By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

I continue to receive a number of questions surrounding a local intersection.  The particular area referenced was along Webster’s Main Street near the Dudley line, between Pleasant Street and Davis Street. There are two traffic signals in this location, one at Pleasant Street and the other before the railroad tracks near Davis Street.  Both traffic signals operate simultaneously.  When drivers are heading toward Dudley and stop at the red light near the tracks, is it legal to proceed over the railroad tracks, through the first red signal, and stop at the second light?  

This area, despite the close proximity of the respective signals, is to be treated the same as any stand alone traffic light.  Basically, it is a violation to proceed through the first stop light and stop at the second traffic signal.  A solid red traffic signal is the same whether it is near railroad tracks, a street intersection, or other area.  The only movements which can be made contrary to these signals are authorized turns on red (Right on red, unless it is otherwise prohibited) or when directed by a police officer.    

This location can be confusing as there are three areas of concern.  There are the tracks, the intersections of both roads, and the crosswalks.  You must pay particular attention as it is a violation to stop on the tracks, in the crosswalk, or block the intersection.  The law requires a vehicle to stop a minimum of fifteen feet from the railroad tracks.  The light near the tracks is present to insure drivers stop a sufficient distance from the tracks.  Several stop lines are present in this area.  Violations generally call for civil fines.  This area is very busy with both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.  For safety purposes, please wait the few extra minutes and observe the appropriate markings and signals.

I wish to take a moment to thank The Patriot Newspaper for their many years of service to our area and, in particular, their assistance with printing this column every week.  This article has the distinction of appearing in the final edition of the paper due out on May 8^th.  For over 10 years, the dedicated staff of the paper has printed this column, printed public information, and provided a tremendous service to our department without hesitation.  They have covered numerous events and stories over the years and their presence will be surely missed in our area.  I wish everyone there the best of luck for the future.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.  

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

Tragic events, such as what occurred at the Boston Marathon, often result in large donations to victims.  Unfortunately, some people use these opportunities to prey on the generosity of others and conduct a variety of “scams.”  Recently, Attorney General Martha Coakley provided some valuable information on this topic.  I wanted to provide this to the readers for your consideration.

Attorney General Martha Coakley “reminded those who want to give to support victims of the Boston Marathon attacks to do their homework first to ensure the charity is reputable. More than 125 website domain names relating to the Boston Marathon explosions were registered within a few hours of the attacks Monday, according to Consumer Affairs Undersecretary Barbra Anthony.  Fraudulent websites have popped up in the aftermath of other national tragedies, including the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings in Newtown. Coakley warned would-be donors to protect themselves from fundraising scams by making sure any websites they visit match a registered charity and to beware of professional fundraisers who try to make their solicitations sound like they are coming directly from the charity itself or volunteers.  Coakley's office offered a handful of tips, including getting to know the charity by taking time to verify the address, phone number, and contact information and reviewing the website and written material. When possible, consider the charity's history. Be wary of appeals that are "long on emotion," according to Coakley's office. A legitimate charity will tell donors how it's using the money after a disaster. Do not pay cash and never give a credit card number to a fundraiser over the phone. Websites like Charitynavigator.org and BBB.org/charity help donors get additional information on a particular charity.”

The important thing to remember is do not conduct business transactions unless you are sure of the people and places you are dealing with.  At this time, the main donation organization established through the Commonwealth is the “One Boston Fund.”  It can be found at onebostonfund.org.  Please take the time to protect yourself and insure your donation is going toward its intended purpose.

Our thoughts and sympathies go out to all the victims (including those killed and their families), participants, spectators, and thousands of others impacted by the tragic events last week in Boston.  This includes the family of MIT Officer Sean Collier, who was killed Thursday, and MBTA Officer Richard Donohue who was severely wounded.  Special thanks, prayers, and our best wishes go out to the Boston Police, Fire, EMS and all the first responders (including the many extraordinary citizens) for their bravery and efforts during the marathon and in the subsequent investigation.  All the law enforcement agencies, including local, federal, and state, worked together to bring the search for the suspects to a conclusion (including the successful capture of the second person).  Although to some it may appear to be over, we realize the investigation continues and the work of prosecuting this person has just begun. Continue to keep everyone in your thoughts and remain vigilant in your daily lives. 

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.  

by Chief Steven J. Wojna

I received a letter from a concerned citizen seeking information about the process of detaining shoplifters.  The person had an alarm sound while they were exiting a store and they were detained and searched by the security personnel.  I was asked to provide some information on the legalities of this practice.

by Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

The subject of passing vehicles was recently brought to my attention.  The person noted a problem with some vehicles traveling partially on the roadway shoulder while passing another vehicle on the right.  They also noted some roads have signs posted prohibiting this type of activity.  I was asked to remind people about the laws pertaining to passing on the right.

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

 In today’s world, there are a number of phone, computer, or mail “scams” taking place.  People can unwittingly become a victim of a larceny or identity theft by sending money to unconfirmed locations or providing personal / bank information.  Our department has recently been investigating several phone scams which are rather concerning.  I wanted to bring this information to the attention of the readers of this column in the event you may receive similar calls.

At least two area residents have reported receiving phone calls from people presenting themselves as law enforcement officials.  They inform the victim that they owe outstanding fines or money on a loan.  The people are then threatened to have a warrant issued for their arrest if they do not pay these amounts.  Some people have been coerced into sending money.  They are told to purchase pre-paid debit cards and provide the callers with the card numbers.

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

With the warmer weather coming soon (hopefully), many people will be using the roadways for a variety of activities.  When pedestrians, cars, and bicycles share the road, accidents can result if safety rules are not followed.  One question I receive quite often pertains to people walking side by side while vehicles are approaching.  Many people do not move to a “single file” arrangement during this time.  This can be very dangerous.  I was asked to warn people of this practice and remind them of the rules for pedestrian’s use of the roadways.

The rules for use of streets are contained in both state laws and local regulations.  If sidewalks are in place on a particular street, they should be used.  If there are no sidewalks, people should walk along the shoulder of the roadway facing into traffic.  You will most likely see a vehicle heading toward you if walking in this fashion.  Unless the shoulders of the road are particularly wide, there is little to no room for people to walk side by side without one person being on the roadway.  The accident possibilities increase, especially when solar glare, inclement weather, darkness, or other factors reduce a driver’s visibility.  All precautions should be taken to stay off the roadway whenever possible.  When you wish to cross the road, do this at crosswalks when they are available.  If there are no crosswalks, pedestrians should yield the right of way to vehicles before crossing and avoid "jumping out" into traffic.  The excuse of “pedestrians have the right of way” is used often to explain why people walk side by side in roadways or dart across a road in front of vehicles.  This is never the correct way to think when it comes to pedestrian vs. vehicle situations. 

Many side streets, dead ends, or other lightly traveled locations may have people using a more relaxed approach to these rules.  Do not ignore the basic safety rules of looking both ways and always pay attention to the possibility of cars.  Vehicles may come from anywhere, so it is always important to treat these locations with the proper amount of caution.  Sharing the road and respecting each others use of it will limit accidents and injuries.  

On Saturday, April 27^th, the Dudley Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will conduct another prescription drug “Take Back” event.  The public has the opportunity to safely dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  The service is free and anonymous.  During our previous events, large quantities of prescription medications were taken in.  Plans are also underway to have representatives of Harrington Hospital on hand that day to provide medical information and screenings to the public.  A needle drop box is also planned to be available for those who need to safely dispose of these items.  More information will be available in the near future.  Several communities in our area will also be participating in this event.  If you are not from Dudley, check for a participating location near you.  I encourage everyone to mark their calendars and take advantage of this opportunity.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.  

By Chief Steven J. Wojna
Dudley Police Department

Recently, I was contacted by a local member of the 4H Club advising me of an important subject.  When the weather improves, horses and other livestock will be walked or ridden along the roads.  These animals may also get loose from time to time.  With active 4H members in our area, there is a greater chance of drivers encountering these animals along the roads.  Since some drivers may not have experienced this situation before, it is important for everyone to be aware of the rules they must observe when approaching livestock.  I wanted to take this opportunity to provide the readers with some information.

 Due to Dudley’s rural nature, horses, cows, and other livestock are kept in various parts of town.  These animals can be found on the road from time to time.  Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 Section 14 provides the guide for drivers to observe when encountering these animals.  It states in part, “Every person operating a motor vehicle shall bring the vehicle and the motor propelling it immediately to a stop when approaching a cow, horse or other draft animal being led, ridden or driven, if such animal appears to be frightened and if the person in charge thereof shall signal so to do; and, if traveling in the opposite direction to that in which such animal is proceeding, said vehicle shall remain stationary so long as may be reasonable to allow such animal to pass; or, if traveling in the same direction, the person operating shall use reasonable caution in thereafter passing such animal.”  Drivers are required to stop and/or shut off their motor if the animal appears frightened.  It may also be necessary to stop and allow the animal to pass by your location in order to insure the move is done safely.  Passing must also be performed with “reasonable caution.”  The Penalty for violating this section is a civil traffic fine. 

These animals can be out on the roads either on purpose or by wandering out on their own. It is important to note, similar to pedestrians; these animals have been around much longer than motor vehicles.  Therefore, the laws will favor the animal and the people in charge of them in most cases when it comes to an accident.  Encounters of this nature can be rare and often unexpected.  Please do our local 4H members and others a favor by exercising caution in these circumstances to avoid serious accidents and injuries.   

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.  

by Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

 A question was asked of me recently regarding people transporting alcohol in a vehicle if they are under the age of twenty-one.  Is a person allowed to drive a friend (who is over 21) to the store to purchase alcohol? The assumption is the under age driver was not drinking and has no connection to the alcohol.  He or she is simply providing transportation.  Is there any violation of the law?
 
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 Section 34C is the section commonly known as minor transporting or carrying alcoholic beverages.  No one under age twenty-one may carry or transport (in a vehicle) alcohol or alcoholic beverages, unless they authorized by law.  The main exemption contained under section 34C applies in this case.  The driver must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.  Since the friend riding with them does not qualify as either of these, the driver can be subject to a violation under this section.

This offense is arrestable and penalties call for a fine ranging from fifty dollars to one hundred and fifty dollars depending on the offense.  A conviction under this section does require the Registry to be notified and calls for a ninety day license suspension.  This suspension applies whether or not the convicted person was driving a vehicle.  Simply any unlawful possession will qualify for the penalty.  This can have a serious impact on someone's life.  The law is designed to limit the contact between minors and alcohol.  People under twenty-one must pay strict attention to this in order to avoid problems.

On Sunday March 3^rd, I had the pleasure of attending the 49^th Annual Communion Breakfast at the Webster-Dudley Polish American Veterans Club.  This event is sponsored by the club to honor and remember those who have served and continue to serve in our armed forces.  Many area veterans’ organizations and the PAV Ladies Auxiliary were on hand to honor these brave men and women.  I wish to thank the members of the club for fine program and meal.  State Senator Richard Moore served as the master of ceremonies and many people were on hand for this event, including the Color Guard of the Naval ROTC from Oxford High School.  This was a special day and is always a fitting remembrance and thank you to all our veterans.

I wish to thank Principal Dono and reading specialist Ms. Linda Hackenson at the Mason Road School for their invitation to participate in the annual recognition of Dr. Suess’ birthday held on Friday, March 1^st.  I had the pleasure of reading for Mrs. Brassard’s kindergarten grade class.  It was another enjoyable occasion and I thank the staff of the Mason Road School for their continued promotion of positive programs for our Town’s youth.  It was also the final Dr. Suess Day for Ms. Hackenson, who will be retiring at the end of the school year.  She continues to do a great job with this and all the programs at the school.  I thank her for all her hard work and wish her the best as she looks forward to a new chapter in her life.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Also, feel free to visit our web site at www.dudleypolice.com.  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.  

by Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

Winter weather is often a contributing factor in many motor vehicle crashes.  Although some accidents are serious, many are of a minor nature.  People frequently ask when they are required to file an accident report.

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 90 Section 26 contains the guidelines for the reporting of accidents.  It requires an accident report to be filed within five days, with both the Registry and the police department having jurisdiction over the area, if it involves one or more of the following events: 1) Any person is killed or injured or 2) There is damage in excess of one thousand dollars to any one vehicle or other property.  With the current cost of vehicle and property damage repairs, it is not particularly difficult to reach the thousand dollar threshold.  Penalties for not reporting an accident can include a fine and/or suspension of your license.

by Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

The requirement for house numbering was the topic of a recent discussion.  The person wished to know what house numbering requirements, if any, does Dudley have?  This was a good opportunity to provide some information to residents to insure their properties can be identified in the event of an emergency.

Article 37 of the Town of Dudley By-laws is entitled “Street Numbering.”  According to this regulation, “Street numbers shall be attached to each dwelling, business, industry and other buildings, which are not accessory in nature in the Town of Dudley.”  There are several requirements to be in compliance with this section. “The numbers shall be made of permanent, weatherproof materials, shall be numeric Arabic numbers at least (3) three inches in height in a contrasting color, and shall be clearly visible from the public way upon which the structure fronts.”  If the building is not visible from the roadway, the number is to be posted “on a suitable support at the entrance to the driveway that services such structure.”  This can include a mailbox.  The exact number of the property location will be assigned by the Town of Dudley Assessor’s Office.   Any property owner who fails to comply with this bylaw is subject to a fine of not more than Twenty-Five Dollars ($25.00) per day for each offense. Each day can be treated as a separate offense.