SCPD: Reports of Gang Initiation Scenarios Fictitious

Advisory from the Suffolk County Police Department:

Members of the public are advised that there are a series of fictitious emails circulating nationwide regarding gang activity and initiations.  The emails have identified various communities throughout the country, and most recently they were circulated on Long Island  with the following fictitious scenarios:

First Fictitious Scenario:  A female gang member is said to leave a baby carriage unattended on the side of a roadway with an infant within.  When female motorists stop to assist the baby, male members of the gang attack the motorist and assault the female.    

Second Fictitious Scenario:  Gang members are said to throw eggs at car windshields.  When motorists stop to clean their windshields, gang members are said to assault them.

The Suffolk County Police Department has not been notified of any actual incidents of this or a similar nature occurring within the Police District.   Members of the public are further advised that multi-agency, anti-crime and anti-gang initiatives, involving the use of both uniformed and plainclothes personnel are continuing, as are saturation enforcement initiatives involving uniformed personnel.

Although these emails are believed to be without merit, the Suffolk County Police Department offers the following general safety tips for your consideration:

-When driving, keep your doors locked and windows closed. 

-Always travel with a cell phone. 

-Don't stop at isolated pay phones or cash machines.    

-Plan your driving route in advance, and be sure your car is in good mechanical condition with sufficient fuel to arrive at your destination. 

-If you must stop because your vehicle becomes disabled, or if someone tries to alert you to a problem with your vehicle, attempt to stop only in a well-lighted area in a public place.  If you need assistance, activate your flashers and dial "911" immediately.  If it is safe to do so, remain in your vehicle and keep your doors and windows locked.

-When parking at night, be sure to park in well lighted areas.  Park as close to your destination as possible and take notice of where you parked.

-Be sure to locate your keys prior to returning to your car.

-When approaching and leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.  Do not approach your car if there are suspicious people or vehicles in the area.  Always check around your vehicle, making sure there is no one hiding beside or within your vehicle.

Remember, if you are at all suspicious when driving or parking, stay in your car if it is safe to do so and attempt to safely drive away from the area.  Drive to somewhere it is safe to stop, such as a populated public place or a police station, and dial "911" immediately.

You as members of the public are the Police Department's greatest resource against preventing crime.  Report suspicious activity to (631)852-COPS (2677), and in an emergency, or when urgent help is needed, dial "911" immediately.