Sharon, MA - Press Release

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SHARON POLICE PRESS RELEASE

On 2/2/12 at approximately 1046 a.m. the Sharon Police Department received a report that a housebreak had just occurred at a Howard Farm Road residence. A neighbor observed a white male (early 20's, dirty blond hair, clean cut, wearing jeans) fleeing from the rear of her neighbor's house. The house had been entered by kicking in the back door causing the house alarm to go off. Missing at this time are several pieces of jewelry. A thorough area search was conducted by the Sharon PD with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police K-9 Unit with negative results. The case remains under investigation by the Sharon Police Department. Anyone with information is asked to contact this department at 781-784-1587.

On January 11, 2012 shortly after 1pm this department received a call to respond to Shaw's Plaza in Sharon regarding a stolen motor vehicle. The caller stated he had spotted a motor vehicle with two males inside that he personally knew was stolen from Canton on January 10, 2012. Sharon Police Officer's Adam Leavitt and Michael Balestra responded and upon arrival located the caller and vehicle in question. The caller was a friend of the motor vehicle's owner and spotted the vehicle traveling in Canton. He followed the vehicle to Shaw's Plaza while calling 911. Two individuals were subsequently arrested at the scene (see below) and charged with Receiving Stolen Property over $250 (Motor Vehicle). Both were held overnight at the Sharon PD and arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on January 12, 2012. State Police also assisted at the scene.

Jose Hernandez (Age 24) of 7 Triphammer Road in Sharon.
Patrick Haines (Age 19) of 469 Sherman St #2 in Canton.

On 12/4/11 at approximately 0117hrs Sharon Police officer Dean Santoli observed a motor vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed he estimated at 85-90mph on Route 1 North past the Holiday Inn. Officer Santoli stopped the motor vehicle on High Plain Street and noted three individuals in the vehicle. As he was approaching the vehicle on foot it accelerated and fled onto Norwood Street towards Sharon center. In the area of Norwood Street near Pine Grove Avenue the vehicle struck a curb and all three parties fled on foot into the woods. At that time the Walpole and State PD's responded to assist. One suspect (James Raymond, Age 33, 63 Pleasant Street in Sharon) was arrested a short time later by Sharon Police Sergeant Donald Brewer with assistance from Walpole Police Officer Steven Foley. A second suspect (Jermir Gonzalez, Age 23, 152 Endicot St in Danvers, Massachusetts) was arrested several hours later by Sharon Police Officer Anthony Lucie while walking shoeless on North Main Street. The vehicle's registered owner was not present and the third person in the vehicle was not located. His identification remains under investigation. The vehicle contained numerous tools, and cell phones. This department along with the Walpole PD are investigating a possible link to a truck break in on Route 1 in Walpole just prior to Officer Santoli spotting this vehicle.

James Raymond is being charged with:

--Resisting Arrest, Disturbing the Peace, Disorderly Person

Jermir Gonzales is being charged with:

--Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating to Endanger, Failure to Stop for a Police Officer, Speeding, Marked Lanes Violation, Red Light Violation, Resisting Arrest, Disturbing the Peace, Disorderly Person, Two Default Warrants from Lynn/Malden PD's

Both were arraigned on 12/5/11 at the Stoughton District Court.

Further charges may be filed pending a complete investigation.

The Town of Sharon utilizes various media sources to deliver messages to the community, especially during times of emergency. There is cable TV, AM Radio 1630 and an emergency telephone notification system. All of these are good, if one has electricity at their home, but if electricity is disrupted, TV doesn’t work, radio does if you have a battery operated one, and the telephone notification works only with those who service continues to work when electric power is disrupted. Therefore we recommend that you follow the directions below to register secondary (e-mail, cell phone) points of contact.

TO REGISTER go to The Town of Sharon website at www.townofsharon.net . Then go to the Sharon Police Department webpage by clicking on “Town Departments” in the blue column on the left side of the page, and then click on “Police Department” which will appear in the list of Sharon Municipal Departments. You will then see a banner “CODE RED”. Click on the banner which will then bring you to the CODE RED page which gives you a brief explanation of the system. At the bottom of the page it will direct you to again click on the banner to register. Then just follow the prompts.

BURGLARY PREVENTION ADVICE

**Since September of 2011 there have been housebreaks on South Walpole Street, Billings Street, Capen Hill Road, North Main, East Street, Moose Hill Street, and Pine Steet. These housebreaks have generally been occurring later in the week with some during the evening hours when no one is home. Items being taken mainly consist of jewelry, laptop computers and televisions. Residents are asked to immediately report any suspicious activity (people or vehicles) or pertinent information to the Sharon Police Department at 784-1588 or 911 if reporting an emergency. Below are Crime Prevention tips from Officer Steven Fontes of the Sharon Police Department.

Over the past month the Town of Sharon and surrounding communities have seen numerous house and vehicle burglaries. In this article I will give you some basic reminders to help protect your property from thieves.

When it comes to home security, start with the basics. Lock your doors and windows whenever you leave your house. We have had burglaries when victims left their home for just 30 minutes. If you have an alarm system, use it. Do not leave valuables (laptops, money, jewelry, small electronics, etc.) visible from outside windows. These items could give a potential burglar more incentive to break into your home. If a burglar enters your home, he will go to your bedroom looking for jewelry and other items of value. They will look for jewelry boxes on top of your dresser and in the drawers. Consider keeping valuables hidden in a closet or locked in a safe. If you find your home has been burglarized, leave and call police immediately from a safe location. When you are home you can help by reporting any suspicious people or vehicles that are in your neighborhood.

In addition to homes, many residents have been victims of motor vehicle burglaries. As above, LOCK YOUR CAR DOORS. Many victims have had items stolen from their unlocked vehicle while it was parked in their driveway. Most of these crimes occur late at night. Try leaving an outside light on or use a sensor light to illuminate your driveway. Do not leave anything of value in your car, thieves will take everything they can carry including: wallets, tools, electronics, etc. Thieves also look for items to steal from vehicles in parking lots (malls, train station, apartment buildings, etc.). If desired items like GPS units, laptops, pocketbooks, cell phones, etc. are visible, a thief may break into your car to steal them. Remove those items from your vehicle or lock them in your trunk.

With both home and vehicle burglaries, try not to touch anything or walk around the area. Officers will search the scene for evidence including fingerprints and footprints. It is recommended that residence keep an inventory log of their valuables. This will assist officers in their investigation. Document serial numbers of all electronics in your home. Photograph jewelry and other items of value so they can be easily identified. Hopefully these reminders will help keep your property safe. If you have further questions about crime prevention you can contact Officer Steve Fontes, Crime Prevention Officer, at 781-784-1587.

This story is reposted as it appears in the Sharon Patch Publication.

A Canton man and a Sharon woman were arrested as fugitives from justice in Salem, N.H. on Friday in the La Quinta hotel parking lot, and thousands of dollars worth of stolen items were later recovered.

Andrew Busa, 26, of Canton was arrested as a fugitive from justice and for possession of heroin and receiving stolen property.

Hannah Boraks, 22, of Sharon was also charged as a fugitive from justice along with heroin possession, receiving stolen property and burglary.

Salem police detectives were notified by Sharon Police that two suspects wanted in connection with several local burglaries were suspected of being in Salem.

Police said a "methodical" search of local hotels led to the identification of the suspects' vehicle in the La Quinta parking lot and following brief surveillance both suspects exited the hotel. Police said they were stopped at the vehicle and taken into custody as fugitives from Massachusetts.

Search warrants were obtained for the suspects' vehicle and hotel room. Police said they recovered thousands of dollars worth of items they believe were stolen including cash, jewelry, watches, a silver set, prescription medication, iPods, cell phones, cameras and other items.

Police said they also recovered heroin and other drug paraphernalia.

The case remains active as authorities from several agencies are working to determine the owners of the stolen merchandise, police said.

Busa and Boraks were held with no bail pending hearings in Salem District Court, Salem Police said.

Sharon Police Detectives (Scott Leonard and Kevin Bishop) learned that the above individuals were believed to be in the Salem, New Hampshire area. After notifying the Salem, NH PD both were arrested there on multiple charges including the above mentioned Sharon Police Department arrest warrants. As a result of further investigation both will be additionally charged with five house breaks that occurred in Sharon during June and July. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed. Both are currently being held in New Hampshire on their charges and will face the Sharon charges at a later date.

Sharon Police Department

Launches Intensive Crackdown on Impaired Driving

Police Vow to Arrest Everyone Found Driving Over the Limit

The Sharon Police Department today announced it will join nearly 200 other law enforcement agencies statewide in support of an intensive crackdown on impaired driving from August 19 to September 5, known as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”

The problem of impaired driving is a serious one. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows the number of alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities in Massachusetts fell from 2008 to 2009, but the numbers are still too high.

In 2009 alone, 108 people died in crashes in which a driver or motorcycle rider was at or above the legal limit, according to the NHTSA. The age group with the highest percentage of alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes was the 21-to-24 age group.

“All too often, innocent, law-abiding people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of loved ones due to this careless disregard for human life. Because we’re committed to keeping the Commonwealth’s roadways safe, we’re intensifying enforcement during the crackdown. Since twice as many alcohol-impaired crashes occur over the weekend and four times as many occur at night, we will be especially vigilant during these high-risk times when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads,” said Chief Joseph Bernstein.

According to the Registry of Motor Vehicles, violators often face jail time, loss of their driver licenses, or are sentenced to use ignition interlocks. Their insurance rates go up. Other financial expenses include attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work, and the potential loss of a current or prospective job. All told, a first offense can easily cost well over $5000 as well as personal embarrassment and humiliation.

Driving impaired is simply not worth all the consequences. So don’t take the chance. .

For more information, visit the High-Visibility Enforcement Campaign Headquarters at www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.

On July 19, 2011 at approximately 11:25 A.M.. while on patrol Officer Steven Fontes observed a suspicious motor vehicle pulled over on Edge Hill Road with two people nearby. The vehicle immediately left the area. A check of the residence nearest to where the vehicle had been revealed a break-in may have occurred. The homeowners arrived home at about 1 P.M. and it was determined a break-in had actually occurred. Entry was through unlocked doors and a large amount of jewelry and a laptop were missing. While at the residence with Detective Kevin Bishop the property (jewelry and laptop) was located by Officer Fontes in a backpack by the rear door. Further investigation linked the two individuals seen by Officer Fontes directly to the break- in. Also assisting at the scene was Officer Brad Fitzhenry . Arrest warrants were issued for:

Andrew Busa (Age 26) of 176 Pond Street in Sharon
Hannah Boraks (Age 22) of 176 Pond Street in Sharon

Both have been charged with the following:

Breaking & Entering Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony
Attempt to Commit a Crime (larceny)
Obstruction of Justice
Conspiracy to Commit a Crime

On 6/29/11 at approximately 1250hrs a 911 call was received stating that the Shaw's Supermarket in Sharon was being robbed. Upon responding it was determined this call was unfounded and no robbery occurred. It was also learned that a similar call was received earlier by the Stoughton Police Department where a male stated that the Shaw's in Canton was being robbed. This also proved to be false and these cases remain under investigation. Any one with any information is asked to contact the Sharon Police Department.

On June 7, 2011 Selectmen appointed three Sharon residents as Special Police Officers. Kyle McNeill, Brian Kamp, and Joshua Bowman (pictured left to right) are seen in these photos being sworn in by Town Clerk Marlene Chused on June 15, 2011.

McNeill graduated from Sharon High School in 1997, Kamp in 1999. Bowman, a Plainville native, is in the U.S. Army Reserves and served active duty from 2006 to 2010 including 14 months in Iraq.

All three officers have been through the reserve intermittent police academy and are now ready for duty. The Special Police Division which comes under the command of Lt. John Ford assist and augment regular police during town activities such as July 3^rd festivities, Town Meeting, and other town events as needed.

Last week several police officers (one from Sharon, Five from Stoughton) drove in three police cruisers to Springfield, Massachusetts to assist with disaster relief efforts stemming from the recent tornado. These officers went door to door meeting with victims of the tornado and simply asked how they could help. These officers assisted with the cleanup of a family's property and heard the story of how a mother had less than one minute to gather her children and get to the basement. Winds in excess of 145 mph ripped through the neighborhood and destroyed over 300 homes. Residents were amazed by the outpouring of assistance from other communities at their greatest time of need. Most had never heard of Sharon or Stoughton but were extremely grateful for the support received from these officers and agencies. All of these officers (who wish to remain nameless) left much richer from their experience and also had the opportunity to work with members of the Salvation Army, American Red Cross, and Springfield Police/Fire Departments.

BURGLARY PREVENTION ADVICE

Over the past several months the Town of Sharon and surrounding communities have seen numerous house and vehicle burglaries. In this article I will give you some basic reminders to help protect your property from thieves.

On May 21 and 22, 2011 the Sharon Police Department conducted its fourth "Junior Cadet Academy" at the Sharon Police Station. The program is designed for middle school aged youth to see "inside" the Sharon Police Department and how we function. Twenty were chosen out of numerous applications with classroom space being a limiting factor. The applicant's responses to questions on the application were reviewed to help determine who would be selected.

The cadets received an extensive tour of the police station while observing demonstrations of the various functions a police officer performs. These included a firearms demonstration, police equipment review, arrest booking procedures, crime scene investigation, canine narcotics demonstration, radar demonstration, motor vehicle stop procedures, and field sobriety testing. Some of the training was interactive allowing for the cadets to actually do some "hands on" activity.

Upon graduating from the two day academy all cadets received certificates, cadet tee shirts and a Sharon Police Department patch. Each will also receive a graduation photograph. At the conclusion of their training a pizza party was enjoyed by the cadets, their parents, and Sharon Police Officers who provided the training. The cadets were: Jared King, Shane Derry, Matt Lichtman, Rachael Skulsky, Domenic Roberto, Geoffrey Commons, Isabella Dunn, Sammi Thomas, Max Greenberg, Gabriel Gavrilov, Hannah Kent, Iman Nandi, Drew Gallagher, Allison Glennon, Eric Barth, Samantha Conley, and Kendra Bolt. The academy was greatly enjoyed by those who attended. The academy was set up and organized by Sharon Police School Resource Officer Michael Hocking under the direction of Lt. Tilden Kaufman. He was assisted by Officer Gus Patino, Officer Anthony Lucie, Officer Steven Fontes, Officer Richard Derry, Officer Joseph Deberadinis, Detective Scott Leonard, Medfield School Resource Officer Michelle Bento, Sharon Special Police Officer/Dispatcher Margaret Patino, Massachusetts's Department of Corrections Sergeant's Mark O'Reilly and Joe O'Brien for their K9 demonstrations.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to thank the Sharon Fish and Game Club for use of their facilities.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce that charges have been filed against three individuals for the Armed Robbery of the Dunkin Donuts at Shaw's Plaza on April 20, 2011. After a lengthy investigation by Sharon Police Detective Kevin Bishop with assistance from several law enforcement agencies the following individuals have been charged:

Jared Nisby (Age 21 of 21 Ford Place in Scituate, Mass,) charged with Armed Robbery While Masked, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (knife), Conspiracy, Disorderly Conduct, and Disturbing the Peace.
Andrew Votsis (Age 23 of 25 Shelby Court in East Bridgewater, Mass.) charged with Armed Robbery, Conspiracy and Being an Accessory After the Fact.
Courtney Shatzl (Age 21 of 25 Shelby Court in East Bridgewater, Mass.) charged with Being an Accessory After the Fact.

FROM: Deputy Chief McGrath

RE: Sharon P. D.’s Official Centennial Date

Over the past few years I have been researching and documenting the history of the Sharon Police Department. One of my goals was to determine the beginning date as an organized, structured police department. The criteria chosen were simple; 1.) Department must have sworn appointed or elected officers. 2.) There must be a designated leader of the department, (Chief, Director, etc...), appointed or elected. 3.) Finally, there must be monies allocated from the town for the services of said department in the annual budget.

Using the above criteria I was able to pinpoint the beginning date. On May 13, 1911 Hervey Derry received an appointment as Chief of Police for the Sharon Police Department. Prior to that date there had never been a designated leader in the form of Chief, Director or by any other name. Chief Derry had appointed “Regular” Police Officers and “Special” Police Officers serving under his command. Following his appointment, and for the very first time in the Town’s history, police services were paid from Town monies designated specifically for the “Sharon Police Department”. Prior to that time monies were disbursed from the “Miscellaneous Appropriations” area of the budget for “Police Services”. Therefore, with all the criteria met, May 13, 1911 is the logical date to designate as the official beginning date of the Sharon Police Department.

Perhaps you have noticed the badges worn by uniformed personnel have been different than the badges usually worn. We began wearing these badges on January 1, 2011 to commemorate our 100 year anniversary as an established police department. The design of the badge presently worn is an exact replica of the very first badges worn by officers of the Sharon Police Department in its beginning.

This Friday, May 13^th, 2011 the members of the Sharon Police Department will celebrate the 100 year anniversary of our Department! Please say happy birthday to any of our men and women in blue you happen to see!

The week of May 15^th – May 21st^, is National Police Week, a time to honor and remember our country's law enforcement officers that lost their lives in the line of duty. Presently there are more than nineteen thousand names inscribed on the granite walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., one hundred and fifty two of those names were deaths occurring in 2010 and sixty seven more names have already been added for 2011. Each officer's death is a true tragedy and a reminder of the extreme danger that comes along with wearing the badge. In the year 1966, Sharon Auxiliary Police Officer Stratford B. Allen was struck by an automobile while directing traffic at a Fourth of July carnival at Deborah Sampson Park and succumbed to his injuries on July 6, 1966. He was seventy four years old at the time of his death. He was a vibrant man, well loved and respected and had volunteered his services to the police department for more than twenty years. Please take a moment to reflect on the great sacrifice made by Officer Allen and his family, as well as all the fallen officers and their survivors.

I Read His Name upon the Wall

I read his name upon the wall,

My brother in blue who gave his all,

Remembered the funeral, like it was yesterday,

When so many gathered at the site of his grave.

And the bagpipers played "Amazing Grace",

Tears fell like rain on near every face,

The sight of his son standing tall in a suit,

Who tried not to flinch with the rifle's salute.

The mournful sound as the bugler played taps,

And the lump in my throat when the echo played back,

The pain in the eyes of his widowed wife,

Tragically robbed of the love of her life.

Yet still found the strength to sit straight in her chair,

When presented the flag that was folded with care,

And the heads that were bowed in that vast crowd of blue,

Whispered prayers for their brother and his family too.

He had been true to the oath and honored his shield,

Faced danger with courage, refusing to yield,

So others could live, our brother did fall,

And so I read his name upon the wall.

Deputy Chief J. J. McGrath, Sharon Police Department

Sharon Police Department Launches Special Statewide High-Visibility Click It or Ticket Enforcement Blitz

Massachusetts is Getting Tough on All Drivers and Passengers in an Effort to

Boost Seat Belt Use and Save Lives

Sharon, MA – As part of a nationwide effort to save lives, the Sharon Police Department, in partnership with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s (EOPSS) Highway Safety Division (HSD), the State Police and nearly 190 other local departments, is launching a high-visibility seat belt enforcement blitz called Click It or Ticket. The message is simple: Massachusetts drivers and passengers should always wear their seat belts or be ready to face the consequences.

This special crackdown, beginning May 23 and running through June 5, marks the first seat belt enforcement mobilization across the state this year, designed to increase seat belt use and decrease motor vehicle fatalities and injuries. Over 180 police departments and the State Police have adopted zero-tolerance policies for seat belt violations, signaling the increasing importance of the issue.

“Too many people still have the reckless attitude that a crash will never happen to them,” said Lt. John Ford. “Unfortunately these tragedies can and do happen every day, and the best way to protect yourself is by wearing a seat belt.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), based on known usage, 52 percent of the passenger vehicle occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes in Massachusetts during 2009 were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash, three percent higher than the national average.

“A lot of people shrug off the statistics because they see themselves as good drivers,” said Lt. Ford, “but they forget that they can get hurt because of other reckless drivers. Your best defense is to buckle up.”

On April 20, 2011 at approximately 453pm the Dunkin Donuts at Shaw's Plaza in Sharon was robbed by a white male described as being in his twenties, 5"8", wearing jeans, glasses and a hooded sweatshirt. The suspect showed a knife and fled on foot with an undetermined amount of cash. No one was injured and the case remains under investigation by Sharon Police Detectives

NATIONAL DRUG TURN IN DAY

DATE: Saturday April 30, 2011

TIME: 10 A.M. until 2 P.M.

LOCATION: Sharon Police Department

213 South Main Street

The Sharon Police, in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will participate in the second nationwide drug take back day. Expired, unused, or unwanted prescriptions, or over the counter medications, can be turned in. This event is for pills, liquids, creams, etc. No needles or other sharp items will be collected. No questions will be asked and no paperwork will be filled out. Just scrape off or black out any names visible on prescription bottles. All drugs turned will destroyed by the DEA. Any further questions, contact Officer Steve Fontes at 781-784-1587.

Patrolman Deberadinis, Deputy Chief J.J. McGrath, Sharon Credit Union President Jim Carlson, and Chief Joseph Bernstein

Sharon Police Department Receives Funding For Additional Motorcycle!

Sharon, MA- Over the past few weeks the Sharon Police Department has reached out to the local business community in hopes of receiving donations to allow the Department to purchase a third motorcycle that was intended to be traded in. The cost to purchase the trade in was just a hair under seven thousand dollars but with budgets as tight as they are, purchasing the 2005 Harley Davidson using Department monies was not going to be possible. Leading the charge to their rescue was the Sharon Credit Union with a donation of $7,000 which funded the entire purchase of the motorcycle.

“It is our way of thanking the Town of Sharon’s law enforcement. They are always ready and willing to help Sharon Credit Union whenever we need their services,” said Jim Carlson, President of Sharon Credit Union. According to Sharon Police Deputy Chief McGrath numerous other businesses were ready to help out with donations also and because of the Sharon Credit Union’s large contribution their additional donations will be used to purchase an entirely new lighting system for the motorcycle which will replace the older system making it a great deal safer! “I’m not surprised to see this level of generosity from our business community as they’ve always been civic minded and very supportive of the Sharon Police Department and our law enforcement initiatives, but it is especially meaningful and appreciated during these difficult economic times” the Deputy Chief commented.

Deputy Chief McGrath explained that the Department currently has two motorcycles in their fleet and the third motorcycle addition will give them the ability to expand their community policing initiatives, traffic enforcement and special events coverage. “The third motorcycle will be a great benefit to the residents and businesses of Sharon as well as those visiting or just passing through” he said.

The local businesses responsible for funding the new lighting system through their donations are; Sharon Dunkin Donuts, Senior Aerospace of Sharon, Rotary Club of Sharon, Sharon Holiday Inn Express, The Mortgage Place, Sharon Lions Club and three other businesses that wish to remain anonymous.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce that two individuals have been charged with the Sharon Credit Union Bank Robbery that occurred on September 22, 2010. After a lengthy investigation by Sharon Police Detectives Scott Leonard and Kevin Bishop in conjunction with detectives from the Easton and Stoughton Police Departments the following two individuals have been charged:

Matthew Sarnowitz (Age 28 of 9 Dogwood Lane in Easton) charged with Armed Robbery While Masked, Possession of a Firearm During a Felony, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Conspiracy.
Matthew Roberto (Age 20 of 573 Depot Street in Easton) charged with Armed

Robbery While Masked, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Receiving a Stolen

Vehicle, Conspiracy

Both of these individuals have also been charged in Easton and Stoughton with numerous other robberies. The stolen motorcycle from the Sharon robbery was recovered in Stoughton and both subjects have admitted their involvement in the Sharon Credit Union robbery.

During the course of this investigation (On 10/4/10 at approximately 1204pm) a third suspect (Robert Braverman, Age 24 of 29 Howard Farm Rd in Sharon) fled from Detective Leonard and led him on a pursuit which ultimately ended in Stoughton with Mr. Braverman being taken into custody on numerous charges including his involvement in a previous bank robbery in Easton. During this pursuit which began in Easton and entered into Sharon on Bay Road, Mr. Braverman swerved towards Sharon Police Officer Gus Patino who was out of his cruiser. Officer Patino was able to jump behind his cruiser to avoid being struck. Braverman is facing the following charges from the pursuit:

Operating a Motor Vehicle Negligently to Endanger
Failure to Stop for a Police Officer
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon
Speeding
Marked Lanes Violation

Easton Police Officer on detail nabs Sharon’s B. & E. suspects.

On September 30, 2010 at approximately 12:38pm Sharon Police received a 911 call from a Mansfield Street resident reporting his house had been broken into by a man who was still in his home. As Sharon Police Officers responded to the scene the victim resident reported the suspect had now fled the scene and described the suspect, the suspect’s car and the registration plate attached. Sharon Police arrived on scene within minutes and began searching the area roads for the suspect vehicle while Sharon Police Dispatch notified surrounding communities of the incident.

A short time later an extremely vigilant Easton Police Officer, Steve Hamilton, working a road detail on Poquanticut Avenue in Easton spotted the suspect vehicle and stopped the vehicle with the assistance of Easton Police Officer Robert Touhy, detaining two suspects until Sharon Police Officers arrived. The victim arrived on scene shortly thereafter and positively identified one of the suspects whom he had observed in his home. Both men were arrested on felony charges.

Arrestees:

Name: Patrick Horan

DOB: 07/05/84

Address: 37 Bakersfield St. #2, Dorchester, Ma.

Charge(s): Breaking & Entering Daytime Intent to Commit Felony, Disorderly Person

Name: Daniel Bertoni

DOB: 08/16/86

Address: 37 Bakersfield St. #2, Dorchester, Ma.

Charge(s): Breaking & Entering Daytime Intent to Commit Felony, Disorderly Person

Easton Police Detail Officer:

Patrolman Steve Hamilton

Easton Police Assisting Patrol Officer:

Patrolman Robert Tuohy

Sharon Police Arresting Officers:

Patrolman Steven Fontes

Patrolman Paul Hertzberg

Bank Robbery

On September 22, 2010 shortly before 4pm the Sharon Credit Union on Pond Street was robbed by a lone white male. The suspect is described as being 20-30 years of age, approximately 5'8" tall, 150 pounds with a thin build. He was wearing a silver motorcycle helmet with face shield, dark one piece coverall and dark work boots. He was carrying a black bag and showed a black handgun. No one was injured and no shots were fired. He fled down Pond Street towards Easton on a two toned (dark and white) Japanese style racing motorcycle. Anyone who may have any information related to this robbery is asked to contact the Sharon police Department at 781-784-1586. The case is being investigated by Detective Scott Leonard.

OCTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

This October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) in Massachusetts and across the country. DVAM evolved from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981. The day was conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to a range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels. In 1989 the U.S. Congress passed a law designating October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Each year, the Day of Unity is celebrated on the first Monday of October.

In an effort to bring attention to domestic violence awareness, a campaign called “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” was started. Landmarks such as Niagara Falls, bridges, statues, and buildings will be illuminated for a day, a week, or the month. Locally, the spot light in front of the Sharon Police station will shine purple for the month of October. The purple light symbolizes the courage of domestic violence (DV) survivors and helps bring awareness about the prevalence of DV. Since DV thrives in silence and in darkness, it is important that we shine the light on DV to bring it out of the shadows and out from behind closed doors.

Domestic violence comes in many forms including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence contact the Sharon Police. If you want to make a confidential call to an advocate about domestic violence and services available, you can contact the following local agencies:

H.UG.S. SHARON

781-784-5056

www.hugs-sharon.org

NEW HOPE

800-323-4673

www.new-hope.org

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce several promotions that will take effect on September 26, 2010. They are as follows:

Lieutenant John McGrath will be promoted to Deputy Chief. He will be the first ever "Deputy Chief" in department history. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Degree from Western New England College. He also served in the United States Marine Corps (1975-1977) and the United States Air Force Security Police (1977-1981) attaining the rank of Sergeant. During 1980-1981 he served in "Operation ELF ONE" in Saudi Arabia during the Iran/Iraq war. He has been employed by the Sharon Police Department since 1985. From 1984-1985 he was a Sharon Special Police Officer. He has risen through the ranks as a Detective, Sergeant, and was promoted to Lieutenant in November of 1996. He is currently serving as the Patrol Division Commander. He has also served as the Support Services Commander. He has received considerable training in a variety of areas, including emergency management and homeland security issues. In his role as Deputy Chief he will have direct oversight of the Patrol Division, and coordinate combined investigative, homeland security and emergency management initiatives within the department and outside agencies. Lieutenant McGrath was born, raised and resides in Sharon with his wife, Kathleen (McCarthy) and four children.

Sergeant John Ford will be promoted to Lieutenant. He has been employed by the Sharon Police Department since 1996. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2005. Prior to joining the force he was a teacher in the Sharon Public Schools for sixteen years as a music teacher and Director of Music. He also holds graduate degrees from Lesley College and Western New England College. In his new position he will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Patrol Division. He has attended numerous training courses and is currently working a midnight/evening split shift. During his tenure here he has received four Life Saving Commendations. Sergeant Ford is a life-long resident of Sharon. He comes from a long family line of law enforcement officials. George Little, his grandfather, was a Boston Police Officer. His other grandfather, Henry Ford, was a Stoughton Court Officer. His father (Sergeant Robert Ford) was a 40 year Sharon Police veteran who served in numerous capacities for the department from 1952-1992.

Officer Donald Brewer will be promoted to Sergeant. He has been employed by the Sharon Police Department since 2006 and has been a Temporary Sergeant since April of 2009 while Sgt. Williams has been away on Military Leave. Officer Brewer will be assigned as a Patrol Supervisor. He presently resides in Sharon with his wife and children.

A swearing ceremony for the above noted promotions will take place at the Sharon Community Center Ballroom on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at 5:30pm. The public is invited to attend.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce its participation in the Drug Enforcement Administration's first ever "Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day." On September 25, 2010 from 10am-2pm at the police station (213 South Main Street) we will be collecting potentially dangerous, expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. These drugs will be destroyed. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. This initiative seeks to prevent increased pill abuse and related crimes.

***Also see related press release attached to this email from the Department of Justice***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PAO

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19, 2010

CONTACT: DEA PUBLIC AFFAIRS

WWW.JUSTICE.GOV 202-307-7977

DEA HEADS FIRST-EVER NATIONWIDE PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE-BACK DAY

WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and government, community, public health and law enforcement partners today announced a nationwide prescription drug “Take-Back” initiative that seeks to prevent increased pill abuse and theft. DEA will be collecting potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction at sites nationwide on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, from 10 A.M.-2 P.M. local time. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are increasing at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards.

“With this National Prescription Drug Take-Back campaign, we are aggressively reaching out to individuals to encourage them to rid their households of unused prescription drugs that pose a safety hazard and can contribute to prescription drug abuse,” said Acting Deputy Attorney General Gary G. Grindler. “The Department of Justice is committed to doing everything we can to make our communities safer, and this initiative represents a new front in our efforts.”

“Today we are launching a first-ever National Prescription Drug Take-Back campaign that will provide a safe way for Americans to dispose of their unwanted prescription drugs,” said Michele M. Leonhart, Acting Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration. “This effort symbolizes DEA’s commitment to halting the disturbing rise in addiction caused by their misuse and abuse. Working together with our state and local partners, the medical community, anti-drug coalitions, and a concerned public, we will eliminate a major source of abused prescription drugs, and reduce the hazard they pose to our families and communities in a safe, legal, and environmentally sound way.”

“Prescription drug abuse is the Nation’s fastest-growing drug problem, and take-back events like this one are an indispensable tool for reducing the threat that the diversion and abuse of these drugs pose to public health,” said Director of National Drug Control Policy Gil Kerlikowske. “The Federal/state/and local collaboration represented in this initiative is key in our national efforts to reduce pharmaceutical drug diversion and abuse.”

Collection sites in every local community can be found by going to www.dea.gov. This site will be continuously updated with new take-back locations. Other participants in this initiative include the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy; the Partnership for a Drug-Free America; the International Association of Chiefs of Police; the National Association of Attorneys General; the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy; the Federation of State Medical Boards; and the National District Attorneys Association.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce that several housebreaks have been solved and individuals charged.

On June 4, 2010 a Mitchell Road residence was broken into with a very large amount of jewelry being stolen. Information related to this break was later provided by Stoughton Police Detective James O'Connor that led to further investigation by Sharon Police Detective Kevin Bishop. As a result of that information arrest warrants have been sought for two individuals (Anthony Ricci, age 27 of 191 King Avenue in Weymouth) and (Jacqueline Dean, age 24 of 54 West Hodges Street in Norton) charging both with Breaking and Entering in Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony, Larceny, and Malicious Destruction of Property. Most of the property was recovered and returned to its owners.

On June 25, 2010 a Maskwonicut Street residence was broken into with numerous items being stolen including jewelry and a laptop computer. Detective Kevin Bishop initiated an investigation that led to an arrest warrant being issued for Alonzo Bryant (Age 45) of 303 Potters Avenue in Providence, Rhode Island. Mr. Bryant has been charged with Breaking and Entering in the Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony and

Larceny. Detective Bishop was able to recover and return several of the stolen items to its owners.

On August 19, 2010 the Sharon Police Department and Sharon Recreation Department held a Bicycle Rodeo in the high school parking lot. The event was made possible by a grant received from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security's Highway Safety Division which selected the Sharon Police Department to receive 75 helmets as part of their 2010 Statewide Bicycle Helmet Program. The weather was great and those who attended greatly enjoyed the rodeo. Town employees who assisted at the event from left to right are: Alexandra Purdue-Smith, Meaghan Perry, Brett MacGowan, Mike Hocking, Amanda Deni, and Steven Fontes. For more information about obtaining a helmet please contact the Sharon Recreation Department at 784-1530.

On May 2, 2010 this department received numerous calls from residents of the Brook and Glendale Road areas reporting their vehicles had been broken into. Most of the vehicles were unlocked and items such as GPS units, cell phones, credit cards, and loose change were taken. A description was provided to this department of two individuals who were seen acting suspiciously in the area. A short time later two individuals were located in the woods off of Brook Road (at "Devils Rock") by Sharon Police Detective Scott Leonard and Sgt. Donald Brewer. Items linked to one of these car breaks was located in their possession and further investigation led to the arrest of the following two individuals:

Michael Smith (Age 18 of 316 North Main Street in Sharon)
Colin Sullivan (Age 24 of 257 Rockland Street in Canton)

They have been charged with Breaking & Entering into a Motor Vehicle and Receiving Stolen Property. It was later learned that at the time of his arrest Mr. Sullivan had falsely used his brother's name and information. His true name is Colin Sullivan and not his brother's as falsely stated. As a result an arrest warrant has been filed for him along with the additional charge of providing a false name to a police officer. Also assisting with the initial investigation were Sharon Police Officers Gus Patino, Steven Fontes, and Joseph Deberadinis.

At this time it is uncertain how many vehicles were broken into and the pair will likely face additional charges as the investigation proceeds. Residents are reminded to lock their car doors and not make this any easier for those who wish to steal.

On May 1^st and 2^nd, 2010 the Sharon Police Department conducted its third "Junior Cadet Academy" at the Sharon Police Station. The program is designed for middle school aged youth to see "inside" the Sharon Police Department and how we function. Thirteen were chosen out of numerous applications with classroom space being a limiting factor. The applicant's responses to questions on the application were reviewed to help determine who would be selected.

The cadets received an extensive tour of the police station while observing demonstrations of the various functions a police officer performs. These included a firearms demonstration, police equipment review, arrest booking procedures, crime scene investigation, canine narcotics demonstration, defensive tactics, radar demonstration, motor vehicle stop procedures, and field sobriety testing. Some of the training was interactive allowing for the cadets to actually do some "hands on" activity.

Upon graduating from the two day academy all cadets received certificates, cadet tee shirts and a Sharon Police Department patch. Each will also receive a graduation photograph. At the conclusion of their training a pizza party was enjoyed by the cadets, their parents, and Sharon Police Officers who provided the training. The thirteen cadets were: Samantha Gilmore, Mark Nasuti, Joe Haviland, Coby Mayhew, Julia Staula, Elise Commons, Rachel Altman, Brett Robinson, Brianna Elgart, Aynslie D'Avanzo, Eddie Iliescu, Rachel Dougherty, and Angela Zhang. The academy was greatly enjoyed by those who attended. The academy was set up and organized by Sharon Police School Resource Officer Michael Hocking under the direction of Lt. Tilden Kaufman. He was assisted by Lt. John McGrath Officer Gus Patino,, Officer Anthony Lucie, Officer Steven Fontes, Officer Joseph Deberadinis, Detective Scott Leonard, Detective Kevin Bishop, and Special Police Officer Margaret Patino.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to thank the Sharon Fish and Game Club for use of their facilities during the firearms portion of training.

On April 15, 2010 as the result of an investigation led by Sharon Police Detective Scott Leonard a female was arrested at the Avalon Bay Apartment complex in Sharon and charged with Sexual Conduct For a Fee. The female was identified as Yun Wang (age 37 of 125 Nicholson Ave in Monterey Park, California). Wang was advertising her services on Craigslist and with assistance from members of NORPAC (Norfolk County Police Anti-Crime Task Force) further investigation led to her arrest. Assisting during the arrest were Sharon Police Detective Kevin Bishop and Officer Steven Fontes. Ms. Wang was arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on April 16, 2010.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce that an arrest warrant has been filed in regards to the Eastern Bank robbery in Sharon Center on September 7, 2007. William Archer, age 44 (last known address 487 Diamond Hill Rd, Warwick RI) faces charges of unarmed robbery in connection with the incident. Archer is currently being held by Rhode Island authorities in connection with at least one bank robbery (Cranston) there. Sharon's break in the case came when Sgt. John Ford discovered clothing near the bank which fit clothing worn by the robber. A form of identification was found in the clothing and further investigation by Detectives Bishop and Leonard led to the charge against Mr. Archer. No one was hurt in the Sharon robbery and the money was not recovered.

**UPDATE**

On March 23, 2010 Mr. Archer pled guilty to Unarmed Robbery in Norfolk Superior Court. Judge Kenneth Fishman sentenced Mr. Archer to two years and one day in state prison. Mr. Archer is currently serving a federal sentence for bank robberies in Rhode Island and will serve time for the Sharon robbery after his release from federal custody.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce Dean Santoli as its newest Police Officer. Officer Santoli graduated the Massachusetts State Police Academy in January. Officer Santoli grew up in Sharon and graduated from Sharon High School in 1994. He went on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College graduating in 1998. He then joined the U.S. Army in 2003 and served on active duty for five years attaining the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded numerous medals and citations for his service which included tours in Korea and Iraq. Officer Santoli will be assigned to a Field Training Officer for six weeks and then be assigned to a permanent shift.

On January 13, 2010, Officer Steven Fontes of the Sharon Police Department participated with numerous police agencies in the 3rd annual Massachusetts State Police National AMBER Alert Child Safety Fair held at Patriot Place in Foxboro. The event was held in observance of the 13^th Annual National AMBER Alert Awareness Day. Officer Fontes along with numerous other police personnel prepared several hundred free child identification kits for parents to use in the event that their child goes missing or is abducted. National AMBER Alert Day honors the memory of Amber Hagerman, a nine year old girl who was abducted and murdered in Arlington, Texas in January of 1996. The AMBER Alert system activates an urgent bulletin in the most serious child abduction cases in an attempt to galvanize the entire community to assist in the search for and safe recovery of the child. In the six years since the AMBER Alert program's inception in Massachusetts, there have been 14 AMBER Alert activations seeking a total of 22 abducted children. The program has ensured the safe recovery of all of these children. The success of the AMBER Alert program sends a strong message that crime against our children is grossly unacceptable and that as a society, we will work together to track down perpetrators who prey on children and safely recover the children they intend to harm.

On January 6, 2010 at approximately 1238pm the Sharon Police Department received a 911 call from a resident stating an attempt was just made to break into the residence. At the time the homeowner was home when two males tried to gain entry and were scared off when they realized the residence was occupied. The resident was able to provide a description of the suspects and vehicle involved. Minutes later Officer Adam Leavitt observed a vehicle fitting the suspect vehicle description traveling on East Foxboro Street near Falcon Drive. He was able to stop the vehicle without incident. Subsequent further investigation led to the arrest of the following individuals on numerous charges:

Austin Gomes (Age 19 of 19 Spring Lane, Sharon) charged with B&E Daytime with Intent to Commit Felony, Disorderly Person, Threats to Commit Crime, Conspiracy to Commit B&E

Robert Ridley (Age 18 of 1479 Turnpike Street, Stoughton) charged with B&E

Daytime with Intent to Commit Felony, Disorderly Person, Conspiracy to Commit

B&E

Koroosh Roshan (Age 18 of 14 Fales Road, Sharon) charged with B&E Daytime

With Intent to Commit Felony, Conspiracy to Commit B&E

Assisting with the investigation and arrest were Officer Gus Patino, Sergeant Stephen Coffey and Dispatcher Margaret Patino. Detective Kevin Bishop is continuing the investigation. All three were later bailed and arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on January 7, 2010.

On October 31, 2009 the Sharon Police Department in conjunction with the Governor's Auto Theft Strike Force (GATSF) conducted a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Etching Program in Sharon. Numerous residents brought their vehicles and had the vehicles VIN permanently etched into all windows of their vehicles. The moment a vehicle is reported stolen, its federally registered VIN becomes the mark of a stolen vehicle. Thieves are less likely to risk the theft of an easily identified vehicle nor are they as willing to spend the time and effort trying to replace VIN marked windows. Anyone seeking more information can contact Officer Fontes at 781-784-1586 or the GATSF at 781-393-1200.

Pictured above from left to right and participating in this program were Sharon Special Police Officer Gale Simpson, GATSF Agents Pamela Surette and Charles Tuite, Sharon Auxiliary Officer David Skulsky, and Sharon Police Officer Steven Fontes, Jake Fontes.

LIFE SAVING AWARD

On August 9, 2009 at approximately 844pm the Sharon Police Department received a 911 call from a local woman stating her husband had passed out and may not be breathing. Sharon Police Officer Phil McEnany responded and upon arrival noted the male was not breathing and did not have a pulse. Officer McEnany administered CPR and the male survived the incident, and is now doing very well. Chief Joseph Bernstein awarded Officer McEnany with the department's Life Saving Award (see picture attached) on August 20, 2009 during an evening Roll Call. Officer McEnany has been with the department since mid 2008 and worked here previously from 1986 to 1992.

On August 15, 2009 at approximately 1050pm the Sharon Police Department received a 911 call from an individual at 26 Hixson Farm Rd (Sharon Housing Complex) reporting threats involving a handgun. Upon arrival (Sgt. Coffey, Officers Mannetta, Penders, Kraus and Derry) officers could hear loud yelling and banging coming from a ground floor apartment. After gaining entry it was determined that an individual (see below) had fired several shots from a handgun (which was recovered) while inside the apartment. There were no injuries resulting from the incident. Several occupants at the time included a four year old child. Approximately one pound of marijuana was also seized from the apartment along with a small amount of ammunition.

Anthony Gallop (Age 30) of 560 Massachusetts Avenue in Boston was arrested at the scene and charged with the following:

Assault By Means of a Dangerous Weapon
Kidnapping
Child Endangerment
Discharging a Firearm w/in 500' of a Dwelling
Carrying a Firearm w/out a License
Disorderly Person
Disturbing the Peace

After initially giving officers a false name it was also determined he had several arrest warrants out of Boston for Assault & Battery By Means of Dangerous Weapon, Assault with intent to Murder and Witness Intimidation.

He was held without bail at the Sharon PD and arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on August 17, 2009.

On August 1, 2009 at approximately 3am Sharon Police Officer Andrew Pacino and Sgt. Don Brewer arrested Kenneth McMillan, age 17 of 19 Spring Lane in Sharon. Mr. McMillan was on foot and observed acting suspiciously in the area of Pond Street. Several stolen GPS units along with other stolen items were recovered from Mr. McMillan. He was charged with the following:

Larceny of Property over $250
Breaking and Entering in the Nighttime with Intent to Commit a Felony
Receiving a Stolen Credit Card
Receiving Stolen Property Over $250

Mr. McMillan was bailed at 0930am and arraigned on 8/3/09 at the Stoughton District Court.

It should be noted we have had a recent rash of car breaks (especially in the area of Sharon Center) and residents should lock their car doors. The item of choosing seems to be GPS units, but all valuables should be kept in a more secure area.

On July 23, 2009 at approximately 4pm Officer Allan Greenfield responded to a reported break in at the snack shack belonging to the Sharon Youth Baseball Association on East Foxboro Street. Upon his arrival it was learned that forced entry (side door pried open) was made and money ($180) along with $150 worth of candy was stolen. The incident occurred sometime overnight. During the overnight hours a suspicious vehicle was located in the area by an alert midnight shift officer and the driver identified. He was parked nearby and stated he was visiting with a friend. Further investigation by Sharon Police Detectives Kevin Bishop and Scott Leonard led them to Brockton where the driver was further interviewed. As a result of this the driver (Brendan Green, age 18 of 25 Wilder Street , Brockton) will be charged (via summons) with breaking and entering the snack shack with intent to commit a felony along with four other individuals (see below). Items recovered included some of the candy, a money box, and tire iron (used in the break). The other individuals who will be charged via summons are:

David Green, age 20 of 25 Wilder Street in Brockton
Brian Leear, age 18, of 40 Porter Street in Avon
Christopher Reed, age 17 of 21 River Street (Apt 1) in Brockton
Francisco Nieves, age 17 of 16 Chatham West in Brockton

Sharon Police Department Cracking Down on Seat Belt Use to Save More Lives on Massachusetts Roadways. Special Click It or Ticket Enforcement Mobilization Aims to Increase Seat Belt Use across the State.

(Sharon, Mass) –Members of the Sharon Police Department are making a special, life-changing commitment this summer, to help save more lives on Massachusetts roadways by stepping-up enforcement and reminding all drivers and passengers to Click It or Ticket.

This special crackdown taking place July 23-30, 2009 marks one of many aggressive seat belt enforcement waves across Massachusetts, designed to increase seat belt use and decrease fatalities resulting from motor vehicle crashes.

“It is a proven fact that regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce unnecessary tragic deaths on our roads,” said Sharon Police Chief Joseph Bernstein, “But, too many people still haven’t gotten the message and continue to put their lives at risk by not buckling up.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 65 percent of those killed in motor vehicle crashes in Massachusetts during 2007 were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the fatal crash.

“Even one life lost on our roadways is one too many,” said Chief Bernstein. “That’s why the Sharon Police Department is joining with the State Police and over 240 other local law enforcement organizations to launch this special Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement mobilization. Stepped-up law enforcement activities will be conducted throughout the month, targeting drivers and passengers not wearing their seat belts. No more excuses, no more exceptions.”

Chief Bernstein said that 72 percent of passenger vehicle occupants in a serious crash that are buckled up, survive the crash, and that when worn correctly, seat belts have proven to reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent – and by 60 percent in pickup trucks, SUVs and mini-vans.

“There’s no doubt about it, seat belts save lives. Unfortunately, too many of our residents still need a tough reminder, so we are going to be out in force buckling down on those who are not buckled up,” said Chief Bernstein. “Unless you want to risk a ticket, or worse - your life, please remember to always Click It or Ticket, day and night.”

For more information, please visit www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.

* According to NHTSA, all numbers and percentages referencing belted or unbelted fatalities are based on “Known Usage.”

On May 26, 2009 (Tuesday) at approximately 0300 hrs the Sharon Police Department received a call of a fight involving a knife at 167 Pond Street. Upon arrival Officer Pacino and Sgt. Brewer observed two males wrestling on the ground in the driveway. Off. Pacino was informed that one of the individuals (Brian Carmichael, 26 of 167 Pond Street) was alleged to have assaulted the other with a large kitchen knife. Officer Pacino secured Carmichael at gunpoint as further assistance (Officers Allman and Davis) arrived. The alleged victim was not injured. Carmichael was placed under arrest and transported to the Sharon Police Department where he was uncooperative and threatened to kill the officers during the booking process. Bail was set for $50,000. Carmichael was arraigned later that morning at the Stoughton District Court on the following charges:

Assault with Intent to Murder or Maim
Assault and Battery
Threats (Police and Victim)
Disorderly Person

At the arraignment he was held on $5,000 cash bail and will reappear in court on June 30, 2009.

On May 18, 2009 at approximately 0010hrs Officer Steven Kraus observed two males acting suspiciously inside a vehicle parked in a driveway on Arboro Drive. Officer Kraus further observed them at another nearby vehicle and believed them to be breaking into these vehicles. Upon identifying himself as a police officer the two males fled on foot and jumped over a fence into a nearby wooded area. Upon radioing for assistance Sharon Police Officers (Sgt. Hugh Cameron, Off's. Anthony Lucie, Jeffrey Penders, Dan Allman, and Molly Davis) arrived in the area and secured a perimeter. A canine (K-9) unit was also requested and Stoughton Police K-9 unit Officer John Lydston arrived on scene. During this time a GPS unit was discovered on the lawn area near where the vehicle was broken into and right by the fence where the suspects had fled. The K-9 unit eventually led to the area near the Sharon Middle School and after another brief foot chase a subject was stopped (identified by Off. Kraus as being involved) by Sgt. Cameron and placed under arrest. The second subject was also found hiding in the bushes by the tennis courts at the school. He was also subsequently arrested after initially not cooperating. Two vehicles in total were broken into and two GPS units were recovered. The following individuals were arrested:

Peter Uzzell (age 17) of 11 Cortland Drive in Sharon
Nicholas Lapato (age 18) of 76 Mountain Street in Sharon.

Both were arraigned in Stoughton District Court on May 18, 2009 on two counts each of Breaking and Entering in the Night Time, and Receiving Stolen Property over $250.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce Molly Davis as its newest Police Officer. Officer Davis graduated the MBTA Transit Police Academy after 25 weeks of grueling training on April 8, 2009. Officer Davis grew up in Sharon and graduated Sharon High School in 2003. She continued her education at Northeastern University and graduated in 2008 with a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. She is the second female officer on the force. Officer Davis will be assigned to a Field Training Officer for six weeks and then be assigned to a permanent shift.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2009 , Stephen Patrick King (age 52 of 819 East Normandy Blvd in Deltona, Florida and 305 Turnpike St - Unit 37 in Easton, Mass) was arrested in the parking lot of Shaw's Plaza by members of the Norpac (Norfolk County Police Anti-Crime Task Force) and Northern Bristol County Drug Task Force . Mr. King was found to be in possession of numerous bundles of cocaine and over $2300 in cash. The street value of the recovered cocaine is estimated to be over $2000. This arrest culminated a lengthy investigation involving numerous agencies including both task forces and the Rhode Island State Police. Sharon Police Detective Scott Leonard and Foxborough Police Detective Thomas Kirrane were the lead investigators. Subsequent to the arrest several search warrants were served in Easton at properties used by Mr. King and a substantial amount of cocaine (estimated value $30,000) and money (over $9000) were recovered. Mr. King was held overnight at the Sharon Police Department without bail and faces arraignment on April 16, 2009 for Possession of Class B (cocaine) with Intent to Distribute, Violation of the Controlled Substance Act within a School Zone, and Drug Trafficking. "This arrest involved a lot of work, time, and effort by numerous police agencies, and the investigation is far from done", said Lt. T. Kaufman of the Sharon Police Department. More arrests are possible.

The picture attached is what we recovered in Sharon.

Sharon Man Admits to Stealing

Holocaust Heirloom from neighbor

Contact: David Traub, Norfolk District Attorney’ Office, 781-830-4800 x 217

A Sharon man has admitted that he stole a family heirloom smuggled out of Europe during the Holocaust from the home of neighbors who so trusted him they gave him a key to their front door.

Steven Zaharoff, 58, (DOB 3-21-51) admitted he stole the family heirloom from his neighbor, Charles Marks, as the elderly Mr. Marks was moving from his home at 11 Robin Road in Sharon into a retirement community. Marks has since passed away.

The painting, an oil landscape of snowy woods, was slashed by rampaging Nazis as they ransacked the Marks home in Germany on Kristallnacht, the “night of broken glass” in November 1938 when thousands of Jewish homes and businesses were pillaged and destroyed. The Marks family smuggled the painting out of Europe and had it repaired. It hung in the dining room of the Marks home in Sharon for decades. The Marks children identified it as one of the few possessions in the family that dates before fleeing Nazism.

District Attorney William R. Keating has registered the painting with the Art Loss Registry in London. “The value of this painting is not monetary. It lies in a history that must never be forgotten,” District Attorney Keating said. “It belongs with Mr. Marks descendents.”

Following an investigation led by Detective Kevin Bishop of the Sharon Police Department, Zaharoff was charged in Stoughton Distrtict Court with Larceny of Property worth under $250, Larceny from a Person over age 65 and Entering a Dwelling by False Pretenses to Commit a Felony.

Zaharoff was indicted by a Norfolk County Grand Jury on June 5, 2008 on three counts: Entering a dwelling for a felony by false pretenses (Ch. 266, Sec. 18A) which is punishable by 10 years in state prison; Larceny from a Person over age 65 (Chap. 266 Sec. 25(a)) which is punishable by up to 5 years in State Prison; and Larceny of property valued at under $250 (Ch. 266 Sec. 30) a 1-year misdemeanor.

Superior Court Judge Janet Sanders ruled in favor of Zaharoff on a motion to dismiss the Entering a Dwelling and Larceny from a Person over 65 charges, leaving only the 1-year misdemeanor Larceny charge.

After Zaharoff changed his plea to guilty on March 12, 2009, the District Attorney’s Office asked that he be given the full year, with 6 months to serve and the balance suspended for 3 years. The Court instead sentenced him to 1 year of probation with 50 hours of community service.

Zaharoff has not waivered from his claim that after he took the painting and took pictures of it to send to an auction house, it was then stolen from his garage – although he never reported that “theft” to police.

LIFE SAVING AWARD

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce that Officer Augusto Patino has received the department's Life Saving Award. On January 22, 2009 at approximately 2:58 pm he responded to a report of a vehicle on fire and traveling down Bay Road towards Easton. After numerous E911 calls were received he was able to locate the now fully engulfed vehicle in a driveway further down Bay Road. Officer Patino advised the operator (who was alone) to go into his residence and away from the burning vehicle. Moments later while speaking with the individual he collapsed onto the floor and stopped breathing. Officer Patino along with Stoughton Fire Captain O'Donnell immediately began CPR. At the same time he was able to inform paramedics of the situation and request a defibrillator. The defibrillator was subsequently used and the individual's life was saved. The individual was stabilized and transported to the Good Samaritan Hospital.

Officer Patino is a 9 year veteran of the Sharon Police Department who is currently assigned to days.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to announce Andrew Pacino as its newest Police Officer. Officer Pacino graduated the MBTA Transit Police Academy after 25 weeks of grueling training on February 25, 2009. Officer Pacino grew up in Sharon and graduated from Sharon High School in 2002. He continued his education at Seton Hall University where he graduated in 2006 with a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. He will be assigned to a Field Training Officer for six weeks and then be assigned to a permanent shift.

On January 5, 2009 at approximately 230pm this department received a call from an apartment (adjacent to Post Office Square) on Pond Street where a male resident had just been assaulted with a handgun after his apartment had been forcibly entered. The resident received minor injuries and knew at least one of the individuals involved. As a result of an extensive investigation by the Sharon Police with assistance from the Walpole Police Department the following individuals were arrested on warrants during the week:

Richard Turke (Age 20) of 266 Mason Road in Whitinsville, Mass. He was charged with Armed Assault in a Dwelling with Intent to Commit a Felony, B&E Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony, Assault & Battery with a Dangerous Weapon (handgun), Malicious Damage to Property over $250, Disorderly Conduct and Disturbing the Peace.

Derek Cerullo (Age 22) of 76 Broad Street in Walpole, Mass. He was charged with B&E Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony, Malicious Damage to Property over $250, Disorderly Conduct, Disturbing the Peace, Being an Accessory Before and After.

Sean Conway (Age 21) of 14R Old Post Rd in East Walpole, Mass. He was charged with B&E Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony and Being an Accessory Before and After.

Mia O’Neil (Age 18) of 49 Highland Street in Sharon, Mass. She was charged with B&E Daytime with Intent to Commit a Felony and Being an Accessory Before and After.

The case remains under investigation by Sharon Police Detectives Bishop and Leonard.

Sharon Police Encourage Safe Driving this Holiday Season

The Sharon Police Department will partner with the Massachusetts State Police and hundreds of other local police departments to conduct extra traffic enforcement focused on arresting impaired drivers as part of a Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. Mobilization December 12, 2008 through January 4, 2009. State and local police will conduct sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols throughout the mobilization. The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security has provided $700,000 in federal grant funding for this initiative for both enforcement and a public education campaign.

In an effort to keep Massachusetts roadways safer during this up-coming holiday season, the Sharon Police Department offers these six travel tips:

· Drive sober and well-rested;

· Obey speed limits and allow extra time for unexpected traffic and weather conditions;

· If celebration plans involve alcoholic beverages, designate a sober driver before heading out or plan to use public transportation, take a taxi (program a cab company’s phone number into your cell), or sleep over at the event location;

· Never accept a ride with an impaired driver;

· Report impaired drivers by dialing 911;

· Make sure everyone is properly buckled up – it’s the best defense against a drunk, speeding or aggressive driver.

Additionally, those hosting holiday celebrations are urged to consider having ample non-alcoholic drinks available, do not serve alcohol to anyone under age 21, and prevent impaired guests from getting behind the wheel. More information is available at www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.

On average each week 300 people are arrested for impaired driving in Massachusetts. A first-time conviction for drunk driving in Massachusetts can cost more than $7,800, plus the significant expenses involved with insurance surcharges and attorney services.

Sharon Police Encourage Buckling Up

Increased Traffic Enforcement During Fall 2008 Click It or Ticket Mobilization

Sharon, MA - The advice is basic: buckle up or pay the price. Yet more than 30 percent of Massachusetts drivers still fail to buckle up. In their continued effort to increase seat belt use, the Sharon Police Department joins many other Massachusetts police departments and the Massachusetts State Police in support of the Fall 2008 Click It or Ticket Mobilization. This statewide effort runs through 30 November and combines extra traffic enforcement, public information, and community outreach to reduce motor vehicle-related fatalities, injuries and economic loss.

For the Click It or Ticket Mobilization, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) has provided $1.3 million in federal highway safety funds.

"This Click It or Ticket Mobilization is an opportunity for all of us to remember the importance of buckling up," said Chief Joseph Bernstein of the Sharon Police Department. "It's the law, and statistics have proven time and time again that seat belts save lives."

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

Since its first Click It or Ticket Mobilization in 2002, Massachusetts has seen its seat belt use increase 16% to 67% in 2008. However, Massachusetts still lags behind the 2008 national seat belt use rate of 83%.

During this mobilization, the Massachusetts State Police and local police departments will encourage compliance with the state seat belt laws across the Commonwealth. For more information, go to www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.

Sharon Police Begin

Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. Mobilization

The Sharon Police will partner with the Massachusetts State Police and hundreds of other local police departments to conduct extra traffic enforcement focused on arresting impaired drivers as part of a Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. Mobilization August 13 through September 3. State and local police will conduct sobriety checkpoints throughout the mobilization. The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security has provided $1,150,000 in federal grant funding for this initiative for both enforcement and a public education campaign.

In an effort to keep Massachusetts roadways safer during this up-coming holiday weekend, the Massachusetts State Police offers these six travel tips:

· Drive sober and well-rested;

· Obey speed limits and allow extra time for unexpected traffic and weather conditions;

· If celebration plans involve alcoholic beverages, designate a sober driver before heading out or plan to use public transportation, take a taxi, or sleep over at the event location;

· Never accept a ride with an impaired driver;

· Report impaired drivers by dialing 911;

· Make sure everyone is properly buckled up – it’s the best defense against a drunk, speeding or aggressive driver.

Additionally, those hosting Labor Day celebrations are urged to consider having ample non-alcoholic drinks available, do not serve alcohol to anyone under age 21, and prevent impaired guests from getting behind the wheel. More information is available at www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.

On July 24, 2008 at 544pm the Sharon Police Department (Officers Don Brewer, Allan Greenfield, and Brian Mannetta) responded to a motor vehicle accident on Route 1. Upon arrival it was determined that a vehicle (Dodge Ram truck) had veered off the roadway (heading southbound) and struck approximately 10-11 vehicles in the Herb Chambers Lexus auto dealership in Sharon. The operator of the Dodge truck was determined to be Brian W. Eastman (Age 45) of 18 Pierce Street in Foxboro. He received minor injuries and was transported to the Norwood Hospital. Further investigation led to Eastman's arrest for Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, Operating to Endanger, and a Marked Lanes violation. A passenger in his truck was uninjured. Damage estimates are unavailable at this time and Eastman was arraigned on the above charges at Stoughton District Court on July 25, 2008.

The Sharon Police Department is currently investigating a hit and run which occurred on July 20, 2008 at approximately 0108 hours. A dark colored, 4 door sedan struck an individual on Aspen Road who was on foot. The individual on foot was not seriously injured. The vehicles license plate has a combination of either (62W, 92W, 61E or 91E) as the first three digits of its Massachusetts registration plate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Leonard at the Sharon Police Department at 781-784-1586.

RI man convicted in bank robbery

The Rhode Island man dubbed “The Teardrop Bandit” by the media was convicted in Norfolk Superior Court today for robbing a Foxborough bank in February 2005.

A Norfolk Superior Court jury deliberated roughly 5 hours over two days following the two-day trial of Robert J. Chadronet before finding him guilty of unarmed robbery – a felony carrying a potential sentence of life in prison or any term of years, District Attorney William Keating said.

The facts presented to the jury in the Foxborough case were that on February 24, 2005 , Robert Chadronet walked into the Bank North in Foxborough. He proceeded to a teller’s window. At the window was a pregnant teller who testified that a man came to her window shaking and wearing gloves – after a brief conversation he handed her a note saying: “put $3,000.00 in large bills. Do it quietly and put it in an envelope”. It also said he had a weapon under his jacket. When Robert Chadronet left the bank the teller pushed the alarm. She later told the police that the robber had olive skin and he had a teardrop under his left eye and that it looked smudged.

“Chadronet still stands indicted for armed robberies in Sharon , Needham and Franklin , but those cases will be tried later,” District Attorney Keating said. The Court ruled that the cases should be tried separately.. “He remains legally innocent of those crimes until proven guilty, today’s verdict notwithstanding.”

Keating also credited strong cooperation between police in Foxborough, Needham , Sharon and Franklin for making this case come together. “This was an outstanding effort of cooperation and those departments deserve great credit here.”

Judge Kenneth Fishman will sentence Chadronet on September 9, 2008 in Norfolk Superior Court. He will be held without bail until that date.

On Sunday June 29, 2008 shortly after midnight this department received a call to respond to 387 East Street on a reported loud house party. Upon arrival (Sgt. Cameron, Offs. Derry, Greenfield and Fitzhenry) officers were denied entry into the house and observed a group of youths run out the back door and into the woods behind the house. At that time they observed all lights go off inside the residence. They also observed empty beer cans and cases of beer strewn around the rear of the house. After further investigation entry was gained into the residence where the homeowner's 19 year old son (Gerald Nere) was located in an upstairs room with several other underage youths. Evidence of alcohol was located nearby. Mr. Nere was placed under arrest on the following charges:

- Disturbing the Peace

- Disorderly Person

- Keeper of a Disorderly House

- Minor in Possession of Alcohol

- Furnishing Alcohol to Minors

All remaining youths were released to their parents at the scene.

Mr. Nere was arraigned on the above charges at Stoughton District Court on June 30.

Superior Court Arraignment in theft of heirloom

A 57-year-old Sharon man will be arraigned in Norfolk Superior Court tomorrow on charges he stole a family heirloom that his neighbor had brought out of Germany at the onset of the Holocaust, according to District Attorney William Keating.

Steven Zaharoff, DOB 03-21-51 , of 9 Robin Road in Sharon , was indicted by a Norfolk County Grand Jury on June 5, 2008 on three counts: Entering a dwelling for a felony by false pretenses (Ch. 266, Sec. 18A) which is punishable by 10 years in state prison; Larceny from a Person over age 65 (Chap. 266 Sec. 25(a)) which is punishable by up to 5 years in State Prison; and Larceny of property valued at under $250 (Ch. 266 Sec. 30) a 1-year misdemeanor.

Zaharoff pled not guilty to similar charges at his arraignment in Stoughton District Court on March 7, 2008 ; he is presumed legally innocent until proven guilty.

The daughter of then 87-year-old Charles Marks, who lived next door to Zaharoff on Robin Road , first reported the painting was missing to Sharon Police on October 23, 2007 . The painting was of enormous importance to the family as it had been slashed by rampaging Nazis who had broken into the family home on Kristallnacht, November 9, 1938 .

The family had originally believed that the painting might have been lost while Charles Marks, who is now deceased, was moving out of his longtime Sharon home into a supported living community. (N.B.: The family search for the painting was the subject of a Nov. 8, 2007 by Milton Valencia in the GlobeSouth section of the Boston Globe.)

An investigation by Sharon Police Detectives led to the charges in Stoughton District Court and a Grand Jury investigation led to the June indictments.

Mr. Zaharoff is on the list to be arraigned in Norfolk Superior Court at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2008 , District Attorney Keating said.

On February of 2008 this department received a report from a female resident that she had received several sexually explicit voicemail and video messages on her cell phone from an unknown male party. After the initial investigation by Officer Adam Leavitt a lengthy investigation by Sharon Police Detective Scott Leonard led to an arrest warrant. On May 23, 2008 the subject of the arrest warrant (Bruce Gray, age 29 of 500 Broadway Street in Malden) was arrested at this department and subsequently transported to the Stoughton District Court where he was arraigned on the following charges:

- Open and Gross Lewdness

- Indecent Exposure

- Accosting

The victim did not know Mr. Gray.

On April 7, 2008 at 1235pm Sharon Police Officer's Fontes and Patino responded to the Sharon High School on a reported theft of several students personal belongings while left in the boys locker room. Upon arriving and meeting with school officials a suspect was identified and after further investigation was placed under arrest for these thefts. The individual was identified as:

- Adam Brett (Age 17) of 17 Lee Road in Sharon.

He was transported back to the Sharon PD where he was held overnight without bail and charged with:

- Receiving Stolen Property (2 counts)

- Larceny $250 or Less (2 counts)

Most of the stolen items were recovered and Brett was arraigned at Stoughton District Court on April 8, 2008.

On March 26, 2008 at 150am this department received a call from a resident of Bayberry Drive reporting two males looking into car windows with a flashlight. Sharon Police Sgt. Lucie along Officers Penders, Goode, Allman, and Detective Leonard responded to the scene. Upon arrival the two males fled into the woods and it was found that a vehicle had been broken into by smashing out a window. After a lengthy search with assistance from the Massachusetts State Police (two K-9 units) several items were recovered (burglarious tools, GPS unit) in the woods near the break. A further search and investigation led to the area of Cobbs Corner where two males fitting the description of those involved were located by the Stoughton Police just over the town line. Arrested at the scene by the Sharon PD were:

1. Ricardo Semexant (Age 20) of 19 Grantley St in Hyde Park

2. Sean Low (Age 20) of 996 East St in Walpole

Both were transported to the Sharon PD and charged with:

- Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle

- Receiving Stolen Property

- Malicious Destruction of Property Over $250

They were later arraigned at the Stoughton District Court. Sharon Police are continuing their investigation.

The Sharon Police Department wishes to make the public aware of an increase in housebreaks especially in the area near Shaw's Plaza by the Foxboro town line. Since the new year houses have been broken into on Reeve Road, Iron Hollow Road, Laurel Road, Samoset Lane, and Boyden Lane. Several of these housebreaks have occurred on weeknights between the hours of 6pm-830pm. No one has been at home at the time and items that have been taken are usually things that can be easily carried such as jewelry. Residents are reminded to lock their homes and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police. Anyone having information which may help this ongoing investigation is asked to contact this department at 781-784-1586.

On March 11, 2008 this department assisted the Boston Police Fugitive Unit and United States Marshals with an arrest warrant at 5 Prince Way. Information was obtained that George Stokes (Age 50) was residing there and wanted on numerous arrest warrants (probation violations/larcenies). After a standoff where no one would respond to the door the residence was entered without incident and Stokes was arrested after being found hiding in a locked bedroom. Also located hiding in the residence was Andrew Livolsi (Age 39) who was arrested on a default warrant for motor vehicle violations from Chelsea District Court. Stokes was transported back to Boston PD and Livolsi was taken back to the Sharon PD where he was held for the night. Livolsi was arrested by Sharon Police Officer Hertzberg and assisted at the scene by Lieutenants JJ McGrath and T. Kaufman.

On 2/28/08 at 1044am this department received a call to respond to the Sharon Middle School on a reported threat written on a bathroom wall. The threat made reference to a weapon. The case is under active investigation by the Sharon Police. Anyone having any information/tips on this incident is asked to contact Sharon Police Detectives at 781-784-1586.

On November 11, 2007 the Sharon Police Department took a report of a stolen pocketbook from a Foxboro resident who was attending a movie at the Sharon Movie Theatre at Shaw's Plaza. The resident left it unattended for a short period and upon her return it was missing from her seat. A short time later it was determined that one of her credit cards was used at a nearby gas station and then several hours later at a gas station in Lawrence. Detective Kevin Bishop was able to ascertain through further investigation a description of the vehicle involved and made this known to police personnel. On December 1, 2007 while on patrol, Sharon Officer Allan Greenfield observed a vehicle matching this description at Shaw's Plaza. Upon further investigation a suspect was identified and further questioned by Off. Greenfield and Det. Bishop. The individual (Ernesto Munoz of Lawrence – Age 24) admitted to stealing the pocketbook and using the credit card. He will be summonsed to the Stoughton District Court on the following charges:

- Larceny over $250

- Larceny from a Building

- Larceny of a Credit Card

The pocketbook has not yet been recovered.

BANK ROBBERY

On Friday, September 7, 2007 at approximately 1109hrs this department received a call from the Eastern Bank in Sharon Center saying they had just been robbed. The individual who committed the robbery was described as a white male in his late forties/early fifties wearing a green hooded sweatshirt and grey sweatpants. After handing the teller a note and receiving an undetermined amount of cash he fled on foot towards South Main Street. No weapon was shown and no one was injured. An extensive area search was conducted with negative results. The incident remains under investigation by this department. Anyone having information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Kevin Bishop at 781-784-1586.

On August 16, 2007 Officer Patino of the Sharon Police Department responded to a call regarding a residence being broken into on Pond Street near the lake. The house had been vacant for several days and when the homeowner returned he found that it had been broken into and the copper pipe running to his boiler from the water meter had been cut off. Most of the other copper pipes which carried his water supply was also missing. Entry into the residence was gained by prying open a rear door. The matter is under investigation by this department. Lt. Kaufman states, “This type of crime is becoming more common and often is tied criminals looking to pay for a drug habit. It is also a crime of opportunity and seems to occur more when houses are known to be vacant (for sale signs,etc).” This case remains under investigation by Sharon Police Detectives. Residents are asked to report any suspicious activity to this department.

07/23/07 at 0650 am Sharon Police Officers (Ellis, Goode) responded to Bay Rd and Briggs Pond Way on a reported hit and run (tree) motor vehicle accident. The vehicle then fled the scene and went down Briggs Pond Way (dead end). It did not come out. Officers located the vehicle deep in the woods behind a residence resting against a tree and having heavy front end damage . The operator fled the scene, and the vehicle was determined to have been stolen in Connecticut. At approximately 10am Officer Fontes responded to the area of Bay Rd near Mountain Street on a report of a suspicious male. The male (Andrew Taylor, age 28 of 7 Bailin Circle in Grafton, Mass) was positively identified as the operator of this vehicle and placed under arrest for:

Receiving Stolen Property (Motor Vehicle)

Operating to Endanger

Leaving Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident

Marked Lanes Violation

Destruction of Property

Taylor was later arraigned at the Stoughton District Court. It was later determined he was involved in numerous incidents earlier in the morning including a gas drive off in Attleboro, and motor vehicle incidents Rehoboth, Taunton, and Norton.

Sharon Police Support Click It or Ticket

The Sharon Police will join more than 230 Massachusetts local police departments and the State Police in support of the Massachusetts Spring 2007 Click It or Ticket Mobilization. This statewide initiative combines extra traffic enforcement, public information, and community outreach to reduce motor vehicle-related fatalities, injuries, and economic loss.

With $1.3 million in federal highway safety funds, the Executive Office of Public Safety will conduct this Click It or Ticket Mobilization from May 14 to June 3.

Over 12,000 law enforcement agencies will participate in similar Click It or Ticket efforts across the nation.

“This Click It or Ticket Mobilization is an opportunity for all of us to remember the importance of driving sober and well-rested, to obey speed limits, and to always buckle-up,” said Chief Bernstein of the Sharon Police Department.

Since its first Click It or Ticket Mobilization in November 2002, Massachusetts has seen its safety belt use increase 16% to a record high of 67% in 2006. However Massachusetts still lags behind the 2006 national safety belt use rate of 81%.

Safety belt use reduces the risk of death or serious injuries in a motor vehicle crash by up to 50%. Increasing the use of safety belts, booster seats, and child safety seats is one of the major ways to reduce the more than 400 fatalities, 5,000 serious injuries, and $6.3 billion in related costs from motor vehicle crashes each year in Massachusetts.

On February 12, 2007 at 328pm Sharon Police Officer’s Gus Patino, Paul Hertzberg, and Adam Leavitt responded to 288 North Main Street on a reported disturbance. Upon arrival it was learned an argument had occurred between the female resident’s brother and her boyfriend. During this argument the brother (Robert Taunusma, age 38 of 25 Lexington Ave in Hyde Park) swung a machete at the boyfriend. He missed and struck the boyfriend’s truck damaging the driver side door and window. No one was injured in the incident. Mr. Taunusma was placed under arrest and charged with Assault by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (machete) and Malicious Destruction of Property. He also had an arrest warrant out Quincy District Court for motor vehicle violations. He was held without bail overnight and arraigned on these charges on February 13, 2007 at the Stoughton District Court.

On February 3, 2007 the Sharon Police Department received numerous reports of motor vehicle’s being broken into in the East Street/Bay Rd area of town. Among the items stolen were an amplifier, power booster, and speakers. All of the vehicles entered were unlocked and entered in the early morning hours. Officer Don Brewer conducted a further investigation into these breaks with assistance from Sgt. Stephen Coffey, Off. Paul Hertzberg, and Det. Kevin Bishop. Officer Brewer noticed footprints (similar to those at the breaks) leading to 374 East Street. Upon further investigation he was able to identify those involved in these breaks and clear up other vehicle breaks that had occurred in the area over the past year. Numerous stolen items were recovered and will be returned to their owners. The following individuals have been charged:

1. Brandon Creedon (Age 19) of 374 East Street in Sharon

2. Steven Hamilton (Age 18) of 14 Onondaga Ln in Medfield.

Both have been charged with B&E with Intent to Commit a Felony (8 counts), Larceny over $250 (3 counts), and Malicious Damage to Property (2 counts).

Also charged with Receiving Stolen Property (1 count) was Jerome Jackson (Age 17) of 32 Columbine Rd in Norwood.

All will be arraigned at a later date.

Several of the items recovered have yet to have their owners identified. Should any resident wish to inquire if it might be theirs please contact Officer Brewer or Detective Bishop at 781-784-1588.

On February 7, 2007 at approximately 715pm a 33 year old female from Stoughton appeared at the Sharon Police Department to report that she had just been assaulted and robbed while visiting a residence at 173 Wilshire Drive in Sharon. She stated that while she was in her vehicle at the residence dropping an item off to a friend, a female opened the passenger side door and grabbed her purse. While this was happening a second female was verbally threatening her through the driver’s side window. Both females then fled toward the residence. The victim exited her vehicle and attempted to recover her purse. While doing so she was allegedly threatened by both females and assaulted (kicked in chest, hair pulled, shoving, pushing). She was not seriously injured and drove to the police department. Shift officers (Sgt. Cameron, Offs. Brewer, Greenfield, Fitzhenry and Det. Leonard) all responded to the scene. After further investigation some of the items stolen were recovered and three individuals were arrested for the following charges:

1. Tara Nater, Age 24 of 42 Myrtle Street-Apt 2 in Taunton. Charged with Unarmed Robbery, Assault & Battery with Dangerous Weapon (shod foot), and Receiving Stolen Property over $250 .00

2. Mindy Cournoyer, Age 28 of 173 Wilshire Drive in Sharon. Charged with Unarmed Robbery, Assault & Battery and Receiving Stolen Property over $250.00

3. Christopher Connolly, Age 26 of t2 Jefferson Circle in Stoughton. Charged with Receiving Stolen Property over $250.00, and Possession of a Class E Substance.

All subjects were held overnight at the Sharon PD without bail and were arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on February 8, 2007.

Saturday, January 27, 2007 at approximately 219am while on patrol, Sharon Police Officer Steven Kraus observed a motor vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on North Main Street towards the center. He was able to get a radar reading of 71mph. The vehicle continued to accelerate away from him towards Foxboro on South Main Street. Officer Jeffrey Penders was able to observe the vehicle pass him on South Main Street outbound near Cumberland Farms and noted a radar reading of 97mph. At that point Officer Penders advised dispatch to notify the Foxboro PD and followed from a safe distance where he was able to keep the vehicle in sight. The Foxboro Police Department spotted the vehicle as it went onto Oak Street in Foxboro and stopped suddenly on Cocasset Street. The operator (Eric Sauer, Age 23 of 46 Cushman Street in Pawtucket, RI) was placed under arrest by Sharon (Off. Penders/Kraus) and Foxboro officers. He was charged with failing to stop for a police officer, operating to endanger, failure to stay within marked lanes, and speeding. He was transported back to the Sharon PD where he was later bailed out, and arraigned at the Stoughton District Court on Monday, January 29. Mr. Sauer stated to officers that he did not initially stop because he did not want to have an insurance surcharge.

ON JANUARY 4, 2007 THE SHARON POLICE DEPARTMENT ARRESTED ARIF I. KHALIFA OF 43 RHODES STREET IN BILLERICA, MASSACHUSETTS CHARGING HIM WITH THE STATUTORY RAPE OF AN UNDERAGE FEMALE IN SHARON. THE INCIDENT IS ALLEGED TO HAVE OCCURRED AT A RESIDENCE IN SHARON IN MID NOVEMBER OF 2006. MR. KHALIFA IS ALLEGED TO HAVE MET THE VICTIM ON THE INTERNET AND AFTER A BRIEF CHAT APPEARED AT THE RESIDENCE WHERE THE SEXUAL ASSAULT OCCURRED. AFTER A LENGTHY INVESTIGATION BY THE SHARON PD (DET. SCOTT LEONARD WITH ASSIST AT TIME OF ARREST FROM DET. KEVIN BISHOP) ALONG WITH MEMBERS OF THE METRO-LAW ENFORCEMENT COUNCILS COMPUTER CRIMES UNIT, BILLERICA PD AND IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE NORFOLK COUNTY DA’S OFFICE A WARRANT WAS ISSUED FOR MR. KHALIFA’S ARREST. A SEARCH WARRANT WAS ALSO SERVED AT THE TIME OF HIS ARREST AT HIS RESIDENCE IN BILLERICA, AND SEVERAL COMPUTERS WERE SEIZED. MR. KHALIFA WAS HELD OVERNIGHT AT THE SHARON PD AND WILL BE ARRAIGNED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 5, 2007 AT THE STOUGHTON DISTRICT COURT.

THE SHARON POLICE DEPARTMENT WISHES TO REMIND RESIDENTS TO SECURE THEIR CAR AND HOUSE DOORS. MANY OF THESE BREAKS ARE OCCURRING BECAUSE OF OPPORTUNITY (UNLOCKED DOORS, ETC). OVER THE PAST MONTH OR SO WE HAVE HAD SEVERAL HOUSEBREAKS (DURING DAYTIME HOURS ON BAY RD AND MORSE STREET). JEWELRY AND OTHER VALUABLES WERE TAKEN IN THESE BREAKS. IN THE MORSE STREET BREAK (12/18/06 AT APPROXIMATELY 1216PM) A MALE (40-50 YEARS OLD, 5’5”, 150-160 POUNDS, DARK HAIR, WHITE SHIRT, DARK JACKET, POSSIBLY WEARING GLASSES), AND A FEMALE (40-50 YEARS OLD, HEAVYSET, BROWN HAIR, BLACK/WHITE CHECKERED JACKET) WERE SEEN IN THE AREA JUST PRIOR TO THE BREAK.

IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE WE HAVE EXPERIENCED A RECENT RASH OF CAR BREAK’S. THESE HAVE OCCURRED THROUGHOUT THE TOWN WITH GPS DEVICES, CELL PHONES, GIFT CARDS, HAVING BEEN STOLEN.

IN THE CHASE DRIVE, WOLOMOLOPOAG, OLD WOLOMOLOPOAG AREA ON THE EARLY MORNING HOURS OF 1212/14/06 NUMEROUS VEHICLES WERE ENTERED (MOST UNLOCKED) AND ITEMS TAKEN.

RESIDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO KEEP VALUABLES SECURED, DOORS LOCKED AND TO REPORT ANY SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY TO THE SHARON POLICE DEPARTMENT (781-784-3535) (911 IF EMERGENCY). ANYONE WITH ANY INFORMATION RELATED TO THESE THEFTS ARE ALSO ASKED TO CONTACT THE SHARON POLICE DEPARTMENT.

Over the past several months the Sharon Police Department has become aware of an increase in underage drinking parties at residences in Sharon.” We usually become aware of these upon receiving calls from citizens who are reporting disturbances, damage or unusual activity”, stated Lt. Tilden Kaufman. Parents often leave their underage kids home alone for a night or a weekend and that’s how it all starts. This past weekend a 15 year old Sharon youth was charged with alcohol violations after a party got out of control resulting in several Sharon girls (age 16) becoming ill from drinking too much alcohol. That call came in from a report of a bottle being thrown at a vehicle near the house where the party was located. Officers Greenfield, Fitzhenry and Sgt. Ford noted evidence of alcohol throughout the house. No adults were present during the party. Also this past weekend a 14 year old Sharon male was placed under Protective Custody by Officer Ellis at 1240am after a report came in that he had been walking down the middle of the road on Massapoag Avenue. The male stated that he had been at a party earlier in the evening where he had been drinking alcohol. The stories change, but the results are similar. So far, thankfully there have been no serious injuries, but we are on borrowed time before something tragic occurs. The common theme is kids being left alone at home and alcohol being consumed. Parents need to think twice before leaving for the night or weekend. The legal drinking age in Massachusetts is 21 years of age. In addition there is the Social Host Law. Under Massachusetts law, a host of a party may be held liable for the injuries suffered by others if the host knew or should have known that a guest was drunk and nevertheless gave/permitted the guest to take an alcoholic drink and thereafter, because of the guests intoxication, the guest negligently caused injury to others. If the guest who causes the injury is a minor, the host who served the alcohol or permitted alcohol to be served to the minor might be held liable to others even if the minor was already intoxicated when the minor was served alcohol.

The above mentioned incidents are not the only ones worthy of mention in Sharon. Another apparent underage drinking party at a residence (no parental supervision) is currently under investigation where it is alleged that inappropriate sexual behavior occurred. Lt. Kaufman states, “Parents need to have a keen awareness of what their kids are doing and what pressures they may face. By limiting their opportunities and letting your child know you are aware and won’t tolerate that type of behavior you may very well be saving their life or the life of another.” In addition he stated, “The Sharon Police Department will strive to prevent these parties from occurring and use all of its resources to deal with them when they do occur up to and including filing criminal charges against whoever that may apply to.”

On August 11, 2006 shortly after 0200 hrs the Sharon Police and Fire Departments responded to the Sharon Middle School on Mountain Street on a reported building fire. Upon arrival it was determined a portion of the roof was on fire and extensive damage had occurred. Further investigation determined the cause to be suspicious in nature and a joint investigation was conducted by the Sharon Police and Fire Departments along with the State Fire Marshals Office. Damage was estimated to be in the $75,000 range. As a result of this investigation a 14 year old Sharon male has been charged with Arson and Trespassing. He will be arraigned at the Dedham Juvenile Court at a later date.

Tuesday, August 1, 2006 at 1017pm the Sharon Police Department received a report of an attempted armed robbery at Tedeschi’s Market on Pond Street. A store employee reported that a white male, 20-25 years old, 5’10”-5’11”, wearing a white Patriots baseball cap, black tee shirt, jean shorts, and white sneakers had entered the store and attempted to rob it. The suspect stated he had a knife, but did not show it, and did not get any money from the store. No one was injured. The suspect fled area in an unknown direction of travel. Sharon Police Officers who responded were Michael Balestra, Brian Mannetta, Steven Kraus, Sgt. Hugh Cameron and Detective Kevin Bishop. The case remains under investigation and several leads are being followed. Anyone who may have information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Sharon Police Department at 781-784-1586.

Sharon, Massachusetts 90 South Main St., Sharon, MA 02067 tel:(781) 784-1500 fax:(781) 784-1502

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