Police Tout Increased Patrols in Theft Arrests

A senior police officer in Hill East is touting efforts to fight crime in the neighborhood after residents’ complaints, saying additional patrols in the area have helped catch suspected thieves.

First District Lt. James Dykes, the top officer for Police Service Area 108, which includes Hill East, said yesterday officers arrested two suspects wanted for stealing three bicycles and an iPod from a house on the 1600 block of H Street SE over the weekend.

Police on patrol apprehended the suspects Saturday on the 1600 block of D Street SE, Dykes said. Officers saw the suspects walking into an alley with three bicycles before the arrest, he said.

Gary McDonald, 41, and Yvonne Gaither, 45, were arrested for burglary and receiving stolen property in connection with the theft, police said.

Brandi Harden, McDonald’s lawyer, declined to comment. Information on Gaither’s lawyer wasn’t immediately available.

First District Cmdr. Jeff Brown has said he is working to increase patrols in Hill East to help combat crime. Last month, a resident started a “Protect Hill East Citizens’ Safety” petition that called on Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier to improve safety in the neighborhood.

“I want to arrive at a point where you all have a safe, sustainable and healthy community and neighborhood to live in,” Brown told locals last week.