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Internet Crimes

The Redwood City Police Department recognizes that cyber crimes are one
of the fastest growing crimes in the United States today. Innocent
people are victimized by internet crimes in many different forms. Lotto
scams, identity theft, credit card fraud, and Bunco Schemes are some of
the thefts which are committed over the World Wide Web on a daily basis.
In many of these instances, victims suffer monetary losses by wiring the
money overseas. The nature of these offenses makes it difficult for
local law enforcement jurisdictions to investigate.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National
White Collar Crime Center (IC3) have formed a partnership to combat this
rapidly growing problem. Criminal complaints regarding cyber crimes can
be reported to IC3 by clicking on the link below:

http://www.ic3.gov/complaint
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Domestic Violence – The Hidden Crime

As many as four million women in this country suffer from some type of violence at the hands of their husbands or boyfriends each year, very few tell anyone. Victims of domestic violence come from all walks of life, all cultures, all income groups, all ages, and all religions. They share feelings of helplessness, isolation, guilt, fear, and shame.

Are you abused? Does the person you love…….
  • Keep track of all your time?
  • Constantly accuse you of being unfaithful?
  • Discourage your relationships with family or friends?
  • Prevent you from working or attending school?
  • Criticize you for little things?
  • Anger easily when drinking or using drugs?
  • Control all finances and force you to account in detail for what you spend?
  • Humiliate you in front of others?
  • Destroy personal property or sentimental items?
  • Hit, punch, slap, kick, or bite you or the children?
  • Threaten to hurt you or the children?
  • Force you to have sex against your will?
If you find yourself saying yes to any of these, it’s time to get help.

Don’t ignore the problem. Talk to someone. Part of the abuser’s power comes from secrecy. Plan ahead and know what you will do if your attacked again. If you decide to leave, choose a place to go; set aside some money and important papers in a place where you can get to them quickly. Learn to think independently. Try to plan for the future and set goals for yourself.

If you are hurt, what can you do? Call the police. Leave, or have someone come and stay with you. Get medical attention.

For more information:
Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE;
National resource center on Domestic Violence
Get a Jump on Carjackers

Carjacking, or stealing a car by force, has captured headlines across the country. Statistically your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim, and prevention actions can reduce the threat even more.

No one knows for certain why carjacking is so popular, but some explanations may be that it’s a crime of opportunity; carjacking may be a rite of passage, a status symbol, or cars provide quick cash for drug users and other criminals.

Carjackers look for intersections controlled by stop lights or signs, garages and parking lots for mass transit, shopping malls, and grocery stores; self-serve gas stations and car washes; ATM’s; residential driveways and streets as people get into and out of cars; highway exits and entry ramps, or anyplace else that drivers slow down or stop.

The “bump and rob” works like this. A car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, rear-ends or “bumps” you in traffic. You quickly get out to check the damage and exchange information. Either the driver or one of the passengers jumps in your car and drives off. If you’re bumped by another car, look around before you get out. Make sure there are others cars around, check out the car that rear-ended you and who’s in it. Memorize or jot down the car’s license plate and description. If you get out of your car, take your keys (and wallet/purse) with you and stay alert.

Reduce your risk while walking to your car by walking with a purpose and stay alert. Approach your car with your keys in your hand; look around and inside your car before getting in. Be wary of people asking for directions or handing out fliers. Trust your instincts, if something makes you feel uneasy, get into your car quickly, lock the doors, and drive away quickly. While on the road, keep your doors locked and windows rolled up. When coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around the other cars, especially if you sense trouble and you need to get away. Drive in the center lane to make it harder for would-be carjackers to approach your car. Don’t stop and assist strangers whose car is broken down, instead call 911.

If a carjacker threatens you with a gun or other weapon, give up your car and do not argue. Get away from the area as quickly as possible. Try to remember what the carjacker looked like, sex, race, age, hair, eye color, special features, and clothing. Report the crime immediately to the police.

Megan's Law

On July 29, 1994, seven year old Megan Kanka had been lured into her New Jersey neighbor’s home with the hopes of seeing his puppy. This same neighbor then raped and murdered Megan. Unknown to the Kanka family, a convicted sex offender lived across the street. This neighbor had already served six years in prison for aggravated assault and attempted sexual assault on another child. At the time the local police department was prohibited from disclosing the presence of the child molester because the law did not allow the release of sex offender information to the public. The result of the Megan Kanka tragedy was a nationwide law. In 1996 “Megan’s Law” came into effect. This law was implemented to allow potential victims to protect themselves and allow parents to protect their children.

In 2005, the California Department of Justice implemented a free internet website, accessible to the public, where information about registered sex offenders can be obtained. The web address is www.meganslaw.ca.gov. This website is free and is updated daily by staff at the Attorney General’s office.

The Redwood City Police Department regularly updates offender information and conducts annual registrations with the sex offenders residing in our community. Among other mandates, sex offenders are required to update their registration, name and vehicle information within 5 working days of their birthday each year. All registrants are required to notify local law enforcement within 5 days of any relocation in or outside the jurisdiction. It is our intent to maintain the integrity of Megan’s Law and ensure that violators are held accountable.


Methamphetamine:
Nothing To RAVE About

Meth, “speed,” “chalk,” “ice,” “crystal,” “fire,” and “glass” are street terms for a man-made drug called methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is among the most addictive substances around. The drug can easily be made in secret laboratories from relatively inexpensive, over-the-counter ingredients. This white, odorless, bitter tasting crystalline powder can be smoked, inhaled, injected, or swallowed. Teens may think that the bizarre way the drug makes them feel is cool; however, the drug is altering their brains, maybe permanently. Methamphetamine is not usually sold or bought on the streets like many other illicit drugs. Instead, people obtain supplies through friends or acquaintances. It is typically a closed or hidden sale. Most teens that come into contact with methamphetamine will do so attending a “RAVE” or private party. It is at these functions where the drug is often sold.

Because methamphetamine can be made with readily available, and inexpensive materials, there is great variation in the process and chemicals used. This means that the final product that is sold as “methamphetamine” may not be that drug at all. Uncertainties about the drug’s sources and its content make it difficult to know how powerful this substance may be and what the consequences are of this potent mixture.

Signs Of A Methamphetamine User:
  • Signs of agitation, excited speech, decreased appetites, and increased physical activity levels (other common symptoms include dilated pupils, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and elevated body temperature)
  • Occasional episodes of sudden, violent behavior, intense paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, and bouts of insomnia.
  • A tendency to compulsively clean and groom and repetitively sort and disassemble objects such as cars and other mechanical devices.
Long Term Effects Of The Drug – Methamphetamine can:
  • Change the brain’s ability to manufacture a chemical substance essential
    for the normal experience of pleasure and for normal psychological functioning.
  • Cause a stroke
  • Create a mental disorder that mimics schizophrenia
  • Be extremely addictive
Motorized Scooters
Here are some current laws on their operation –
Senate Bill 441 (SB), Chapter 722, Statutes of 1999, became effective on
January 1, 2000. SB 441 amending the Vehicle Code (VC) to regulate the operation of motorized scooters, as defined. In addition, Assembly Bill 1650, Chapter 724, Statutes of 1999, which also became effective on January 1, 2000, amending the definition of motorized scooters that was established by SB 441, to include gasoline powered motorized scooters.

With the enactment of these two bills, the operation of motorized scooters is regulated similar to bicycles. Please refer to the VC, particularly new Article 5, Operation of Motorized Scooters, of Division 11, for all provisions relating to motorized scooters. Following is a partial list of notable provisions applicable to motorized scooters:
  • Vehicle Code Section 407.5. Defines a “motorized scooter” as any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, is designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, and is powered by an electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion. A device meeting this definition that is powered by a source other than electric power (e.g., a gasoline powered two-stroke engine) is also a motorized scooter. A motorcycle, as defined in Section 400 VC, a motor-driven cycle, as defined in Section
    405 VC, a motorized bicycle or moped, as defined in Section 406 VC, or a toy, as defined in Section 108550 of the Health and Safety Code, are not motorized scooters.
  • Vehicle Code Section 12804.9. A person operating a motorized scooter is not required to be licensed.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21224. A person operating a motorized scooter is not subject to the provisions of the VC relating to financial responsibility, registration, and license plate requirements.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21221. Every person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions of Division 11 VC applicable to the driver of a vehicle including, but not limited Vehto, provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs, and by Division 10 VC, Division 17 VC, and Division 18 VC, except those provisions which, by their very nature, can have no application.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21221.5. No person may operate a motorized scooter upon a highway while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or any drug, or under the combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and any drug.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21223. Motorized scooters operated upon any highway during darkness must be equipped with authorized lamps and reflectors or the operator must be equipped with authorized lamps and reflectors.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21225. Local authorities may regulate the registration of motorized scooters and the parking and operation of motorized scooters on pedestrian or bicycle facilities, if the regulation is not in conflict with the VC.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21229. Any person operating a motorized scooter upon the roadway shall ride within an established bicycle lane.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21330. A motorized scooter may be operated on a bicycle path or trail or bikeway, unless prohibited by a local authority.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21235. The operator of a motorized scooter shall not do any of the following:
    • Operate a motorized scooter unless it is equipped with a brake.
    • Operate a motorized scooter on a highway with a speed limited in excess of 25 miles per hour unless the motorized scooter is operated within a Class II bicycle lane.
    • Operate a motorized scooter without wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets the standards described in Section 21212 VC.
    • Operate a motorized scooter when the operator is under the age of 16 years.
    • Operate a motorized scooter with any passengers in addition to the operator.
    • Operate a motorized scooter while carrying any package, bundle, or article that prevents the operator from keeping at least one hand upon the handlebars.
    • Operate a motorized scooter upon a sidewalk, except as may be necessary to enter or leave adjacent property.
  • Vehicle Code Section 21235. The operator of a motorized scooter may not attach the motorized scooter or himself/herself by any means to any other vehicle on the roadway.
  • Vehicle Code Section 22411. The operator of a motorized scooter may not operate the motorized scooter at a speed in excess of 15 miles per hour.
  • Vehicle Code Section 23330. The operator of a motorized scooter may not operate the motorized scooter on any vehicular crossing.

Stop Violence

  • Show children how to settle arguments or solve problems without words or
    actions that hurt others. Set the example by the way you handle everyday conflicts.
  • Don’t forget that common courtesies like “please,” “thank you,”
    and “excuse me” help ease tensions that lead to violence.
  • Discourage name-calling and teasing.
  • Take a hard look at what you, your family,
    and your friends watch and listen to for entertainment.
  • Stick with friends and family who steer clear of violence
    and drugs and encourage your children to do the same.
Talking with your kids about drugs

Don’t put off talking with your children about alcohol and other drugs. As early as fourth grade, kids worry about pressures to try drugs. School programs alone aren’t enough. Parents must become involved, but most parents aren’t sure how to tell their children about drugs.

Open communication is one of the most effective tools you can use in helping your child avoid drug use.
Talking freely and really listening shows children that they mean a great deal to you.

What do you say?

Tell them that you love them and you want them to be healthy and happy. Say you do not find alcohol and other illegal drugs acceptable. Many parents never state this simple principle. Explain how this use hurts people. Physical harm, emotional harm, and educational harm. Discuss the legal issues. A conviction for a drug offence can lead to time in prison, or cost someone a job, driver’s license, or college loan. Talk about positive, drug free alternatives, and how you can explore them together. Some ideas include sports, reading, movies, bike rides, hikes, camping, cooking, games, and concerts. Involve your children’s friends too.

How do you say it?
  • Calmly and openly, don’t exaggerate. The facts speak for themselves.
  • Face to face, exchange information and try to understand each other’s point of view.
    Be an active listener and let your child talk about fears and concerns.
    Don’t interrupt and don’t preach.
  • Through “teachable moments” in contrast to a formal lecture,
    use a variety of situations, television news, newspapers, and books.
  • Establish an ongoing conversation rather than giving a one-time speech.

  • Remember that you set the example.
    Avoid contradictions between your words and actions.
    Don’t use illegal drugs, period!

Be creative!

You and your child might act out various situations in which one person tries to pressure another to take a drug. Figure out two or three ways to handle each situation and talk about which works best. Exchange ideas with other parents.

How to tell if a child is using drugs?

  • Change in moods, more irritable, secretive, withdrawn,
    overly sensitive, inappropriately angry, and euphoric.
  • Less responsible, late coming home, late for school or class, dishonest.
  • Changing friends or changing lifestyles, new interests, unexplained cash.
  • Physical deterioration, difficulty in concentration, loss of weight, unhealthy appearance.
  • Why do kids use drugs?
  • Young people say they turn to drugs for one or more of the following reason:
    • To do what their friends are doing.
    • To escape pain in their lives.
    • To fit in.
    • Boredom
    • For fun.
    • Curiosity
    • To take risks.

Taking a stand.

Educate yourself about the facts surrounding alcohol and other drug use. You will lose credibility with your child if your information is not correct. Establish clear family rules against drug use and enforce them constantly. Develop your parenting skills through seminars, networking with other parents, reading, counseling, and support groups. Work with other parents to set community standards, you don’t raise a child alone. Volunteer at schools, youth centers, Boys and Girls clubs, or other activities in your community.
Turning Off Media Violence

For too many people, violence is an ordinary way to be entertained, settle arguments, or blow off steam. Violence results when many different forces come together, and we know that exposure to violence in the media can be one of those forces. American children spend more time each week watching television than in any other activity except sleeping. But violence isn’t limited to TV, it can be found in music, video games, newspaper, comic books, radio broadcasts, magazines, movies, and the real world. Exposing children to violence can make them less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others, more fearful of the world around them, and more willing to act aggressively. Fortunately, most media violence can be turned off.

Look at what you are watching.

Take a hard look at what you and your family watch on TV, action movies, talk shows, sitcoms, cop shows, and even news programs. What values are they teaching? Do they make violence appear exciting or humorous or macho? Do they solve real life problems without violence? Do the programs show how the victims of violence, their families, and their friend suffer? Do the programs teach skills or convey unique, valuable, interesting information?

Take Action.

Turn off violent television, radio, movies, and movies that you think send dangerous messages to children about violence and it’s victims. Make one night a month family night. Go to dinner, for a walk, take in a non-violent movie, play a board game or card game. Don’t buy products whose advertisements glorify physical or verbal violence.