Alameda Police Department

Rose are red, violets are blue. Love may be in the air, but scammers are still trying to trick you. The Alameda Police Department is advising the public to use caution when engaging on dating apps or social media sites. ... Law enforcement agencies across the U.S. are seeing unsuspecting individuals fall victim to romance scams. Romance scammers disguise themselves behind fake accounts on dating sites/apps and social media channels in the hopes of striking a relationship with a potential target. The scammers will use the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to groom, manipulate, and/or steal from the victim. To enhance the authenticity, scammers will build relationships and trust with the victim over time talking on the phone or chatting with the victim for days or even weeks on end. As the scammer carries out the ‘relationship,’ they may appear to be genuine, caring, and trustworthy, but in actuality, they are building trust to gain insight into your life, access your personal information, and ultimately take your money. Scammers may ask for money to pay for travel expenses to see you, a medical need, pay off debts or pay fees related to official travel documents. Scammers often ask for money to be wired or loaded onto gift cards. APD would like to provide the public with tips on how to avoid falling victim to a romance scammer: Be careful of what you post online. Scammers may use these details to better understand their target or gain information about personal security questions. Conduct a reverse image search of the individual’s profile picture to see if it matches with another name or other profiles. If you are uncertain, conduct a search of the person’s name, email, phone number, or place of employment to verify the information. Be cautious of individuals who move quickly in the relationship. This includes a person saying ‘I love you’ after a few chats, asking to move in or even a proposal before meeting. Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly. This is a tactic used to help reduce their chances of being tracked. Use caution if you and the person make multiple plans to meet face-to-face, but they always comes up with excuses on why they can no longer meet. Always ask lots of questions. It is okay to ask the same question days or weeks later to see if their answers stay consistent. Never send money, especially through a wire transfer or gift card, to anyone who you have only communicated with online or by phone.

Alameda Police Department’s Major Accident Investigations Team (MAIT) begins an investigation into a late-night collision involving a cyclist and motorist. Yesterday evening at 9:30 pm APD patrol officers received a call about an injury collision involving a bicyclist and motorist near the intersection of Broadway and Tilden Way. The bicyclist sustained major, life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperat...ing with the investigation. APD’s Major Accident Investigations Team and detectives were called to the scene to assume the investigation and remained at the site for several hours following the collision. The investigation is in its early stages and the cause has yet to be determined. The City of Alameda holds post-collision site visits for all major and fatal collisions. In the coming weeks city personnel from APD, Public Works and the Transportation Planning Department will conduct a review of the collision site and details from the investigation to discuss any potential safety interventions that may present themselves.

Today, Feb. 10, is #NationalUmbrellaDay & the Alameda Police Foundation will be accepting umbrella & blanket donations to support Alameda community member's in need this rainy season. Swing by the City Hall Parking Lot between 10am-12pm to drop off your donation.

Police and community members work in unison to take a burglary suspect into custody. Over the weekend, Alameda Patrol officers were advised of a burglary of a business that just occurred in the 1900 block of Park Street. As officers were en route, the witness maintained communication with APD dispatchers and provided a detailed suspect description and direction of flight. This information was broadcasted to all responding units. As Officer McKinley began to approach the sce...ne, the witness signaled that the suspect had fled over the Park Street Bridge. Without hesitation, Officer McKinley crossed the bridge where he located a male subject matching the description provided by the witness. As the investigation continued, Officer McKinley headed back to the business to contact the witness, who remained at the scene. It was determined that the witness was an employee preparing for a delivery. As the employee approached the business, they noticed one of the doors had been smashed in. Not knowing if someone was inside, the employee did not enter the building, pulled out their cell phone, and shouted out into the facilities. After the employee made their presence know, a male subject swiftly emerged from the broken door. The quick-thinking employee took a photo of the man to assist officers in identifying the suspect. APD officers conducted a safety check of the building and found no one else inside. It was later determined that the suspect was wearing stolen merchandise from the business when he was contacted by Officer McKinley and he was likely in the process of attempting to steal an expensive painting before being interrupted by the employee. We would like to take a moment to recognize the diligent community member who, through their efficient communication and thoughtful actions, worked in sync with dispatchers, and Officer McKinley to successfully recover the stolen items and hold the individual responsible accountable for his actions. Bravo all around!

Help us best serve you. The City of Alameda recently released the Steering Committee’s report of preliminary recommendations for the future of public safety in Alameda. To help the City of Alameda, and the Alameda Police Department, best serve our community, please take the time to review the Steering Committee’s recommendations and share your feedback on the proposed suggestions by taking the city’s community survey. Review recommendations and complete the survey, here. ww...w.alamedaca.gov/policing Thank you, Alameda.

The Alameda Police Department provides an update on a recent series of prowling incidents and a shooting. *** UPDATE: PROWLER INCIDENT*** Alameda Police detectives are once again seeking the public’s assistance after new updates in last month’s burglary, and trespassing cases have emerged.... The Alameda Police Department is asking for the community’s help in identifying a prowling suspect from three separate incidents that occurred in the 400 block of Beach Road and 100 block of Sea Bridge Way between the hours of 3:30 am 6:00 am on January 4, 2021. During one of the incidents, the suspect may have identified himself by the name of Collin and indicated he was recently kicked out of his parent’s residence. He may not have a permanent address. The pictured suspect is described as a male, approximately 18-25 years old, 5’07 6’00 tall, thin build, short dark hair, wearing a two-tone black hooded jacket, black pants, white shoes, and a white face mask similar to an N95 mask. The suspect could possibly be wearing prescription glasses. Detectives have been actively investigating the incidents by re-contacting victims, thoroughly canvassing the surrounding areas, gathering video footage, and reaching out to outside agencies for possible related crimes. If you have any additional information related to this case or can possibly identify the individual in the photographs, please contact Detective Wolfe at 510-337-8362. We appreciate your assistance as we continue to identify the individual responsible for these crimes. Please refer to the January 6, 2021, Facebook post for the original release of the incident. ***UPDATE: PARK STREET SHOOTING*** The Alameda Police Department’s Violent Crime Unit (VCU) continues to investigate a shooting that occurred in the 1400 block of Park Street on January 24, 2021. Detectives have submitted several court documents, followed up on additional leads, and evidence collected from the scene has been submitted to laboratories for forensic analysis. Detectives have interviewed additional witnesses, and are progressing with the case. The teenage victim shot during the incident is recovering, and our detectives have remained in close contact with her and the family. If anyone has information about this shooting, we encourage you to contact the Alameda Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit at 510-337-8336. Please refer to the January 24, 2021, Facebook post for the original release of the incident and the January 25, 2021, post for the last incident update related to this case.

Homeowners and tenants, please take extra steps in securing your homes. Alameda Police detectives are investigating a series of home burglaries and trespassing incidents that happened on January 4th between, approximately, 3:30 6:30 a.m. During that time frame, officers responded to two calls on Beach Road, followed by a call on Sea Bridge Way. In the first incident, a child woke up to a man climbing into her bedroom window. The suspect was able to get into the room and st...ayed for approximately 10 minutes before taking off. We want to emphasize that the man DID NOT harm the child, but his actions were alarming. During another call for service on Beach Road, a male victim reported confronting an unknown man in his home before the suspect ran away. Shortly after those burglaries, an adult man was seen entering residential backyards on Sea Bridge Way. The suspect involved in these cases had similar clothing descriptions and was best described as wearing the following: a black puffy jacket or sweatshirt, dark pants, white shoes with blue coloring, and a white face mask. If you witness any suspicious behavior a person checking door handles or peering into windows please call 911 right away. We also want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to take the following safety precautions: Lock any points of entry to your home, double-check the doors and windows before bed, use an alarm system, consider using a wooden dowel or metal rod to secure sliding doors and windows, and avoid leaving tools or ladders unsecured outside of your home. We will provide updates if the investigation permits.

Yesterday, APD assisted East Bay Regional Park District Officers during a vandalism incident that occurred at Crab Cove Visitor's Center. 'Thank you' to EBRPD for taking the lead on the incident and for your dedication to keeping the City of Alameda and it's regional parks safe and welcoming for all residents and visitors.

The Alameda Police are asking for help in locating a beloved Belgian Malinois that was reported lost out of Oakland last month. Over the past week, multiple sightings of Ace have occurred in Alameda. APD's Animal Control Officer & Police Service Technicians have confirmed these sightings but have been unsuccessful in safely returning Ace to his owner. Ace has an ombre light brown coat, with black fur around his nose, and has a mole on the side of his face. Ace was wearing a silver collar with a leather leash attached. If seen, please contact APD’s non-emergency line, 510-337-8340.

When a caller dials 911, it is often while in duress, and for some, it may be the first time. Seeking emergency assistance during a stressful situation may be an overwhelming experience, especially if you have never called 911 before, but knowing what to expect can help make the call go smoothly. Today we sit down with Dispatcher Meno and gain insight on how we can work together to help ensure our community receives aid as soon as possible when in need.

The safest place you can be tonight is in your own home, however, if you are choosing to ring in the new year outside of your home, please do so responsibly. Always wear a mask. Maintain 6 feet of distance between you and others outside of your household. Wash your hands frequently.... Drive responsibly. There is still plenty of time to create a plan to ensure your safe arrival this evening. Designate a driver. Call a ride share or taxi Take BART or the bus. Stay the night. Have a safe and happy New Year, Alameda!

2020 Alameda Police Department Promotions and Swearing-in Ceremony. Today we recognize the men and women who are were promoted or sworn into the department in 2020. Congratulations to a few of the stars here at the Alameda PD! Congratulations Lieutenant Klaus, Sergeant Ortega, Sergeant Burns, Sergeant Mrak, Officer McDonell, Officer Sipes, Officer Arcaina.

Alameda Police detectives are asking for the community's help in tracking down two suspects involved in an armed robbery and shooting. On Tuesday night around 6:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of Stanton Street. When they arrived, they found two victims - a man and woman. Officers discovered the woman was targeted while unloading personal items from a vehicle. She was confronted by an armed suspect and screamed. When a family member responded and approach...ed the suspects, the gunman fired his weapon at the man. Thankfully, the man was not injured. However, the suspects drove away before our officers arrived. APD's Violent Crimes Unit has taken the lead on the investigation. We are looking for a silver sedan that was seen speeding away from the 1600-1800 blocks of Stanton Street. Anyone with information that can help our investigation is urged to contact APD's Violent Crimes Unit at (510) 337-8538.

Following the last City of Alameda - Local Government Council meeting on October 20, 2020, we have updated our policy manual with the council-approved Alameda Police Department policy changes. The full policy manual can be found on our website: https://www.alamedaca.gov//alameda-police-department-polic Please refer to the City Council minutes for an outline of details on the approved policy changes: https://alameda.legistar.com/MeetingDetail.aspx|&Search=

Tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4, 2020, the Alameda Police Department's Records Unit will be open from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Online services will still be available and can be accessed at www.alamedapolice.org. We look forward to serving you once we return to the office.

If there is a person who can steal our K9’s hearts , it is this lovely woman right here K9 Dexter surprised his favorite Chef, Chef Sharon of 5 Element Food Therapy, with a little gift when she dropped off our K9's latest batch of delicious meals Thank you, Sharon, for always having Dexter and Blu's backs and making sure they are full and nourished!... P.S. Can you guess what talented APD Officer made this beautiful wood piece for Chef Sharon?

A 27-year-old woman has been identified as the suspect in connection with an Alameda attempted murder, carjacking, and robbery case from October 22, 2020. Immediately following the incident, APD began a full investigation into recovering the stolen vehicle and identifying the suspect. During the follow-up investigation, we learned that the vehicle was located by Oakland Police Department Officers and was occupied by a single female suspect. OPD subsequently arrested the susp...ect for vehicle theft and identified the occupant as Amelia Minjarez. Realizing the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Alameda and was connected to a shooting, OPD contacted APD’s Violent Crimes Unit. APD’s investigation tentatively identified Ms. Minjarez as the shooter in the incident that occurred near Grand Street and Clement Avenue. Last week, APD sought assistance, via our social media channels, for any information that could further assist in the identification and prosecution of the individual involved in the October 22nd carjacking and shooting. As a result of APD’s investigation, along with credible social media leads, we are seeking additional charges against Minjarez for attempted murder, robbery, and carjacking. We want to extend a sincere thanks to the Oakland Police Department and our observant community members for their assistance in this case. The identification of Ms. Minjarez is a direct result of teamwork among law enforcement agencies and the community we serve. As the case progresses through the criminal justice system certain details cannot be released at this time.

On November 12, 2020, members of the Alameda Police Department will escort the Flame of Hope through the City of Alameda in support of Northern California Special Olympic Athletes. Each year, members of APD participate in the Northern California’s Law Enforcement Torch Run to raise money and awareness for the athletes of the Special Olympics and their programs. Please consider making a donation in support of APD’s fundraising efforts and help us reach our goal of $1,000. Raising the desired $1,000 will cover the cost of eight athletes for a complete sports season! https://specialolympics.donordrive.com/index.cfm

Have a safe and spooky Halloween, Alameda! Remember to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting in-person interactions with individuals outside of your household today. We know we did when we joined the Otis Owls for their socially distant Halloween parade! Here are a few reminders of alternatives to trick-or-treating: ... Scary movie watch-a-thon. Pumpkin carving night. Set up a family Halloween candy hunt. You know, like an Easter egg hunt, but in October. Host a virtual Halloween party with loved ones. Test your Food Network skills and whip up some chillingly delicious Halloween themed bites. Take a walk with your household to view your neighborhood’s hunted décor. Remember to practice social distancing. Test your true crime skills by playing online ‘whodunnit’ mystery games.

While we can’t be together this year, we’ll reminisce on days past and daydream about next year’s Halloween at APD #FlashbackFriday #NightmareOnOakStreet

In response to an increase in violent crimes, the City of Alameda, in partnership with the Alameda Police Department, has issued a response to the community. The complete release can be viewed in its entirety on the City of Alameda's website: https://www.alamedaca.gov//City-of-Alameda-working-to-resp A snapshot of APD's actions are provided below: ... A proactive response from patrol officers to calls for shots fired. After rendering aid to any victims, a thorough preliminary investigation is conducted, including the search for witnesses, possible video footage, and collecting physical evidence. When necessary, additional resources from within the department or from allied agencies have responded to assist in processing the crime scene. Evidence is sent to be processed through the County crime lab, State Department of Justice, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Shell casing data is entered into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network. We are meeting with regional partners at the local, State, and Federal level to share criminal intelligence and cultivate potential leads through evidence analysis and information sharing. We conduct an extensive follow up of leads in an effort to identify trends, suspects, and build cases for prosecution. A high profile patrol is launched of areas where past shootings have occurred. Thank you, Alameda, for continuing to come together as we work to maintain a safe environment to live, work, and play.

Whooooo’s ready to smile? **scroll for a surprise** Have a great day, Alameda. We’re here if you need us.... Emergency: 9-1-1/510-522-2423 Non-Emergency/Animal Control: 510-337-8340

Yesterday the Alameda Police Department activated a City of Alameda AC Alert for police activity in the 1900-2000 block of Shoreline Drive. We have received several inquires on what prompted the activation and to continue our efforts of increased lines of communication with our community, APD has issued a release regarding the incident. https://www.alamedaca.gov//News-Media/PR-Arrest-in-AWD-and

The Alameda Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance on a current investigation. On Thursday, October 22, 2020, at approximately 3:15 pm, an APD Police Service Technician (PST) was flagged down near the intersection of Grand Street and Clement Avenue by a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The PST called for paramedics and officers to respond. Upon arrival, the victim advised that he had been robbed and carjacked before being shot while attempting to flee. T...he suspect was last seen traveling eastbound on Clement Avenue in a 2001 red Honda Accord Coupe with damage to the right front bumper. Since the date of the incident, the vehicle has been recovered by Oakland Police Officers and a suspect has been apprehended for an unrelated crime. APD is currently working with the victim and the District Attorney’s Office on a possible prosecution related to the crimes that occurred in Alameda. As this is an on-going investigation we are in need of the public’s assistance in determining the sequence of events following the incident. The investigating officer believes the suspect possibly headed towards the Park Street Bridge and we are asking for businesses and residents along the pictured path to check their surveillance systems between 3:15 and 3:30 PM on October 22, 2020. If the described vehicle is observed on surveillance, please contact the investigating officer at 510-337-8538. Thank you, Alameda, for working with us for a safer community.

Officer Doug Upp is finally coming off his graveyard shift to ensure your health and safety this weekend and remind you of alternative ways to enjoy Halloween 2020 while limiting contact with individuals outside of your household. Scary movie watch-a-thon. Pumpkin carving night. Set up a family Halloween candy hunt. You know, like an Easter egg hunt, but in October. Host a virtual Halloween party with loved ones.... Test your Food Network skills and whip up some chillingly delicious Halloween themed bites. Take a walk with your household to view your neighborhood’s hunted décor. Remember to practice social distancing. Test your true crime skills by playing online ‘whodunnit’ mystery games. We’d love to hear from you! If you have other fun and safe Halloween activities that community members can enjoy instead of traditional trick-or-treating or extravagant parties, leave a comment below to share with others.

Traffic, dispatch, safety! Oh my! Alameda, you’ve got questions and we are here to answer them. Drop a question below and an APD staff member from the appropriate unit will answer what you want to know most. From questions about patrol, crime, APD services, traffic, crime prevention, or dispatch we want to communicate with our community. ... We will not be able to get to each and every question so we will randomly select questions and feature the answers next week.