February 2011 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
February 2011 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain William Taylor, Executive Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Det. Roberto Diaz, Community Affairs
Reuven Lipkind for Senator Eric Adams
Delsie Lawson for Council Member Mathieu Eugene
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Nelli Chervyakova for Council Member David Greenfield
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
David Kliestik, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Shawn Campbell for Assembly Member Jim Brennan
James Sanon for Council Member Jumanne Williams
Lauren Collins, Church Avenue BID


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:40 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

President Powell announced that Auxiliary Chief Tony Christo contacted him and wanted him to mention that on March 13th, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. there will be a memorial service for Auxiliary Police Officers which will be held at the East Midwood Jewish Center at 1625 Ocean Avenue.

On this Friday (February 25th), the Auxiliary Officers will be doing a high visibility turnout at Flatbush Junction. This means that a large number of auxiliary officers come out and make a public showing at one location to assure people that they are well covered and well protected in that area.

1. Message from Reuven Lipkin – Senator Eric Adams
Mr. Lipkin announced that our state senator would like to hear personally from you and you can email him at eadams@senate.state.ny.us also he has a website that gives updates on different events and for honoring individuals in the community. If you know of anyone that you want to be honored, his website is adams.nysenate.gov. The Senator is working in conjunction with another Senator because there is an issue coming up. On June 15th, 2011 rent stabilization/rent control guidelines will be terminated, if not put back. Almost every apartment building will have no control and the landlords can raise the rent to what they want it to be. The Senator is fighting to bring back rent stabilization laws and is fighting to make them stronger.

He also announced that summer is coming and he brought flyers for the New York Zoo, the Wildlife Conservation Society and stated that information is on the bottom where you can go and apply for a summer job.

President Powell stated that he attended a meeting at 25/35 Tennis Court whereas he was one of the speakers. He stated that the tenants are fighting a good fight for descent housing, good quality of life where they live because they are up against very strong odds. However under the leadership of Brother Emmanuel they are doing a fantastic job.

2. Message on Church Avenue BID – Lauren Collins (New Director)
The Church Avenue BID encompasses Church Avenue between Coney Island and Flatbush Avenues. What the BID does is look out for the marketing, promotion, government relations of Church Avenue businesses, and try to bring people to Church Avenue to shop. They work with the merchants so that they have the resources that they need. She stated that they have a wonderful beat cop (Officer Glendo) and that the 70th Precinct has been pretty receptive and seemly very open to work with them to make sure that the BID is very safe and clean and that everyone gets what they want out of that shopping district.

3. Reports from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte greeted everyone with Happy New Year because it was the first meeting of the year. Due to increment weather in January the meeting was canceled. He stated that he would show a power point presentation that would show what’s going on in the Precinct regarding crime and quality of life issues.

He asked if anyone had any questions or issues in the community:

Someone asked how you go about making a recommendation for the precinct Cop of the Month.
You can call the Community Affairs Office (718) 851-5557, which is headed by Lt. Bourne, or you can write a letter. If you write a letter it will go into the officer’s personal folder which is always good, or if you don’t want to write a letter, call the office, give them the information and they will bring the officer in and let him or her know that the people in the community appreciate what they are doing.

A representative from Prospect Park South complimented the 70th on a tempered response to an aggressive person who seemed determined to bait the officers into aggression. He extended his gratitude to the officers on their restraint in dealing with the situation whereas nobody got hurt.

A representative from a building on East 21st Street brought narcotic complaints but continued the conversation privately after the meeting.

Commander Monteforte announced that there are new Impact Officers. The first week of January the Impact Officers that were there for the past two years have been transferred to other precincts.

A resident from Martense Street expressed frustration at having been redistricted into the 70th precinct. He voiced complaints about police response in his area. Commander Monteforte will look into the complaints.

He then went through a Power Point presentation addressing various demographics, statistics and incidents of note in our area:

A breakdown of who’s living in the 70th Precinct: African Americans 39%, White 36%, and Hispanic 13%. The Houses of Worship: Mosques 9, Churches 67, and Synagogues 75.

The city was down by 1.6% by the end of the year; we were down by 6%. We did a little bit better than the city in percentage of crime reduction. In 1993 there were 142 victims of shootings, in 2008 there were 24. In 1993 there were 46 homicides, in 2008 there were seven. It continues to get lower, however we still have to get guns off the streets. If you know of anyone with an illegal handgun you call 1 866 GUNSTOP, you will remain anonymous. We will get the person, take the gun off the streets and you will get $1,000.00, no questions asked. They will give you an ID number so that you can collect your money.

In a similar program, if there was someone in the house that passed away and was in the military and had a registered gun that would be illegal after the person passed away. You can bring the gun into the precinct and get $100 for it. Or if you find a gun somewhere, you can bring the gun to the precinct and get $100.00. We want to get the guns off the streets. We don’t want anyone using these guns to commit robberies, or a child using it and accidentally shooting himself. We don’t want children out there carrying these guns and something bad happens such as a police encounter issue.

Gun Arrests: Last year we took 66 guns off the streets. Personnel in the precinct took 47 of them. Police Officers didn’t shoot their guns once in the 70th Precinct. To take 66 guns off the streets, most of those guns are on somebody’s body usually in their waistband. To take that many guns off the streets, not one cop getting hurt, not one civilian getting hurt, not one bad guy getting hurt, that is tremendous restraint and a lot of guns off the streets. With the help of the community, we can get even more guns off the streets.

The murderer from the August 19th liquor store incident was caught.

There was a slight increase in robbery in the 70th last year from 382 to 400. Friday night was the most common evening for robbery last year. In 1990 there were over 2,000 robberies in that year. We are getting lower. Hopefully we can get lower this year.

Last year there we had 28 crimes in transit. On Church Avenue subway station, the 70th Precinct Officers not the Transit Officers were there 1,300 times to make sure that everyone was safe.

Felony assaults were up 7% from last year (337 to 362 this year.) Almost a third of our felony assaults are domestic related. A felony assault is not a slap or a punch it is usually getting hit with a stick or a very serious injury.

Commander Monteforte showed different objects that kids were carrying in the streets such as a marker with a sheetrock screw, also a marker with a razor at the end of it which is extremely dangerous.

Commander Monteforte reminded building dwellers that they could sign up for the FTAP program that allows officers to randomly patrol the hallways of their buildings. They currently have 398 active locations. Interested tenants can contact Officer Joanne Fundaro at 718-851-5556. A lot of inside crimes have decreased because of this program.

Domestic Violence is a big issue. The 70th precinct also now has a Domestic Violence Drop In Program. They made over 1,000 visits last year to families, to let them know of the services they offer. Call 718 851-5569 for more information. Commander Monteforte stated that he did not want any one becoming a victim of a crime without knowing how the police department can help them. Last year there were 120 victims of domestic violence.

Commander Monteforte explained Grand Larceny. For example, if someone snatches a phone from your hand it is considered a grand larceny. 67 times last year people were on their cell phones and not paying attention and someone runs up to them and snatches their phones and runs away. People are also getting pick pocketed on trains and buses.

Last year 114 people left property in their car worth more than $1,000.00. He stressed, you have to properly secure your property. Put things that are valuable in your trunk.

The Precinct offers services to come into your home to find ways to make it more secure. Contact Community Affairs at (718) 851-5557.

Burglary is down 13%. In 2009 there were 370 burglaries, in 2010 there were 322. DNA left behind was cited as a factor in the increased burglary arrests.

Etching Program for electronic devices: Come into the Precinct and they will put a number on your device with invisible ink.

Most frequently stolen Cars: Maxima, Sentry, Camry, Civic. (In 2010 185 cars were stolen, in 2009, 200 cars were stolen and 1990, 3,298 cars were stolen.)

Commander Monteforte announced that we have great youth programs. If you know anyone out there who is getting into trouble, call the precinct and they will come to the house and speak to the youth and let you know what is going on. Let us help these kids. We also do Scared Straight Programs so that inmates can speak to them. We take them to youth courts and mediations. There are a lot of things the Precinct can do to help out troubled youths.

Last year we had over 6,000 311 calls. The majority were noise complaints, 911 calls averaged 300 calls per day. The 70th Precinct is the second busiest precinct throughout the city.

Two people just graduated from the Civilian Police Academy. If anyone is interested in participating please speak to Det. Dominick Scotto at (781) 851-5557.

In terms of Graffiti we are doing a lot better, the streets are a lot cleaner. If you see anyone doing graffiti please call 911. If you want something cleaned up you can call the Mayor’s office and speak to Mr. Smith and see if he can arrange a clean-up for you. The Precinct also does clean-ups as well.
Year Graffiti Arrests
2010 103
2009 86
2008 47

Commander Monteforte emphasized that you must wear your seatbelts; if not you will get a summons. He showed a demonstration of what happens if you don’t have your seatbelt on.

Last year we locked up over 100 people who were driving while intoxicated.

4. Message from Council Member Jumanne Williams
In June or July this year there is a possibility that rent stabilization could be lost in the state of New York. A lot of people aren’t aware and he wanted to make sure people know about this. It happened at the state level and they have a real rent reform effort, where people are trying to fight to make sure that rent stabilization and rent control stays in the state of New York. Rent stabilization not only keeps the rent low but there are other things that are important, such as the right to remain in your apartment, the right to lease renewal, the right to go to court if you have problems or violations. You will lose those rights if you don’t have rent stabilization. People who want to get involved can call his office (718.629.2900) and they will connect you to people who are doing it.

Council Member Williams announced that he was having a youth march on March 14th, 2011. Not In My Hood March. They are trying to get 5,000 young people to walk on antiviolence. It is not just going to be a march. It is going to be an affair after in hopes of connecting some of the young people with services.

Anyone wanting funding must call his office 718.788.7860. In order to get funding from his office you must attend a community meeting as to discuss ways to improve the community.

5. Message from David Kliestik - Kings County District Attorney’s Office
The 70th Precinct is a very productive precinct. Since January the 70th Precinct has two separate convictions. One was a burglary and the other was attempted assault 1. In addition, before we go to trial, a judge determines if the police acted properly. There were seven hearings since January whereas the judge did determine they acted properly on gun cases, burglary cases, and robbery cases.

Cops of the Month
Sgt. Gary Louissant
Officer Hiram Riffas

On New Year’s Eve on Ocean Avenue the officers observed a small group of people hanging out in front of a building. As they approached them the officers saw a guy with a gun. They gave chase, the guy with the gun runs into a building. They caught him on the second floor stairway with a loaded firearm on him. They took the gun off him and no shots were fired. He had five shell casings in the bag, which meant he shot five times before they got there. After arresting him they discovered that he was arrested in 2004 for shooting two people in the 70th Precinct.

The next meeting will be held on the last Wednesday, March 30th, 2011. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.


Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

November 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
November 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, November 17th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Avenue, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverly Kilpatrick, Vice President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant At Arms

NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Council Member Mathieu Eugene
Council Member David Greenfield
Rev. Jean Beaulieu, Clergy Liason
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Jonathan Judge for Community Board 14
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for Public Advocate Bill Diblasio
Ruben Lipkin, Senator Eric Adams


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:41 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

President Powell announced that we would have a special guest speaker and encourage everyone to stick around because it would be important.

1. Message from Senator Eric Adam – Ruben Lipkin
On December 16th, 2010 at the Walt Whitman auditorium in Brooklyn College, Senator Adams is sponsoring a holiday musical, soul music concert. For tickets please call their office at 718.284.4700. It is a free concert but you have to have tickets. Also on December 18th there will be an Open House at 572 Flatbush Avenue between Midwood and Maple. It is their yearly open house for the entire community to come and meet the Senator and his staff. There will be music and food.



2. Message from Council Member Mathieu Eugene
The Council donated two million dollars to Kings County Hospital to buy state of the art technology and equipment to improve the quality of health services to the people of the community. Also funding was given to Downstate Medical Center and Maimonides Hospital. As a medical doctor, he believes that health is the most important and precious gift you can receive from God. He believes that we have an obligation to provide the best education for our children. It is the reason why he gave funding to all the schools in his district to have state of the art computer labs with smart screens and funding for after school programs. School District 22 is very crowded and he is working with the Board of Education to get a new school. He asked if anyone wanted to be part of the public forum. Please call his office. He spoke with the Board of Education and he would like the people of the community who have small construction businesses to become qualified as subcontractors. They have the skills; they can do the job but don’t have the requirements. What he wants to do is have the Board of Education train them, mentor and help them meet the necessary requirements to get subcontracts with the city. If you know of anyone in construction businesses please have them contact his office.

3. Message from Vice President Beverly Kilpatrick
Vice President Kilpatrick thanked the funding raising committee for coming to their first meeting. She introduced the committee:
Co-Chair, Chantel
Co-Chair for Large Donations, Joe
Co-Chair for Community Outreach, Giselle
Co-Chairs for P.R. and Event Planning, Eddie, Maureen and Tamika

Their first order is to help with the Christmas Party because it is coming up soon and they want to be prepared. Also coming up next year there might be a calendar for the officers of the 70th Precinct. She also asked if there would be more volunteers.

President Powell stated the fund raising committee is critical. To make sure that funds are available for the things the Council is doing and for new projects in the future.

4. Report from the Commanding Officer.
Commander Monteforte had a sad announcement regarding one of our crossing guards. On Glenwood and Flatbush one of our cross guards was struck by a car. He asked everyone to please say a prayer for her. He and Father Perry were at hospital with her the night before.

A community within the 70th Precinct has been named the safest neighborhood in New York City.

In the Midwood section, Bedford Avenue, 22nd to 26th Streets, Avenue I and K, there were no major crimes in those areas. We owe it to the people that live there, the Shomrim Safety Patrol, a volunteer based group who patrols the streets, and, of course, the officers of the 70th Precinct. He thanked everyone for making the 70th Precinct a safe place to live.

In honor of Detective Dillon Stewart, there will be an anniversary memorial service, Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the New Life Tabernacle Church, 4905 Avenue D. That is where he grew up and it is the church that he grew up in. Commander Monteforte invited everyone to attend. When he was shot he went into cardiac arrest because he didn’t have enough blood. In his honor we will have a blood drive on Tuesday, November 30th in front of the precinct from 12:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For everyone that donates blood, the New York City Widows Policeman Foundation will donate $10.00 to all the deceased officers who were killed in the line of duty.

5. Auxiliary of the Month
Auxiliary Police Officer Benjamin Grynsztajn

The Police Commissioner honored about 50 auxiliary officers. They chose officers from each of the boroughs and the long standing officers. Benjamin was chosen the best auxiliary officer in Brooklyn South. Auxiliary officers must volunteer at least 14 hours a month. Ben puts in 55 hours a week. Commander Monteforte thanked him for all the services he gives to the 70 and the whole community.

6. Cops of the Month
Police Officer Jason Greenberg
Police Officer Christopher Collyear
Police Officer Jason Rosciano
Sgt. Edward Kramer
Officer Phillip Monck

On Saturday, September 18th at 9:00 p.m. officers responded to a burglary in progress on Coney Island Avenue and Avenue O. The location was the other side of Coney Island Avenue where the 66th Precinct patrols. Our officers went into the 66th Precinct to handle a burglary in progress. Upon arrival the officers observed a naked man standing on the third floor ledge of his apartment building on Coney Island Avenue. He was emotionally disturbed and intoxicated. The officer gained entry into the apartment. The officers were able to grab the man before he jumped off the building and brought him inside to safety.

Sgt. Kramer was patrolling around Avenues K, L, and M when a young female gets out of her car coming home from work with her pocketbook in her hand. A male with a bandanna over his face walks up, punches the young lady in her face, removes her pocketbook and flees. People that saw what happened called 911. The officers chased the perpetrator but lost him. Sgt. Kramer gave a perimeter check. The perpetrator went into a building and changed his clothes and removed the bandanna from his face. The description given to the officers in the field is totally different from what he was wearing. Since Sgt. Kramer have been on the job for quite a few years and because he is a good cop, he realizes that it might be the same person because the height matches the description. Sgt. Kramer walks up to the kid and saw that he was acting suspicious and nervous. He placed his hand on the kid’s heart and it was beating extremely fast. They went and got the victim and she identified him; and her bag was recovered in the building.

Last month awards were given out for helping out on Medal Day. The Inspector wanted to give out the awards for the people that weren’t at the last meeting. They were Joe Basso, Mavis Theodore and Evelyn (Baylla) Inman. .

The city is down by one percent in crime and the 70th Precinct is down by six percent. You may see a big police bus on Foster and Flatbush Avenues; we had two shootings there within the last couple of weeks.

7. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte and Responses.


8. Message from Council Member David Greenfield
In September at a Town Hall Meeting with Commissioner Raymond Kelly, quality of life complaints were raised. As a result of that meeting the police commissioner contacted a local precinct and advised them to spend more time addressing the quality of life issues. He also gave them a directive to crack down on these issues. That led to Officer Verrico who made a routine stop of a vehicle that was honking aggressively at an intersection. Officer Verrico issued a ticket to the driver for the noise violation. However upon writing the ticket he discovered that the driver’s license was suspended. Officer Verrico along with his back up placed the driver under arrest. Also he discovered a hand gun in the driver’s vehicle which was loaded and unregistered. The driver was placed under arrest with felony charges. Councilman Greenfield presented a citation to Officer Frank Verrico for his outstanding work.

9. FDNY Fire Safety Education Unit - Lt. Steve Reisman, Lt. Mike Murray, Rescue Response Team – David Spira, Glen Schneider
Lt. Reisman spoke about fire safety in the home focusing on prevention, early detection, having a plan. He suggested that everyone take literature and read it because it will give you important information. If you have a space heater, make sure it was made within the last five years. He shared many helpful tips on the use of space heaters. Make sure you buy products with UL (underwriter’s laboratory) certification. If you throw out your old space heater cut the cord. Lt. Reisman spoke on the importance of smoke detectors. Test your smoke detector once a month and change the battery every six months. At the end of his lecture FDNY gave out smoke detectors and batteries.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:56 p.m. The next meeting will be on December 15th, 2010.



Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

October 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
October 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, October, 27th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverly Kilpatrick, Vice President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant At Arms

NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain William Taylor, Executive Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Delsie Lawson for Council Member Mathieu Eugene
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Jonathan Judge for Community Board 14
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for Public Advocate Bill Diblasio
David Klestzick, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Taryen Olorin, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
St. Brendon’s Boys Scout Troop 446
Victor Ortiz, Maimonides Hospital
Shawn Campbell for Assembly Member Jim Brennan


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:41 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from Community Board 14 – Jonathan Judge
Dorothy Ortiz sent her regards to the Precinct and if there are any problems within Community Board 14 that they can help with, please contact their office at (718) 859-6357.

2. Message from Assembly Member Jim Brennan
Assembly member Brennan announced that the city will be losing millions of dollars in stimulus monies given by the Obama administration next year. He stated that we may face serious challenges if we lose the money because it would affect education, healthcare etc.

3. Message from Council Member Jumaane Williams – Ernest Skinner
Council Member Williams encouraged everyone to go out and vote. He reported that only 55% people in Kings County filled out their census which was very low in New York. Also, to pay attention to two major ballot propositions which are 1) return city terms to two terms, and 2) a variety of administrative changes to city charter.

4. Message from Assembly Member Steven Cybrowitz – Roz Sokol
On behalf of Assembly Member Cybrowitz, Ms. Sokol presented an award and a cupcake to Detective Dominick Scotto to show his appreciation for his work and congratulated him for receiving the 2010 Chief Brennan award.

5. Message from Assembly Woman Rhoda Jacob – Ed Powell
On behalf of Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs, Ed Powell presented Detective Dominick Scotto with a citation and congratulated him on his 2010 Chief Brennan award. He further stated that Detective Scotto gave a phenomenal acceptance speech.

6. Message from Vice President Beverly Kilpatrick
Vice President Kilpatrick is forming a fundraising committee and was seeking volunteers to participate. Interested members should speak with the VP at the November meeting.

A representative from San Remo Restaurant received an award for ongoing support of the precinct.

President Powell presented Inspector Ralph Monteforte with a plaque of appreciation. He stated we couldn’t ask for a better leader who is compassionate and caring. Commander Monteforte thanked the Community Council for the plaque. The president also presented plaques to each of the current board members of the council, and thanked them for their hard work and dedication to the 70th Precinct community..

7. Report from the Commanding Officer.
Commander Monteforte announced that Captain Giovanelli transferred to another location and announced his replacement, Captain William Taylor, who worked for 15 years at the 60th Precinct. The Commander acknowledged Captain Taylor’s past experience in the detective bureau.

He stated that almost half the precincts in the city are up in robberies. He said school kids are being robbed in the Flatbush/Nostrand Junction area. Also, that E. 21st Street and Caton Avenue have had robberies and several burglaries.

He assured the council that during Halloween weekend, there will be extended coverage on Saturday and Sunday.

This month is Domestic Violence Month. The precinct makes over 1000 home visits a year. Inspector Monteforte asked the council if there was anyone we knew who needed help. If so, please have them contact the precinct.

Commander Monteforte thanked the St. Brendon Boys Scout for their help on Medal Day and for helping with Graffiti cleanup.

Cops of the Month
Police Officer Frank Verrico
Police Officer Scott Nuzzi
Police Officer Giovanni Cordova
Auxiliary Lieutenant Gregory Grange
Auxiliary Police Officer Gregory Nieczym
Auxiliary Police Officer Israel Werzberger

The officers were commended for their work which ranged from stopping a TLC driver and recovering a 9mm gun, apprehending suspects and recovering stolen property from robberies. THANK YOU, to our Cops of the Month and to every Police Officer who serves and protects our community.

Commander Monteforte presented the following with Certificates of Appreciation for helping with Medal Day:
Ed Powell
Giselle Nakhid
Glen Wolin
Mavis Theodore
Delsie Lawson
Mary McRae

Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte and Responses.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. The next meeting will be on November 17, 2010.



Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

September 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
September 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain Michael Giovanelli, Executive Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Delsie Lawson for Council Member Mathieu Eugene
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Joe Basso for Community Board 14
Father Michael Perry Our Lady of Refuge
Rafael Samanez Vamos Unidos
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for Public Advocate Bill Diblasio
Joseph M. Burke, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Shawn Campbell for Assembly Member Jim Brennan


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:47 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from Council Member Mathieu Eugene – Delsie Lawson
Council Member Eugene is having a reception tomorrow, September 16th at Borough Hall (209 Jerome St.) from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for six (6) students from Haiti who will be attending MCNY College in Manhattan for eighteen (18) months to learn disaster/survival training and ways to help rebuild Haiti.

2. Message from Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs – Ed Powell
Council Member Rhoda Jacobs wanted to thank everyone for going out to the polls and re-electing her.

3. Message from Vamos Unidos - Rafael Samanez
Vamos Unidos is an organization of street vendors, which has approximately 800 vendors throughout the city. Their focus is on advocacy for vendor’s rights and injustices against street vendors. They are working with several precincts, the 40th, 46th, 52nd, 115th and are looking forward to working with the 70th Precinct to address their concerns and they hope to build a good relationship with the precinct.

4. President Powell asked all the officers of the Precinct Community Council to come forward so that everyone can meet them. The entire board was re-elected. On behalf of the board, President Powell wanted to express our appreciation for your confidence in us and wanted everyone to know who the officers are.
Ed Powell President
Beverly Kirkpatrick Vice President
Rosanne Boland Treasurer
Mary McRae Secretary
Nathan Thompson Asst. Secretary
Mavis Theodore Sergeant-at-Arms

Ben Waltzer announced that he set a Flatbush Parade yahoo group. He would like people to join the group so that people can speak online about things going on within the precinct, near the parade grounds especially and beyond that as well. If you would like to join please add your name to his list and he will send you an invite.

Father Perry announced that on Sunday, September 26th, 2010 at our Lady of Refuge on the corner of Ocean and Foster Avenues, with a government agency, will be doing a Drug Buy Back The drugs are not illegal but prescription drugs. If you have any prescription drugs that are outdated or that you don’t use, they are asking you to not put them in the water, throw them in the garbage or put them somewhere that young children can get them.

President Powell wanted everyone to be aware of the flood victims in Pakistan. A community organization, Council of People’s Organization (COPO) is collecting money, food, clothes, supplies etc. for the flood victims. COPO contributed to the people of Haiti after the earthquake. He asked that everyone please try to help regarding the disaster in Pakistan.

5. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte announced crime is down by 1 ½% it is not a big number but nonetheless crime is down more than last year. Our precinct is leading the way. We are down by 6% which means that there are 80 less victims of crime this year. We are doing better than the rest of the city. School is just starting and of course, that is a concern at the 70th Precinct. We will do as we have done the last two years. When school is dismissed we will have more patrol officers on those routes to insure the safety of the kids. We want to take the bad kids off the streets and protect the good kids that are going home.

He wished the Muslim friends Happy Ramadan, He wished the Jewish friends, Happy New Year. He stated that there are 9 Mosque, 76 Synagogues and 72 Churches in our command. Commander Monteforte continued by saying just think how diverse this precinct is with that many churches, synagogues and mosques and everyone gets along extremely well, and that is because of our special liaisons.

In honor of Chief Patrick Brennan who once was the 70th Precinct Commander back in the 90s, every year an award is given in his name to the best police officer in Brooklyn South, which has about 4,000 police officers. The ceremony takes place in front of the 67th Precinct on October 26th. Chief Brennan’s family gives the award to a deserving officer. The officer receiving the award this year is our own Det. Dominick Scotto.

At the beginning of the summer, although crime was down, we had a little bit of increase in violence especially around 23rd Street and Clarendon Road. There were quite a few instances of shots fired from mid June to mid July. The two captains the lieutenant and the whole precinct paid close attention to that area because people were getting shot and some were innocent victims. With all the attention from our precinct and other outside units within the police department, that neighborhood had quieted down tremendously. He thanked all the officers and the two captains for spending time in that area and making sure all the residents were safe. For the last three months we have had only two shootings.

Cops/Detective of the Month
Detective Kevin Stumpf
Captain Peter Venice
Captain Michael Giovanelli

Thursday, August 19th, approximately 9:30 p.m. inside of 2388 Nostrand Avenue, Yosef Robinson was shot and killed during a robbery. Detective Kevin Stumpf with the assistant of the 70th Precinct squad and the homicide squad quickly identified the suspect and apprehended him five days later.

The second award is a little bit of a surprise. He stated he has been out for approximately three months and there are approximately 450 workers in the 70th Precinct which includes uniformed officers, civilians, auxiliary officers and school crossing guards. It is one of the largest commands in the city. The three months that he was out both Captains had to take over for him, and they did an excellent job. They have been working all summer long from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., and sometimes beyond, to make sure the streets were safe at night especially after the rash of gunplay. They are also in charge of the IMPACT officers. as well as traffic in this command. They know how many accidents occur in the command, how and where they occur, and what we need to do to stop them.. These are some of the factors that they study to find ways to reduce the amount of accidents in the command. Commander Monteforte stated we have the two best Captains in the whole city. Because of the dedication they demonstrated, in getting the job done while he was away, he presented them with awards to thank them.

6. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte.
Members of Vamos Unidos wanted to have a private meeting with the Commander to talk about their problems. A lot of vendors in the parade grounds are allegedly being assaulted, some at gun point. Commander Monteforte suggested that they report crimes to the precinct whether they are working legally or illegally.

A member spoke on problems with drug trafficking on East 17th Street between Newkirk and Ditmas Avenues. He stated that it calmed down in June, but the activities have started again. Fridays are like a party that starts at 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. or more. Captain Giovanelli stated that during the week they met with the specialty unit and arrested five people from that area.

A member stated that in April there was a violent murder with a machete at the Parade Grounds. A week or so later about 50 yards away, a livery driver was killed. The 70 precinct responded with more officers. Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs, the 70th Precinct, Ed Powell and other agencies did a walk through at the Parade Grounds and discussed strategies to improve safety and security at that location. One suggestion was video cameras to observe and identify perpetrators of criminal activity. According to the member, one week later there was a shooting at the same exact spot. He felt that a camera would have prevented it.

Commander Monteforte stated the machete incident with the 18 year old was a gang assault. An arrest was made shortly after that. The cab driver incident had nothing to do with the park. The third incident was reported as shots fired in the park but no one was injured. At the corner of Parade Place and Caton Avenue is the Dillon Stewart Playground, named after one of our brave cops killed in the line of duty. It is part of our impact zone. There are more cops there this year than last year because; last year it wasn’t part of the impact zone. This year, our precinct has close to 1500 major crimes. Of 1500 crimes, 14 crimes were committed in the parade grounds. One is the horrible homicide that occurred. This year three robberies were reported in the Parade Grounds. All three times the perpetrators were arrested. Last year there were nine robberies in the Parade Ground. Grand larceny, which is stealing somebody’s property, is down by six this year, in comparison to thirteen last year. Felony assault is the only crime that is up in the Parade Grounds. Last year there was not one felony assault. This year, there have been four. The first two were with regard to two cops being assaulted going into the parade ground making sure that people get summonses who need to get summonses. The third was regarding a child who was pushed, fell to the ground and got hurt; and the fourth was the reckless endangerment from the shots fired incident, mentioned above.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 27th, 2010.



Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

May 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
May 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, May 26th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
P.O. Timothy Mercer, Community Affairs Bureau
Captain Tom Pascal, Brooklyn South Narcotics Unit
Delsie Lawson for Council Member Mathieu Eugene
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Joe Basso for Community Board 14
Jake Oliver for Council Member David Greenfield
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for Public Advocate Bill Diblasio
Elaine Beal, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Joseph M. Burke, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Georgette Ebanks, Target Security
Shaun Campbell for Assembly Member Jim Brennan
James Sannon for Council Member Jumanne Williams
Mark Dicus, Church Avenue BID


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:45 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from Council Member Mathieu Eugene – Delsie Lawson
Council Member Eugene gave proclamation to the police department with the dog that rescued a little boy in Haiti.

2. Message from Nottingham Association - Connie Koenig announced that the Nottingham Association is very appreciative of everyone working and coming together in all our neighborhoods and work so well with our council people and our wonderful police. On behalf of Nottingham Association she presented a donation of $100.00 to the Community Council in memory of Marsha Edell who was an outstanding member of the Community Council for so b many years. She suggested we put in a PA system.

3. The nominating committee was appointed and was asked to present the slate to the members. Agatha reported that the officers who currently hold office; Ed Powell as President, Beverly Kilpatrick as Vice President, Rosanne Boland as Treasurer, Mary McRae as Secretary, Nathan Thompson as Assistant Secretary and Mavis Theodore as Sergeant-at-Arms have elected to run again. However, notwithstanding, the floor was opened for nominations. Joe Basso made a motion that the nomination be closed and it was seconded by Roz Sokol. Elections will be held at our June meeting.

4. Message on Church Avenue BID – Mark Dicus
On June 5th, 2010 the Flatbush Development Corporation, Church Avenue BID and the 70th Precinct Explorers is sponsoring a Graffiti Clean Up. They will supply paint, paint brushes and everything you need. There will be two locations 1660 Newkirk Avenue and 1701 Church Avenue corner of East 17th Street. The clean up begins from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00. At the end of the afternoon, Nathan Thompson, Secretary of the Community Council will have a barbeque. If you have a youth group, friends etc. please come and participate.

5. Message from Flatbush Development Corporation - Sandra Harris announced on June 13th they are sponsoring the Victorian House Tours. Tickets are on sale and you can call the office to reserve your tickets. The number is 718.859.3800.

6. President Powell announced that before he came to the meeting he attended the wake of a relative of a very dear friend of his and a very good friend of this community. He continues to make this a safe and equitable community to live in. Geroge Dames’ mother passed away. The funeral will be held tomorrow at the Blair-Mazzarella Funeral Home on Coney Island Avenue between Cortelyou and Beverley Roads.

7. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte announced if you want to know how the precinct is doing in crime you can go to www.nyc.gov and navigate through the system to get to the 70th Precinct. He made a power point presentation and showed that we are down by 5% in crime whereas the city is down by 3 ½% to 4%.

Stolen Cars
Commander Monteforte explained that they try to analyze all the cars that are being stolen and put all their efforts into those spots to see who is stealing cars. Vehicles that are targeted this year are Nissan Maximas and Sentras. If you have those cars please call the crime prevention officers so they can do some crime prevention work on your car. Such as put a sticker on the car so if it is driven after midnight they can pull it over without that car committing any violation. He stated that he would like to get in touch with everyone in the precinct that owns a Nissan Maxima. There are over 1500 people that own a Nissan Maxima in our precinct. There is also a rise on Crown Victoria and Vans. The reasons they are targeted are for parts. Now it is motorcycle season so far there have been six (6) motorcycles, all of them very new models. He suggest you put it in a garage rather than keep them off the streets.

If you find your vehicle stolen, do not enter your car because we are taking DNA from vehicles now. If you recover your vehicle and take it home you can contaminate the vehicle. If there is a car on your block that you think is stolen, call the precinct and we will go and check. If kids are playing near the car, keep them away from it because they will be checking for fingerprints.

Burglaries
An area where there usually aren’t in burglaries but there was five (5) in a matter of three weeks around Rugby and Cortelyou Roads. Days of the week are usually when burglaries when no one is at home. One burglar went through a small window and stole 10 bottles of wine. He was arrested because of a fingerprint kit. The next burglar was 14 years old and responsible for three (3) burglaries in the neighborhood. He was arrested. Please let people know if their home is burglarized to leave everything alone and call the precinct so that they can use a fingerprint kit in hopes to apprehend the burglar.

The southern part of the precinct is where cars were broken into, tires and rims were stolen especially from Nissan Maximas. If you don’t know how to secure your car the crime prevention officer will come and take a look at your vehicle and let you know what you can do to prevent someone from stealing. The crime prevention officer will come to your house for burglaries even if your home has not been burglarized and will talk to you. The number to call is 718.851.5504, this is a free service the precinct offers.

The northern part of the precinct teenagers would call Chinese food stores and robbed them. These guys have been arrested.

Commander Monteforte explained that one of the crimes that went up this year is felony assaults, family members are getting assaulted. This year it is a rise in intimate relationships, young intimate relations (ages 18 to 24). He said that many of the incidents had no previous history and urged the crowd to get involved earlier rather than later. His domestic team now does 200 visits a month on people with histories of disturbance calls. This has brought about a 20% decrease in incident calls.

You can get up to a $1,000 if you give any information on anyone with a gun. You can call 1.866.GUNSTOP. If you bring any gun to the precinct you will get a voucher for $100.

Commander Monteforte said he would like to get all fireworks from out of the precinct. If there is anyone out there with fireworks call 911 or the precinct. The only thing it can do is harm a child.

Cops of the Month
Officer Giuseppe Giuca
Officer Robert Campbell
Officer Nancy Ferber
Officer Michael Szczeckinski

They received notations for recovering guns without ever drawing their own.

A volunteer asked for suggestions as to places to put up "Missing or Exploited" children posters. Commander Monteforte assigned an officer to work with the group to find appropriate places.

Commander Monteforte gave an update on a homocide at 555 Ocean. It appeared to have stemmed from a personal dispute. No arrests had been made at that time.

The 70th Precinct reminded us that they have a "Phone registration" program where you can get your cell phone marked for future identification by the NYPD.

7. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte.

A resident asked about how long a response one could expect from a house alarm going off. The answers ranged but the Commanding Officer assigned someone to deal with the issue in question.

A representative from Prospect Park Association recognized the 70th Precinct efforts to maintain a presence in the Parade Grounds on weekends during the soccer season.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

March 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
March 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, March 24th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverley Kilpatrick, Vice President
Mary McRae, Secretary
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain Michael Giovanelli, Executive Officer
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
P.O. Timothy Mercer, Community Affairs Bureau
Beverly Kilpatrick for Community Board 14
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for NYC Council District 44
Shawn Campbell, Assembly Member Jim Brennan
Mark Dicus, Church Avenue Business Improvement District
Victor Ortiz, Maimonides Hospital
Mathieu Eugene, Council Member 40th District

________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:49 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

President Powell cited the passing of Rabbi Zvi Florence who coordinated the Council’s Annual Street Fair for, at least, the past 10 years. Rabbi Florence, a beloved friend of the 70th Precinct, passed away on March 23, 2010 and the funeral was held on March 24th, 2010. He will be deeply missed.

This year, the Street Fair will be held April 25th on Church Avenue between Argyle Road and East 10th Street.

President Powell announced that the recent talent show “Brooklyn South Got Talent” had a wonderful turnout. The 70th Precinct sold tickets in the amount of $435.00; all proceeds go the 70th Precinct Community Council. President Powell thanked Officer Kim Walker for doing an exceptional job.

A poetry slam sponsored by Cops for Kids, the 70 Precinct and Voices Seeking Change, Inc. will be held March 25th, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Manna’s Soul Food Restaurant.

NYPD 70th Precinct Blood Drive will be held Wednesday March 21st, 2010 at 154 Lawrence Avenue from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. You must have a photo ID, weigh at least 110 lbs., and be between 16 and 75 years of age.

Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs is co-sponsoring with Councilmember Mathieu Eugene, Councilmember Jumaane Williams, and Assemblyman Karim Camara Citizenship Application Assistance Day on April 17th, 2010 at Brooklyn College Student Center at East 27th Street and Campus Road. The event is from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Officer Tim Mercer announced a basketball game between the 69th and 70th Precincts on April 28th which is sponsored by Cops for Kids.

Message from Community Board 14 – Beverly Kirkpatrick
Their annual Youth Conference will be held on April 29th, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Brooklyn College Student Center. She thanked Lt. Bourne and Officers Walker and Shafidiya for their participation in all the meetings.

Father Michael Perry, the priest at Our Lady of Refuge R.C. Church read an amusing piece that member, Blossom Klass wanted to share with the Council.

Simon Strowe, an Auxillary Police Officer, announced the importance of filling out and returning the census form. He emphasized the fact that the information is kept confidential.

Council Member Matheiu Eugene also discussed the importance of the Census. He stated that it meant more funding and more resources for our community. He announced that City Council is fighting to try to save metro cards for students, centers and other facilities for senior citizens, daycare centers and firehouses. He stated that we must work hard to support our community boards. He promised to continue to raise public awareness about strokes and asthma. We must do everything possible to prevent these diseases. He thanked everyone for their help during and after the Haiti catastrophe.


Report from the Commanding Officer.

Commander Monteforte announced that on February 26th, 2010, School Crossing Guard Ms. Huldah Durante passed away from at stroke at Maimonides Hospital. Ms. Durante was employed and served with the NYPD (70th Precinct) for nine years. Her post was on Flatbush and Snyder Avenues, serving the children of P.S. 6 and Explore Charter School. She was loved by her children who all called her Mom. She was laid to rest on May 9th. May she rest in peace.

On Sunday, February 28th 2010 the Muslim community celebrated the birth of the prophet Mohammed with a procession on Coney Island Avenue. 700 people marched.

Also, on Sunday, February 28th, 2010 the Jewish community celebrated Purim with family and friends at their homes within the 70th Precinct. All went well.

On April 25, 2010, Patrol Borough Brooklyn South will be hosting the Annual Community/Precinct Unity Showcase from 10:am to 6:pm, in Prospect Park. There will be entertainment, food, games and refreshments for both children and adults.

Cops of the Month
Officer Rusian Matviiv
Officer Joshua Stewart
Officer Donald Barton
Officer Jesus Carrilto
Officer Christopher Deats
Officer Allison Rodriguez
Officer Damon McMullen
Officer Albert Romano

On February 20th Officers Rusian Matviiv and Joshua Stewart responded to a dispute at Club Temptation at 4:45 a.m. An individual was drunk and had a firearm in his car. Five days later, the two officers effectively responded to a dispute in a hair salon when one individual stabbed another who had a firearm. These two officers are commended for taking two guns off the streets.

On Sunday, March 7th around 8:00 p.m. Officers Donald Barton and Jesus Carrilto heard shots fired around Foster and Bedford Avenues. The officers gave chase to three individuals and saw one of them throw something away. They found a 380 caliber gun from which seven (7) rounds had been discharged.

Officers Christopher Deats and Allison Rodriguez are part of the Sector Team and work midnights. These two officers were on Avenue J and Coney Island Avenue and heard shots being fired. They went towards 12th Street where a victim had been shot in the chest and leg and later died. The officers started chasing a suspect down 12th Street. While being pursued, the suspect threw away a firearm. They continued to pursue him and he also threw away a knife. The officers continued to chase him down a dark alley and finally apprehended the suspect. He was a 19 year old gang member wanted for four (4) killings and is wanted for two (2) killings in the 72nd Precinct in the last two (2) years.

Officers Damon McMullen and Albert Romano work the midnight tours. They went into a building near Regent Place and East 21st Street that is a known drug location. They checked the building and left. While walking south on E. 21st Street, towards Beverley Road they heard shots being fired. Then there were a second round of shots. In a manner that is typical of the 70th Precinct’s “Finest,” these brave officers gravitated towards the gunfire at tremendous personal risk, subdued the perpetrators and removed more dangerous criminals and weapons from our community.

THANK YOU, to our Cops of the Month and to every Police Officer who serves and protects our community.

Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte and Responses.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

February 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
February 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, February 24th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverley Kilpatrick, Vice President
Mary McRae, Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain Michael Giovanelli, Executive Officer
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
P.O. Timothy Mercer, Community Affairs Bureau
Beverly Kilpatrick for Community Board 14
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for NYC Council District 44
Danny Cunningham, CAMBA
David Klestizick, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Elaine Beal, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Joe Burke, Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Rhonda Whitley, U.S. Census Bureau
Chaim Deutsch for Council Member Mike Nelson
Ernest Skinner for Council Member Jumanne Williams


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:45 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from King’s County District Attorney’s Office – David Klestizick
It is a please to work with the Inspector and Captains and the entire 70th Precinct. He spoke about the wonder work the officers had done. The officers did a great job of apprehending 3 guys in possession of guns which went to the grand jury.

2. Message on behalf of Congresswoman Yvette Clarke – Eli Slavin
Mr. Slavin stated that he report back to our congresswoman when there is good news and if there is news that needs attention he will let her know and they will do whatever they can do on a federal level.

President Powell announced that there will be a Poetry Slam on March 25th, 2010 at Manna’s Soul Food from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. sponsored by Cops for Kids, the 70th Precinct and Voices Seeking Change, Inc.
An event that is being promoted my Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, it is a talent show. Every precinct in patrol borough Brooklyn South would have at least one participant. Representing the 70th Precinct is our very own Nathan Thompson. Tickets are available. He asked everyone that represented an organization or elected official to take five (5) tickets. Each ticket was $5.00 each. Proceeds go to the 70th Precinct Community Council. Flyers are on the table regarding the talent show. The talent show will take place on March 11, 2010.

Every year, Community Board 14 sponsors a youth conference. Young people come out and participate; there are job opportunities, training, health issues, etc. The Community Board Youth Conference planning meeting is on March 3rd, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Community Board office. The Board office is at 810 East 16th Street.

3. Message on behalf of Council Member Jumanne Williams -Ernest Skinner
Mr. Skinner announced that Council Member Williams had asked him to express his gratitude to those that came to his inauguration. Mr. Skinner thanked the 70th Precinct for their visibility at the event. Any service provider or organizations in the 45th footprint who desire assessing discretionary funding through the city council, there are applications they have at the office and will send to you electronically. The deadline is March 10th, 2010. Since it has to be done electronically the email to the council member is williams@council.nyc.gov. In addition, any organization that expects to have support of the Council Member, it is mandated that they attend the planning meeting on March 19th at Brooklyn College from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in which they will do an interactive workshop. In terms of legislation the Council Member believes that voted recently in a negative way to a piece of legislation which was aimed at gang initiation. Those that voted against it felt that it is a poorly constructed legislation and is doing nothing to alleviate the problem of gangs. Council Member Williams believes that the city has continually cut budgets when it concern such things as recreational activities, after school programs, and other activities that can help with the problem.

President Powell announced that our treasurer Rosanne Boland has been quite ill and has not been at the last few meetings. He asked that everyone to remember her in our prayers and hope that she will be at our next meeting.

The meetings usually take place on the last Wednesday of the month however, the meeting in March will be held on March 24th, 2010. The week of the 31st is Holy week and there will be a lot of religious activities.

4. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte asked P.O. Officer Shafadiya to talk a little about the explorers and what they do.

Officer Shafadiya started by saying as she was growing up her parents always stressed to give back and what the Explorer program does is allow kids to understand and know how important it is to give back. The Explorer is a cadet program. It is for kids between the ages of 14 to 21. The program gives them information and guidance if they choice to go into law enforcement. In her program, they incorporate other programs such as Explorer business, Explorer medicine etc. She wants the kids to understand how important their future is and get an understanding of what their options are as they get older. Another component of the Explorer program is community service. They do at least 2 to 3 community services a month. It ranges from soup kitchens to graffiti cleanup, the Aids Walk, Diabetes Walk, from giving water to raising money. Her group has about 13 kids now and in a phase of bringing in new kids.

Commander Monteforte continued to say that Officer Shafadiya is in charge of anything that is youth related such as home visits. If anyone had trouble teenagers that need spoken to she goes and speak to parents. Last year we were down 27% in robberies which is a tremendous number. A lot of the robberies are done by young kids that have nothing to do on the streets and they steal I Phones or mechanical devices. Officer Shafadiya and her Explorers are doing an exceptional job. They are ranked No. 1 in the New York City Police Department in the amount of community service hours. Thirteen Explorers for the whole year did close to 4,000 community hours. Commander Monteforte wanted to acknowledge all the Explorers and Officer Shafadiya for all the work they do for the kids and for the community. They were given a plaque for their community service.

The Explorer of the Year is Nadia Bazan.

Anyone wanting to join the Explorers can give Officer Shafadiya a call at (718) 851-5524.

Commander Monteforte gave an award to show appreciation for our long standing member of the Precinct Community Council, Blossom Klass, “The Lady of Jokes”. She has been a member of the Council for around 25 years; a member of Nottingham Association covering the southern portion of the precinct; President of the Advisory Board of the Community Hospital located on Kings Highway and Bedford Avenue. She serves as a Community Liaison for the precinct and has been active participant of this precinct, serving and assisting the officers and the Explorers with precinct activities.

Cops of the Month
Sgt. Joseph Durante
Officer John Ryan
Officer Raymond Higgins
Officer Jon-Michael Lobosco
Officer Joseph Wernersbach

On Friday, February 19th at 12:15 in the afternoon Sgt Durante along with Officer Ryan and Higgins are assigned to our SNEU team (Street Narcotics Enforcement Unit). What they do is go out every day and look for drug dealers and drug buyers in uniform not like the narcotics unit that Captain Pascal is in charge of they are with the precinct. They made over 400 arrests last year which is a tremendous amount of arrest. They were driving around on 21st Street and Dorchester just looking for suspicious people when they noticed three males acting suspicious in that area. They approached the perps and they started running and began throwing guns. The guns they had were two loaded nine millimeters and one loaded 38. Commander Monteforte thanked St. Durante and Officers Ryan and Higgins for getting three guns off the street and for making the community safer.

Commander Monteforte stated that the District Attorney’s Office have been extremely cooperative with them. For instance if a person gets arrested and will be released the next day and has been arrested 30 or 40 times and they think he needs to stay in jail to get some treatment, maybe he’s a drug addict. We make that call to the District Attorney’s office he will make sure that person stays in jail and get the proper treatment.

7. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte.

One member was concerned about two summons he had gotten for parking at a T intersection at Rugby and a half block south of Foster Avenue where there are no stop signs. Both tickets totaled $330 for obstruction of a pedestrian ramp. He referred to a law that was amended in 2008 in which states on the horizontal park of a T intersection if there are no stop signs and no other markings to cross walk you can park legally. He also stated that on Newkirk from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. there are 5 to 6 cars are parked on the sidewalk illegally.

Commander Monteforte stated that if anyone receives a parking ticket that they feel they issue in error contact them as soon as possible because the police department can void a summons in error. Commander Monteforte stated that they will go and take a look at the location mentioned above and see if it fits with the law he mentioned.

One member living on St. Paul’s and Caton Avenue said that there is a lot of water that accumulates and all four corners are obstructive with water. He called 311. His wife can’t see and they have to go in the streets as well as kids. There must be a sense of urgency to fix the problem because someone may get hurt.

Another member asked how to go about getting funding for her family in Haiti and asked if it was legal to go to subway for money. Commander Monteforte suggested Lt. Bourne to sit down and talk with her on how to go about getting funding. Several officers in the precinct have family in Haiti, one officer lost seven family members.

One member thanked the 70th Precinct for their cooperation regarding getting a noise problem. The noise is after midnight that goes on until 7:00 a.m. or 8:00 a.m.

One member stated complained that his daughter got a ticket when helping him take furniture upstairs. Commander Monteforte explained that if the car is unoccupied tickets are usually given.

One member wanted to know what could he do because he was harassed by a client that didn’t pay him and the client threatened his life. He complained that he called the police but no one took a report. Commander Monteforte stated that they will take a look into it and find out why a report wasn’t given.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

January 2010 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
January 2010 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy New York
175 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverley Kilpatrick, Vice President
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Captain Michael Giovanelli, Executive Officer
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
P.O. Kim Walker, Community Affairs
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Jonathan Judge, Community Board 14
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Ed Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Pinny Ringel for Council Member Simcha Felder
Chaim Deutsch for Council Member Mike Nelson
Ernest Skinner for Council Member Jumanne Williams


________________________________________

The regular monthly meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:47 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell announced that the December meeting was a treat with an amazing performance by Nathan Thompson who amazed the kids. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from Council Member Simcha Felder – Pinny Ringel
Council Member Simcha Felder wanted everyone to know that he will be taking office on February 1st as Deputy Controller. There will be a special election to replace his seat. He wanted to thank everyone for their support throughout the eight years he served in the community. He gave a special thanks to the Inspector and Captain for their support. When people called their office to complain about a police issue, people thanked them for resolving the issues however, for the past eight years, there were three people from the precinct supporting them in resolving issues. On behalf of Council Member Felder, Mr. Ringel presented awards to P.O. Kim Walker, Detective Dominick Scotto and Lt. Jacqueline Bourne.

2. Message from Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs – Ed Powell
On behalf of Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs, Ed Powell announced Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs is co-sponsoring an event with Council Member Mathieu Eugene: a gathering in solidarity in support of the Haitian community. The event will take place Thursday, February 4th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The doors will open and 5:00 p.m. President Powell suggested that everyone come early. The location is the Walt Whitman theatre at Brooklyn College. There are many people that wanted to help with the situation in Haiti but don’t know the best way to help. On February 4th, you will be able to make donations i.e. food, clothing, medical supplies, money etc. This is an opportunity to find out the best way you can help out as an individual. If you have loved ones in Haiti or know of someone that has, please bring their names. Every name will be mentioned at the ceremony. You will also be able to bring non-perishable items for the Haitian Relief Effort and they will be collected on the Brooklyn College campus at Campus Road. You will need ticket to enter the school yard which is free. Tickets are available at Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs’s office, you can call her office at 718. 434. 0446 or you can go on line at the college and you will receive a ticket. The capacity is 2200 people.

President Powell also announced that he had a meeting with Chief Fox of Brooklyn South regarding something that they use to do years ago, a talent show. Every precinct in Brooklyn South will have at least one representative that will perform. The event is on Thursday, March 11, 2010 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Brooklyn College. Tickets are $5.00 per person. He stated that he had tickets and if anyone was interested, they should see him after the meeting. Also, if anyone is interested in performing let him know. Auditions are held Wednesday, January 20th, Tuesday, February 2nd, Thursday, February 4th, Monday, February 8th, and Wednesday, February 10th. Please let him or Detective Scotto know if you would like to come.

3. Rabbi Perlstein presented Commander Monteforte with a birthday cake as a token of appreciation followed by a birthday cheer.

4. Message from Senator Eric Adams Office. He wanted to remind everyone that the Census is coming up and everyone will receive a mailer. Everyone should fill out the census mailer. Every person who is listed on that mailer represents $3,000 in federal money that will be coming into our neighborhood. For every person who is not counted, we will lose $3,000 for next 10 years. He also announced that Time Warner Cable is giving free phone calls to Haiti to their customers.

5. President Powell introduced P.O. Tim Mercer from One Police Plaza. Officer Mercer greeted everyone and announced they will be starting a Mentorship program. They are focusing on kids that may need help and asked if we knew of any kids to submit their names to the youth officer. He also announced that his territory has expanded to all of Brooklyn.

6. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte announced the Community makes him feel that he is part of the community and part of the family. Crime has been dropping and our relationships have been getting better and he owes it to the people in the community council. We are down 300 crimes compared to this period last year. It means there are 300 less victims of crime, which is a 12% reduction in crime. The difference between last year and this year is last year there were over 2300 victims of crimes and this year a little over 2000. Commander Monteforte asked if anyone heard about the story on WPIX and in the Daily News about a blue van on Webster Avenue in Brooklyn trying to pick up children. He clarified that the incident was not happening in Brooklyn, it was happening in the Bronx.

Commander Monteforte announced the two new graduates from the 70th Precinct, from the Citizens Police Academy, Tamika and Maureen Williamson.

Detective Scotto announced that the new classes for the Citizens Police Academy will start again in March and if anyone is interested please let him know. It is a 15 week program that covers topics such as police science, law and police strategies. Classes are one day a week. The Brooklyn South Task Force provides the transportation. Anyone who is interested should contact Detective Scotto at 718-851-5557.

Commander Monteforte introduced Captain Tom Pascal. If you have any information or questions regarding illegal drugs or drug sales, please talk to him because he is doing an unbelievable job for our community. He next introduced Captain Peter Venice. He is in charge of all the IMPACT cops in the IMPACT zones. The Commander spoke about his expertise and how he makes sure that crime is reduced in that area and he is doing a great job. Captain Mike Giovanelli is involved in several areas of the precinct’s work; but the two main issues that he is involved with is identifying and tracking bad criminals in the precinct, the guys that carry firearms, and those who are dealing drugs and doing robberies. He tracks them down and makes sure all the cops in the precinct know who they are. They make visits to them and keep in contact with them to let them know they are always being watched. Secondly, he is in charge of traffic stats within the precinct. He goes over all the accidents, where the accidents are happening, as well as where the summonses are issued, in order to help reduce the number of people involved in car accidents.

Cops of the Month

Officer Jay Richiez
Officer Gregory Gordon
On January 4th, 2010 at 1:00 a.m. Officers Richiez and Gordon observed a gray Nissan Maxima heading east bound on Avenue D changing lanes without signaling and a plate that was covered, which is unauthorized and a violation. As police officers they are trained to look for other things. When they conducted their car stop they noticed the dashboard area surrounding the air vent which was loose and hanging. They looked around in the car and found two loaded magazines on the floor. Both men were arrested. The precinct called the District Attorney’s office to get a search warrant for the car. Behind the loose air vent was a loaded 9 millimeter gun. The guy was charged. Shortly after the arrest, Homeland Security called the precinct and found out that the suspect was wanted for a 1999 shooting of a police officer in Florida. Both Officers Richiez and Gordon work in the Conditions Unit. This unit made 96 arrests last year. They are doing a great job.

7. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte.

There was a question about whether it is legal to feed a parking meter on behalf of someone else. Commander Monteforte stated he did not know the nature of the summons that was issued which could be the time frame in which the car was there or if it was in a no standing zone.

It was noted that on Newkirk and 17th Street (Newkirk Plaza) the lights have been out where the cameras are located.

Several members reported that they are having problems with graffiti. The Commander suggested they give their complaints to the graffiti officers; Officer McMullen and Officer Dabosco and they would look into it.

It was asked if it was illegal to ride bikes on the sidewalk. Commander Monteforte answered yes and stated bikes have to follow the same laws as vehicles. They issue summonses for it, but they also use discretion. If there is a ten year old kid riding on the sidewalk and getting bread for his mother we will not bring him into the station. If there is a guy riding on the sidewalk and its drug related that guy will at least get a summons.

Some residents complained about the new traffic installation at Fort Hamilton Parkway and Prospect Park S/W circle, saying that they felt it made the circle less safe. Commander Monteforte stated that he will monitor the accidents. He also stated that the circle covers the 70th, 66th, 72nd, and 78th Precincts.

A member of the public complained about people not cleaning up after their dogs. Commander Monteforte suggested that if you give the Sanitation Department specific times and locations, they will have a Sanitation Enforcement Officer around to check for this. Commander Monteforte stated that someone can receive a summons for dogs not being on a leash and defecating on the sidewalk. He also brought up people talking on their cell phones while driving. Commander Monteforte mentioned that there were a 100 summons given out in one day in the 70th Precinct for this offense.

Someone asked what areas the precinct covered. Commander Monteforte pointed out the boundaries of the 70th Precinct.

Someone asked for an update about a shooting on the block. Commander Monteforte stated that the day after Christmas there were two homicides in the precinct. One was on Regent Place and the other one was on Flatbush, the northern part of the precinct closer to Woodruff Avenue. He stated that they are still doing an investigation on it and did not want to talk about it in public. It is a very serious incidence and please if you hear of any information on crimes in the precinct please let them know. If you don’t feel comfortable calling the detective squad, call Det. Scotto, Lt. Bourne, himself or President Powell because these are very serious crimes.

The Commander advised the Council that two females in the precinct were killed due to domestic violence this year and that we are down 25%. If you observe a domestic argument where people are getting really enraged wherein they could possibly hurt somebody, notify the authorities because we have a wonderful domestic violence team. They conducted over 1,000 home visits last year and that is why we have a very large reduction in domestic violence.

Last year Officer Shafidiyya conducted over 250 home visits for all of our young people that have been arrested for crimes (serious and minor offenses). Because of that, we were down 133 robberies last year.

There was information regarding Crips in our area. It is important to understand that you should have private conversations with the officers about such issues when you come to the meeting, in order to remain anonymous.

A representative of Prospect South Association complimented Officer Monck for his extraordinary work. Also Commander Monteforte acknowledged Sgt. Kramer for doing a great job managing the CPOP operations.

One member of the public complimented Officer Tommy Yang for doing an excellent job.

8. Council Member Jumaane Williams – Ernest Skinner. On behalf of Council Member Jumanne Williams, Mr. Skinner announced Jumanne William’s Inauguration and invited everyone to attend on:
Saturday, January 30th, 2010
6:00 p.m.
Midwood High School
2839 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY

Their office is located:
4517 Avenue D
Between 45th and 46th Streets

A member made the following announcement:

January 30th, 2010
The West Indian American Carnival Association will be having a march in support of the Haitians. The event begins at 11:00 a.m. and starts at Church Avenue and Rogers Avenue. For further information please call 718.467.1797.

Detective Scotto announced that terrorism is still out there. Please keep an eye open. The number for terrorism is 1.888.NYC.SAFE.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Nathan Thompson

October 2009 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
October 2009 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009
7:30 PM
United Cerebral Palsy of New York
175 Lawrence Avenue, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________

Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Asst. Secretary


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Det. Dominick Scotto, Community Affairs
Captain Tom Pascal, Brooklyn South Narcotics Unit
Tim Mercer, Community Affairs
David Z. Klestick, District Attorney’s Office
Elaine Beal, District Attorney’s Office
John Reef for Assembly Member Jim Brennan
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Reuven Lipkind for Senator Eric Adams
Pinny Ringel, Council Member Simca Felder
Glen Wolin, CERT
________________________________________

The regular meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:50 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in the Presentation of Colors by the 70th Precinct Explorers followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).


1. Report from President Ed Powell. The minutes of September 30th, 2009 were distributed and accepted on a motion made by President Powell and seconded by Roz Sokol with the necessary corrections should there be any. Motion carried. President Powell received a letter from Councilman Simca Felder and stated that Councilman Felder has been a long time supporter of the Community Council. In the letter Councilman Felder stated that in spite of all the fiscal challenges the city has been through he was able to allocate $3,500 to the 70th Precinct Community Council. He also expressed his deepest gratitude for what the Community Council does for the community.

2. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte asked if anyone remembered the horrific crime on Parkside Avenue three weeks before whereas three people were shot and there was a video of the three people getting shot in which a 19 year old kid died from that incident. The Mayor’s office has approved along with the police department a $12,000.00 reward for the arrest of the individual. Hopefully, they would be able to use the video to identify the individual so that they can get him off the streets as quickly as possible.

Commander Monteforte stated that if you know anyone with a firearm call 1-866-GUN-STOP because they offer rewards of $1,000 for anonymous information that leads to the arrest of individuals in possession of illegal firearms. He assured everyone that it is confidential and you don’t have to go to court. He announced that there were cards available in the back if anyone needed or speak to Detective Molloy.

Commander Monteforte asked everyone to be careful with their children on Halloween. He stated there are several websites you can go on to know where the sexual predators live in the community so that children know whose doors they are knocking on to avoid parents from filing a missing report. If the children have nothing to do that day, there are several walks in the precinct. Nathan Thompson will be doing a walk at Albemarle and Westminister Road at 5:00 p.m. and at 6:30 he and other officers were doing a walk on Glenwood Road and Coney Island Avenue. The precinct handed out leaflets to all the storeowners to not sell eggs and shaving cream to kids so that they don’t mess up the neighborhoods. He also stressed that they will be treating Friday like Halloween as well and they all will be working both days.

Commander Monteforte stated they had flyers in the back for holiday safety tips so that you can avoid becoming a victim of a crime. He commended a resident from Strafford Road for putting a block association together. The more people that can form block associations, the better for the police department so that they will be better able to help with the problems in the community.

Commander Monteforte made an important announcement; Community Affairs Officer Jovita Richardson was promoted to Sergeant and would be leaving the precinct. She has been in the precinct for 16 years and has served the community well. He stated regardless of the numerous times anyone called including himself, she was always there. She started as a patrol officer and in 2001 she joined Community Affairs. He commended her on doing a great job and she would be surely missed.

Commander Monteforte acknowledged Captain Peter Venice his partner in the precinct who helps him run it and Captain Tom Pascal from narcotics.

3. Cops of the Month: Sgt. Joseph Durante, P.O. Higgins, P.O.Vlad Green, P.O. Joseph Imperatrice. The Conditions Team received an award. It is comprised of two sergeants and about 17 officers. This year alone they locked up over 600 people and 40% of those people were dealing narcotics. This month, this team did a terrific job on two incidents. On Tuesday, the 20th of the month at approximately 9:25 on Farragut and Bedford Sgt. Durante and Higgins were on routine patrol when they observed two individuals on the corner on Bedford Avenue and after investigation apprehended both individuals for robbing an elderly woman at gunpoint for $4.00. About a week after that incident at approximately 8:45 p.m. Sgt. Durante Officers Imperatrice and Green responded to another gunpoint robbery. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the victim and were given detailed description of the two suspects who had robbed him of his iPhone. Later the suspects were identified in a line up.

4. Open forum with Commander Monteforte and Responses.

President Powell announced that due to the Thanksgiving holiday, our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2009.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae, Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Assistant Secretary

September 2009 Meeting Minutes

70th Precinct Community Council
September 2009 Meeting Minutes

E-mail: 70PctCC@gmail.com
Blog: http://70PctCC.blogspot.com
________________________________________
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
7:30 PM

140 Lawrence Street, Brooklyn, New York
________________________________________


Officers Present

Ed Powell, President
Beverley Kilpatrick, Vice President
Rosanne Boland, Treasurer
Mary McRae, Recording Secretary
Nathan Thompson, Corresponding Secretary
Mavis Theodore, Sergeant-at-Arms


NYPD, Elected Officials & Other Guests

Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer
Captain Peter Venice, Executive Officer
Lt. Jacqueline Bourne, Community Affairs
Doris Ortíz, District Manager, Community Board 14
Harvey Rosenholtz, Council Member Kendall Stewart
Shaun Campbell, Assembly Member Jim Brennan
Roz Sokol for Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz
Eli Slavin for Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
Wendy Ann Powell for Assembly Member Rhoda Jacobs
Mark Dicos, Church Avenue Business Improvement District


________________________________________

The regular meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council was called to order at 7:45 p.m. President Ed Powell greeted all and invited everyone to join him in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. President Powell sadly announced that over the summer we lost our former corresponding secretary and long standing community activist Laura James. Commander Monteforte spoke of Laura James commitment to the community and asked for a moment of silence in her memory. Mr. Powell then acknowledged the various representatives of elected officials and other distinguished guests present at the meeting (see above).

1. Message from Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs – Wendy Ann Powell
Rhoda Jacobs wanted to give an important message; she has a intergenerational program called Jacob’s Ladder in which she take seniors on trips and cultural events. Also, on Sunday, October 18th there will be a Cancer Walk, and if anyone would like to join them please contact their office. Mrs. Powell also took up a donation for the Cancer Walk.

2. Report from President Ed Powell. President Powell introduced Gus Caracappa and James Denofrio of Blair Mazzabella Funeral Home on Coney Island Avenue and commended them for on covering the cost of two funerals for families that lost their child in a tragedy. He also praised them for the beautiful job they had done for Laura James. The two men received a Memorial Thank You Award from the 70th Precinct Community Council.

3. Message from Doris Ortiz. Community Board 14 next meeting wd be October 19th at PS 249 on Caton Avenue – Public Hearing on the Budget. She stated she was happy to support the precinct and to hear all the issues and if there is anything Community Board 14 can help with please contact their office.

4. East 10th Street Block Association presented the Community Council with a decorative plate in appreciation of their services and asked for their continued support.

5. Report from the Commanding Officer. Commander Monteforte stated that anytime you want to see how the precinct is doing you can go online www.nyc.gov/nypd. Commander Monteforte went over the recent crime statistics which indicate that we are doing triple the reduction pace of last year. Last year we were down 5%. This year, we are down 15%. These are current numbers for the whole year to date. The only crime that the precinct is up on is stolen cars (GLA) which is up by 11 stolen cars for the year. He stated that there are a lot less victims in this precinct than last year.

Note: Percentage of Crimes down in the 70th Precinct (Jan. 1st. to Sept. 27, 2009)

Robberies 27%
Rape 64%
Murders 5%
Felony Assault 10%
Grand Larceny 14%

Commander Monteforte stated one of the reasons crime is down is because of Captain Pascal of Brooklyn South Narcotics and commended Captain Pascal for their work in getting drug dealers and drug buyers off the streets. He stated Captain Pascal takes all of our complaints very seriously. The problems sometimes stem from drug dealing. Captain Pascal and his officers and supervisors conducted an operation called Operational Spinal Tap for the past 25 months and investigated two drug organizations on 21st Street and bought over $10,000 worth of crack off of these dealers. They made 75 arrests. These drug dealers will be charged with multiple sales. We owe our gratitude to Brooklyn South Narcotics.

Commander Monteforte gave special recognition to Detective Agapito ‘Junior’ Soler, Detective Hector Rodriguez and an undercover cop for the role they played in the 25 month long investigation of Operational Spinal Tap.

6. Cops of the Month: P.O. Matthew Collyer and P.O. Christopher Niemeyer
Officers Collyer and Niemeyer were on routine patrol when they responded to a call from central to rescue a two year old baby that fell out of a third story window. They were commended for their valiant attempts to save the life of the infant. They also attended the funeral and spent the day with the family.

Commander Monteforte stated that for the first time in many years, there were not shootings in the 3 day period of the Jouvert Celebration. There were six crimes for the three (3) day weekend, domestic violence and two (2) police officers got hurt.

Commander Monteforte gave a citation to Lt. Ferber, Sgt. Kocher and several officers of the Anti Crime Unit for taking another gun collar off the streets.

The Commander also recognized Joe "The Chef" Basso for selflessly committing his time and being there for events when the PCC needed him.

Commander Monteforte prepared a Power Point presentation to show after the general meeting so that those that lived on Cortelyou Road can know what’s going on within their area.

7. Open Forum with Inspector Monteforte.

Members of Ditmas Park West and Prospect Park South made a complaint about garbage cans being stolen.

Members of one Temple asked why there was a lack of police presence on holidays. Monteforte explained that we have 80 Temples in the 70th and that if there is not a dedicated Officer on a given day, then there are cars going back and forth between the remaining Temples all day.

From Prospect Park South, someone asked, how many officers do we have today compared to last year. Commander Monteforte said, “We have around 300 which is roughly the same number as last year. We still have the impact officers and we will be keeping them for the future as far as we can tell.”

There were complaints about some associations not getting notified of PCC activities. The site address was given out as well as a request that those that have complaints take on the role of representatives. One example revolved around a half way house in Caton Park which police have been to on occasion and are working with Community Board 14 to address. Doris Ortiz from Community Board 14 was there to speak on the issue.

Representatives from Beverly Square West brought up that the PS 139 Schoolyard is open at night and has been the site of youth gatherings and making noise.

Mark Dicus from the Church Avenue B.I.D. brought up recent crime activity around the corner of East 18th and Church Avenue. This site has been discussed as a possible spot to place a camera.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McRae
Secretary

Nathan Thompson
Assistant Secretary