- May 5, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
‘Don’t trust anyone,’ police chief tells seniors at local church.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Mike Chitwood brought his straight talk and down-to-earth personality to Ormond Beach on Oct. 11, when he spoke at First United Methodist Church, 336 Halifax Ave., about elder abuse, identity theft and other crime issues.
Chitwood said in the past two weeks, he has also spoken at Ormond Beach Middle School and the Rotary Club.
“I’m spending more time in Ormond than Daytona Beach,” he said with a laugh.
His reputation as an interesting speaker brought Diane Carey from Port Orange, who has a background in social work.
“I know he’s going to provide some good information,” she said. “He’s a popular guy.”
The presentation was one of the quarterly continuing education programs for the Stephen Ministry and the public was invited. There are 38 members of the ministry at the church, and they offer support for people who are under stress because of problems or changes in their lives.
Arlene Marshall, of the ministry, introduced Chitwood, saying he was invited because he’s a dynamic speaker.
Chitwood walked to the podium and asked a question.
“How many of you have your Social Security card with you?” he said.
After some of the mostly older audience raised their hands, he said, “Come on, you should know your number by now.”
An audience member said Medicare cards have Social Security numbers, and the chief admitted that there are some cards you have to carry.
Chitwood handed out informational brochures, and offered advice such as buying a shredder for paper with personal information, and locking cars (50% of cars thefts are from unlocked cars).
For protection against one of the newer crimes, where thieves install skimmers on ATMs and gas pumps, Chitwood said to grab the device where the card is swiped and give it a shake to make sure it’s part of the equipment.
After discussing other scams, such as phone calls offering help with computer viruses, Chitwood said the bottom line is not to trust anyone.
“It’s a shame, but that’s the society we live in,” he said.
He said sometimes workmen will a get a person out in the front yard while an accomplice goes in the backdoor.
Chitwood encouraged people to report suspicious activities. He said 98% of all solved crimes are the result of tips.
“I’d like to say it’s DNA, but it’s tips,” he said.
He said a person should call if they suspect elder abuse. For example, if they no longer see a neighbor outside, it might because they are locked in a room while a caretaker is spending their money.
Chitwood was asked about the idea of having a centralized homeless shelter, as recommended by consultant Robert Marbut.
He said he’s seen earlier attempts at a homeless strategy go in a dozen different directions and end up on sitting on a table
“I’ve already heard people say they don’t want to fund it,” he said. “I have a feeling this one is going to end up on a table.”
