Incident at Duncan Library

Incident at Duncan Library On Wednesday, August 28, Alexandria Police received a report of an indecent exposure at Duncan Library,2501 Commonwealth Avenue. The victim, a 35 year-old female, stated that an unknown black male exposed himself to her inside the library. Police responded to the scene, however, the suspect had already left the area. The Alexandria Police Department would like to remind residents of simple steps they can take to protect themselves and their family members from this type of crime. • Always walk in well-lit and well-traveled areas. • Whenever possible walk with others. • Be aware of your surroundings at all times. • Call 911 immediately if you see something suspicious or are involved in a crime. As the new school year begins, parents are encouraged to talk with their children about personal safety and teach them how to stay safe. Here are some things to include in that talk: • Map out a safe way for them to walk to school or to the bus stop. Avoid busy roads and intersections. Do a trial run with them to point out places they should avoid along the way, such as vacant lots, construction areas, and parks where there aren’t many people. • Encourage them to walk to school or the bus stop with a sibling or friend, and to wait at bus stops with other children. • Teach children not to talk to strangers, go anywhere with them, or accept gifts from them without your permission. Tell them that if they see a suspicious stranger hanging around or in their school, they should tell an adult. • Help children memorize their phone number and full address, including area code and zip code. Write down other important phone numbers such as your work and cell phone on a card for your children to carry with them Remember, if a crime does occur, immediately contact the Police Department. This helps increase the chances of apprehending the suspect and preventing future crimes. Anyone with information about the incident at Duncan Library is asked to call the Alexandria Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Section at 703.746.6711. Detectives would like to remind residents that they can remain anonymous.