckett and CST Nicole Ruggiero.

During the winter of 2010 the mid-town area of Ocean City was experiencing a rash of burglaries during which flat screen televisions were stolen. While conducting a CDS investigation, Detective Johns happened to mention to a drug dealer that he would like to purchase a television. DFC Johns eventually purchased two flat screen televisions, which were determined to be stolen from burglaries being investigated by the patrol division. During the course of this investigation a total of nine suspects were arrested. Property recovered during the service of several search and seizure warrants included: 11 flat screen televisions, one shotgun, two DVD players and an MP3 docking station. A total of $40,000 in restitution was ordered to the victims by the court.

Excellent Performance: Awarded to any member of the police department, including civilians, for an act or achievement above that which is normally required or expected.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: Sgt Mark Paddack and DFC James Rodriguez

While conducting a crime scene process, Sgt. Paddack struck up a conversation with the victim of a burglary. Based on this brief conversation with the victim a suspect was developed from information about the crime. Additional follow up investigation by DFC Rodriguez determined that the suspect was involved in numerous residential and commercial burglaries within Ocean City and lower Delaware. The suspect stole a vehicle,

U.S.

currency and an entire bedroom set during these burglaries.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: PFC Aaron Morgan and PFC Sara Dorsey

On May 30, 2011 PFC Morgan and PFC Dorsey responded to the report of a hit and run

motor vehicle collision. During the investigation PFC Morgan tracked the suspect vehicle to a residence

by reviewing the physical evidence. PFC Morgan eventually located the passenger of the vehicle

and PFC Dorsey conducted interviews that determined a domestic argument had occurred in

the hit and run vehicle. PFC Dorsey eventually developed probable cause to charge the driver

with 1^st and 2^nd degree assault and numerous traffic charges.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: Sgt. Dennis Eade, PFC Andrew Sprague,

S.O. Michael Koehler and S.O. Evan Kolb

On August 4, 2011, PFC Sprague conducted an initial complaint of a robbery at the Oceanic

Motel. PFC Sprague broadcast a thorough description of the suspects. Five hours later SO Koehler

and SO Kolb stopped two subjects for an alcohol violation, during which one suspect fled. During

a search of the detained subject’s phone, Sgt. Eade learned the location of the second suspect

who was apprehended.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: PFC Andrew Sprague and Officer Joseph Melena

While on bicycle patrol in the Southern District, PFC Sprague and Officer Melena observed two

suspicious subjects in a vehicle. Eventually both subjects were arrested for CDS, which included

63 Percocet’s, other pills and marijuana. A combined total of $8,104 in

U.S.

currency was seized

during this CDS investigation.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: PFC Michael Richardson, Officer Justin Hoban

On April 24, 2011, Officer Hoban was dispatched to Somerset Street for a strong-arm robbery. OFC Hoban broadcast a lookout for the suspect and PFC Richardson recognized the subjects from an earlier observation in the evening. After a lengthy patrol investigation with numerous interviews and one on one identification, a total of nine Dover, Delaware men were arrested for CDS, robbery and possession of a handgun.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: PFC Daniel Jacobs

On May 24, 2011 Officers responded to the North Division Street 7-11 for a rape investigation.

Based on a description of the suspect, PFC Jacobs was able to determine that it was a subject he

had observed earlier in the evening. PFC Jacobs and Kelly observed the subject in the area and a foot chase ensued, during which Jacobs located and apprehended the suspect in a unit on North Division Street.

Excellent Performance Award for 2011: PFC Christopher Snyder

On June 19, 2011 PFC Snyder conducted a burglary investigation on Robin Drive, during which

he smelled the odor of marijuana. PFC Snyder conducted a thorough investigation and authored a

search and seizure warrant. During execution of the warrant PFC Snyder

seized numerous items of CDS paraphernalia and $5,000.

Meritorious Service: Awarded to any member of the Police Department who distinguishes him/herself by performing his/her duties in a manner that clearly exceeds what is normally required or expected or for a highly creditable police accomplishment.

Meritorious Service Awards for 2011: Corporal James Schwartz

During the last seven years Corporal James Schwartz has been a member of the National

Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI). During his tenure Cpl Schwartz has risen to

the position of Maryland NADDI Chapter President. Because of Cpl Schwartz’s participation in

NADDI the Ocean City Police Department has been the recipient of $32,000 in grant money for

drug diversion investigations.

Meritorious Service Award for 2011: DFC Todd Speigle

On May 28, 2011 Detective Speigle was assigned to investigate the assault and attempted

robbery of DFC Murray and DFC Johns, during which Johns was seriously injured. DFC Speigle conducted an exhaustive investigation, which included 20 separate interviews. DFC Speigle eventually gained confessions in the planned robbery of the Narcotics Detectives.

Bronze Star: Awarded to any member of the Police Department who distinguishes him/herself by displaying courage and devotion to duty.

Bronze Star Award for 2011: CPL James Schwartz

Based on the department’s priority enforcement in the St Louis Avenue area, Corporal

James Schwartz initiated a CDS investigation that concluded with 39 hand-to-hand purchases

and 11 controlled purchases of CDS. This investigation also extended into Wicomico County

where Schwartz purchased a firearm. Twenty suspects were indicted in this case leading to 60

criminal charges.

Bronze Star Award for 2011: DFC Jeffrey Johns

During the winter of 2010 the mid-town area of Ocean City was experiencing a rash of burglaries,

during which flat screen televisions were being stolen. While conducting a CDS investigation,

Detective Johns happened to mention to a drug dealer that he would like to purchase a television.

DFC Johns eventually purchased two flat screen televisions, which were determined to be stolen

from burglaries being investigated by the patrol division. During the course of this investigation a

total of nine suspects were arrested. Property recovered during the service of several search and

seizure warrants included: 11 flat screen televisions, one shotgun, two DVD players and an

MP3 docking station. A total of $40,000 in restitution was ordered to the victims by the court.

SILVER STAR: Awarded to any member of the police department who distinguishes him/herself conspicuously by gallantry and at the risk of his/her life.

Silver Star Award for 2011: Corporal Rick Wawrzeniak

On December 10, 2010 Corporal Rick Wawrzeniak observed Marvin Mitchell actively assaulting

his wife with a knife. Cpl Wawrzeniak took quick and decisive action and neutralized Mitchell by

gunfire, saving the life of four persons.

MEDAL OF VALOR: Awarded to any member of the Police Department who has been killed, seriously wounded, or injured in the performance of his/her duties

Medal of Valor Award for 2011: DFC Jeffrey Johns

On May 28, 2011, DFC Johns and Murray engaged subjects on the boardwalk in a conversation to buy drugs. Hours later DFC Murray and DFC Johns met with subject on St. Louis Avenue to

complete the purchase. During this drug deal the suspect dealers attempted a robbery of

Murray and Johns. During this robbery attempt, DFC Johns was struck in the back of the head

with a one foot long, 4x4 piece of wood. As a result of this on-duty injury, Johns was transported

to the hospital where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for one week and a second

week under general care. Johns suffered a significant injury as a result of this planned robbery.

The Ocean City Police Department would like to thank the citizens of Ocean City and the 8 Neighborhood Watch groups and their area coordinators for taking their time to recognize the officers of their police department and especially maintaining the very special partnership between the citizens of Ocean City and their police.

Crime Prevention Begins with You

2012-01-18T10:46:00.000-05:00

There are many things you can do to keep your own house safe from burglars, such as installing automatic outdoor lights, keeping the hedges well trimmed so law breakers don't have a convenient hiding spot and making sure all your doors and windows are locked at all times. However, if someone is determined to break into your home or steal your property when they think you are away, they will very likely at least try even if you've done everything possible to safeguard your home.

There is something else you can do. Participating in a neighborhood watch program is a great way to deter crime and discourage criminals from spending time on your block. One of the most important things to remember about criminals is that they never want to be seen by anyone, because if they are ever caught by the police they won't want someone to be able to identify them. When a criminal knows there is a good chance they are being watched, they will be far more likely to move on and look for an easier target.

A neighborhood watch is a program in which all the people who live in one area agree to watch out for each other. So if one of your neighbors notices a suspicious character hanging around your house, or a car that keeps driving up and down your block, they will notify you and contact the police. Criminals are warned of an active watch by signs that are posted prominently in the area. When they see these clear signals that the people in this community are working together to prevent crime, they will know their chances of being caught are much higher and go somewhere else.

Crime Prevention Begins With You

To get your own neighborhood watch together, set up a meeting and invite everyone who lives around you as well as representatives from your local police department. Try going door to door to either tell people personally or create a small flier that announces the time, location and intent of this meeting. On the night you do meet, explain to everyone the benefits of working together to watch over each other's property, and allow a police officer to speak to the group. The officer will be able to offer great tips and training that will help you protect your neighborhood more efficiently. It's a good idea to have someone who can speak English and Spanish present so they can translate to residents who are not bilingual.

One final thing that is important to remember - although people who are part of a local watch group can help prevent crime, they are not trained to stop a criminal. Stress to the members of your watch group that they are not taking on the job of a law enforcement officer, they are working with the rest of your neighbors to keep an eye on each other. Your group should work together to help deter crime, warn others of potential danger, but never put themselves at risk by trying to stop a crime on their own. If any criminal activity is spotted, the best thing to do is call the police immediately.

McGruff Safe Kids Now warning about Synthetic Drugs

2012-01-17T11:15:00.002-05:00

Plan. Prepare. Share. (a division of Boerner, Inc. and a 20-year licensee of The National Crime Prevention Council/McGruff Safe Kids) has produced two new products to help teens and young adults understand the high likelihood of abuse associated with the use of new synthetic drugs.

These “Scary Spice” and “Bath Salts’” broadsides provide valuable information about new and evolving synthetic drugs. “Scary Spice”, or synthetic marijuana, is promoted and sold as a “legal” form of pot, though many of the chemicals that go into it are being outlawed on a state-by-state basis. It is an herb, or plant material, that is sprayed with chemicals to create a marijuana-like high. “Bath salts” are a powder that can be snorted, smoked or injected. It has caused catastrophic side effects, including extreme paranoia, hallucinations, cardiac arrest and even led to suicide.

“Synthetic drugs under any name are nothing to fool around with; Camp Pendleton had these brochures developed to provide a broadside that identified the drugs, the problem and offered helpful resources for people who are considering using these drugs”, said Jerry Cole, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist for the STAY DRUG FREE program at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base.

“We were contacted by the United States Marine Corps and were hired to develop a self-guided presentation on synthetic drug abuse said, Kurt Boerner, president of McGruff Safe Kids, a 20-year licensee for the National Crime Prevention Council said. After research, including interviews with resources in the drug use prevention field, and drug treatment field we developed these “Scary Spice” and “Bath Salts” brochures. In creating this material we used our extensive experience gleaned from 20 years of working with law enforcement agencies, the business community and community resources to create another valuable personal safety guide.”

The information described below provides details of the disastrous effects that these drugs have had on people. The objective of these pieces is to convince people to stay drug free and/or seek help for drug related issues.

Bath Salts, Chemical Russian Roulette-This piece contains details about what is included in this toxic synthetic, how it’s marketed and what harm it can do, now and over time. It also provides other resources where you can find out much more information about these drugs.

Scary Spice, Chemical Russian Roulette-In this broadside we talk about what this drug can actually be made of and how devastating these chemicals can be to a person’s mental and physical health.

Both pieces emphasize that by not knowing exactly what chemicals are in these drugs or in what concentration using either is like playing “Chemical Russian Roulette”. There are also stories from around the country about the devastating consequences to people who have used these drugs.

The “Bath Salts” and “Scary Spice” are two great resources for anyone to help better understand the effects of these new synthetic drugs.

OCEAN CITY POLICE REMINDING CITIZENS: “THE BEST WAY TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER IS DRIVING SOBER THIS YEAR”

2011-12-20T11:58:00.003-05:00

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens that “the best way to spread holiday cheer is driving sober this year.” While millions of people celebrate the holidays, the Ocean City Police Department will be aggressively enforcing impaired driving, distracted driving and negligent driving to assure that people get home safely this season.

“The message is simple, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Drinking alcohol or doing drugs and driving do not mix. If you plan to consume alcohol, or are under the influence of any kind, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle or ride a motorcycle,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino.

In December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.

“Unfortunately millions of drivers on

America

’s highways still think they are invincible, and they choose to jeopardize their safety and the safety of others on our roads,” she said. “There will be no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell,” Chief DiPino continued. “Don’t let your 2011 holiday season end in an arrest or worse, death. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.”

The Ocean City Police Department recommends these simple tips for a safe holiday season:

Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home;
If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation
If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement; and
And remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take that person’s keys and help him or her make other arrangements to get home safely.

OCPD NEEDY DRIVE DONATES FOOD BASKETS AND HUNDREDS OF TOYS TO OCEAN CITY FAMILIES

2011-12-20T10:50:00.003-05:00

The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive proved to be a blessing to many local families. With a volunteer crew of more than 60 people, Chief Bernadette DiPino and her staff tended to more than 85 families, including almost 200 children, this past Saturday at the Public Safety Building.

The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive was started by Chief DiPino’s grandfather in the Baltimore Police Department many years ago. The tradition was continued by her father in Baltimore, and later by Chief DiPino in Ocean City. This year is the 16th year for the OCPD Christmas Needy Drive and each year the event has grown.

The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive volunteers not only helped families load toys and boxes of food for the holidays, but also assisted in transportation for some people who otherwise would have had to take the bus. Chief DiPino was very pleased with the event. “Every year I worry about whether or not we will have enough donated toys and food to give the families,” said Chief DiPino. “But every year the Ocean City community comes together to provide for those who are less fortunate.”

Several Ocean City businesses and organizations contributed to the success of this year’s needy drive. On Wednesday, December 6, 2011, the Ocean City Elks Lodge and Ladies Auxiliary donated over $4,000. Also making large contributions were the Delmarva Condominium Managers Association (DCMA), who stopped by the Public Safety Building with several bags of toys and a donation of $1,000, Atlantic Physical Therapy who donated 20 bicycles, the Ocean City Parrottheads “Hots for Tots” Chili Cookoff and Councilman Brent Ashley who donated $1,000.

Additional community donations came from The Greene Turtle, Fager’s Island, Caine Woods Association, the American Legion, the Marine Corps League, the Ocean City Hibernians, and several independent community members.

“Without the generosity of Ocean City businesses and residents, this needy drive would not be possible,” said Chief DiPino. “It is an example of what makes our community so special and it is truly what Christmas is all about.”

BE PROACTIVE ABOUT CRIME PREVENTION DURING THE HOLIDAYS

2011-12-13T08:51:00.001-05:00

Our homes are our most valuable assets and protecting them with the following crime prevention tips is an inexpensive way to maintain value and safety. In addition to protecting your home, the Ocean City Police Department asks you to be alert and call if you see any suspicious people or activities in your neighborhood.

As the holiday season approaches, it is important to continue following simple crime prevention techniques that will protect you and your property from being a victim of a crime.

· Remember to lock all doors and windows to your home and vehicle

· Keep inside and outside of your home well lit. Lighting is an inexpensive crime prevention strategy and often deters criminals, so keep your lights on.

· Keep trees and bushes trimmed below windows

· Never post vacation or travel plans on social media sites, Facebook, Twitter ect. Instead, share your plans with a trusted neighbor, family member or friends who will keep an eye on your property while you are away.

The Ocean City Police Department also encourages citizens to become an active member of an Ocean City Neighborhood Watch Association. Currently, Ocean City boasts eight Neighborhood Watch Associations, including Caine Woods, Caine Keys II, Bayshore Drive, the Boardwalk Association, Edgewater Avenue, Little Salisbury, Montego Bay and Sundowner Park. These Neighborhood Watch groups have been instrumental in reducing crime and keeping citizens informed of various public safety issues.

If you plan on leaving the area for any extended period of time, the Ocean City Police Department encourages residents to take advantage of the “Residential Security Check Program.” This free program is available to all Ocean City residents whether you own or rent, live in a condominium or single family home.

· To participate in this program, call the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410-723-6663. Registration may also be done online by visiting the OCPD website at: http://oceancitymd.gov/Police/securitycheck.html

The OCPD knows a well informed citizen and a proactive community is the best form of crime prevention. Please join the team to keep Ocean City a safe and fun place to live, work and visit.

OCPD WARNING CITIZENS ABOUT SCAM

2011-12-07T15:08:00.001-05:00

The Ocean City Police Department is advising citizens to be aware of a fraud scheme from an out-of-country scam artist using Text Telephone Yoke (TTY) relay operators representing themselves as a law enforcement officer of the “Department of Law and Justice.” One Ocean City resident has already been a victim of this scam.

This scam can be perpetrated by the victim being contacted usually by telephone. The caller advises the victim that they have a delinquent or have an outstanding loan and that if not paid; the victim will be charged criminally. The thing that makes this scammer seem credible is the amount of personal and bank information known by the caller when speaking to the victim.

In the most recent instance, the victim was duped into confirming personal and bank information already in possession of the caller. During the conversation the victim unintentionally revealed additional personal information, which allowed the thief to access the victim’s bank account.

Police remind citizens not to provide anyone, particularly persons you have no affiliation with, personal or bank information either over the telephone or internet. Scam artist often target persons who they have obtained some information about and then try to confirm the information or even obtain what they need to falsify a persons identity and or access to personal banking and credit card information.

If you are contacted over the phone by someone posing as a law enforcement official, police recommend you take the following actions:

- Ask the caller to have a local officer meet with them personally

- Immediately report the call to your local police

- Never provide bank account or personal information such as date of birth, social security numbers or account password information.

The OCPD reminds citizens when they use the internet or telephone to make purchases, only make purchases from reputable well established businesses or internet site. If you use a credit card to make purchases check your statement and ensure that your charges are legitimate. Also, never use a credit card linked to a personal checking or money market account to make purchases. The Federal Trade Commission recommends that consumers review the credit history annually to ensure they have no unauthorized credit accounts. For additional credit and purchase safety information go to http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/credit.shtm

If you believe there has been suspicious activity involving purchase you have made, immediately contact your bank and local police.

OC Parrottheads "Hots for Tots" raise over 300 Toys for OCPD Toy Drive

2011-12-05T15:00:00.001-05:00

Thank you to the Ocean City Parrottheads, whose annual "Hots for Tots" event raised over 325 toys for the Ocean City Police Department's Christmas Toy Drive.

Noel Community is preparing for their 14th annual dinner on Christmas Day

2011-11-28T13:49:00.001-05:00

The Noel Community is preparing for their 14th annual dinner on Christmas Day. The volunteers serve a free turkey and ham dinner with all the trimmings from 11:00am to 2:00pm at St. Paul's by-the-Sea on 3rd and Baltimore Streets in Ocean City. This event has become an important part of the Christmas celebration for many including the homeless, unemployed, underemployed, shut-in, and those who are alone. Noel provides gifts and toys to many who attend. All items are free and all are welcome.

Last year, the Noel Community volunteers served over 1,600 meals including sit-down dinners and carry-outs. Meals were delivered to those who could not leave their homes and to the police, fire departments, and others who serve our community on Christmas Day.

Again this year, there is a need for monetary donations. Checks made payable to the Noel Community can be mailed to PO Box 1207 in Ocean City MD, 21843. Your financial support to purchase items for the dinner is appreciated.

Donations of non-perishable food and toiletries from individuals or organizations will be collected on December 23 and December 24 from 10:00 to 12:00 at St. Paul's by-the-Sea. If your business or organization is willing to sponsor a collection drive of non-perishable food or toiletries during the holiday season, please call and the Noel Community will make arrangements to pick-up the items.

The Noel Community with the generosity from Ocean City, Ocean Pines, Berlin, Fenwick, Bishopville, Selbyville, and the surrounding neighborhoods is able to make the Christmas celebration special for many in our community. The Noel Community appreciates the support and hopes you will consider their request again this year. If you have any questions please call 410-289-3453.

OCPD GEARS UP FOR HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

2011-11-22T14:39:00.001-05:00

Above: A picture of the Ocean City Police Department lobby
during the 2010 Christmas Needy Drive.

The Ocean City Police Department is asking for toy donations, as well as monetary donations, in order to provide gifts and food baskets to local families. Unwrapped, new toys may be dropped off at the Public Safety Building, located at 65^th Street and Coastal Highway.

For those who wish to contribute monetary donations, an account for food baskets has been set up at the Bank of Ocean City (the account name is: Town of Ocean City, Ocean City Police Department DBA-Holiday Food and Toy Drive). While you may contribute donations to any Bank of Ocean City branch, we ask you not to bring food to the Department or the bank. You may also send your donations to “OCPD Christmas Toy Drive” at 6501 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842.

The Ocean City Police Department will begin accepting referrals of children or families that are in need of assistance on November 28, 2011. In order to participate, families must be Ocean City residents or individuals who work in Ocean City. “I am continuously amazed by the generosity of our community,” said OCPD Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “Despite a very difficult economy, the businesses and residents of the Ocean City community continue to pull together to provide for those individuals who are struggling this year. It truly is what Christmas is all about.”

In addition to donations, the Ocean City Police Department is looking for volunteers. Those who volunteer will be assisting participants with the collection of toys and food on the day of the distribution. The Ocean City Police Department asks that all donations be made by Friday, December 16. Distribution will take place on Saturday, December 17, promptly at 8 a.m.

To submit a donation, volunteer, or refer a family in need, please contact Public Affairs Officer Michael Levy or Public Affairs Specialist Jessica Waters at 410.723.6665.

45 Million Turkeys Will Die This Thanksgiving. Don’t Be One of Them. Buckle Up!

2011-11-22T14:06:00.001-05:00

OCEAN CITY POLICE GARNER TOP MARKSMANSHIP HONORS

2011-11-15T10:15:00.001-05:00

Four Ocean City Police Department members won high honors for marksmanship during the 2011 Maryland State Police Pistol Combat competition in Frederick, Maryland. Team Captain Sgt. Mark L. Paddack, Cpl. Greg DeGiovanni, Pfc. Daniel Jacobs and Retired Lt. Mark Doyle received the honors.

Cpl. DeGiovanni and Pfc. Jacobs finished third overall in the two man team event, followed by the team of Sgt. Paddack, Cpl. DeGiovanni, Pfc. Jacobs and Retired Lt. Doyle who finished second overall in the four man team.

Cpl. DeGiovanni was the first place winner of the sharpshooter class with the semi-automatic and the second place winner in the sharpshooter class with a revolver. Pfc. Jacbos also placed first in the marksman class for both revolver and semi-auto events. Finally, retired Lt. Doyle finished second in the expert class with the revolver.

OCPD Pistol Team members donate their time and pay expenses for the opportunity to represent the OCPD not only in the State of Maryland, but all over the country. Congratulations to the Ocean City Police Pistol Team members!

Don’t Turn Thanksgiving into a Tragedy This Year, Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time.

2011-11-14T14:06:00.001-05:00

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding highway travelers this Thanksgiving that the only belt that should be left unbuckled this year, or any year, is the one holding up your trousers--not the seat belts in your car.

“Seat belts have saved more lives than any other single piece of automotive safety equipment,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino. “But in order for them to work, they have to be used. This Thanksgiving, and every day and night of the year, make sure you buckle up your seat belt and you’ll have the opportunity to unbuckle that other belt at the feast table with your family and friends.”

Nationally, during the Thanksgiving holiday period in 2009 (which ran from 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, to 5:59 a.m., Monday, November 30), 303 passenger vehicle occupants died in motor vehicle traffic crashes, including 115 during daylight hours (6 a.m. to 5:59 p.m.) and 187 during night time (6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.). One fatality occurred during an unknown time period.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), night time is one of the more dangerous times on the road because seat belt use is traditionally lower. Of the 187 passenger vehicle occupant deaths at night during the 2009 Thanksgiving holiday period, over one-half (54%) did not have their seat belts fastened (where seat belt use was known); while 49 percent in day-time crashes were not wearing seat belts.

“There is no holiday more closely associated with the American family, or with American travel, than Thanksgiving,” said Dipino. “But if you hit the highways unbelted, the faces you could be seeing this Holiday might belong to an emergency room physician or nurse instead of the faces of your family and friends.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), regular seat belt use is
the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. Research has shown that when lap and shoulder belts are used properly, the risk of fatal injury to front seat passenger car occupants is reduced by 45 percent, and the risk of moderate to serious injury is reduced
by 50 percent.

For more information about traveling safely during Thanksgiving, please visit www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov.

Happy 236th Birthday United States Marine Corps

2011-11-10T12:57:00.000-05:00

Driving in Fog - Safety Tips

2011-11-10T10:42:00.001-05:00

Fog is a thin layer of cloud resting on the ground. It can reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less, creating hazardous driving conditions. The best advice for driving in the fog is DON’T. You should consider postponing your trip until the fog clears. However, if you must drive, be prepared to cope at a moment's notice. It can be patchy, going from a light mist to a thick cover in an instant.

DRIVE WITH LIGHTS on low beam. High beams will only be reflected back off the fog and actually impair visibility even more. Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.

SLOW DOWN - and watch your speedometer - before you enter a patch of fog. Be sure that you can stop within the distance that you can see. Fog creates a visual illusion of slow motion when you may actually be speeding. Speed is a major factor in fog-related crashes.

WATCH OUT for slow-moving and parked vehicles. Listen for traffic you cannot see. Open your window a little, to hear better.

REDUCE THE DISTRACTIONS in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and cell phone. Your full attention is required.

USE WIPERS AND DEFROSTERS liberally for maximum visibility. Sometimes it is difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield.

USE THE RIGHT EDGE of the road or painted road markings as a guide.

BE PATIENT. Avoid passing and/or changing lanes.

SIGNAL TURNS well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop.

DO NOT STOP on a freeway or heavily traveled road. You could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision. If you must pull off the road, signal (people tend to follow tail lights when driving in fog), then carefully pull off as far as possible. After pulling off the road, turn on your hazard flashers(hazard lights should only be used when you pull over to show that you are parked on the side of the road). Move away from the vehicle.

Never drive with just your parking or fog lights.

Increase your following distance and be prepared to stop within the space you can see ahead. Avoid crossing or passing lanes of traffic unless absolutely necessary. Listen for traffic you cannot see. Use your wipers and defroster as necessary for best vision.

If the fog becomes so thick that you can barely see, pull completely off the road. Do not continue driving until you can see well. Turn off your lights and keep your foot off the brake pedal or someone may see your taillights, think you are moving, and drive into your vehicle.

OCEAN CITY POLICE COLLECT 26.5 POUNDS OF MEDICATION DURING OPERATION MEDICINE DROP

2011-11-07T13:46:00.002-05:00

The Ocean City Police Department’s recent participation in “Operation Medicine Drop” proved to be a success, yielding 26.5 pounds of medicine at the Ocean City location. Joining officials from the Worcester County Sheriff's Office, Worcester County Health Department, Berlin Police Department and Assateague Coastal Trust/Coastkeeper, a total of 205 lbs of unused and expired medications was collected in Worcester County alone.

Operation Medicine Drop, which took place on October 29, 2011at six different locations in Worcester County, was part of the Fall National Drug Take Back Day. The bi-annual event, which last took place in the spring 2011, is a federal program which unites the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) with state and local law enforcement to encourage citizens to properly dispose of their prescription drugs.

“Operation Medicine Drop is a great opportunity to get unwanted, unused and expired prescription medication out of people’s cabinets and off of the streets,” commented Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino. “Not only does this event provide the public with an opportunity to safely dispose of unused medications, but it also keeps unused prescription drugs out of the hands of persons who shouldn’t have them, as well as out of Maryland coastal bays and waterways.”

The October 29^th event, which was the second local effort in Worcester County, saw an increase of over 70 pounds of unused pharmaceuticals since the spring 2011 event. Worcester County’s “Operation Medicine Drop” partner agencies and groups look forward to a spring event in 2012 and will announce the date and locations as soon as a spring 2012 National Drug Take Back Day is announced by federal agencies.

CONGRATULATIONS! FIVE MEMBERS OF OCPD RETIRE AFTER ALMOST 200 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE TO TOWN OF OCEAN CITY!

2011-11-03T13:32:00.001-04:00

Five members of the Ocean City Police Department were recently recognized for their numerous years of service to the residents, visitors and Town of Ocean City. Pictured below with Chief Bernadette DiPino are the recent retirees. Congratulations to Captain Victor Bunting (37 years of service), Lieutenant Robert Noll (34 years of service), Police Officer First Class Brasure Lynch (29 years of service), Police Officer Hugh Bean (28 years of service) and Police Officer First Class Barry Neeb (30 years of service), .

Captain Victor Bunting retires after more than 37 years with OCPD

Ocean City Police Captain Victor Bunting has retired after a career spanning over 37 years with the department. Captain Bunting has been an instrumental part of the development of the OCPD. He is one of the longest serving members of OCPD.

He supervised or commanded every division and unit within the OCPD, including the patrol division, criminal investigation division, special operation division, administrative division and services division. He was instrumental in establishing various specialized enforcement units and programs including mounted patrol, noise enforcement and the transit unit.

Captain Bunting provided key leadership and guidance during the department’s initial transition from paper reporting to computerized records management and computer automated dispatching. He successfully established a comprehensive police employee evaluation system. Captain Bunting spearheaded the computerized parking ticket program and provided OCPD with its first ever “Com Stat Model.”

Prior to joining the police department in 1974, the lifelong resident of the Ocean City community served the nation for four years including service tours in

Vietnam

Captain Bunting attended the Emergency Management Institute, Institute of Police Technology Management’s Policed Executive Development and Com Stat Development courses. He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky Southern Police Institute.

During the course of his career, Captain Bunting received numerous commendations and awards including being named “Police Officer of the Year” in 1985. He holds memberships in the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association.

Captain Bunting and his wife, Barbara, have been married for over 40 years and have two children, Victor Jr. and Lesley.

Lt. Robert Noll retires after more than 34 years service

Ocean City Police Lt. Robert Noll has retired after more than 34 years of service with the Ocean City Police Department. Noll joined the police force in January 1977.

Prior to joining the department full time, Noll was a seasonal officer during the summers of 1974 and 1975. After joining the police department full time, he was promoted to acting corporal in 1980, then sergeant in 1981 and acting lieutenant in 2003. Noll was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2004.

During his career with the police department he served as a radar instructor and emergency vehicle operator driving instructor.

He was educated at Wilson High School and St. John’s Military Academy.

Barry Neeb retires after 30 years with OCPD

Ocean City Police Officer First Class Barry Neeb has retired after serving 30 years with the Ocean City Police Department. Neeb joined the department full time in 1981.

Neeb is a two-time recipient of the Governor’s Award – Excellence in Crime Prevention and was recognized as Police Officer of the Year in 1988. In recent years he has worked in Training and Recruiting for the Ocean City Police Department.

Neeb holds a bachelors degree from Mercyhurst College. He was class valedictorian in 1981 at the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy. He served as a seasonal officer with the Ocean City Police Department in 1980 and prior to joining the department full time, he served as a police officer with the Berlin Police Department.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the visitors and citizens of Ocean City alongside the finest men and women in law enforcement,” said Neeb. “Thank you for this life changing experience.”

Neeb plans to travel and work part time with the Ocean City Police Department.

Officer Brasure Lynch retires after over 29 years of service

Ocean City Police Officer First Class Brasure Lynch has retired after 29 ½ years of service with the Ocean City Police Department. Lynch joined the department in January 1982.

Lynch served in the department’s patrol division for 14 ½ years. During his career with OCPD he also served six years in the criminal investigation division, five years in the service division and four years in the narcotics investigation division. He was also assigned to the Worcester County Narcotics Task Force.

Lynch received three special commendation awards over the course of his OCPD career, along with five excellent performance awards and four unit citations. He was an acting sergeant during summer deployment for eight years.

His special training has included DEA/Narcotics, Francis Glazer Homicide Investigation Training and breath test operator training. He is a member of the Harvard Association of Police Science.

Lynch plans to continue as a part-time police officer, along with spending time with his wife, Dyann, traveling, golfing, and “going to the slots and hitting the big one.”

“It’s been a pleasure working over 29 ½ years with everyone I’ve come in contact with,” Lynch said. “Thank you very much.”

Officer Charles Bean retires after over 28 years of service

Ocean City Police Officer First Class Charles “Hugh” Bean has retired after more than 28 years of service with the Ocean City Police Department. Bean joined the police department in May 1983.

During his career with OCPD, Bean served in the patrol division, training division and traffic patrol division. He completed special training in traffic enforcement, collision reconstruction, pedestrian crash and motorcycle reconstruction and biomechanics. Bean is the only ACTAR accredited reconstructionist on the Eastern Shore.

Bean handled numerous traffic homicide cases over the years in Ocean City, Worcester County and other states. He has instructed classes in advanced crash investigation and reconstruction as well as motorcycle and pedestrian crash reconstruction courses in Maryland and West Virginia. He took part in the Siffrit murder case.

Bean is a graduate of Marshall University and has a pending Master’s degree from Wilmington College.

Prior to joining OCPD, Bean worked as a camp counselor at Camp Shaw Mi Del Eca in Lewisburg, WV, and he was a member of the ski patrol at Canaan Valley Ski Resort and Snowshoe Ski Resort.

Bean’s future plans include returning to work part time, traveling with family, hunting and working on his farm in West Virginia.

“I would like to thank Chief Massey for taking a chance on me in ’83,” Bean said. “I would like to thank Chuck Gordy who taught me how to look after your personnel. Lt. Bill Galten for getting me involved in crash investigation in 1983, and last, but not least, I would like to thank Sgt. Dale Marshall who taught me true loyalty, and what it means to take care of your people no matter what. He was not always understood, but he is a fine gentleman of high moral character. There are too many others to name and I’m sorry if I missed anyone.”

November 17th is the 36th Great American Smokeout

2011-11-02T10:09:00.002-04:00

The American Cancer Society is marking the 36th Great American Smokeout on November 17 by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By doing so, smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk.

Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the

, yet more than 46 million Americans still smoke. However, more than half of these smokers have attempted to quit for at least one day in the past year.

Could This Be the First Day of a Life Without Tobacco?
Are you thinking about quitting smoking but not sure you're ready to take the plunge? Maybe the Great American Smokeout is for you. It's an opportunity to join with literally millions of other smokers in saying "no thanks" to cigarettes for 24 hours.

A Day to "Butt Out"
The Great American Smokeout traditionally takes place on the third Thursday in November. The concept dates from the early '70s when Lynn Smith, publisher of the Monticello Times of Minnesota, announced the first observance and called it "D Day." The idea caught on in state after state until in 1977, it went nationwide under the sponsorship of the American Cancer Society. If past Smokeouts are any indication, as many as one-third of the nation's 46 million smokers could be taking the day off from smoking.

The Rules of the Game
The rules are simple: You just quit smoking for the 24 hours of the Smokeout. The wonderful thing is that you won't be alone; you can swap advice, jokes and groans with the other "quitters," nonsmokers and the American Cancer Society volunteers who will be cheering you on. Even if you don't go on to quit permanently, you will have learned that you can quit for a day and that many others around you are taking the step, too. Contact the American Cancer Society for information on how you can participate, either as a "quitter" or as a volunteer.

Smokeout Support in Worcester County

The Worcester County Health Department will distribute Quit Smoking Kits at several locations including the Berlin Health Center, Center 4 Clean Start, Pocomoke Health Center, Snow Hill Health Center, and WACS Center. Please stop by one of those locations to pick up your free Quit Smoking Kit.

Tips to Quit

• Make a firm commitment to quit and set a date.

• Join a smoking cessation class. For more information about classes, call the

Health Department Tobacco Program at 410-632-1100 extension 1102.

• Enlist some support.

• Drink lots of water.

• Munch on low-cal snacks.

• Chew on a toothpick or cinnamon stick.

• Throw out the ash tray and cigarettes.

• Vacuum the car.

• Wash your clothes.

• Air out the house.

• Become physically active.

For more information about quitting smoking or to register for a smoking cessation class, please call the Worcester County Health Department at 410-632-1100 extension 1102 or go to http://www.worcesterhealth.org/

NATIONAL RED RIBBON WEEK: October 23-31, 2011

2011-10-28T15:01:00.000-04:00

Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country. Although the start end dates can vary slightly depending on the organization and source, Red Ribbon Week generally takes place the last full week in October, with the weekends before and following the last full week included as appropriate celebration dates. This year Red Ribbon Week will be celebrated October 22-30, 2011.

Red Ribbon Week serves as a vehicle for communities and individuals to take a stand for the hopes and dreams of our children through a commitment to drug prevention and education and a personal commitment to live drug free lives with the ultimate goal being the creation of drug free

America

.

And, perhaps more importantly, Red Ribbon Week commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, who died at the hands of drug traffikers in

Mexico

while fighting the battle against illegal drugs to keep our country and children safe.

The Story Behind the Symbol

Enrique "Kiki" Camarena grew up in a dirt-floored house with hopes and dreams of making a difference.

Camarena worked his way through college, served in the Marines and became a police officer. When he decided to join the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, his mother tried to talk him out it. "I can't not do this," he told her. "I'm only one person, but I want to make a difference."

The DEA sent Camarena to work undercover in

Mexico

investigating a major drug cartel believed to include officers in the Mexican army, police and government. On Feb. 7, 1985, the 37-year-old Camarena left his office to meet his wife for lunch. Five men appeared at the agent's side and shoved him in a car. One month later, Camarena's body was found in a shallow grave. He had been tortured to death.

Within weeks of his death in March of 1985, Camarena's Congressman, Duncan Hunter, and high school friend Henry Lozano, launched Camarena Clubs in Imperial Valley, California, Camarena's home. Hundreds of club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans. These coalitions began to wear red badges of satin, red ribbons, as a symbol Camarena's memory. The Red Ribbon Week campaign emerged from the efforts of these clubs and coalitions.

Today, Red Ribbon Week is nationally recognized and celebrated, helping to preserve Special Agent Camarena's memory and further the cause for which he gave his life. The Red Ribbon Campaign also became a symbol of support for the DEA's efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs. By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs. They pay homage not only to Special Agent Camarena, but to all men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our nation's struggle against drug trafficking and abuse.

A COASTAL FLOOD WATCH HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND FROM SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH SATURDAY EVENING

2011-10-28T12:01:00.002-04:00

The National Weather Service (Wakefield, Virginia) has issued a COASTAL FLOOD WATCH for Ocean City, Maryland from Saturday morning (October 28, 2011) through Saturday evening. A Coastal Storm will develop over the Carolina's tonight and move up the coast tomorrow through Sunday. The current forecast for the Ocean City area is this evening rain, mainly after midnight with a low around 47. Breezy, with a east wind between 18 and 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Saturday: Day break to mid morning rain with a high near 53. Winds east/northeast 20-25 mph with gusts 35 mph with a shift to the north late afternoon with winds between 21 and 25 mph, with gusts as high as 38 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Saturday Night: A chance of rain before 10pm. Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 38. Windy, with a northwest wind between 23 and 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 55. Breezy, with a north wind between 15 and 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph

The Atlantic Coast (including Ocean City, Maryland, as well as along back bays) will be affected. The timing (at Ocean City Inlet) will be during High Tide Saturday, which is 10:33 a.m. and 10:47 p.m. The impacts expected are increasing onshore winds on Saturday, which will lead to a threat for moderate tidal flooding within two hours before and after high tide on Saturday. Tidal anomalies of 2.0 to 2.5 feet above normal are possible. The Ocean City Inlet water level could reach 5 to 5.5 feet MLLW.

Fun Facts about McGruff as Crime Prevention Month comes to a close

2011-10-26T15:48:00.000-04:00

October is the official month for recognizing and celebrating the practice of crime prevention, while promoting awareness of important issues such as victimization, volunteerism, and creating safer, more caring communities. Since 1980, McGruff the Crime Dog® has been the icon of crime prevention and the symbol of National Crime Prevention Council’s (NCPC) work nationwide.

Together, NCPC and McGruff have helped communities like Ocean City spread the prevention word through training events, public service advertising, demonstration programs, conferences, publications, and numerous partnerships.

Thanks to McGruff and the NCPC for making October 2011 another successful year in crime prevention. To display our appreciation, the OCPD has listed a few fun facts that you might not have known about our crime prevention here, McGruff:

McGruff walked alongside the New York City Police Department contingent in the 2004 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Four months later McGruff has marched in the Washington, DC, St. Patrick’s Day Parade

McGruff is recognized by 93% of children who agree that "McGruff helps me to be safer."

McGruff has his own baseball cards, staring famous baseball players Derek Jeter, Nomar Garciaparra, Sammy Sosa, and Albert Pujols.

McGruff’s first PSA aired in 1980. Visit McGruff at www.ncpc.org to see his latest campaigns.

McGruff’s PSA about child abduction, entitled “Jenny” appeared in the 1984 episode “I Love the ‘80s Strikes Back” on VH1.

On July 1st, 1980 John Isbell of the New Orleans PD wins the naming-contest. The runner-up name was “Shurlocked Homes.”

Commemorative McGruff Stamps are introduced by the U.S. Postal Service in 1984.

McGruff appeared on a special episode of ABC’s popular “Webster” TV series, giving Webster and his classmates’ advice on coping with bullies and reducing school vandalism and theft. Watched by 22 million people, the show achieved the #1 rating for its timeslot.

McGruff’s nephew, Scruff, is introduced in 1993 to help McGruff teach younger children how to handle dangerous issues and situations.

Don Graf y su sobrino Escraf (McGruff and Scruff) have been used in Chile, Panama, and Dominican Republic and other Latin American
countries since 1997

The military widely uses McGruff in its crime prevention efforts and almost every post or base has a McGruff costume and supporting
material.

Drunk Drivers Can’t Hide Behind Halloween Costumes

2011-10-25T13:31:00.001-04:00

As party-going ghosts and goblins celebrate Halloween this October, The Ocean City Police Department reminds everyone to keep the party off the road.

“There isn’t a Halloween costume clever enough to hide an impaired driver who’s made the poor decision to get behind the wheel,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino. “Whether you’ve had one too many or way too many it is just not worth the risk. Remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.”

Nighttime is an especially dangerous time to be on the road. But Halloween night is one of the deadliest nights of the year for impaired drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 48 percent of all highway fatalities across the nation on Halloween night (6 p.m. Oct. 31 to 5:59 a.m. Nov. 1) in 2009 involved a driver or a motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 grams per deciliter or higher, which is illegal in every state.

“The scariest parts of Halloween aren’t the spooky costumes and scary pranks,” said Chief DiPino. “It’s the fact that too often impaired drivers don’t plan ahead and end up making the roads scarier than a horror show.”

The Ocean City Police Department recommends these simple tips for a safe Halloween:

· Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.

· Before drinking, designate a sober driver.

· If you’re impaired, take a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.

· If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.

· And remember, Friends Don’t Let

Friends Drive

Drunk. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

For more information, please visit www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov.

Halloween: A Night for Treats, Not Tragedies

2011-10-24T12:02:00.001-04:00

What You Need to Know to Keep Your Kids Safe on Halloween?
When it comes to preventing injury and keeping your kids safe on Halloween, it has been found that repeated and consistent messages are the keys to safety. Research by Safe Kids USA reveals that parents may be placing their children in harm’s way by failing to talk to them each and every year about Halloween safety. Given children’s limited attention spans, as well as their ever-evolving cognitive abilities, you must review all the correct behaviors with your children to help them be safe. Make sure to review our safety tips before you head out trick-or-treating.

Did you know that on average, twice as many kids are killed while walking on Halloween as compared to any other day of the year?
Kids will be out while it is dark – making it harder for drivers to see them and because they’re excited about getting candy, they may not be watching out for cars. Parents and drivers both need to do their part to help kids stay out of the emergency room on Halloween. Emphasize safe pedestrian behaviors to kids before they go out trick-or-treating. Parents should also remember that costumes can be both creative and safe, so look for ways to use reflective materials. Drivers must slow down and watch out for trick-or-treaters, especially around crosswalks and driveways.

Top tips to keep your kids safe on Halloween

For parents and children:

Children under 12 should trick-or-treat and cross streets with an adult.
Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Parents should remind children to watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross. Walk, don't run, across the street.

For drivers:

Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day so you can spot children from greater distances.
Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle.
Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

Costumes and Treats

Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and choose light colored costumes to improve visibility.
Choose face paint and make-up instead of masks, which can obstruct a child's vision. Look for non-toxic designations when choosing Halloween makeup.
Avoid carrying sticks, swords, or other sharp objects.
Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights in order to see better, as well as to be seen by drivers.
Liquid in glow sticks is hazardous, so parents should remind children not to chew on or break them.
Check treats for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them. Candy should be thrown away if the wrapper is faded or torn, or if the candy is unwrapped.

2011 National School Bus Safety Week - "Be Aware - Know the Danger Zone!"

2011-10-21T10:44:00.002-04:00

In the early 1990’s, the National Association for Pupil Transportation (www.napt.org), the National School Transportation Association (www.schooltrans.com) and the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (www.nasdpts.org) joined forces to form the National School Bus Safety Week Committee and coordinate School Bus Safety Week activities throughout the country. The members of the committee, joined by several other sponsors, have designated the third week in October each year as National School Bus Safety Week. As a result, what was once a disparate series of loosely connected state-level events has become a national celebration of school bus safety.

Did You Know That Each Year More Than 800 Students are Killed Going to and From School?

The nationwide safety record* for the 25 million children who do not ride school buses to and from school each day.

448 fatalities in passenger vehicles with a teenage driver
169 fatalities in passenger vehicles with an adult driver
131 fatalities to pedestrian
46 fatalities to bicyclists

The nationwide safety record* for the 25 million children who ride school buses to and from school each day.

5 passenger fatalities
15 pedestrian fatalities at school bus stops

* Source: National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences.

To learn more about school bus safety, and how you can help get more children on school buses, go to www.schoolbusinfo.org

"Click It or Ticket" - Big Monster Attacks

2011-10-20T09:22:00.002-04:00

Seat belts are the most effective safety feature ever invented and have helped save thousands of lives. Sadly, one in five Americans fail to regularly wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a motor vehicle. By maintaining the "Click It or Ticket" brand and awareness we will continue to reduce seat belt fatalities on America's roads.

For more information, please visit: http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/

10 THINGS PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT TEEN DRIVING

2011-10-19T12:37:00.002-04:00

This week (October 16-22, 2011) is National Teen Driver Safety Week. National Teen Driver Safety Week is dedicated to raising awareness and seeking solutions to unnecessary teen deaths on the road.

Everyone knows drinking and driving is a primary cause of teen crashes and teen deaths.

But many people don’t know:

1. 16-year-old drivers are three times more likely to die in a car crash than other drivers.

2. Simple driver error is a factor in two-thirds of fatal teen crashes.

3. Two-thirds of teen occupants killed in crashes are not wearing seat belts.

4. In 2005, 12 percent of high school males reported driving after drinking.

5. Two or more peer passengers more than triples the risk of a fatal crash with a teen at the wheel.

6. Two-thirds of teens who die in car crashes are passengers of teen drivers.

7. Speeding is a factor in 40 percent of all teen driver fatalities.

8. Being awake for 18 hours is similar to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08, which is legally drunk.

9. Inexperience combined with distractions is lethal.

10. The distractions proven to kill teens: teen passengers and cell phones.

National Teen Driver Safety Week

2011-10-19T12:24:00.000-04:00

Motor vehicle crashes remain the primary cause of death for adolescents. Teen drivers (ages 16 to 19) are involved in fatal crashes at four times the rate of adult drivers (ages 25 to 69). Each year, more than 5,000 teens are killed in motor vehicle crashes. After a series of tragic crashes involving Pennsylvania high school students, Representatives Charlie Dent (R- PA) and Senator Bob Casey (D- PA) and over 50 co-sponsors introduced the resolution creating National Teen Driver Safety Week in October 2007. The initiative was supported by the traffic safety experts at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and State Farm Insurance Companies. National Teen Driver Safety Week (NTDSW) is conducted annually during the third week of October in the United States.

This year's theme is “supporting parents in teaching their teens to drive.” This includes helping them navigate the practice driving phase, as well as closely monitoring their teens as they begin driving alone. Research has found that fostering this bond translates to an increase in teen driver safety.

Support for National Teen Driver Safety Week has grown, and media coverage has been great. Celebrities, including Jesse McCartney and Oprah Winfrey, have formally endorsed the week, and U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood acknowledged distracted driving as an epidemic, calling for Americans to turn off their phones while driving, prior to the week’s kickoff in 2010. State and local officials across the country have also implemented programs and campaigns as part of NTDSW.

(information provided by: http://www.teendriverssource.org/)

OCPD CRIME PREVENTION ADVISORY: Residential Security Check Program

2011-10-18T16:15:00.003-04:00

The OCPD reminds citizens to continue to remain vigilant for suspicious activity, persons and suspicious circumstance. Please notify the police if any of these types of occurrences are detected. Also, citizens can take basic crime prevention steps to reduce their vulnerability to crime by remembering to secure doors and windows and to periodically re-check the security of all of these items.

Make certain that exterior lighting is operational. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed from the front of eye level windows. Do not post your vacation or travel plans on social media web sites such as “Facebook”, “Twitter” or “MySpace”.

Citizens can also participate in one of 8 different active neighborhood watch groups located in Ocean City. These groups are located in the residential areas of the city and are as follows: Caines Woods, Caine Keys 2, Bayshore Drive, The Boardwalk, Edgewater Avenue, Little Salisbury, Montego Bay and Sundowner Park. T

hese neighborhood watch groups have been instrumental in reducing crime and keeping citizens informed of various public safety issues. If you plan on leaving the area for any extended period of time, residents should take advantage of the OCPD “Residential Security Check Program”.

This free program is available to all Ocean City residents whether you own or rent, live in condominium or single family home. By providing the OCPD with basic information regarding vacancy at your property, emergency contact information the OCPD will conduct checks of your property at random times each day to verify its security. To participate in this program simply call the OCPD Public Affairs Office at either: 410-723-6663 or 410-520-5395 or visit the OCPD website at: http://oceancitymd.gov/Police/securitycheck.html

The OCPD believes well informed citizens and a proactive community based approach is the best form of crime prevention.

STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION REPLACES GUARDRAIL

2011-10-18T10:20:00.001-04:00

The Maryland State Highway Administration announced the first of two phases of guardrail replacement along MD 90 from US 113 in Worcester County east to MD 528 in Ocean City. Work is scheduled to begin Sunday, Oct. 23.

The first phase will begin with removing and replacing all existing guardrail along MD 90 between US 113 (Worcester Highway) and MD 589 (Racetrack Road). During work hours all eastbound traffic on MD 90 will be detoured to US 113 and will follow US 50 to Ocean City. Westbound traffic on MD 90 will be open at all times during the guardrail replacement work to ensure emergency services, travel from Ocean City to area hospitals in a timely manner, or a need for mutual aid to surrounding communities.

The second phase of work includes the removing and replacing all existing guardrail on MD 90 between MD 589 (Racetrack Road) and MD 528 (Coastal Highway). All eastbound traffic on MD 90 will be redirected to MD 589, then to US 50 and into Ocean City. An alternate northern detour will also be established allowing traffic to move from MD 589 up through Delaware State Route 54.

Work on both phases will be permitted at night only, Sundays through Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. The $1 million contract was awarded to L.S. Lee, Inc. of York, Pa., and is expected to be completed mid-December, weather permitting. SHA crews and the contractor will use variable message signs, arrow panels, traffic cones and barrels to direct single lane closures during the project.

Guardrail is a type of traffic barrier that can help prevent vehicles from colliding with dangerous objects or other vehicles, or block passage down steep slopes or drops. While SHA and its transportation partners work hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones, each driver needs to actively modify his or her driving style to help prevent crashes. Stay alert and look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Slow down and don’t follow too closely. Safer driving. Safer work zones. For everyone.

Nearly all crashes are caused by driver error and are preventable by making the right choices behind the wheel; learn more at www.roads.maryland.gov. Then click on safety programs.

OCPD PARTICIPATING IN OPERATION MEDICINE DROP

2011-10-17T15:02:00.001-04:00

The Ocean City Police Narcotics Unit in partnership with the Assateague Coastal Trust, Berlin Police Department, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Worcester County Health Department will be participating in “OPERATION MEDICINE DROP,” a one-day medication take-back effort to be held on Saturday, October 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Operation Medicine Drop” is a bi-annual Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) federal program in conjunction with state and local law enforcement to encourage citizens to properly dispose of their prescription drugs. The objective is to get unwanted, unused and expired prescription medication out of people’s cabinets and off of the streets. Citizens are urged to not flush their medication or throw them away. Disposing of medication properly prevents the medication from entering our waterways and landfills.

There will be six drop off locations in Worcester County.

• Berlin Police Department, 10 Williams St.
• Worcester County Health Dept., Public Landing Road, Snow Hill
• Ocean City Public Safety Building, 6501 Coastal Hwy, OC/MD
• Pocomoke Health Center, 400-A Walnut Street
• Food Lion , Manklin Creek Rd, Ocean Pines
• Food Lion, Rt 611, West Ocean City

The Maryland Executive Board Members of the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) have hailed this effort as a success in keeping unwanted and unused prescription drugs out of the hands of persons who shouldn’t have them as well as out of Maryland coastal bays and waterways. This program was considered a success last April, yielding over 130 pounds of prescription medication in Worcester County.

The program is free and confidential. If you have any questions, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at: 410-723-6665 or 410-529-5395.

“Get Wise About Wireless—Cell Phone Savy”

2011-10-17T11:53:00.001-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department, in conjunction with the Wireless Foundation and the National Crime Prevention Council, want to help educate citizens about using good judgement in digital communication.

The “Get Wise About Wireless—Cell Phone Savv” Program provides tips to help you and your loved ones be good citizens online, on the phone, and in person. Cell phones and the Internet provide us with instant access to people and information.

This instant ability to communicate with people we know and don’t know raises safety and courtesy concerns, especially for children. Are your children or grandchildren savvy about cyber communication?

Do they know what’s appropriate to say and send and what isn’t? Do they know how to handle cyberbullies? Are they bullies themselves, using text, email, voice, and instant messages, or photos to embarrass, upset, or insult other students? Use these questions to address these important issues and decisions this generation is facing.

What can you do with your cell phone? (Answers might include talk, text, take and send photos, listen to music, play games, access the Internet, etc.)
What is cyberbullying? Can it be done on cell phones? (Cyberbullying is harassment via text, email, voice mail, and instant messages, as well as photo messages. Cell phones can be used in this way.)
What should you do if you are sent a text or photo by someone you don’t know? (Students might say that they delete it. Encourage them to tell a parent or other trusted adult.)
What should you do if you receive a text or photo from someone you know, but it is inappropriate or makes you feel uncomfortable? (Again, students might give the same response as above.

Let them know that sending inappropriate messages is a form of cyberbullying and they should tell a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult. Let them know that they should not delete these messages without telling an adult.)

If someone you don’t know asks you for personal information on the phone, what do you do? (Let students know that they should not give out personal information to people they don’t know. If someone asks them for this information, they should tell a parent or other trusted adult.)
If you receive a message on your cell phone with an offer to buy something, or if you receive an email offer, what should you do? (Don’t purchase anything or accept anything that says it’s free without checking with a parent.)
How do you stay aware of your surroundings when you are speaking or texting on the phone? (Answers might include not walking while texting, not giving out personal information if others can hear, etc.)
What do you consider to be courteous behavior while using a cell phone? (Answers might include turning the phone to vibrate, talking quietly, etc.) Cell Phone Safety and Courtesy Below are tips about cell phone safety and courtesy for children.
Know Who is calling, texting, or emailing. Only use your phone to communicate with people you know. If you get a message from someone you don’t know—don’t respond.
Know what NOT to say or send. What falls into this category? Inappropriate pictures, threatening messages, insults, or anything else that you wouldn’t say in person.

Remember—-messages and pictures can be forwarded and saved, so don’t say or send anything you’ll end up regretting. Only leave or send messages that you’ll own up to and are ok with the possibility of others seeing or hearing if your messages or pictures get forwarded.

Know when it’s OK to respond, and when to tell a trusted adult. If you receive an inappropriate message or call, tell a parent or trusted adult. A message is inappropriate if it makes you uncomfortable or scared, or if you feel threatened or bullied. Key Messages for Kids:
Program your family’s phone numbers into your phone for easy access.
Don’t respond to a text or picture message from someone you don’t know.
If you receive anything on your phone—a call, atext message, an email, a picture, or voicemail message—that makes you uncomfortable, tell an adult you trust.
Remember that photos you send stay online forever and can be forwarded to anyone.
Do not give out your address or other personal information to people you don’t know.
If there is an emergency, don’t wait, call 9-1-1 (or your local emergency number).
Remember to speak in a normal or quiet voice when on your phone.
Follow the rules about cell phone use. Cell phones shouldn’t be used in places such as in hospitals or on airplanes.
Turn your phone to silent or vibrate before you go into a movie theater, library, religious service, or any other place where noise is not appropriate.

Stop.Think.Connect. Cyber Tips

2011-10-13T14:38:00.001-04:00

The Stop.Think.Connect. team recommends a few simple things you can do to stay safe online.

STOP:

Stop hackers from accessing your accounts - set secure passwords.
Stop sharing too much information - keep your personal information personal. Stop - trust your gut, if something doesn’t feel right, stop what you are doing.
Stop and think about who can see the information you post online. Are you giving total strangers access to your information?
Stop any questionable online behavior. Only do and say things online that you would do in real life.

THINK:

Think about the information you want to share before you share it.
Think how your online actions can affect your offline life.
Think before you act - don’t automatically click on links.
Think about why you are sharing information online. Is it going to be safe?
Think about why you’re going to the site. Did you get it from someone you trust?
Think about who you’re talking to online. Do you really know who they are?

CONNECT:

Connect over secure networks.
Connect with people you know.
Connect with care and be on the lookout for potential threats.
Connect safely and show your friends and family how to behave online.
Connect with people and sites you trust when you’re online.

For additional tips, visit the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA)

OCPD CRIME PREVENTION ADVISORY: Residential Security Check Program

2011-10-12T12:15:00.004-04:00

The OCPD reminds citizens to continue to remain vigilant for suspicious activity, persons and suspicious circumstance. Please notify the police if any of these types of occurrences are detected. Also, citizens can take basic crime prevention steps to reduce their vulnerability to crime by remembering to secure doors and windows and to periodically re-check the security of all of these items. Make certain that exterior lighting is operational. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed from the front of eye level windows. Do not post your vacation or travel plans on social media web sites such as “Facebook”, “Twitter” or “MySpace”.

Citizens can also participate in one of 8 different active neighborhood watch groups located in Ocean City. These groups are located in the residential areas of the city and are as follows: Caines Woods, Caine Keys 2, Bayshore Drive, The Boardwalk, Edgewater Avenue, Little Salisbury, Montego Bay and Sundowner Park. These neighborhood watch groups have been instrumental in reducing crime and keeping citizens informed of various public safety issues.

If you plan on leaving the area for any extended period of time, residents should take advantage of the OCPD “Residential Security Check Program”. This free program is available to all Ocean City residents whether you own or rent, live in condominium or single family home. By providing the OCPD with basic information regarding vacancy at your property, emergency contact information the OCPD will conduct checks of your property at random times each day to verify its security. To participate in this program simply call the OCPD Public Affairs Office at either: 410-723-6663 or 410-520-5395 or visit the OCPD website at: http://oceancitymd.gov/Police/securitycheck.html

The OCPD believes well informed citizens and a proactive community based approach is the best form of crime prevention.

MARYLAND TEXTING WHILE DRIVING LAW CHANGES AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2011

2011-10-12T09:56:00.003-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens who operate a motor vehicle of the revised Maryland distracted driving law regarding texting which took effect October 1, 2011.

Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley signed the legislation, which now prohibits the “reading” of text messages while driving, as well as texting while at stoplights. The law, which prohibits all drivers in Maryland from using an electronic device to write, send or read a text message while operating a motor vehicle in the travel lanes of the roadway, is a primary offense.

The law however does not apply to texting 9-1-1 or using a global position system. The Maryland Texting While Driving Law is a misdemeanor crime and the first offense carries a fine of $70, while a second offense fine is $110.

The US Department of Transportation reports that an estimated 800,000 vehicles nationally were driven by someone who used a hand-held cell phone during their drive last year. However, according to Gov. O’Malley, Maryland saw a 9% decrease in traffic deaths in 2010.

The record low number reduced from 550 people lost in 2009, to 496 fatalities in 2010.

OCTOBER MARKS NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS MONTH

2011-10-12T09:27:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is observing the eighth annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month by reminding citizens of the importance of preventing, detecting and responding to cyber attacks.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month, which is sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), is an opportunity to provide citizens with valuable information on how they can protect themselves and their devices.

Among the dangers associated with cyber security are viruses erasing your entire system, someone breaking into your system and altering files, someone using your computer to attack others or someone stealing your credit card information and making unauthorized purchases.

With millions of people relying on computers, smart phones and the Internet, the Ocean City Police Department wants consumers to be protected when using their devices to email, shop, bank and stay in touch and socialize with businesses, family and friends. This year’s theme for National Cyber Security Awareness Month, “Our Shared Responsibility,” emphasizes the role that individuals, families, schools, organizations and governments have to help create a safer digital world. Below, are several steps to help protect your online devices and personal information:

Defend your computer and strengthen your computer’s defenses. Remember to keep all software (including your web browser) current with automatic updating. Also, install legitimate antivirus and anti-spyware software. Never turn off your firewall and password protect your wireless router. Also, use flash drives cautiously. If one of them has a virus, it could infect your computer.
Protect sensitive or personal information: Before you enter sensitive data, look for signs that the webpage is secure (for example: a web address with “https” and a closed padlock beside it are good indications). Also, never give sensitive information (like an account number, password or social security number) in response to a request in an email message, IM or on a social network. Finally, don’t respond to pleas for money from “family members,” deals that sound too good to be true, lotteries you didn’t enter or other scams.
Create strong passwords and keep them secret: Make your passwords long phrases or sentences that mix capital and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Also, use different passwords for different sites, especially those that keep financial information.
Take charge of your online safety and reputation: Discover what is on the Internet about you and periodically evaluate what you find.
Use social networks safely: When using social networks, look for settings or options in services like Facebook and Twitter to manage who can see your profile or photos with your name. Remember not to post anything you wouldn’t want to see on a billboard and be selective about the friends you accept. Periodically assess who has access to your pages and review what they post about you.
Take extra steps to help keep kids safe online: It is important to make online safety a family effort. Use a mix of guidance and monitoring in your household. Negotiate clear guidelines for web and online game use that fit your child’s maturity, age and family values.

Make sure you are paying attention to what kids do and who they meet online. For more cyber security tips, visit the Ocean City Police Department Blog at http://ocpdmdinfo.blogspot.com/ or visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website at http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/.

Ocean City Emergency Management Monitoring National Weather Service Heat Warning

2011-07-21T10:55:00.002-04:00

Ocean City Emergency Services is warning residents and visitors of excessive heat from noon today (Thursday, July 21, 2011) until 8 p.m. on Saturday (July 23, 2011). The following warning has been issued....

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM NOON THURSDAY TO 8 PM EDT SATURDAY. THE EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

* HEAT INDEX VALUES...AROUND 105 DEGREES THURSDAY...NEAR 110 DEGREES FRIDAY...AND BETWEEN 105 AND 110 DEGREES SATURDAY.

* TIMING...PEAK HEAT INDEX VALUES WILL OCCUR DURING THE AFTERNOON. RIGHT NOW...THE WORST CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED FRIDAY AFTERNOON.

* IMPACTS...THE COMBINATION OF HEAT AND HUMIDITY WILL CREATE DANGEROUS HEAT INDEX VALUES...ESPECIALLY FRIDAY AFTERNOON. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING MEANS THAT A PROLONGED PERIOD OF DANGEROUSLY HOT TEMPERATURES WILL OCCUR.

THE COMBINATION OF HOT TEMPERATURES AND HIGH HUMIDITY WILL CREATE A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE LIKELY. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS...STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOM...STAY OUT OF THE SUN...AND CHECK UP ON RELATIVES AND NEIGHBORS. TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS IF YOU WORK OR SPEND TIME OUTSIDE.

WHEN POSSIBLE...RESCHEDULE STRENUOUS ACTIVITY TO EARLY MORNING OR EVENING. KNOW THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE. WEAR LIGHT WEIGHT AND LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING WHEN POSSIBLE AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER. TO REDUCE RISK DURING OUTDOOR WORK...THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDS SCHEDULING FREQUENT REST BREAKS IN SHADED OR AIR CONDITIONED ENVIRONMENTS.

ANYONE OVERCOME BY HEAT SHOULD BE MOVED TO A COOL AND SHADED LOCATION. HEAT STROKE IS AN EMERGENCY - CALL 9-1-1. Emergency Management will be monitoring and supply further updates if needed.

OCPD, NEIGHBORHOODS CELEBRATING NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

2011-07-21T10:51:00.001-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department, in coordination with National Association of Town Watch, will be celebrating the “28th Annual National Night Out” program on Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fiesta Park in Caine Woods and Gullway Villas on Lark Lane. In 2010, the program involved over 36 million people in 14,625 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide.

The Ocean City Police Department is partnering with two neighborhood watch associations in Ocean City to bring crime prevention awareness and community policing to the area. “National Night Out has proven to be an effective, inexpensive and enjoyable program to promote neighborhood spirit and the partnership between the OCPD and the community,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino. “It is an event that only lasts a few hours, however the benefits of the evening extend well beyond one day.”

National Night Out, a yearlong community building campaign, is designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anticrime programs and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. In addition, the program was developed to send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime. On behalf of the Ocean City Police Department, Chief DiPino would like to invite Ocean City citizens to participate in National Night Out festivities. In addition, the OCPD encourages you to be the “eyes and ears” of your community, by reporting crime or suspicious activity to the Ocean City Police Department. For more information regarding National Night Out, or the Ocean City Police Department’s role in National Night Out, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410-723-6665.

OCPD WARNING CITIZENS TO BEWARE OF EMPLOYMENT SCAMS

2011-07-21T10:48:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is advising citizens to be aware of a potential employment scam. This particular scam involves a victim attempting to gain employment, which in the most recent case was for a cleaning service in which all employment negotiations and correspondence were done through email. The scam works as follows: the victim is offered employment and mailed a counterfeit “check” to cover the costs of the service provided. In most cases the check is either drawn on an obscure corporate business account from what appears to be a legitimate bank or is a cashier’s check from a well known national bank. The victim is paid more money than was negotiated and asked to quickly deposit the “check” into the victim’s account. Once the “check” is deposited into the victim’s account, the victim is asked to withdraw a portion of the money, and send it via “Western Union” to an additional location, usually as part of the way for the alleged “employer” to pay for additional services or transportation fees as means to avoid overseas fees and/or taxes. By the time the victim transfers actual funds the local bank where the original check was deposited notifies the victim that the check they deposited is fraudulent and that the money they withdrew and sent using “Western Union” is gone. The result is the victim is responsible for the overdraft on the account even though the check is a fake and the victim is out the money. What transpires is a crime of fraud and theft, however while it will be investigated it is very difficult to catch the perpetrators and unlikely the victim’s money will be recovered. The OCPD recommends that persons do not engage in internet-based employment activities where the employer is not well known to the employee. If you receive any money in the form of corporate or bank checks, you should allow them to fully clear your bank’s authentication and verification processes; this typically takes seven business days. Do not send any money using wire transfer services as this is the tell-tale sign of a counterfeit check scam. If you have been the victim of a scam please contact the police. If you have been solicited for this type of scam, save your correspondence and contact your local police department. The OCPD advises citizens to never provide your personal banking account information and/or personal identification information including birthday, social security number to anyone over the internet.

OCEAN CITY POLICE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2011 CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY

2011-07-21T10:47:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is currently accepting applications for the 2011 Citizen’s Police Academy. The Citizens Police Academy begins classes on September 6, 2011 from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. and continues every Tuesday for ten weeks. The Ocean City Police Department has been offering the citizens of Ocean City the unique opportunity to see the inner workings of the resort police department for nearly 13 years. The Citizens Police Academy was created to enable citizens to learn more about the Ocean City Police Department and build the relationship between the police and the community. During this course, students meet a variety of officers to learn about criminal law, traffic enforcement, evidence collection, firearms, arrest procedures, narcotics enforcement and many other topics. Students also participate in practical scenarios, which afford citizens hands-on opportunity to understand various law enforcement applications. “Educating citizens about their police department and illegal activity in their community is one of the best forms of crime prevention,” Said OCPD Chief Bernadette DiPino. “The Citizen’s Police Academy not only benefits our community but also benefits the officers of the Ocean City Police Department.” The Citizens Police Academy has a limited class size of 25 participants. Interested persons must complete a written application and give permission for the Ocean City Police Department to conduct a background check to determine if they have a criminal record. For more information about the Citizens Police Academy or to receive an application, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410-723-6665.

OCEAN CITY POLICE CHIEF HELPS DEVELOP GUIDE FOR MISCONDUCT BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

2011-07-21T10:47:00.001-04:00

Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette A. DiPino was selected to aid in the development of an Executive Guide for law enforcement regarding sexual misconduct by police officers. In partnership with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Chief DiPino’s contributions assisted in the development of Addressing Sexual Offenses and Misconduct by Law Enforcement: Executive Guide. The Executive Guide, which was developed with the U. S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, was created to assist law enforcement executives in preventing and investigating sexual offenses and misconduct by police officers. The Addressing Sexual Offenses and Misconduct by Law Enforcement: Executive Guide is an important tool for police leaders, which addresses criminal offenses as well as non-criminal sexual conduct that is inappropriate, unprofessional and damaging to the public confidence in a department. “Sexual offenses and misconduct implicating law enforcement represent a grave abuse of the authority the badge represents,” said Chief DiPino. “I am proud to have participated in a project that encourages executives to prepare to proactively address and prevent officer misconduct through agency mission, policy and training.” In addition, the guide supports creating a culture of accountability, ensuring that training, including academy and field training officer curricula, addresses sexual misconduct to include criminal and non-criminal behavior, identifying and responding to warning signs, accepting and investigating all allegations and addressing allegations that are sustained. The executive guide is available to law enforcement at no cost and can be accessed electronically at www.iacpresearch.org.

‘Flame of Hope’ Arrives in Ocean City

2011-07-21T10:42:00.002-04:00

On June 6, 2011, members of the Ocean City Police Department and the Maryland State Police took part in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Relay for Special Olympics Maryland. Over 60 officers escorted and protected the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope” as it made its way from 27th Street and the Boardwalk to North Division Street. The “Flame of Hope” will continue to travel toward the opening of the 40th Anniversary Summer Games at Towson University, June 10-12. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the Maryland Torch Run, a movement that began in 1986 with a handful of officers raising $5,000, and has grown into a year-round effort that involves officers from all 50 states and numerous countries. Since its inception, the law enforcement community worldwide has taken very seriously its role as “Guardians of the Flame,” and the Relay is an important and celebrated part of every Special Olympics competition. The local portion of the Torch Run Relay is part of a much larger effort. Statewide, the Maryland Torch Run Relay consists of four different legs – Eastern, Western, Central and Southern – and throughout the entire week, thousands of Torch Run volunteers will cover hundreds of miles, eventually converging on Towson where the individual flames will be united in the Final Leg Ceremony and then officers from around the state will travel the final 2.5 miles to the Opening Ceremony at Towson University. It is there that the flame is handed off to the Special Olympics athletes who have the honor of taking the final lap with the torch and then lighting the cauldron and officially declaring the 2011 SOMD Summer Games Open. “This Torch Run Relay is really just a small piece of what the dedicated officers from around the state do for the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland on a year-round basis,” said Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “Our goal is to raise both funds and awareness for the athletes who train and compete in Special Olympics Maryland.” The 41st Anniversary SOMD Summer Games are set for June 10-12 at Towson University. During this celebrated weekend, 1,200 athletes from around the state will go for gold in aquatics, athletics, bocce, equestrian, cheerleading and softball. For more information about Special Olympics Maryland, the Torch Run Relay and the 2011 Summer Games, visit www.somd.org.

OCEAN CITY POLICE WARN OF PUBLISHERS CLEARING HOUSE SCAM

2011-07-21T10:40:00.001-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is warning citizens about a new phone scam in which someone claims to be a representative from Publishers Clearing House. In this scam, the caller tells the victim that before they can claim their prize they must pay $200 toward a “MoneyPak” re-load card. MoneyPak cards, which are sold in stores across the United States, are debit cards normally used to make same-day payments or add money to prepaid cards or PayPal accounts. The Ocean City Police Department warns that operators of scams are using these cards to help them cheat customers in a similar way they have used Western Union wire transfers to defraud people in recent years. The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens to beware of scams. In this instance, remember: • If you don’t participate in the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes then you can’t win one. • If you do enter the Publishers Clearing House drawings, Publishers Clearing House will not call you to let you know you’ve won. They will just show up at your front door with a check. • Lastly, remember that a legitimate sweepstakes will never ask you to send money to enter a sweepstakes, claim a prize or to pay a fee, tax or deposit. If you are asked to send money to claim a sweepstakes prize for any reason, this is a scam.

OCPD REMINDING CITIZENS TO BE ALERT ON ROADWAYS THIS SUMMER

2011-06-07T14:50:00.002-04:00

The summer season is around the corner and as temperatures increase, so does Ocean City’s population. The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens to be extra cautious on the roadways as visitors come together to enjoy Ocean City’s beautiful beach, breathtaking bay and magnificent boardwalk. The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens of a few important safety tips to keep in mind during this summer: • Don’t drive distracted. In addition to cell phone use, distracted driving also involves all non-driving related objects. When driving, avoid focusing on external objects such as billboards, buildings or stereos. • Be aware of motorcycle traffic. Often times people cannot see motorcycles because of blind spots in their mirror. Be extra cautious of this when driving, especially when changing lanes. • If you see any criminal activity including racing or dangerous driving, try to get a good description of the vehicle and person. If you are not driving, try to write down the tag number and call the police. In addition to safe driving tips, the Ocean City Police Department also reminds citizens of the importance of pedestrian, bicycle and scooter safety. For individuals who are traveling on foot, on a bicycle, moped or scooter, here are some important safety tips to remember: • Cross the street at a marked crosswalk or intersection. • Make eye contact with drivers when crossing busy intersections • Continue to watch for traffic the entire time you are in the crosswalk. • It is illegal to wear headphones in both ears at the same time while operating any vehicle. • Vehicle operators should to be extremely vigilant while driving, keeping consistently aware of pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds and scooters. • Avoid making quick, un-signaled turns or abrupt stops. If you can’t make the turn safely, proceed past the turn and turn around when safe. • Allow plenty of time to stop or proceed through intersections. • Pedestrians should not take unnecessary risks crossing busy streets against traffic lights. • Parents are reminded to pay extra attention to children when crossing busy roads. Keep hold of small children’s hands while waiting for traffic lights to change and while crossing. • Bicyclists are encouraged to wear helmets and must ride in the bus lane. In addition, bicyclists must abide by all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs. • Moped/scooter operators and passengers are encouraged to wear helmets and footwear. If you are renting a scooter you are required to wear a helmet and footwear.

‘Flame of Hope’ Arrives in Ocean City

2011-06-07T14:44:00.002-04:00

OCPD Officers Participate in Statewide Torch Run Relay in Support for the Special Olympics Maryland 25th Annual Summer Games On June 6, 2011, members of the Ocean City Police Department and the Maryland State Police took part in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Relay for Special Olympics Maryland. Over 60 officers escorted and protected the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope” as it made its way from 27th Street and the Boardwalk to North Division Street. The “Flame of Hope” will continue to travel toward the opening of the 40th Anniversary Summer Games at Towson University, June 10-12. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the Maryland Torch Run, a movement that began in 1986 with a handful of officers raising $5,000, and has grown into a year-round effort that involves officers from all 50 states and numerous countries. Since its inception, the law enforcement community worldwide has taken very seriously its role as “Guardians of the Flame,” and the Relay is an important and celebrated part of every Special Olympics competition. The local portion of the Torch Run Relay is part of a much larger effort. Statewide, the Maryland Torch Run Relay consists of four different legs – Eastern, Western, Central and Southern – and throughout the entire week, thousands of Torch Run volunteers will cover hundreds of miles, eventually converging on Towson where the individual flames will be united in the Final Leg Ceremony and then officers from around the state will travel the final 2.5 miles to the Opening Ceremony at Towson University. It is there that the flame is handed off to the Special Olympics athletes who have the honor of taking the final lap with the torch and then lighting the cauldron and officially declaring the 2011 SOMD Summer Games Open. “This Torch Run Relay is really just a small piece of what the dedicated officers from around the state do for the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland on a year-round basis,” said Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “Our goal is to raise both funds and awareness for the athletes who train and compete in Special Olympics Maryland.” The 41st Anniversary SOMD Summer Games are set for June 10-12 at Towson University. During this celebrated weekend, 1,200 athletes from around the state will go for gold in aquatics, athletics, bocce, equestrian, cheerleading and softball. For more information about Special Olympics Maryland, the Torch Run Relay and the 2011 Summer Games, visit www.somd.org.

OCEAN CITY POLICE WARN OF PUBLISHERS CLEARING HOUSE SCAM

2011-06-07T14:32:00.000-04:00

OCEAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT OBSERVE MAY SAFETY WITH MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH; BICYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH AND CLICK IT OR TICKET

2011-05-03T11:06:00.000-04:00

May is a busy month in Ocean City. With celebrated events such as Springfest and a popular holiday weekend such as Memorial Day, Ocean City will likely see thousands of visitors during the month. While everyone enjoys the warmer weather and the increased activity, it’s also important to note several safety messages that are observed this month. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is a national initiative aimed at getting motorists and motorcyclists to “share the road” with each other. Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any motor vehicle on the roadway. All motorists are reminded to safely “share the road” with motorcycles and be extra alert to keep motorcyclists safe. Also, motorcyclists are reminded to make themselves visible to other motorists. May is also Bicycle Safety Awareness Month. The Ocean City Police Department encourages bicycling as an alternate mode of transportation to a motor vehicle, however, wants bicyclists to be safe while pedaling. Not only are bicyclists encouraged to wear helmets, but also bicyclists should operate like a vehicle on the street, in the same direction as other traffic. In addition, since bicycles in the roadway are considered vehicles, bicyclists must obey all traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs, red lights and for pedestrians. Lastly, May is the beginning of Click It or Ticket, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s campaign to remind motorists to buckle their seatbelt. In 2009, 23,382 occupants of passenger cars, pickup trucks, vans and SUVs were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes across the U.S.. Of those, 53 percent of fatally injured passenger vehicle occupants were not wearing seat belts at the time of the fatal crash. During Click It or Ticket, officers, deputies and troopers will intensify their usual enforcement of child passenger safety laws and seat belt laws by setting up enforcement activities such as seat belt enforcement zones and extra patrols. Drivers and adult front seat passengers failing to restrain themselves and their child passengers will be ticketed with no exceptions. As we celebrate the beginning of the summer season and all of the wonderful events and activities that Ocean City has to offer this month, it is also important to remember safety. With thousands of vehicles making their way to the beach this May, the Ocean City Police Department is hopeful that both residents and visitors will stay safe on the roadways as they make their way to and from Ocean City.

Make the right play to save your life and others.

2011-01-31T12:29:00.000-05:00

Super Bowl Sunday is one of America’s biggest and most entertaining national sporting events as friends and families gather to socialize and watch the big game. Yet, it has also become one of the Nation’s most dangerous days on the roadways due to impaired driving. Designating a sober driver should be on the top of everyone’s Super Bowl party list. If you are hosting a Super Bowl party: Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers. Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party. Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert. Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired. If you are attending a Super Bowl party or watching at a sports bar or restaurant: Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys. Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself—eat enough food, take breaks, and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks. If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober. Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired. Remember, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. Always Buckle Up– it’s still your best defense against other impaired drivers.

OCEAN CITY POLICE GARNER TOP MARKSMANSHIP HONORS

2011-01-31T12:01:00.000-05:00

Four Ocean City Police Department members won first place honors for marksmanship during the 2010 Maryland Police Pistol Combat competition in Frederick, Maryland. Team Captain Sgt. Mark L. Paddack, Cpl. Greg DeGiovanni, PFC Daniel Jacobs and Retired Lt. Mark Doyle received the honors. The last time the OCPD Pistol Team won the State Championships was in 2007. Sgt. Paddack and PFC Jacobs finished second overall in the two- person team event, followed by the team of Cpl. DeGiovanni and PTO Doyle who finished third overall. Cpl. DeGiovanni was the first place winner of non-distinguished shooters for both revolver and semi-auto events. PTO Doyle, Cpl. DeGiovanni and Sgt. Paddack placed fourth, sixth and 11th in the overall standings during all sanctioned marksmanship matches held the 2010 season. In recognition of their exceptional marksmanship skills, the Maryland Police Combat Association recognized Doyle, DeGiovanni and Paddack as a 2010 “Governor’s 20” police marksman, the three officers received a Governor’s Citation from Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and a “Governor’s 20” Marksmanship Badge for their uniforms. OCPD Pistol Team members donate their time and pay expenses for the opportunity to represent the OCPD not only in the State of Maryland, but all over the country. This is the sixth year in a row that a member of the OCPD Pistol Team has received the “Governor’s 20” award recognition and the second time that three OCPD members made the “Governor’s 20” ranking simultaneously.

SAFE WINTER DRIVING

2011-01-31T11:59:00.000-05:00

The OCPD and the National Highway Transportation Safety Board are advising drivers to practice safe winter driving habits. These are some simple and safe driving practices to follow this winter weather season: The Three P's of Safe Winter Driving: PREPARE for the trip; PROTECT yourself; and PREVENT crashes on the road. • PREPARE Maintain Your Car: Check battery and tire tread, keep your windows clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, check your antifreeze. Have On Hand: Flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, even floor mats), shovel, snow brush and ice scraper, warning devices (like flares) and blankets. For long trips, add food and water, medication and cell phone. Stopped or Stalled? Stay with your car, don't overexert, put bright markers on antenna or windows and shine dome light, and, if you run your car, clear exhaust pipe and run it just enough to stay warm. Plan Your Route: Allow plenty of time (check the weather and leave early if necessary), be familiar with the maps/directions, and let others know your route and arrival time. Practice Cold Weather Driving! During daylight, rehearse maneuvers slowly on the ice or snow in an empty lot. o Steer into a skid. o Know what your brakes will do: stomp on antilock brakes, pump non-antilock brakes. o Stopping distances are longer on water-covered ice and ice. o Don't idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space. o PROTECT YOURSELF. o Buckle up and use child safety seats properly. o Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an air bag. o Children 12 and under are much safer in the back seat. o Sit back 10 inches from an air bag. • PREVENT CRASHES o Drugs and alcohol never mix with driving. o Slow down and increase distances between cars. o Keep your eyes open for pedestrians walking in the road. o Avoid fatigue – get plenty of rest before the trip, stop at least every three hours, and rotate drivers if possible.

OCEAN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES FOUR EASTERN SHORE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACADEMY GRADUATES

2011-01-31T11:56:00.001-05:00

The Ocean City Police Department proudly graduated four new officers from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy’s 65th police academy class on Monday, December 20, 2010. Officers Amy Hoelscher, Christopher Wrench, Kory Moerschel and Richard Gutowski were formally recognized as certified police officers of the Ocean City Police Department, after 24 weeks (919 hours) of intense training. The recruit class was comprised of various law enforcement agencies from all over Maryland’s Eastern Shore. These four officers continued in the long established tradition of OCPD officers all graduating from the police academy with top honors. OFC Amy Hoelscher distinguished herself as the class valedictorian, by graduating number one academically in her class. OFC Hoelscher was also awarded with a Pistol Expert award, Physical Fitness Excellence award and Academic Excellence award. OFC Gutowski was awarded a Pistol Expert award, Academic Excellence award and for 24 weeks led the recruit academy class as the Class Leader. OFC Wrench was first in the class in firearms excellence and was recognized as a Pistol Expert and was fourth in the class in academics. OFC. Moerschel was recognized as a Pistol Expert as well. “I am proud of our new officers and their significant achievements. They have continued the OCPD’s long-standing tradition of excellence by taking the top awards in their class. It’s an honor to welcome these four officers to our department,” said Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino. “Not only do they have great potential as police officers, but they have demonstrated that they have what it takes to be leaders within the Ocean City Police Department and the Ocean City community. I am thrilled to have them as members of the Ocean City Police Department.”

OCPD NEEDY DRIVE DONATES 75 FOOD BASKETS AND HUNDREDS OF TOYS TO OCEAN CITY FAMILIES

2011-01-31T11:53:00.001-05:00

The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive proved to be a blessing to many local families. With a volunteer crew of more than 50 people, Chief Bernadette DiPino and her staff tended to more than 75 families, including more than 150 children, this past Saturday at the Public Safety Building. The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive was started by Chief DiPino’s grandfather in the Baltimore Police Department many years ago. The tradition was continued by her father in Baltimore, and later by Chief DiPino in Ocean City. This year is the 15th year for the OCPD Christmas Needy Drive and each year the event has grown. The OCPD Christmas Needy Drive volunteers not only helped families load toys and boxes of food for the holidays, but also assisted in transportation for some people who otherwise would have had to take the bus. Chief DiPino was very pleased with the event. “Every year I worry about whether or not we will have enough donated toys and food to give the families,” said Chief DiPino. “But every year the Ocean City community comes together to provide for those who are less fortunate.” Several Ocean City businesses and organizations contributed to the success of this year’s needy drive. On Wednesday, December 15, 2010, General’s Kitchen made an overwhelming donation of $2,000. Also making large contributions were the Delmarva Condominium Managers Association (DCMA), who stopped by the Public Safety Building with several bags of toys and a donation of $500 and Atlantic Physical Therapy who donated 20 bicycles. Additional community donations came from The Greene Turtle, Fager’s Island, Seacrets, the Lions Club, the Ocean City Knights of Columbus, the Ocean City Elks Ladies Auxiliary, the Ocean City Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, The Ocean City Hibernians, and several independent community members. “Without the generosity of Ocean City businesses and residents, this needy drive would not be possible,” said Chief DiPino. “It is an example of what makes our community so special and it is truly what Christmas is all about.”

PFC Josh Kelley named American Legion Officer of the Year

2010-10-27T11:52:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to PFC Josh Kelley, who was named American Legion Officer of the Year on Monday, October 25, 2010.

Have a Safe Halloween

2010-10-27T11:50:00.003-04:00

Halloween may be a fun holiday for kids, but for parents, trick-or treat time can be a little troublesome. Concerns about children's safety-whether they are out in the neighborhood or back at home with bountiful bags of goodies-can cast a spell on the evening's festivities. But not to worry! Following a few safety tips will ensure that Halloween will be a "howling" good time for all. Playing it Safe on Halloween • Stay in well lighted areas • Only visit houses of people you know • Watch for cars • Carry a flashlight • Check your treats • Never go out alone Unhaunting" Your House and Neighborhood • Welcome trick-or-treaters at home by turning on your exterior lights. • Remove objects from your yard that might present a hazard to visitors. • Drive slowly all evening - you never know what creature may suddenly cross your path. • Report any suspicious or criminal activity to local law enforcement

MARYLAND NO CELL PHONE WHILE DRIVING LAW

2010-09-29T13:05:00.000-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens who operate a motor vehicle, Maryland Senate Bill 321 and House Bill 934 were signed into law by Governor O'Malley and take effect October 1, 2010. The new law prohibits all drivers in Maryland from using hand-held cell phones while operating a motor vehicle on a street or highway. Drivers under 18 already are prohibited from using cell phones while driving. There are certain exceptions. Phone calls placed to 9-1-1, ambulance, hospital, fire, or law enforcement agencies are allowed, as are calls made by emergency and law enforcement personnel. A driver is allowed to turn a hand-held phone on or off and to initiate or terminate a call. The fine for a first offense is $40 and subsequent offenses are $100. Points are not assessed to the first-time violator’s driving record, except, three points are assessed if the violation contributes to a crash. If a violator has a second or subsequent offense, he or she receives a point plus the fine. This law does not apply to texting 9-1-1 or using a global positioning system. Studies indicate that mobile phone conversations distract drivers and delay reaction time, which can cause and increase the severity of vehicular crashes. The National Safety Council estimates that cell phone use is responsible for 1.6 million crashes a year, nationally -- about 28 percent of all crashes. Maryland now joins seven other states (Calif., Conn., Del., N.J., N.Y., Ore. and Wash.), Washington D.C. and the Virgin Islands in banning hand-held cell phone use while driving. For more information, please visit www.ChooseSafetyForLife.com

OCPD RAISES NEARLY $9,000 FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS FROM

2010-09-29T13:03:00.003-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department staked out the rooftop of Dunkin Donuts this weekend to raise money for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics of Maryland. On both Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26, the Ocean City Police Department was able to raise nearly $9,000 in only a 24-hour time period.

The “Cops on Rooftops” event was part of a national fundraising effort for Special Olympics. Several officers from the Ocean City Police Department, including the Chief Bernadette DiPino, volunteered to spend the day on the roof of Dunkin’ Donuts. In addition to the OCPD, several noteworthy community members participated in the event, including: Ocean City Mayor and City Council, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 10 President Glen McIntyre, the Ocean City Fire Department, Ocean City Today’s Christine Cullen, MD Delegate Jim Mathias, candidate Michael James, Froggy 99.9’s John Trout, OC 104’s Bill Baker “The Rumpshaker” and Jessica, Great Scott Broadcasting’s Mitch Scott, The Greene Turtle, WBOC’s Lacee Griffith and Scott Abraham, Ocean 98.1’s Bulldog and Hooter’s Restaurant.

“The Ocean City Police Department is thrilled with the success of the Cops on Rooftops event,” said Chief DiPino. “Not only did we have the support of Ocean City police officers as well as the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department and Maryland State Police but we had an overwhelming support of the businesses, residents, civic organizations, our local television and radio stations, Town of Ocean City employees and neighboring law enforcement agencies. This extraordinary event was another example of how the Ocean City community works together to focus on what is truly important in life – helping others and supporting our community.”

In addition to exceeding the $5,000 goal set by the Special Olympics of Maryland, the Ocean City Police Department set a goal for Chief DiPino to eat one donut for each $500 that was raised. To her surprise, the Dunkin’ Donuts on 119^th Street made her a one of a kind donut, which was the size of a small pizza. Ocean City Police Officers and several citizens enjoyed watching Chief DiPino nibble on the giant donut from the rooftop, especially for such a great cause.

The Ocean City Police Department would like to extend a special thanks to the Dunkin’ Donuts on 119^th Street, including Viktor Blattner, Nick and George Nistazos. In addition, a very special thanks to all officers, community members and businesses who generously donated their time.

Ocean City to feel effects of storm

2010-09-29T13:03:00.001-04:00

A storm system moving up the East Coast will impact Ocean City beginning later today and continuing through Thursday. It is expected to be a fast moving storm, and should be completely clear of Ocean City by Friday morning, with the remainder of the weekend’s forecast expected to be favorable. Winds will increase Wednesday evening to 35 to 40 MPH with gusts reaching 50 to 55 MPH. Citizens and businesses are encouraged to secure loose objects such as trash cans, outdoor furniture, etc., in advance of the storm. Rain is forecast to begin later this afternoon and will continue through the night and all of Thursday into Friday morning. Total rainfall is expected to be 4 to 8 inches. Thunderstorms and possibly tornados may occur. The storm will cause minor flooding in the low-lying areas during the high tide cycles on Thursday. During the height of the storm, citizens are encouraged to remain indoors. Storm and event updates will be posted on the Town’s website, www.oceancitymd.gov, the Emergency Services recorded information line at 410-723-6666 or tune into 1670 AM.

OCPD & OC COMMUNITY PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL COPS ON ROOFTOPS EVENT

2010-09-15T14:43:00.001-04:00

Anyone who ever thought nothing good could come from cops sitting around (or in this case ON) a donut shop might reconsider that notion when “Cops on Rooftops” – a fundraiser for Special Olympics Maryland -- comes to the 119th Street Dunkin’ Donuts on Saturday, Sept. 25 through Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010. As part of a national fundraising effort for Special Olympics, several good-natured officers from the Ocean City Police Department, including the Chief of Police, have volunteered to spend the day on the roof of Dunkin’ Donuts. Their collective fundraising goal is $5,000 and they will not come down until that money has been collected. In 2009, the first year a Maryland location participated in the promotion, the Laurel Dunkin’ Donuts and Laurel Police Department raised more than $7,000. This year five Dunkin’ Donuts locations across the state will take part in the program: Laurel, College Park, Ocean City, Glen Burnie and Westminster. Dunkin’ Donuts customers and the general public alike are encouraged to stop by and support the officers in their efforts to raise both funds and awareness for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Maryland. In addition, local law enforcement from Worcester and Wicomico County will also be in participation. The OCPD is also asking for participation from local businesses, who would either like to donate items for the silent auction or who would like to spend time on the roof collecting donations from the public. “Cops and donuts have a long, humorous history together, so it was only fitting that we team up with the great folks at Dunkin’ Donuts for this light-hearted event,” said Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino. “This event allows us to do something great for an incredible organization and poke a little fun at ourselves at the same time. What could be better than that?” The event was founded on the idea by the law enforcement officers of Illinois, who in 2009, took to the rooftops of 94 Dunkin’ Donuts locations across the state and raised more than $182,000. SOMD is a year-round sports organization dedicated to providing quality sports training and competition opportunities to Maryland’s children and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or closely related development disabilities. SOMD currently serves 10,000 athletes statewide, and offers 28 sports, all at no cost to the athletes or their families. For more information about SOMD visit www.somd.org or call 410-789-6677.

OCPD CHIEF DIPINO RECEIVES RESOLUTION FROM MARYLAND STATE FIREMEN’S

2010-09-15T14:42:00.000-04:00

The Maryland State Firemen’s Association (MSFA) recently presented Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino with a resolution for services and support provided by the Ocean City Police Department during the 118th Annual Convention and Conference of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association. The resolution, which was presented to Chief DiPino on August 20, 2010, was given by MSFA’s President Roger Powell. Stated in the resolution, “Be It Resolved by the Officers and Delegates Assembled at the 118th Annual Convention and Conference of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association; do offer our sincere thanks to Bernadette DiPino, Chief of the Ocean City Police Department, for her leadership, and to each of the members of the Ocean City Police Department for their dedication, support and cooperation, ensuring each year that the Convention and Conference is successful.” In addition, the resolution expressed gratitude to the Town of Ocean City, the Mayor and City Council and the combined services of the Ocean City Police and Fire Department. “It is an honor to receive a resolution from the Maryland State Firemen’s Association,” said Chief DiPino. “We take pride in the partnership we have with the Ocean City Fire Department, and we are thrilled to have expanded that partnership to the Maryland State Firemen’s Association.” The Maryland State Firemen’s Association, which represents volunteer fire, rescue and EMS personnel of Maryland, will hold its 119th Annual Convention and Conference in Ocean City from June 18-24, 2011.

CITIZEN REMINDER - AUGUST IS BACK TO SCHOOL MONTH

2010-08-30T10:34:00.001-04:00

August is designated as Back-to-School Safety Month, and the OCPD in conjunction with other state and local groups remind motorists to be extra careful at all times. With summer ending and the start of school just around the corner, motorists should do their part to keep children safe as they walk and bike to school. Ocean City will see a dramatic increase in school bus traffic beginning August 30, 2010. Citizens need to remember that pick-up times vary, however, as a general rule morning pick-ups are from 7 to 8 a.m. and afternoon drop-off is from 2:45 to 4 p.m. There is also a mid-day pick-up of pre-kindergarten from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. While on Coastal Highway, motorists traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop for school buses with flashing red lights while they are engaged in pick-up and drop off. Here are some simple reminders for drivers: • Slow down and be especially alert in the residential neighborhoods and school zones. Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs. • Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully. • Watch for children on and near the road in the morning and after school hours. • Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. Put down your phone and don’t talk or text while driving. Remember that October 1 Maryland joins other states making it illegal to hold a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. Reminder for your children: • Stay out of the street while waiting for the bus. • Wait for the bus driver’s signal before crossing in front of the bus. • BE SAFE, BE SEEN. Look the driver in the eye to be sure you are seen. • Never run out into the streets or cross in between parked cars. • Make sure they always walk in front of the bus where the driver can see them • Remember, the best thing you can do as a parent is to always set a good example. • Remain seated at all times while the bus is moving. Keep aisles clear – stow school bags under the seat. • Do not shout, yell or sing – it distracts the driver. The OCPD will have additional police patrols in the areas where school busses pick-up and drop-off students and will be strictly enforcing all traffic safety laws. Let's take good care of our precious children and do everything we can to keep them safe!

OCEAN CITY POLICE CHIEF WINS WACKY WHEELCHAIR RACE FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS

2010-08-30T09:40:00.002-04:00

On Friday, August 20, 2010, Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette A. DiPino competed in a wacky wheelchair race to benefit Special Olympics of Maryland. The competition, which was held at Perdue Stadium during a Delmarva Shorebirds game, was made up of 12 competitors contending for a $500 donation to a charity of the winner’s choice. The fundraiser, which was sponsored by Peninsula Home Care, American Homepatient, Salisbury Rehabilitation and Nursing Center/Genesis Health and Rehab and Bank of Delmarva, had six teams compete for the $500 prize. Competing against the Ocean City Police Department were teams from WBOC, WMDT, Froggy 99.9, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office and the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce. The OCPD team, consisted of Chief DiPino and Public Safety Aid Daniel Bokinsky, who came in first place during their first heat and advanced into the final round. The final round consisted of a showdown between the Ocean City Police Department and Sheriff Mike Lewis and Chief Deputy Gary Baker from Wicomico County, in which the OCPD blew away the competition. “The Wacky Wheelchair Race was a great event,” said Chief DiPino. “Not only was it fun to be a part of, but it was a great way to unite law enforcement and the community to raise money and awareness for charity.” The Ocean City Police Department chose to donate their winnings to the Special Olympics of Maryland. The OCPD is actively involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. In addition to the Wacky Wheelchair Race, the OCPD participates in events throughout the year to raise awareness and money for the organization. The next fundraiser for Special Olympics will be the “COPS ON ROOFTOPS” event, which will be held on September 25th and 26th at the Dunkin Donuts on 119th Street and Coastal Highway. During “COPS ON ROOFTOPS”, Chief DiPino, along with OCPD officers, participating community members and special guests, will be stationed on the rooftop of Dunkin Donuts to heighten awareness and collect donations for Special Olympics of Maryland. In addition to the “Cops on Rooftops” there will be a number of events going on throughout the day, including appearances from local DJ’s, silent auctions, special appearances and much more. Also, Dunkin’ Donuts is offering a free cup of coffee for donations of $5 or more. For more information about the event, or to see how you or your business/organization can get involved in the “Cops on Rooftops" Benefit, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410.520.5395.

BOARDWALK JOINS OCPD AS EIGHTH NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH ASSOCIATION

2010-08-10T13:32:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department has added a new Neighborhood Watch Association to the community. On Tuesday, August 10, 2010, the “Boardwalk Neighborhood Watch Association” was introduced as the eighth Neighborhood Watch Association in Ocean City during a ribbon cutting ceremony on North Division Street and the Boardwalk. Neighborhood Watch is an effective and inexpensive way to prevent crimes in the community. Ocean City neighborhoods currently boasting a neighborhood watch association are Edgewater Avenue, Bayshore Drive, Little Salisbury, Caine Keys II, Montego Bay, Sundowner Park and Caine Woods. The Boardwalk will not only be the newest addition, but it will be the first group to be made up of primarily businesses, rather than residents. “The Ocean City Boardwalk is unlike most neighborhoods,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino. “Not only do you have residents and business owners, but you have millions of visitors who visit the neighborhood each year.” The idea of a Boardwalk Neighborhood Watch Association began as a way to unite boardwalk neighbors, strengthen the partnership with the Ocean City Police Department and share in the responsibility of protecting the boardwalk community. For more information on the Boardwalk Neighborhood Watch Association, or to find out how you can become a member of your local Neighborhood Watch Association, please contact the Ocean City Police Department Public Affairs Office at 410.723.6665.

Hazardous Weather Outlook

2010-07-20T08:56:00.001-04:00

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK FROM NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WAKEFIELD, VA TUE JUL 20 2010 - DORCHESTER-WICOMICO-SOMERSET-INLAND WORCESTER-MARYLAND BEACHES THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR THE LOWER EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND....DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT. SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE EARLY TONIGHT. GUSTY WINDS AND LOCALLY HEAVY DOWNPOURS ARE POSSIBLE IN ANY STORM. .DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY. SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE WEDNESDAY. SOME STORMS MAY REACH SEVERE LIMITS WITH THE MAIN THREATS BEING DAMAGING WINDS. LOCALLY HEAVY DOWNPOURS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF HOT AND HUMID CONDITIONS IS EXPECTED THROUGH SATURDAY. THE COMBINATION OF TEMPERATURES IN THE MID 90S TO NEAR 100 ALONG WITH MODERATE HUMIDITY LEVELS...WILL PRODUCE HEAT INDEX VALUES BETWEEN 100 AND 105 DEGREES. Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. West wind between 9 and 11 mph. Tonight: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 79. South wind around 14 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Wednesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly cloudy, with a high near 87. West wind around 14 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Wednesday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 77. West wind between 11 and 13 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Thursday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly cloudy, with a high near 88. Northwest wind between 10 and 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Thursday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.

YOUR INVITED: Join the OCPD and McGruff for a 30th Birthday Bash on the Boardwalk!!

2010-07-09T11:09:00.001-04:00

YOUR INVITED: Join the OCPD and McGruff for a 30th Birthday Bash on the Boardwalk!!

2010-07-07T10:40:00.003-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is celebrating the 30th birthday of one of the most recognizable crime prevention characters in America, McGruff the Crime Dog. McGruff is not only famous for his proactive approach to crime prevention, but also his famous “Take a Bite out of Crime” catchphrase. On July 14, 2010, the Ocean City Police Department will celebrate the 30 years in which McGruff taught people across the country how they can help prevent crime. The celebration, which will take place on North Division Street and the Boardwalk from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., will not only feature an appearance from McGruff, but will also focus on crime prevention and safety issues that affect visitors and residents in Ocean City. In conjunction with the Ocean City Police Department’s Walk with Wisdom, Bike with Brains campaign, McGruff will be disseminating information on bicycle and pedestrian safety. “It’s time for McGruff to take a bite out of birthday cake,” said OCPD Chief Bernadette DiPino. “McGruff has been an icon for crime prevention for 30 years. We could not think of a better way to celebrate his accomplishments and continue his crime prevention efforts than throwing him a birthday party on the boardwalk.” In addition to birthday cake, the Ocean City Police Department, along with McGruff, will be handing out crime prevention material, registering bicycles and scooters, installing child safety seats and speaking to citizens about pedestrian safety. For more information about the celebration, please call the Ocean City Police Department’s Public Affairs Office at 410.520.5395.

ALERT: From the National Weather Service

2010-07-07T10:38:00.000-04:00

Air Quality Alert DORCHESTER-WICOMICO-SOMERSET-INLAND WORCESTER-MARYLAND BEACHES- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...CAMBRIDGE...SALISBURY...CRISFIELD... PRINCESS ANNE...SNOW HILL...OCEAN CITY 801 AM EDT WED JUL 7 2010 ...AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EDT TONIGHT... THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT HAS ISSUED A CODE ORANGE AIR QUALITY ALERT ACROSS THE MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE...FOR GROUND LEVEL OZONE...IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EDT TONIGHT. AIR QUALITY IS EXPECTED TO REACH CODE ORANGE...WHICH IS UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS...AND MEANS INDIVIDUALS WITH RESPIRATORY AND/OR HEART AILMENTS...OLDER ADULTS...AND CHILDREN SHOULD REDUCE PROLONGED OR HEAVY OUTDOOR EXERTION. AN AIR QUALITY ALERT MEANS THAT GROUND LEVEL OZONE CONCENTRATIONS WITHIN THE REGION MAY APPROACH OR EXCEED UNHEALTHY STANDARDS. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...PLEASE VISIT THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.CLEANAIRPARTNERS.NET...OR CALL THE MARYLAND AIR QUALITY HOTLINE AT 4 1 0...5 3 7...3 2 4 7. Today: Sunny, with a high near 93. North northwest wind around 9 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. East southeast wind around 7 mph. Thursday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. East southeast wind around 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Thursday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South southeast wind around 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Friday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. South southeast wind between 8 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Friday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 77. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Saturday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Chance of precipitation is 40%. Saturday Night: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Sunday: Partly cloudy, with a high near 84. Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.

OCPD WELCOME OFFICER JUSTIN HOBAN

2010-06-28T15:09:00.003-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is proud to annouce the graduation of Justin Hoban from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy's 64th Class. Hobas was formally recognized as a certified police officer of the OCPD after completing 24 weeks of rigorous training, which included classroom instruction, firearms instruction and defensive tactics. Hoban was born and raised in Selbyville, Delaware, where he graduated from Indian River High School in 2003. After high school, Hoban played baseball for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). He began his career with the Ocean City Police Department as a seasonal officer in 2008, where he spent two summers on the midnight patrol shift. After a six-month police academy, Hoban graduated third in a class of 16 with an academic average of 94.75%. In addition, he was distinguished as a "Pistol Expert" by qualifying in the 99 percentile for firearms. Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino spoke during the graduation ceremony, which was held at Wor-Wic Community College on Friday, June 18, 2010. "Its an honor to welcome Officer Hoban to the Ocean City Police Department," commented Chief DiPino. "He possesses all the qualities necessary to be an outstanding police officer. He is a leader with great intellect and we are very excited to have him as a member of the OCPD."

Use Caution When Working Outside Today and Tomorrow

2010-06-23T10:09:00.002-04:00

It is going to be a HOT on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland!! According to the National Weather Service, this hazardous weather could make it dangerous to those working in the extreme heat.

Hot and humid conditions will produce heat index values of nearly 100 degrees this afternoon and 102-108 degrees on Thursday afternoon. In addition, Isolated to scattered thunderstorms will be possible Thursday afternoon into Thursday night.

According to FEMA, in extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Most heat disorders accrue because the victim has been overexposed to heat.

For information on how to stay safe from extreme heat, please visit: http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/heat.shtm

CHIEF DIPINO SWORN IN AS MEMBER OF TRAINING COMMISSION

2010-06-16T11:21:00.002-04:00

Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette DiPino was recently sworn in as the Regional Representative to the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions. Chief DiPino was first sworn in as the Regional Representative in 2007 and again on Wednesday, June 9, 2010 by Stephen Hales, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Worcester County.

The Police and Correctional Training Commissions regulate and enforce the training and certification standards for all Maryland police officers, correctional officers and training academies. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the commission to provide training and professional development sessions to public safety and criminal justice employees from public to private agencies in Maryland and from other states.

The Police Training Commission consists of 15 members, 12 of which serve ex officio. Chief DiPino, however, is one of three members who were appointed by the Governor for a three-year term.

PART TWO OF MARYLAND SUMMER HEAT PROGRAM TAKING PLACE AT THE BEACH

2010-06-16T11:20:00.000-04:00

On June 30, 2010, the Ocean City Police Department, in partnership with Worcester County and Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, is hosting a news conference to kick off part two of the Summer Heat: From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece Program. The news conference will be held at 11 a.m. at the Isle of Wight Nature Park, on Rt. 90 and St. Martins Neck Road.

The Summer Heat: From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece Program is a partnership between law enforcement agencies on the Eastern Shore. The program unites law enforcement agencies in an effort to assure that travelers get to their vacation destination safely. The news conference will have members from each law enforcement agency involved in the program, in addition to speaking guests OCPD Chief Bernadette DiPino, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Reggie Mason, Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis and Deputy Chief at the Maryland Highway Office Tom Gianni.

Along with guest speakers, law enforcement personnel will be demonstrating the RADAR/LIDAR system and offering ride-alongs to interested media representatives. In addition, 74 empty chairs will be displayed at the event in an effort to remember those individuals who lost their lives in fatal crashes from the bay to the beach.

“In 2008, 3,278 persons were injured in crashes on the Eastern Shore,” commented OCPD Chief Bernadette DiPino. “The mission of the Summer Heat: From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece Program is to focus on traffic issues such as seat belt usage, speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving and aggressive driving in hopes of decreasing crashes, minimizing fatalities and getting people to the bay to the beach safely.”

For more information on the Summer Heat: From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece Program, please contact the Ocean City Police Department’s Public Affairs Office at 410.520.5395.

OCPD ADVISING OCEAN CITY VISITORS TO BEWARE OF INTERNET RENTAL SCAMS

2010-06-08T13:53:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens to be cautious while using the internet to search for vacation rentals in Ocean City. While popular websites can be a valuable tool in finding reasonable vacation rentals, consumers need to beware of scammers who are posing as property owners. Some of the most consistent “red flags” associated with rental scams are demonstrated through poor grammar, spelling errors, poor capitalization and punctuation in the information presented to consumers. In addition, if a vacation rental owner does not accept credit cards as a form of payment, they should almost always accept a personal check. Most scammers will only take cashiers checks or ask for money to be wired to a specific account. Lastly, you should be cautious of a property owner who is hesitant or unwilling to provide additional information in regards to the rental property, such as amenities or photographs. As a renter you should take additional steps to ensure the owner and rentals are legitimate. There are several tips you should remember to avoid being a victim of an online rental scam. First, do not wire money to a suspected landlord and remember, regardless how convincing the tale, make sure the person renting the house to you actually owns it. Also, verify where you will go and whom you will see to pick up the rental key. Make sure that the person and location is valid. Finally, if you have any suspicious concerns, follow your instinct. Even if you have to pay a fee, you are often safer dealing with a licensed real estate agent.

‘Flame of Hope’ Arrives in Ocean City

2010-06-08T13:47:00.002-04:00

OCPD Officers Participate in Statewide Torch Run Relay in Support for the Special Olympics Maryland 25th Annual Summer Games

On June 7, 2010, members of the Ocean City Police Department took part in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Relay for Special Olympics Maryland. Nearly 80 officers escorted and protected the Special Olympics ”Flame of Hope” as it makes its way from 27th Street and the Boardwalk to North Division Street. The “Flame of Hope” will continue to travel toward the opening of the 40th Anniversary Summer Games at Towson University, June 11-13. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Maryland Torch Run, a movement that began in 1986 with a handful of officers raising $5,000, and has grown into a year-round effort that involves thousands of officers and raised $3.7 million in 2009. Since its inception, the Torch Run has taken very seriously its role as “Guardians of the Flame,” and the Relay is an important and celebrated part of every Special Olympics competition. The local portion of the Torch Run Relay is part of a much larger effort. Statewide, the Maryland Torch Run Relay consists of four different legs – Eastern, Western, Central and Southern – and throughout the entire week, thousands of Torch Run volunteers will cover hundreds of miles, eventually converging on Towson where the individual flames will be united in the Final Leg Ceremony and then officers from around the state will travel the final 2.5 miles to the Opening Ceremony at Towson University. It is there that the flame is handed off to the Special Olympics athletes who have the honor of taking the final lap with the torch and then lighting the cauldron and officially declaring the 2010 SOMD Summer Games Open. “This Torch Run Relay is really just a small piece of what the dedicated officers from around the state do for the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland on a year-round basis,” said Lt. John Newnan, Torch Run Director for Maryland. “But it is perhaps the most visible, and as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of this movement, it is a phenomenal opportunity for us to bring our message of hope, acceptance and tolerance to the community at large. If we can change even one person’s attitude or educate someone about the abilities of Special Olympics athletes then every step of this week-long journey is worth it.” The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Maryland is a year-round movement whose goal is to raise both funds and awareness for the athletes who train and compete in Special Olympics Maryland. The Maryland Torch Run began in 1986 with a handful of officers raising $50,000. Since that time, the Maryland Torch Run has grown tremendously, including volunteer officers from nearly every law enforcement agency and correctional facility in Maryland, and through special events such as the MSP Polar Bear Plunge, the annual Torch Run T-shirt sales and other efforts, raising $3.7 million for SOMD in 2009, and once again earning “Top Fundraising Program” honors at the annual International Torch Run Conference. The 40th Anniversary SOMD Summer Games are set for June 11-13 at Towson University. During this celebrated weekend, 1,200 athletes from around the state will go for gold in aquatics, athletics, bocce, equestrian, cheerleading and softball. For more information about Special Olympics Maryland, the Torch Run Relay and the 2010 Summer Games, contact Kelley Schniedwind at 410-789-6677 x117 or visit www.somd.org.

OCPD TO HOLD FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS TONIGHT

2010-05-26T09:03:00.003-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department is partnering with The Blue Ox to raise money for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The fundraiser, which is being held on tonight, May 26, from 5 – 9 p.m. at The Blue Ox, will donate 100 percent of proceeds to Special Olympics. Entry fee is a $5 donation and includes a full buffet. In addition, the evening will include a silent auction with prizes ranging from gift certificates, sports items, amusement park passes and much more. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 and has since raised millions of dollars, as well as increased awareness, for Special Olympics. In 2009, the Law Enforcement Torch Run raised $34 million for Special Olympics around the world, $10,000 of which was donated by the Ocean City Police Department. The 2010 Torch Run will take place in Ocean City June 7 on 27th Street and the Boardwalk. For additional information regarding the fundraiser or to make a donation, please contact Ocean City Police Lieutenant Richard Currence at 410.723.6629.

BE SAFE – BEACH SMART: WALK WITH WISDOM & BIKE WITH BRAINS

2010-05-26T08:59:00.002-04:00

The official start of summer is approaching, and as visitors flock to Ocean City to celebrate their holiday this weekend, the Ocean City Police Department wants to remind citizens to BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS. The BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS campaign is focusing on educating visitors and residents on pedestrian and bicycle safety. On a typical summer day in Ocean City, the sun is shining, the ocean waves are crashing and the smell of the salt water fills the air. While the sights and sounds are beautiful to observe, they can also be distracting. The Ocean City Police Department’s BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS campaign will remind citizens of the important safety tips to use while crossing the street or riding a bicycle. In addition to safety tips for pedestrians and bicyclists, the BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS will inform drivers on important information they can use when driving on a roadway with pedestrians or bicyclists. BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS will provide safety information on a weekly basis from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The information will be released through the Ocean City Police Community Outreach Email Program and on the OCPD Official Blog. For more information regarding the BE SAFE, BEACH SMART – WALK WITH WISDOM AND BIKE WITH BRAINS, please contact the Ocean City Police Department’s Public Affairs Office at 410.520,5395.

EASTERN SHORE LAW ENFORCEMENT TEAM UP TO GET MOTORISTS FROM THE BAY TO THE BEACH IN ONE PIECE

2010-05-26T08:47:00.003-04:00

Summer is quickly approaching and law enforcement personnel from the Eastern Shore of Maryland are teaming up to assure that Route 50 travelers get From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece. The From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece campaign will begin on Friday, May 28, 2010 as visitors begin their travel to Ocean City for the holiday weekend. The campaign will focus on key issues that jeopardize the safety of motorists, including aggressive driving, seatbelt and child safety, distracted driving, impaired driving and motorcycle safety. In addition, law enforcement officials will be monitoring speed to ensure that the road is safe for all travelers. The From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece campaign is an initiative that joins law enforcement agencies from Ocean City Police, Maryland State Police, Worcester County, Easton Police, Cambridge Police, Department of Natural Resources, Queen Anne’s Police, Talbot County Police and Maryland Transit Authority. For more questions about the From the Bay to the Beach in One Piece campaign, or the role of the Ocean City Police Department, please contact the OCPD Public Affairs Office at 410.520.5395.

OCPD WORKING TO REDUCE SEXUALLY RELATED CRIMES

2010-04-05T15:22:00.000-04:00

Since 2001, the month of April has been nationally recognized as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” in an effort to raise public awareness about sexual violence. The Ocean City Police Department is teaming up with Atlantic General Hospital/Worcester County SART and Life Crisis to reduce sexually related crimes in the Ocean City area. In an effort to combat sexual violence and sexually related crimes, the Ocean City Police Department, along with its partners, has founded the Sexual Offense/Assault and Rape reduction (SOARr) Project. The SOARr Project targets men, women and young teens to raise awareness, increase education and enhance prevention through community involvement. The SOARr Project provides education and prevention information through public service announcements, printed materials, community outreach and posts on the Ocean City Police Department Official Blog. Three significant phases of the SOARr Project consist of Hand Over Your Drink, Drunk Means NO! and No Friend Left Behind. Hand Over Your Drink emphasizes the importance of never leaving your drink unattended while out at a restaurant or bar. Drunk Means NO! is a phrase that focuses on reminding individuals that when someone is intoxicated the answer is always NO! Lastly, No Friend Left Behind reminds men and women if you go to a party or bar with your friends, then you should always leave with your friends. The SOARr Project officially kicks off the public awareness campaign on April 1. For more information on the SOARr Project, or the role of the Ocean City Police Department, please contact the Ocean City Police Department Public Affairs Office at 410.723.6665.

OCPD RECOGNIZES NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH IN APRIL

2010-03-30T11:30:00.002-04:00

The Ocean City Police Department, along with U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), is recognizing April as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Since 2001, the month of April has been nationally recognized as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” (SAAM) in an effort to raise public awareness about sexual violence. By raising awareness about this issue and supporting services aimed at helping victims of sexual assault, OCPD officials hope to provide much needed support for victims of sexual assault. “Sexual assault can take many forms,” commented Ocean City Police Chief Bernadette A. DiPino. “It can be in the form of rape, child molestation, incest, fondling and any other unwanted sexual contact. It is the hope of the OCPD, and the Mayor and City Council, that we not only raise awareness on sexual violence but also focus on its prevention.” According to the OVW, one in six American women has been the victim of a rape or attempted rape. Overall, 70% of all sexual assault victims known to law enforcement are juveniles and one in ten victims of sexual assault is male. “Perpetrators of sexual assault can be strangers, friends, acquaintances or family members,” Chief DiPino continued. “The OCPD hopes that we can raise awareness, generate community involvement and education about an issue that affects so many people.” For more information about National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, please visit www.enditnow.gov.

OCPD PROUDLY ANNOUNCES 2009 RESERVE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

2010-03-24T11:38:00.002-04:00

On Thursday, March 11, 2010, the Ocean City Police Department proudly recognized Robert Boyres as the 2009 “Reserve Officer of the Year.” Boyres has been a member of the OCPD Reserve Officer Program since 2005, continuing over five years of dedicated service to his community. During 2009, Reserve Officer (RSO) Boyres distinguished himself in the performance of outstanding service by contributing over 500 hours of support in the public safety mission of the Ocean City Police Department. RSO Boyres supported the Ocean City community at numerous parades and festivals, as well as public safety operational details such as traffic control at Winterfest of Lights and several pedestrian crossing details. In addition, RSO Boyres spent numerous hours assisting the Ocean City Police Department Property Section with forfeitures and seizures. RSO Boyres joins a prestigious and well deserved group of individuals who have been recognized for their contributions to the Ocean City community. The title of Reserve Officer of the Year is awarded to the person who best demonstrates a devotion to duty and public service and whose conduct and contributions exemplify the purpose of the Reserve Unit. Since its inception, the Reserve Officer Program has saved the Town of Ocean City over $1 million dollars in man power. In 2009, the Reserve Officers donated a combined total of 3,008 hours, with RSO Boyres contributing 551 hours of his time to the Ocean City Police Department.

Play It Safe: March Madness

2010-03-10T14:26:00.002-05:00

OCPD Teams Up with State Highway Administration and Local Law Enforcement for St. Patrick’s Day Enforcement Blitz

2010-03-10T12:46:00.003-05:00

Don’t Depend on Dumb Luck—Find a Sober Ride Home Before the Party Begins

For many Americans, St. Patrick’s Day has become a popular night out to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, due to the large volume of impaired drivers, the night out has also become very dangerous.

Impaired driving is one of America’s deadliest problems. This St. Patrick’s Day, Maryland’s State Highway Administration is teaming up with and providing support to local and state law enforcement agencies to ensure that Maryland’s roads remain safe and free of drunk drivers.

On St. Patrick’s Day 2008, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above, according to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Preliminary estimates show that there were 4 fatalities and over 200 crashes on Maryland’s roads during St. Patrick’s Day weekend in 2008. Additional NHTSA statistics show that in 2008, there were 134 crash fatalities nationwide on St. Patrick’s Day. Out of that number, 50 people were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcyclist with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

Traffic Safety IS Public Safety and that is why the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association, the Maryland Sheriff’s Association, and SHA are encouraging motorists and would-be St. Patrick’s Day revelers to practice personal responsibility when planning their holiday activities. All three agencies also announced their joint efforts with federal, state, and local highway safety and law enforcement officials across the nation to remind all those who plan on celebrating during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities to drink responsibly and don’t drive after drinking alcohol. Maryland law enforcement will be conducting numerous saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout the weekend leading up to and including St. Patrick’s Day.

“We’re pleased to have the education and outreach support that SHA brings to the table for this historically dangerous weekend,” said Sheriff Mike Evans, President of the Maryland Sheriff’s Association. “For those who think they have the luck of the Irish on their side, if you decide to drive drunk, you’ll learn firsthand that our education responsibilities come in the form of handcuffs and jail time.”

Drunk Driving Prevention

Following these easy steps, a driver can enjoy a safe St. Patrick’s Day without jeopardizing their life and the lives of the others who may be on the road.

Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
Visit www.DUIisForLosers.com to learn of Maryland’s available alternatives to driving drunk;

Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;

If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;

§ Utilize Baltimore’s free Tipsy?Taxi! service or DC’s Sober Ride program; more information can be found by calling 1-877-963-TAXI or by going to either www.freecabrides.org or www.soberride.com

§ If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement by calling 911 or #77;

And remember, if you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

“There is no ‘pot of gold at the end of the rainbow’ when it comes to driving while impaired, on the contrary, it will cost you a pot of gold” said SHA Administrator Neil J. Pedersen. “Our goals this weekend are to keep our highways free from crashes, deaths, and associated injuries, to educate the public about the vast number of alternatives to driving drunk AND to support the law enforcement agencies in Maryland that deliver the consequences to those who continue to put Maryland motorists at risk and decide to drive drunk.”

“While our officers typically focus on identifying impaired motorists during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, our crash and injury data support the need to focus additional efforts on high volume pedestrian corridors” said the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association president, Chief George Johnson IV. “We’re also encouraging motorists to be extra cautious of impaired pedestrians.”

Don’t depend on dumb luck this St. Patrick’s Day. Find a sober ride home before the party begins. Remember – Over The Limit, Under Arrest.

For more information, please visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org

(Information provided by: Maryland Chiefs of Police Association, Maryland Sheriff's Association and Maryland State Highway Administration)

OCPD ANIMAL CONTROL MARINE MAMMAL ADVISORY

2010-03-04T09:34:00.001-05:00

This past week the Ocean City Police Animal Control Unit has responded to several reports of stranded marine mammals, either on the beach or in the bay waterways. In most cases the animals were harbor seals that are in their annual migration passing through or near Ocean City. This will most likely continue through the month of April. In almost every case the animals involved were not in distress and were not in need of assistance. The OCPD Animal Control unit is advising citizens that the “Marine Mammal Protection Act” states that humans and their pets maintain a distance of 150 feet from stranded marine animals. Live and deceased marine animals carry diseases that can be transferred to humans and their pets. Marine animals can bite or otherwise cause serious injuries. It is illegal to harass any living marine mammal, which includes trying to pet a seal. It is also illegal to disturb or remove any part of a living or dead marine mammal or sea turtle. To report deceased or stranded marine mammals, please call the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6600.