One of Two Suspects Arrested for Breaking into Business
Worcester, MA (May 24, 2013) - On Thursday, May 23, 2013, at approximately 5:22 AM, Worcester Police responded to Spaulding Fencing located at 239 South Ludlow Street for a reported break in progress. Police received information that two white males, in a dark colored vehicle, had broken through the gate to the business and is in the process of removing items from the property.
The first arriving officer observed a dark colored vehicle, parked at the business, with a male behind the wheel. The officer further observed a Pit Bull in the back seat. A second male was observed inside the lot passing wooden fencing through a hole in a chain link gate. The officer approached the vehicle and ordered the driver to shut off the vehicle. The driver replied by swinging open the passenger door and ordered the Pit Bull to attack the officer. At this time the second suspect ran towards the vehicle and attempted to jump in. The driver quickly drove off as the officer grabbed hold of the second suspect.
The suspect left behind was now engaged in a violent struggle with the officer. At this time assisting officers arrived and helped place the suspect under arrest. The suspect, identified as Christopher Shays, 19-years-old of 8 Woodford Street, Worcester, was charged with Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, Trespassing, Willful and Malicious Destruction of Property, Breaking and Entering in the Daytime with the Intent to Commit a Felony, Possession of Burglarious Instrument, Resisting Arrest and Attempting to Commit a Crime.
A search for the suspect vehicle and the driver produced negative results. The Worcester Police Detective Bureau is now investigating this incident. Security cameras at the business are currently being reviewed.
If anyone has information about this incident they can send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD + your message or send an anonymous web based message at worcesterma.gov/police. Calls can also be made to the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651.
May 24 at 4:01PM
Vice Squad Recovers Guns and Drugs from Stockholm Street Apartment
Members of the Worcester Police Vice Squad have been investigating a heroin distribution network in the City of Worcester. Officers were conducting surveillance of an apartment on Stockholm Street.
On Thursday, May 23, 2013, Worcester police observed a street level drug transaction between two men, later identified as 29-year-old, Yunardo Nunez-Hidalgo and 40-year-old, James Yanczewski. Police approached the men once the transaction was made. The men were in possession of approximately 54 knotted bags of heroin.
Worcester police obtained a search warrant for the Stockholm Street apartment. Members of the Vice Squad recovered numerous bags of heroin throughout the dwelling. The total amount of heroin seized was approximately 370 grams. Police also found drug paraphernalia and packaging material. Officers recovered a 9mm semi-automatic, three bags of ammunition and a semi-automatic magazine.
James Yanczewski, 40, of 70 Richland Street, Apt 3, Worcester, was charged with Trafficking in Heroin and Conspiracy to Violate Controlled Substance Laws.
Yunardo Nunez-Hidalgo, 29, of 19 Lakewood Street, Apt 3, Worcester, was charged with Trafficking in Heroin, Conspiracy to Violate Controlled Substance Laws, (2) two counts of Possession of Firearm and Ammunition without and FID Card, Distribution of Class A Substance, and Use of a Firearm in a Felony.
May 24 at 2:30PM
Update: Police Interview Suspicious Driver about Allegedly Taking Photos of Children
Worcester police have identified the suspicious driver who was reported this week taking pictures of children. Police interviewed the man about the reported incidents. At this time, it appears that the photos were taken for his job as a Field Inspector. The job requires him to photograph residential properties. He also takes photos of street signs to prove what street he is on. On various assignments, he took pictures of outdoor decorations and children’s toys on the property in order to prove occupancy. His assignments were recently in the areas where the suspicious driver was reported.
Worcester police appreciate reports concerning the safety of children and always encourage residents to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhood.
May 24 at 11:31AM
May 24 at 9:32AM
Police Warn Residents about Reports of a Suspicious Driver Taking Photos of Children
Worcester police would like to notify residents of a suspicious driver allegedly taking photos of children. Worcester police received a report of a man taking pictures of children from inside of his car in the area of Foxmeadow Drive. The incidents occurred between the hours of 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The man was seen driving a black two door Acura and a black Ford Ranger. He is described as a white male, balding and possibly in his 40’s.
Similar incidents were also reported this week in Paxton and Leicester.
Residents are urged to call the police if they see this person driving in their neighborhood. Police would like to speak with him about the reported incidents.
If anyone has information about this incident they can send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD + your message or send an anonymous web based message at worcesterma.gov/police. Calls can also be made to the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651
May 23 at 11:57AM
Click It or Ticket to Boost Seat Belt Use – Day and Night 2013 High-Visibility Enforcement Campaign
As motorists take to the roads this Memorial Day holiday, Worcester police are urging everyone to buckle up. The Worcester Police Department, in partnership with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s (EOPSS) Highway Safety Division (HSD), the State Police and other local departments will take part in the 2013 national Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement mobilization from May 20 to June 2 and crack down on motorists who are not belted.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over half of the 21, 253 passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2011 were unbelted at the time of the crash. Those deaths were more prevalent at night than during the daytime.
Tragically, these national statistics are mirrored locally. According to the NHTSA, 54 percent of people killed in passenger motor vehicle crashes in Massachusetts during 2011 were not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
NHTSA estimates 11,949 lives nationwide were saved by using seatbelts. This year’s Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization runs from May 20 through June 2 but officers are out enforcing seat belt laws year-round.
For more on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, please visit www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.
May 23 at 10:13AM
Police Arrest Man with 9 Outstanding Warrants
On Tuesday, May 21, 2013, at approximately 3:00 PM Worcester police were able to locate an 18-year-old male wanted on several outstanding warrants. Mr. Jabriel Nabulsi of Worcester had nine (9) outstanding warrants for his arrest including four (4) counts of breaking and entering, larceny over $250.00, assault with a dangerous weapon, receiving stolen property over $250.00, disorderly conduct and failure to stop for a police officer.
Police approached Mr. Nabulsi at 310 Park Avenue and told him that he was under arrest. Mr. Nabulsi resisted arrest and attempted to run from the officers. Mr. Nabulsi kicked one of the officers with a shod foot repeatedly in the head. Additional officer arrived on scene. Mr. Nabulsi was placed in handcuffs and transported to Worcester Police Headquarters.
Mr. Jabriel Nabulsi, 18, of 108 Barry Road, Worcester, was also charged with two (2) counts of Assault and Battery on a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest and Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon (shod foot).
Mr. Nabulsi will be arranged today at the Worcester County District Courthouse.
May 22 at 12:41PM
WPD Vice Squad Working Surveillance Stops man with Gun
Worcester, MA (May 21, 2013) - On Monday, May 20, 2013, at approximately 7:30 PM, members of the Worcester Police Vice Squad were conducting police surveillance on an apartment near the Kelly Square area. Police believe that the occupants were dealing narcotics out of the home. During the surveillance of the location, a male was seen entering the apartment and exiting a short time later. He was later identified as Andrew McConnell, 23-years-old of 26 Warren Street, Westboro, MA.
Mr. McConnell was observed walking out of the apartment and headed towards Patterson Street. Officers observed that he appeared very nervous and was constantly adjusting his waistband. Police decided to approach Mr. McConnell and inquire about his business at the apartment. As officers approached, Mr. McConnell immediately reached into his waistband and turned from the officer. McConnell began to run from the officer but was apprehended within a short distance. When officers secured McConnell, he stated to them that he was in possession of a gun.
Officers discovered a handle of a handgun in McConnell’s waistband. Police recovered the gun and discovered that it was fully loaded. Mr. McConnell did not have a license to carry firearms. At this time Mr. McConnell was placed under arrest and charged with Unlawful Carrying of a Firearm, Carrying a Loaded Firearm, and Possession of Ammunition without an FID.
Mr. McConnell was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was then transported to the Worcester County District Courthouse on Tuesday morning for arraignment.
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May 21 at 3:43PM
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May 21 at 2:47PM
Traffic Division Investigating Two Separate Serious Car Accidents
On Monday, May 20, 2013 at approximately 4:45 PM Worcester police were called to the parking lot of World Gym located at 7 Neponset Street for a report of a motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival to the scene, officers from the Operations Division learned it was a four car crash. Three vehicles had been parked and unoccupied prior to the accident. Based on the preliminary investigation, a blue Saturn L200 was traveling east and struck both vehicle two and three. Vehicle three was pushed into vehicle four.
The Accident Reconstruction Team was activated. The crash is under investigation. Two people were in the blue Saturn at the time of the crash. The passenger was taken to a local hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. The vehicle was towed to Worcester Police Headquarters to be inspected.
On Monday, May 20, 2013 at approximately 7:30 PM Worcester police were called to the intersection of Belmont and Shrewsbury Streets for a report of a two-car accident with injuries. The Worcester Fire Department was also called to the scene due to reported entrapment.
Upon arrival to the scene, members of the Reconstruction Unit observed a black 2003 Toyota Camry facing southwest. The vehicle had sustained severe front-end damage. The 2011 Ford Flex was facing southeast. The vehicle also sustained severe front-end damage.
A 36-year-old female victim seated in the rear passenger seat and a 41-year-old female victim seated in the front passenger seat of the 2003 Toyota Camry were both rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The 33-year-old male driver of the Toyota Camry was transported to the hospital and was listed in good condition. The thirty five-year old male driver of the Ford Flex was treated at the hospital and released.
The Accident Reconstruction Team was activated. Based on the preliminary investigation, the black 2003 Toyota Camry was traveling west on Belmont St and attempted to make a left turn onto Shrewsbury St. At the same time, the operator of the 2011 Ford Flex was traveling straight on Belmont heading east. The two vehicles collided in the middle of the intersection.
The crash is under investigation. The motor vehicles were towed to the Worcester Police Station for a complete vehicle inspection
May 21 at 2:32PM
Police Investigate Slashing Incident
On Sunday, May 19, 2013 Worcester police responded to a local hospital for a report of victim suffering from a slash wound to the back of the neck. The 21-year-old male victim arrived at emergency room at approximately 5 AM. His injuries were considered non-life threatening.
The victim told police that earlier in the evening he was at a club and then went to an after hours party at an apartment. He said that the party dispersed after an argument occurred in the apartment. According to the victim, a physical altercation occurred outside of the apartment on the corner of Main Street and Wellington Street. The victim said he was knocked unconscious during the fight and a friend drove him to the hospital.
Detectives could not locate a crime scene. The investigation is ongoing.
If anyone has information about this incident they can send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD + your message or send an anonymous web based message at worcesterma.gov/police. Calls can also be made to the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651
May 20 at 2:49PM
Advisory: Craigslist iPhone Sale Turns into Armed Robberies
Residents should be advised that armed robbers are targeting Craigslist users who are looking to sell or buy iPhones. Recently, Worcester police have responded to numerous armed robberies that occurred during arranged meetings to buy and sell iPhones.
The robbers contact people who are looking to sell or buy iPhones through Craigslist ads. When the victims arrive at a pre-arranged location, they are robbed at gunpoint.
The most recent incident occurred over the weekend. A victim responded to a Craigslist posting that listed an iPhone for sale. Through the Craigslist ad, an arrangement was made to meet outside of 111 Southgate Street. The victim arrived at the location and met with two male suspects. One of males brandished a handgun and demanded cash. The men then assaulted the victim and fled the scene.
The suspects are described as two black males, both possibly in their late teens to early 20’s, and thin build.
Residents should be cautious when making online sales transactions. Victims should immediately call 911 and try to give police a full description of the incident.
If anyone has information about this incident they can send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD + your message or send an anonymous web based message at worcesterma.gov/police. Calls can also be made to the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651.
May 20 at 12:18PM
http://www.telegram.com/article/20130520/NEWS/105209958/1101/local
Worcester Police Dept. reorganizes divisions
www.telegram.com
The Police Department has reorganized some divisions, moving officers from the Traffic Division into the Patrol Division and creating an accident investigation and reconstruction unit.
May 20 at 10:54AM
Worcester Police Arson Task Force Arrest One of Two Suspects
Worcester, MA (May 17, 2013) - On May 14, 2013 at approximately 10:10 PM, the Worcester Fire Department responded to 257 Granite Street, Standard Auto, for a reported dumpster fire. Worcester Fire arrived and observed a dumpster on fire. This dumpster was located next to the building. The building was constructed of metal and did receive damage to the side.
On the same date, Worcester Fire responded to two additional dumpster fires on Granite Street. The second fire was reported at 10:15 PM and the third was reported at 10:39 PM. The third fire involved two dumpsters located at Holy Name High School. Both dumpsters were located next to the building; however, the building did not receive damage.
The Worcester Police Department Arson Task Force (consisting of Worcester Police Detectives and Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms) has been investigating these recent dumpster fires as well as the numerous past reported dumpster fires throughout the city. On May 16, 2013 investigators received a tip through the Worcester Police Confidential tip line that provided information with regard to the Granite Street fires.
With this pertinent information, investigators discovered the identity of one of two men that was involved with setting the fires. Investigators located suspect Brian Sampson, 26-years-old of 38 Siani Road, Leicester, at his home. Mr. Sampson was placed under arrest and transported to Worcester Police headquarters. Investigators interviewed Mr. Sampson. As a result of information obtained, Mr. Sampson was charged with 4 counts of Willful and Malicious Destruction of Property and 1 count of Arson.
The Investigation also discovered the identity of the second suspect; his name is John Shyllberg, 29-years-old, address unknown. An arrest warrant has been issued on Mr. Shyllberg for 4 counts of Willful and Malicious Destruction of Property and 1 count of Arson.
This investigation is ongoing as investigators are looking to see if the two suspects are connected to the other past dumpster fires.
Mr. Sampson was arraigned at the Worcester County District Courthouse today and is being held without bail. A dangerousness hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, 21013.
If anyone has information about the location of Mr. Shyllberg they can send an anonymous text to 274637 TIPWPD + your message or send an anonymous web based message at worcesterma.gov/police. Calls can also be made to the Worcester Police Detective Bureau at (508) 799-8651.
May 17 at 4:35PM
WPD Vice Squad Prostitution Sting Arrest 10 Males and 7 Females
Worcester, MA (May 17, 2013) - On Thursday May 16, 2012 members of the Worcester Police Vice Squad conducted an undercover prostitution sting operation in the Main South area. As a result of this operation, 10 females and 5 males were placed under arrest on sex for a fee offense. In addition to those arrested on the prostitution operation, two additional arrests were made for drug offenses.
The following were arrested for Sexual Conduct for a Fee:
Cassandra McAuliffe, 30-years-old of 61 Cedar Street, Worcester.
Jo Ann Reed, 31-years-old of 26 laFayette Street, Worcester
Michael Sanok, 52-years-old of 12 Union Street, Exeter, NH
Sharon Perry, 36-years-old of 765 Main Street, Worcester
Alisha Frasier, 29-years-old of 776 Main, Worcester
Jessica Moody, 26-years-old of 44 Grand Street, Worcester
Nicole Bell, 32-years-old of 5 Jackson Street, Worcester
Colleen Montalvo, 44-years-old of 580 Main Street, Worcester
Lisa Flagg, 46-years-old of 43 Woodland Street, Worcester
Richard Sease, 45-years-old of 2 Linda Circuit, Grafton, Ma.
Kevin Aucoin, 50-years-old of 217 West Main Street, Northboro, MA.
Owen McQuaid, 60-years-old of 37 West Hill Road, Brookline, NH.
Lisa Blanchette, 39-years-old of 12 Winslow Street, Worcester
Chalaya Jones, 22-years-old of 6 Harlem Street, Worcester
Carlos Ruiz, 33-years-old of 14 pearl Street, Natick, MA. (also outstanding MV warrant)
The following were placed under arrest for drug offenses that undercover officers working the prostitution sting witnessed:
Gilberto Valentin, 48-years-old of 2 Waller Avenue, Worcester. Charged with Distribution of Class A Substance.
Joshua Schnieder, 23-years-old of 106 Plantation Street, Worcester. Charged with Possession of Class A Substance. Also had an outstanding warrant for Uttering a false Instrument (check), receiving Stolen Property, Attempt to Commit a Crime and Conspiracy.
All individuals arrested during this operation will be arraigned today at the Worcester County District Courthouse.
May 17 at 12:04PM
Vice Squad Arrest Three in Drug Sting at Main and Hammond Streets
Worcester, MA (May 16, 2013) - On Wednesday May 15, 2013, member of the Worcester Police Vice Squad set up under cover surveillance at the Dunkin Donuts parking lot located at Main and Hammond Street. At approximately 6:25 PM the officers observed a brown Chevrolet pull into the parking lot. When the vehicle parked a male was seen exiting the rear passenger seat. The male, later identified as Fred Giovaninni, 29-years-old of 28 Alton Drive, Dudley, MA., ran north on Main Street.
Police followed Mr. Giovaninni to Main and King Streets and observed him meeting with another male, later identified as Jose Santiago, 31-years-old of 765 Main Street, Worcester. After a few minutes, another male met with the Mr. Santiago and Mr. Giovaninni, he was later identified as Julio Ortiz, 31-years-old of 10 Jefferson Street, Worcester. Undercover officers observed Mr. Ortiz and Mr. Giovaninni make a transaction.
Officers followed Giovaninni as he walked back to the vehicle that was still parked in the Dunkin Donuts parking lot. Once he arrived back to the vehicle officers intercepted him. A search of Giovaninni revealed that he had five knotted baggies of heroin and four small knotted baggies of crack cocaine.
A search of Mr. Ortiz discovered that he had $272.00 in his possession which was consistent with the amount of drugs found on Mr. Giovaninni.
At this time Mr. Giovaninni and Mr. Ortiz were placed under arrest and charged with Possession of Class A with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Class B with the Intent to Distribute and Conspiracy to Violate Controlled substance Laws. Mr. Santiago was placed under arrest and charged with Conspiracy to Violate Controlled Substance Laws.
All three men will be arraigned today at the Worcester County District Courthouse.
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May 16 at 12:09PM
5 Arrested During Altercation on Marland Road
Worcester, MA (May 16, 2013)- On Wednesday May 15, 2013 at approximately 8:15 PM, Worcester Police responded to a Marland Road address for a report of a large fight that may involve a gun. Numerous officers arrived at the scene. As officers arrived they were informed that a group involved in the disturbance was seen leaving the area in a white truck (Ford Explorer). Responding officers stopped the Ford further up on Marland Road.
Arriving officers met with two female teenagers, ages 17 and 18, at the Marland Road address. According to the females, two vehicles had arrived at the Marland Street home. A female in the group wanted to fight with one of the female victims. The girls began to fight. At this time an adult male and female who arrived with the group, began to get involved. The male driver of the Ford Explorer was seen placing a handgun in his waistband just as he exited his vehicle.
The Ford Explorer contained people who had been identified as those who were involved in the disturbance. A search of the vehicle discovered a magazine clip to a handgun which contained ammunition. No gun was located.
The driver of the truck, identified as Antonio Rivera, 36-years-old of 176 Alvirson Avenue, Providence, RI was subsequently placed under arrest for possession of ammunition without an FID card. A passenger, Awilda Herrera, 20-years-old of 176 Alvirson Avenue, Providence, RI was arrested and charged with possession of ammunition without an FID card. Three female juveniles that were also in the truck were placed under arrest and charged with the same offense as the adult passengers. The juveniles are 13, 14 and 15 years of age. The 15 year old female was additionally charged with carrying a dangerous weapon (knife). All three juveniles are from providence, RI.
The adults will be arraigned at the Worcester County District Courthouse on Thursday, May 16, 2013. The juveniles will be arraigned at a date yet to be determined. There were no injuries reported during this incident. Police continue to investigate this incident as they attempt to identify the persons in the second vehicle.
May 16 at 7:59AM
9th Annual WPD Youth Summit at North High School
May 15 at 6:18PM
Reminder-
Timeline Photos
May 15 at 3:05PM
Update: Arrest Made in Unibank Robbery
On Tuesday, May 14, 2013, Worcester police arrested 22-year old Michael McGann of Worcester in connection with the armed bank robbery that occurred on Monday.
On Monday, May 13, 2013 at approximately 4:41 PM, Worcester Police responded to Unibank located at 24 Gold Star Blvd. for a report of an armed robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed that a man entered the bank demanding cash. The suspect told the bank tellers that he had a bomb and gun. He then fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Detectives were able to link Michael McGann to the crime through evidence recovered during the investigation. Police were also able to obtain surveillance video to assist with the case.
Michael McGann, 22, of 10 Hemans Street, Worcester was charged with Armed Robbery while Masked, Making a Bomb Threat and also had an Outstanding Arrest Warrant (Larceny Over $250).
Michael McGann will be arraigned today at the Worcester County District Courthouse.
May 15 at 1:25PM
