Traffic, Thefts in Potomac Are Top of Mind for New Commander

Even though Capt. James A Fenner Jr. has only been the commander for the 1st District of the Montgomery County Police Department since August, he already has a good idea of where he wants to focus his attention in Potomac: thefts, traffic and prevention of crime.

• Thefts from vehicles are a concern in Potomac that can be prevented, Fenner said. Potomac residents should remember to take valuable items indoors instead of leaving them out in a car, he said. Also, it is important to report thefts to the police so they have a better chance of recovering any stolen items. 
• Traffic in Potomac is a concern that 1st District officers will work to control, Fenner said. Streets like River Road, Seven Locks Road and Democracy Boulevard are prone to traffic back-ups, and police need to work on keeping the roads open for emergency vehicles, he added.
• Better regulation of traffic and prevention of crimes can be improved through old-fashioned police work where officers continue to cover beats in Potomac, Fenner said. When police are covering their beats, they can be the first people to respond in case of an accident.

Potomac residents can help keep the community safe by communicating with officers and knowing the neighborhood, Fenner stressed. 

• Know your neighbors. Thefts from cars and burglaries occur enough in Potomac that residents should constantly be on the lookout and take preventative measures to make sure their cars and homes are secure. Residents can help by getting to know their neighbors and the community around them. "Most of Potomac is single-family homes, and it helps out a lot when residents go out and get to know their neighborhood and who really lives there," Fenner said. "That way the community is aware of the surroundings and engaged with neighbors."
• Report information. Potomac residents are encouraged to continue reporting information to the 1st District police — something the area already excels in, Fenner said. People who live in the community know the most about what is going on and when they share suspicions and concerns with the police, the officers can achieve more, he added.
• Communicate concerns. People with concerns can call the tip line (240-773-8477 or 866-411-8477) and leave an anonymous tip. However, it is helpful for people to come to the station and sit down with an officer to get the full story. "It's important to enhance how we cover Potomac and make sure we are doing a good job and we need residents to help us," Fenner said. "I'm more than happy to sit down with someone or meet them at Starbucks and hear their concerns."