Metro Transit Police fight iPod theft

From the Metro Website:

Metro Transit Police fight iPod theft
iPod theft is on the rise in the Metro system, and the Metro Transit Police want it to stop. From January through April 2007, 30 iPods were stolen from Metro customers. iPod thefts totaled 34 in all of 2006, and just two in 2005. To reduce iPod theft, Metro Transit Police are targeting Metro customers using electronic devices at a crime prevention outreach session at 4 p.m. today, May 9, at the Anacostia Metrorail station.

MTPD Officers will demonstrate behavior that helps customers avoid theft and crime. Officers will remind customers to remain aware of their surroundings and use electronic devices discretely. Safe behavior includes listening to music at a low to moderate decibel level; using black headphones instead of white headphones to make them less noticeable; and holding items inside backpacks, purses or jackets instead of in hands or on laps.

The officers also will distribute crime prevention information and identification decals for portable electronics.

The identification decals can be affixed to electronics and registered in a national database. The unique identification number will make lost or stolen items easier to track or recover.

In addition to the behavior listed above, the Metro Transit Police would like to remind customers of the following safety tips when riding Metro:
• Always be alert of your surroundings and the people around you.
• Avoid talking to strangers, especially in isolated areas.
• If carrying a purse, hold it tightly, and close to your body.
• If carrying a wallet, keep it in your front pocket.
• If you notice unusual behavior, unattended packages or anything that seems suspicious, call the Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121 or tell a Metro employee.