February 05, 2013

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Crime mapping software aiding arrests in Wash.

Detectives in Spokane are using crime-mapping software to help predict when and where thieves might strike next

Spokesman Review

SPOKANE — Two suspected burglars are in custody after Spokane police used crime-mapping software to help predict when and where thieves might strike next.

Curtis McKelvey, 29, and Chelsea A. Linerud, 23, were arrested early Monday after officers spotted a man with a crowbar smashing his way through a Radio Shack window at Lincoln Heights Shopping Center, according to police.

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Detectives had been investigating a dozen other commercial burglaries in the South Hill area during the past several weeks using crime trend mapping computer software.

They discovered a pattern of several burglaries that involved electronics retailers in the Lincoln Heights area.

Patrol officers were given the information and monitored the area.

At 5:15 a.m. Monday, Officer Jason Uberuagaintervened just as McKelvey began breaking the window with a crowbar to enter the store, according to a police press release.

The suspect tried to run, but Uberuaga arrested him. He then watched as a suspicious vehicle left the area.

Detectives followed up and identified Linerud as the driver of the getaway car. She was arrested Monday afternoon.

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