TPD Newsletter - July 2024 ADA HTML

Issue 01 | July, 2024

“City of Titusville Memorial Celebrations” presentation of colors by the Tico Civil Air Patrol - Fl 267 cadets.

Protect Yourself from Online Scams

The internet is full of deception, with scammers creating fake websites and email addresses that look legitimate. One common scam involves tech support impersonation, often claiming to be from Microsoft.

• Scammers call, claiming to be from Microsoft, offering to fix your computer or sell you software.
• They request remote access to your computer to:
  • Install malicious software to steal sensitive information and then charge to remove it.
  • Request credit card information for fake services.
  • Direct you to fraudulent websites to enter your credit card details.

Microsoft and Apple never make unsolicited calls for computer security or software fixes.

Protect yourself:

• Do not trust unsolicited calls.
• Do not provide personal information.
• Do not give in to threats or pressure to pay.
• No reputable business accepts gift cards as payment.
• Verify unexpected contacts with the company before giving any information.
• Report scam details to authorities.

- Corporal Holden

Upcoming Events

• July 4th - "City of Titusville Red, White and Boom Fireworks Spectacular" - 6pm to 10pm
• July 13th - Harry T and Harriett V Moore Museum Car Show - 9am to 1PM
• July 13th - Kids vs Cops YMCA Basketball Event - 5:30pm to 9pm
• July 31st - Celebrating Kids Day @ Summer Rec with N. Brevard Parks and Rec and a kids Q&A Pizza Party with Officers - 10am to 12pm

For more information on community events: 321-223-5316

Property Crime - May 2023 vs. May 2024

"The rate of crime in these categories has decreased 30.77% year over year." - Megan Laurencio

Meet the Team

Sergeant J. Cantalupo

The Titusville Police Department proudly introduces Sergeant John Cantalupo, recognizing his over 19 years of dedicated service to Titusville. Starting his career in 2005, Sgt. Cantalupo has consistently shown hard work and a strong commitment to the community.

Sgt. Cantalupo has held various roles, including Patrol Officer, Traffic Officer, K-9 Officer, S.W.A.T. Team member, Corporal, and now, Sergeant of Alpha Squad. He is also a state certified FDLE K-9 trainer who oversees all K-9 training at the police department.

His dedication has earned him numerous awards, such as the Traffic Safety Award (2007, 2008), Officer of the Month, unit citations, the Lifesaving Award (2019), K-9 Service Award (2019), Supervisor of the Quarter (2022), and the Honorable Service Award (2022). As a state certified FDLE K-9 Team Trainer and Evaluator, he certifies K-9 handlers for patrol duties and explosive detection.

Sgt. Cantalupo is known for his calm demeanor and sound decision-making under pressure.

K-9 Astro, his current partner, is a Belgian Malinois born on February 8, 2020. Born in Europe, K-9 Astro is dual certified for explosive detection and criminal apprehension. Off duty, Astro lives with Sgt. Cantalupo and enjoys gnawing on his favorite Kong toy.

Sergeant John Cantalupo is a vital member of our team, and we appreciate his dedication to making Titusville safer.

- Corporal Holden

Michelle Flowers

The Titusville Police Department proudly introduces Michelle Flowers, our full-time victim advocate who supports community members affected by crime. Available 24/7, Michelle can be requested by officers and supervisors to respond to any scene.

With 18 years of service in Titusville, Michelle brings extensive knowledge and compassion, making her an invaluable asset to the department. Beginning her career in 1999 with the 18th Judicial Circuit, she has 25 years of training and expertise. Her commitment has earned her awards like the NAACP Unsung Hero Award and a Certificate of Honor for her service to Pulse Nightclub Shooting victims.

Michelle serves on the Brevard County Domestic Violence Task Force and the Brevard County Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team. She has also contributed to the Brevard County Women’s Center Sexual Assault Victim Services Board and the Central Florida Crisis Response Team.

Passionate about helping domestic violence victims, Michelle founded Perfect Love, Inc., to empower individuals to leave abusive relationships and strengthen communities. She also hosted the radio show “Michelle’s HAVEN” and launched the YouTube channel “Modern-Day Deborah: Voice for The Voiceless.”

If you or a loved one is a victim of a crime in Titusville and need assistance, please contact the Titusville Police Department. For domestic violence help, call 321-264-7800 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

- Officer Kelly

The Award Goes To:

May 2024 Officer of the Month - Officer H. Chappell

Officer Hannah Chappell consistently goes above and beyond to assist citizens and local businesses. One notable instance of her kindness occurred when she responded to a local park and recognized a citizen in need. She assisted the individual in obtaining shelter, bus passes, and additional support, even securing a work truck to transport the person's personal belongings.

In another incident, Officer Chappell worked with a local church group and obtained a bicycle for a gentleman, ensuring he had a reliable mode of transportation to get to and from work. Officer Chappell frequently meets with business owners and managers to discuss current issues and explore ways to make a difference.

Officer Hannah Chappell's wonderful heart and spirit make a significant impact on our community.

-Erlina Lively

Safety Advisory

Gel Blasters – Fun Toys or Potential Threat? Gel Blasters, also known as “Orbeez,” are toys that shoot gel pellets and come in various designs, including pistols, rifles, and automatic machine guns. They often resemble real firearms, posing risks of panic and misidentification.

Law enforcement has seen a trend that emerged, with teenagers discharging gel blasters at innocent bystanders in public places.

We urge parents to discuss safe gel blaster use with their children and highlight the legal consequences of irresponsible behavior as many students are off of school for summer vacation.

-Officer H. Chappell

Case CLOSED

On June 2nd, 2024, A Melbourne resident, was arrested and charged with several felonies.

Officers responded to the area near S. Park Avenue and Pine Street after hearing several gun shots late at night. A white male subject was seen fleeing the area in his vehicle and a brief pursuit ensued. He drove recklessly and subsequently crashed. He then attempted to flee on foot until he surrendered to K9 Officer Gonzalez and K9 Brix after the brief chase. He was promptly evaluated for injury and taken to jail without further incident. A firearm was recovered from the vehicle.

- Detective Kube

Traffic Talk with Traffic Officer Kraeuter #244

The Titusville Police Department participated in the national Click It or Ticket campaign in May. This high-visibility enforcement effort focuses on detecting violators of Florida traffic laws, with a special emphasis on occupant protection, from May 20 to June 2. Officers conducted 856 traffic stops, resulting in 616 citations and warnings for unbelted drivers and passengers. 

In 2023, Florida's safety belt usage rate was 89.4%. While this number is good, it can be improved. Among Floridians killed in passenger vehicle crashes in 2023, one in five were completely unrestrained. Nationally, 26% of those killed in crashes were unrestrained.

Remember, seat belt safety starts with you and can save your life. Buckle up, Titusville, and drive safely!

Child Passenger Safety Tips

• 0 - 2 years: Rear-facing infant car seat
• 2 - 5 years: Forward-facing car seat
• 5 year - 57": Booster seat
• 57"+: Seat Belt

According to Florida State Statute §316.613, children age 5 and under must be secured properly in a crash tested federally approved child restraint device.

More Info: SaferCar.gov

Upcoming July 2024 Traffic Campaigns

• Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
• National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
• NHTSA Speed Campaign

Titusville Police grilled and served hotdogs with all the fixings to community members during the “Cooking Out with Cops” supporting the Titusville Terrier Youth Sports Association