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The latest from the Mendota Heights Police Department
CHIEF
Mike Aschenbrener
SERGEANTS
Eric Petersen
Tanner Spicer
Peyton Fleming
POLICE OFFICERS
Jerry Murphy
John Larrive
Bobby Lambert
Todd Rosse
Jeff Vonfeldt
Steven Meyer
Denise Urmann
Michael Shepard
Nick Gorgos
Robin Nelson
Steve Hilyar
INVESTIGATIONS
Chad Willson
SCHOOL RESOURCE
OFFICER
Jennifer Fordham
SUPPORT STAFF
Kim Henning
Trista Miller
Lisa Brandt
Becky Pentel
RESERVES
Randy Pentel
Jim Knox
Jeff Parker
CHAPLAINS
Butch Millett
John Snider
David Wick
Frances Cuenca
Alberto Vargas
Lynn Liberman
Sue Plucker
Joel Detlefsen
Lenny Andrie
MAY 8, 2015
Bicyclist Safety
A Great Article for a Great Man
Our very own Officer Jerry Murphy will be featured in the Pioneer Press
newspaper this Saturday, May 9, 2015. Jerry has been a volunteer re-
serve officer for the city since 1967. Jerry’s commitment to our com-
munity and his genuine kindness are just a couple of the qualiƟes that
make him great. Read more about this true Mendota Height’s treasure
this Saturday or check out the link below:
hƩp://www.twinciƟes.com/localnews/ci_28061318/cancer-stricken-mendota-heights-reserve-
cop-sƟll-reporƟng
Now that the weather is getting warmer, many people are out and about on
their bicycles. Unfortunately many bike-riders are unaware of the laws and safety
regulations regarding bicycling. First and foremost, bicyclists should always ride on
the right side of the road, and be sure that no more than two bicyclists are stacked
up next to each other as to prevent blockage of the road. Bicyclists can ride on the
sidewalks, but only if it is a non-business district. When riding on sidewalks, give
an audible signal to walkers before overtaking them as to give them warning that
you are about to pass.
Another thing bicyclists have to remember is that they need to yield the
right-of-way to all pedestrians and vehicles. Also, bicyclers need to stop at all stop
signs – this is crucial for bicycler safety. When making a turn, be sure to display
hand signals so motorists know your intent. Paying attention to traffic signals and
signs is just as important as wearing your helmet!
If you prefer to bicycle at night, there are a few differences compared to
bicycling in the daytime. Make sure your bicycle is equipped with white reflectors
on the sides of each pedal and a red reflector at the rear. A white light visible up to
500 feet should be affixed to the front of the bicycle, and although it is not required,
it is highly recommended to include a rear red flashing light.
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Identity Theft Friday 13:26 hours
Officer Bobby Lambert took a report from a resident who stated that an unknown person had used the
victim’s personal information to open a credit card in the UK. The victim’s own credit card company
notified her of the new card that had been issued. The victim was able to cancel this fraudulent card with no
monetary loss. No suspects at this time.
Property Damage Friday 18:35 hours
Officer Robin Nelson responded to a theft from vehicle report. Owner states that he and his wife left their
home at approximately 5:30 in the evening and were gone about one hour. When they returned home they
found their parked car which was sitting in their driveway had its window smashed out. At the time of the
report the owner stated nothing had been stolen from the vehicle. There are no suspects and the case remains
under investigation.
Theft from Vehicle Sunday 09:15 hours
Officer John Larrive was dispatched to a theft from vehicle report which had taken place sometime in the
overnight hours. The victim states his vehicle was parked and locked in his driveway. When the victim went
outside the next morning he discovered his rear passenger’s window was smashed out and his work computer
had been stolen. While Officer Larrive was taking the victim’s information he learned that the vehicle’s
license plates were suspended according to the State of Minnesota and that the vehicle registration was
expired. This case was turned over to Investigations.
Identity Theft Monday 14:20 hours
Officer Bobby Lambert was dispatched to a residence on report of identity theft. Victim stated his credit card
had been used to purchase sport’s equipment in Florida. There was no monetary loss and the account was
closed. No suspect information at this time.
5th Degree Controlled Substance Tuesday 10:57 hours
Officer John Larrive and Sgt. Eric Petersen were called to a local bank on a report of three suspicious persons.
Upon arrival a bank employee stated that two females had entered the bank to use the bathroom. Once the
females left an employee found a cell phone and a pill on the floor inside the stall. The employee stated the
two females were now at the gas station next door. Officers identified the two females and the male who was
now with them. Officers learned the male had a felony warrant and misdemeanor warrant. He was taken
into custody. During the search of the suspect drug paraphernalia was found on his person. Suspect was
transported to the Dakota County Jail.
Have a Safe Week!
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05/01 ‐ 05/07 2015 YTD
Calls for Service 139 2,298
Citations 11 196
Warnings 36 211
Police Reports 32 374
Response Time Average 4.39 5.19
Check out the MH Crime Map!
Click below to search your neighborhood:
https://www.raidsonline.com
1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, MN
If you are a Mendota Heights resident and you are
going out of town or on vacation, you can notify
MHPD of your outing and we will be more than happy to
keep a watchful eye on your home while you are away.
The House Check Request online form is available on
our website; you can complete a form found in our
lobby, or simply give us a call and we’ll help you out.
MHPD offers monthly Car Seat Safety Checks.
To schedule an appointment, call 651.452.1366
to contact Ofϐicer Jennifer Fordham.
MHPD has a Medication Disposal Box in the lobby of the
PD where Dakota County residents can safely and
anonymously dispose of their prescription drugs and
over‐the‐counter medication.
Please send us your positive
feedback on our staff to:
pdrecords@
mendota-heights.com
Your feedback is greatly appreciated and
helps boost the morale of our staff.
HAVE A SAFE WEEK!
Aggressive Driving
Experts say aggressive
driving causes almost
seven million crashes a
year!
Driving too fast for
condiƟons, excessively
changing lanes, passing
on the shoulder or
cuƫng in front of others
and tailgaƟng are all
classic signs of an
aggressive driver. You
can’t control them, but
you can control how you
respond to them.
Here are some Ɵps:
1. If you are in the leŌ
and someone wants
to pass, mover over
and let them by.
2. Don’t make eye
contact with
aggressive drivers.
3. Stay calm and fo-
cus on your own
good defensive
driving habits.