January 2008 Archives: 

Phony Cops: 
Be aware of being approached by Police impostors!

Most of us live in a fast-paced world, some faster than others, and we depend on those individuals who are professionals in their own field to handle what is not part of our daily routine. We in the law enforcement community share a common interest: to protect the public and ensure their safety. It is no secret that criminals are always looking to take advantage of an opportune moment presented to them. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and ethnic backgrounds. Crime does not discriminate.


ALPHA would like our clients and readers to note the rising incidents of fake police officers and be prepared. There have been numerous incidents throughout the country. If at any time you feel uncomfortable being pulled over by a police officer, whether in a marked or an unmarked unit, contact a 911 operator to get verification that a patrolman is in the area. If you do not have a cell phone or are in an isolated area, do not stop, but proceed to the nearest location that is safe and well-lit.


The law states that we are to obey an officer who wants us to pull over so, if you do decide to continue driving to a safer area, make sure that they are aware that you are not trying to evade them. If you do not have a cell phone, and you pull into a public area, honk your horn to alert the public of your presence. A real police officer won't mind the side show after you explain why you did it. A police impostor will most likely continue moving to avoid the attention.


At all times, police officers must work within their code of conduct. Officers are trained to place a great deal of emphasis on their safety and yours. It is your duty and responsibility to be informed. It is not a crime to ask an officer for identification if he or she is not in uniform. Real Police Officers would be more than happy to show their credentials.


In addition, there have been stories on the internet about dialing #77, *77, *55, *HP, or other special codes in order to connect with the Highway Patrol. Rather than trying to determine the code in your area (if there is one) it is recommended that you dial 911 which works in all 50 states.

 FEBRUARY, 2008

WARNING

FROM THE F.B.I. DESK
FRAUD SCHEMES: 
   Impersonation/Identity Fraud 

Impersonation fraud occurs when someone assumes your identity to perform a
fraud or criminal act.  Criminals can acquire the information they need to assume
your identity from a variety of sources. Some of these sources are; the theft of
your wallet, your trash or from credit or bank information. They may approach
you in person, by telephone, or on the internet and ask you for the information. 
The sources of information about you are so numerous that you cannot prevent the theft of your identity.  But you can minimize your risk of loss by following a few simple hints. 

• Report unauthorized financial transactions to your bank, credit card company and the police as soon as you detect them.

• Review a copy of your credit report at least once a year. Notify the credit bureau in writing of any questionable entries and follow through until they explain or removed. 

• If your identity has been assumed , ask the credit bureau to print a statement to that effect in your credit report

• If you know of anyone who receives mail from credit card companies or bank in the name of others, report it to local or federal law enforcement authorities.

 
                                                ALWAYS STAY ALERT!

May, 2008
Arlington National Cemetery


The Tomb Of The Unknowns


The Tomb Of The Unknowns is a fascinating site. It was erected in honor and respect of
all the men and women who lost their lives fighting for our way of life. The guards show the
utmost respect through the protection of The Tomb and all of the Soldiers and Civilians
who lay to rest in the Arlington National Cemetery.

The Guards


Being a guard means a great commitment. For a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb,
he must be between 5' 10"and 6' 2" tall, and his waist size cannot exceed 30." 
Other requirements include committing 2 years of life to guard the tomb, living 
in a barracks under the tomb, and abstaining from any alcohol on or off duty for the rest
of his life. He cannot swear in public for the rest of his life and cannot disgrace the iniform or
the Tomb in any way. After the two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on his
lapel, signifying he served as guard of the tomb. There are only 400 presently worn.
Each guard must obey these rules for the rest of his life or give up the wreath pin.

To do their job the guards wear shoes especially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and cold
from their  feet. There  are metal heel plates that extend to the top of the shoe in order to make
the loud click as they come to a halt. There are no wrinkles, folds or lints on the uniform. Guards
dress for duty in front of a full-length mirror. Every guard spends five hours a day getting his uniform
ready for guard duty.

The first six months of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone, nor watch TV. All off duty time is
spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. A guard
must memorize who they are and where they are enterred.Among the notables are presidents
William H. Taft and John f.Kennedy, boxer Joe E. Lewis, and Medal of Honor winner
Audie Murphy, the most decorated soldier of WWII