Recently, Chief of Police Charles H. Ramsey publicly expressed his concern about an increase in street robberies* and the department's priority of identifying and arresting those responsible for these crimes. Chief Ramsey announced the formation of a special robbery unit, increased patrols and the addition of rewards for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for robberies committed in the District of Columbia.

The department is now offering a reward of up to $5,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any robbery. The reward will increase to up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any robbery that involves a life-threatening injury. Anyone with information about robberies or any crime may call the police at (202) 727-9099.

The department also offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Anyone with information about a homicide may call the police at (202) 727-9099.

It should also be noted that the department continues to support the Crime Solvers program, which offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for other felony crimes. The Crime Solvers telephone number is 1-800-673-2777.

* As of October 18, 2005, robberies are up 3% in DC, compared to this date in 2004; overall Part I crime offenses are down by 8%, according to preliminary data.