Hello neighbors! Thanks to those of you who joined our meeting last night. This message contains a recap of a few important points from the meeting.

Presentation from Arlington County Police Department

Cpl/MPO Harley Guenther joined our meeting to provide an update on crime statistics and answer questions. Of significance: (all numbers are year to date, compared to the same dates in 2021)

• Burglaries are down from 8 to just 1 so far this year
• DUIs and harassment are also down
• Auto larceny is up --> LOCK YOUR DOORS
• Cases of fraud were up from just 1 case in 2021 to 10 cases so far in 2022. 

On the topic of fraud, Cpl Guenther shared some common examples, such as receiving a call from someone purporting to be a Sheriff and then saying that the victim can pay the fine in Apple Gift Cards. This will never, ever, be a legitimate option presented to you in Arlington County. Fraud also includes crimes perpetrated over the internet such as phishing and other internet-based scams.

There is more information online at https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Financial-Crimes-Information

If you suspect you have been the victim of a fraud or fraud attempt, do not hesitate to call the police (number on website) or file a report online right away. Even if you were not in the county when you got the email, or if you're not sure who has jurisdiction - just file the report. Cpl Guenther emphasized that officers will do everything they can to figure out the right jurisdiction and they would rather know than not know. 

There have also been, anecdotally reported, a few cases of suspicious salespeople going door to door. Some are legitimate businesses that have permits, some are not. Even legitimate businesses require a permit to go door to door, so if you see something suspicious, calling the policy non-emergency line can help resolve. More information about permits is available at https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Vendor-Permits

• Of Note: ACPD Fill-A-Cruiser Toy Drive is coming up this month. 

https://www.arlingtonva.us/About-Arlington/News/Articles/2022/Police-Host-the-Eighth-Annual-Fill-the-Cruiser-Toy-Drive-Events

The closest location to Dominion Hills is November 23 at Westover Baptist Church. 

• The Arlington County Policy offer a summer safety patrol camp for 4th and 5th graders, but keep an eye on the website because spaces go fast! https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Safety-Patrol-Camp

OTHER BUSINESS

Congrats for reading this far. Also discussed in the meeting were the possibility of an in-person meeting combined with a seasonal gathering in early December. Please contact dominionhillscivic@gmail.com if you would like to help plan or support such an event. 

Finally, a reminder to check your membership status on the Dominion Hills website and make sure your voluntary dues are up to date. Dues support the maintenance and insurance costs for Dominion Hills Park, events like last week's Halloween Parade, and much more. Just visit https://dominionhills.net/ and click to 'log in' at the top of the page. 

UPCOMING DATES 

• TODAY, Friday, November 4: TRAFFIC AND PARKING ALERT | ATS has class performances this afternoon at 2pm. 
• Friday, November 11: Dominion Hills and the Civil War, presented by local historian Peter Vaselopulos, Dominion Hills Park, 10am-2pm.
• Saturday, November 12: Dominion Hills Fall Craft Show, 10am-5pm, Dominion Hills Area Recreation Association Pool House
• Wednesday, November 16: TRAFFIC AND PARKING ALERT | ATS is having their book fair and ice cream social, 6-8pm

Finally, a few photos of the continuing development at the former Rouse property.