Watertown Police Increasing Effort to Stop Impaired Drivers Over Holidays

The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Police Department:

The Watertown Police were awarded a grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s (EOPSS) Office of Grants and Research (OGR) to increase the number of impaired driving patrols during the holiday season. Watertown Police will join other departments across the state and the State Police in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over (DSOGPO) enforcement mobilization. “When an impaired driver is behind the wheel, everyone is at risk – passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists sharing the road,” said Chief Michael Lawn of the Watertown Police Department. “These funds will increase the number of impaired driving patrols over the holidays. Regardless of the type or level of impairment, if a driver is operating the vehicle in a dangerous manner, they will be stopped.”

“Arranging for a sober ride home before celebrating should be a part of everyone’s plans this holiday season,” said Jeff Larason, Director of the OGR Highway Safety Division.

More Details on Massage Parlor Sting in Watertown

Last week, the Watertown Police conducted an investigation into illegal activities at massage parlors in town, and made four prostitution arrests at four locations. The sting was broader than the four massage parlors and involved undercover police officers. The investigation was a joint one between the WPD and the FBI’s Boston Division Child Exploitation-Human Trafficking Task Force. Police sent undercover officers into the six massage parlors in a coordinated sting on Friday, Nov. 8, said Watertown Police Lt. James O’Connor.

Watertown Man Arrested for Allegedly Dealing Crack Cocaine

A Watertown man faces charges relating to dealing crack cocaine after police served a search warrant on his home, and a second man also faces drug charges. Peter F. Pierre, 72, of Watertown had been under investigation by the Middlesex Drug Task Force and the Watertown Police, said Watertown Police Lt. James O’Connor. Authorities obtained a search warrant as a result of the investigation, and it was served on Oct. 17 at 6:05 p.m.

“The search warrant was executed and as a result, several items consistent with narcotic packaging and distribution were found, and an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency,” O’Connor said. Pierre was arrested on a charge of possession to distribute a Class B substance — crack cocaine, O’Connor said.

Watertown Police Warn of Utility Scam in Town

The Watertown Police Department warns residents to be aware of a scam involving someone posing a representative from a utility. The Watertown Police posted the following announcement on its Facebook page:

WPD received a complaint regarding a “utility company” impostor scam. As always, make sure to verify the credentials of the individual before giving out any financial or personal information. Your utility bill and the internet are good reference points. Scammers request payment through gift cards and Western Union.