Town of Dunstable, MA

We often ask that you report suspicious activity to the Police Department. Strangely enough" suspicious activity "is defined differently by each individual person. In this article, we provide some suggestions as to what might constitute suspicious activity. Webster dictionary defines suspicious as: doubtful, adapted to raise suspicion, vague, mistrustful Etc.

For police purposes, suspicious activity is defined as any behavior that you find unusual and probable of criminal activity. Behaviors that might be considered suspicious are:

1. Vehicles parked on the roadway between houses for no apparent reason( possible burglary activity)
2. Unknown individuals walking through a neighborhood with no sense of belonging (possible burglary activity)
3. Vehicles seen repeatedly cruising a neighborhood (possible burglary activity)
4. Yelling or screaming coming from a residence or building (possible fight or assault)
5. Large unsupervised gatherings on forbidden property could be suggestive of illegal drug or alcohol consumption.
6. An unknown individual ringing the doorbell and asking peculiar questions
7. Individuals exchanging small articles either through the car or in person(possible drug activity)
8. Vehicles seen coming and going from remote wooded areas (trespassing with other possible criminal intent)
9. Subjects parked near street signs for no apparent reason (may be attempting to steal or vandalize signs or other public property)

Although this list could be seen as indicative of both illegal and legal behavior, I hope it provides you with some ideas as to what behavior might be considered suspicious activity, warranting further police investigation. Some of the behaviors listed above may be antecedents to criminal activity. Your vigilance in reporting suspicious activity can truly make a difference towards reducing criminal opportunity. It is through working together that we can continue to deter crime.

On another note we wish everyone a happy and safe holiday, and remind you to view our public safety messages on the Town of Dunstable web site. In addition, and our public safety messages may be seen on the Cable T.V. show titled: "Groton Dunstable 9-1-1" A new program airs the first week of every other month.

Until next time!
James G. Downes III
Chief of Police
Emergency 9-1-1, Business 978 649 7445

This message is being sent to residents in concern of two recent burglaries to residential homes