by Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

With the heavy snow and other bad weather in our area, I wanted to take this opportunity to once again remind residents of the sidewalk snow removal procedures.  This is always a hot topic of conversation with many people.  It is especially true when we have measurable snowfall events.   I wanted to provide everyone with a reminder on this important issue.

Each community should have local by-laws or ordinances addressing this subject.  In the Town of Dudley, Article Eight Section Four is the by-law covering this situation.  This law requires every owner, tenant, or occupant of a building abutting a finished sidewalk, to keep the area free from many substances, including snow and ice.  These areas should be cleared during the period when the snow plows have completed the major removal of snow during a storm and before the slush/snow has the opportunity to freeze and become ice.  As a general rule, some time within twenty-four hours after a storm's ends is the prime opportunity to perform this task.  Penalties for a failure to clear sidewalks can be twenty dollars per day.

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

We have received varying amounts of snow in recent weeks.  The bitterly cold weather makes it difficult for the snow to melt in any rapid fashion.  With this in mind, it is extremely important to remove excess snow from the roof tops of your vehicles.  This topic is always brought up to me at this time of the year, and I wanted to remind people of the importance of taking this one additional safety step.

The laws are rather vague on exactly whether removing snow from a vehicle’s roof is required.  Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 Section 13 is the law which addresses “impeded” operation.  Drivers are not allowed to have anything on or about their vehicle which may interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle.  This can directly pertain to the removal of snow an ice from windshields.  However; even though it is not specifically stated in this law, there may be circumstances where it may apply to snow on vehicle hoods, roof tops, or trunks.  Decisions on this will be made on a case by case basis. 

The danger lies in not removing this snow in a prompt manner.  If it is left in place, it has a tendency to melt and re-freeze which creates an ice sheet.  When traveling at higher speeds, such as on a highway, the wind can move under this ice and send it flying off the vehicle.  It could then land on or around another vehicle traveling along the road.

The results of this can be very serious.  Despite the damage this may cause to another vehicle, it could have even greater consequences should this land on another vehicle’s windshield.  The driver may not be able to see and this could result in an accident.  If there is an accident involved, the fact that the snow/ice was not removed prior to the trip could be considered as a negligent act on the part of that driver.  Therefore, this person may bear some responsibility for the accident.  Please take a few extra minutes to completely remove the snow from your vehicle.  This simple could prevent and accident and possibly save a 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 .  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

Our department continues to receive numerous complaints from residents about a variety of “scams.”  Some people are asked to provide personal or bank information.  These can take place in person, on-line, over the phone, or by mail.  As a result, people may be out large sums of money.  I wanted to remind everyone to be aware of these illegal activities.

These money scams have been occurring for many years.  Those responsible prey on unsuspecting individuals, in particular the elderly.  Their goal is to obtain either quick cash or other personal information, such as bank account numbers.  Armed with this documentation, the criminal can commit identity theft and access your finances.  Some scams will inform the victim they have won a prize or that they are eligible for some gift or benefit.  They will ask the victim to provide personal information.  This information can then be used to open accounts or conduct other identity theft crimes. 

People may receive an unexpected check in the mail, along with a letter informing them they won a prize.  Others may receive a check as payment for the sale of a particular item.  Often these checks are written for a much larger sum of money than was originally intended.  For example, you negotiate a deal to sell an item or you are told you have won a prize totaling $100.  You are then sent a check for $1,000.  The scammer contacts you and asks you to send the $900 balance back to them.  Their goal is for the victim to cash the $1,000 check and send the $900 balance back to them immediately.  In many of these cases, the original check turns out to be bad and the scammers may receive the victim’s money before anything can be detected.

Another type of scam surrounds people receiving a phone call or e-mail telling them a relative or friend has been arrested.  These are most often based in a foreign country.  Elderly victims are frequently targets of this type of activity.  They can be fooled into believing their grandchild is in trouble.  The suspects ask for bail money to be wired to them in order to get the person out of jail.  This is most likely a hoax.  Never send money just based on this type of contact.  Be sure to contact other family members or the police for assistance.
         

The important thing to remember is do not conduct business transactions unless you are sure of the people and places you are dealing with.  Many of these scams ask for your money to be sent to places outside the United States.  If you are not expecting something (money or other items), chances are it is a scam.  Be very cognizant of these occurrences and report them immediately to the police and or your bank.  Protect your personal information.  When in doubt, ask a question of the proper authorities to avoid becoming a victim.

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

I was recently contacted by an area resident with a concern regarding handicap parking violations.  These spaces in public places and local businesses are quite often used or blocked by people who do not meet the appropriate requirements to do so under the law.  The person was concerned with other drivers blocking access points and other cordoned off areas around the actual handicap space.  This activity can cause issues for those people who are legitimately using these spaces.  I was asked to address this topic and I wanted to take the opportunity to remind people about the laws regarding parking in handicap spaces.

Handicap parking spaces are laid out according to law for use by those individuals who meet certain disability criteria.  These spaces are generally limited in number so it is important to keep them available for use by authorized people only.  Some spaces are marked larger for use by vans, wheelchairs, or mechanical lifts.  These spaces can be wider and have lines adjacent them marking areas which need to remain clear in order for lifts or wheelchairs to be used while a person is entering or exiting their vehicle. If vehicles are parked and obstruct any of this additional space, it can cause hardships for those people parking legitimately.  It can also be considered a violation since an unauthorized vehicle is parked within the allotted handicap space. 

In order to park in any of these locations, there must be a valid handicap license plate or placard on or in the vehicle.  Placards can be used in any vehicle in which the person with the disability is riding.  Penalties for illegal use of these spaces can vary in severity depending on the type of violation.  A person parking in these spaces without a permit is subject to a parking fine which can range between $100 and $300.  The vehicle is also subject to removal.  The penalty for the actual misuse of a handicap plate or placard is more stringent.  A person is subject to a civil motor vehicle fine of at least $500.  In addition, their driver’s license can be suspended for thirty days for a first offense penalty.  The person who has the plate or placard issued to them can be subjected to the immediate revocation of their permit.

Handicap parking violations are taken very seriously.  A person who is looking to save a few moments and benefit from the ease of parking closer to their destination takes a risk of stiff fines and penalties.  Pay added attention when parking around these locations.  Be sure you are not hampering the access to these spaces for lifts or wheelchairs.  Your cooperation is important to keep these spaces available for use by those people who truly need them in order to enjoy many of the same opportunities most of us take for granted.

I wish to thank the residents of Joshua Place for their continued hospitality during my recent visit on Thursday, December 20^th.  These are always enjoyable and informative times for me, and I thank everyone who joined me last week.   

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

Recently, I was asked to provide information to drivers about the proper distance to keep between vehicles while traveling down the road.  The person observes many vehicles following too close to one another.  I was asked to provide people with some information on this important issue.

Maintaining a safe driving distance between vehicles is a key factor in preventing accidents.  Massachusetts regulation 720 CMR 9.06 prohibits “Following Too Closely.”  This rule states in part, “The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard to the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and condition of the highway.”  In other words, traveling distance between vehicles must be considered sufficient to stop when necessary to prevent an accident.  The appropriate distance will be determined by a number of factors including speed, road conditions, and weather.  A violation of this rule can result in a civil fine of $20 or more.

The AAA driving manual “How to Drive” provides some valuable information to consider on the issue of traveling at a safe distance.  It suggests when driving at or below 50 miles per hour, you should maintain a MINIMUM travel distance of 3 – 4 seconds time between your vehicle and the one in front of you.  This is determined by choosing a fixed object on the roadway (example: utility or sign pole).  When the vehicle in front of you passes this location, you should not reach the same spot until 3 – 4 seconds later.  An important fact to consider while determining this distance is a vehicle traveling 40 miles per hour will travel approximately 180 feet in three seconds.  At 60 mph, you will go approximately 270 feet in that same time frame.  Therefore if you are traveling faster, you must allow an even longer period of time between your vehicle and the one in front of you.  By maintaining a safe distance, you can provide sufficient time to stop or take evasive action if necessary.

Since we are in the winter weather travel season, it is even more important to maintain the appropriate distance between vehicles.  Rear end collisions are almost always the fault of the vehicle traveling from behind.  These drivers are supposed to be “in control” of their vehicle and be traveling in a safe and reasonable manner.  Please watch your speed and distance to prevent accidents and injuries.

I wish to congratulate Principal Dono, her staff (particularly Mrs. Julie Winans), and the students of the Mason Road School for another wonderful holiday show held last week.  The kindergarten and first grade students worked very hard along with their teachers to provide everyone with some great holiday entertainment.  I thank Principal Dono for the invitation to attend and congratulate everyone on a job well done.

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

            I continue to receive questions about a particular intersection in Town.  The Airport Road and West Main Street intersection is a three lane area which can cause confusion for some drivers.  One of the businesses at this location is a Cumberland Farm convenience store.  Since this location was remodeled recently, it is frequently visited by patrons.  Even though some alterations were made to the traffic patterns entering and exiting this location, one question is still a subject of discussion.  While traveling east on West Main Street seeking to enter the parking lot, is it proper to be in “left turn only” lane for Airport Road or should drivers stay in the through lane and turn later?
            The “left turn only” lane at this intersection is present to allow for a turn onto Airport Road only.  When this area was redesigned many years ago, this intersection was widened to allow vehicles to turn left while at the same time providing sufficient room for other cars to continue along West Main Street toward Webster.  A left turn after this intersection should not be made from the “left turn only” lane.  This could cause an accident with vehicles traveling east on West Main Street.  Other drivers may assume a vehicle in the left turn lane is traveling to Airport Road.
            The proper way to make a turn into the Cumberland Farms lot is to stay in the through lane and move to the left after the intersection.  Changes were made during construction making the first driveway “exit only.”  Since it is the only entrance on West Main Street and it is considered “safest,” the second driveway is the only option.  With this in mind, vehicles have sufficient time to travel in the through lane before preparing to make the left turn.  This movement should limit confusion on behalf of other drivers traveling through this location.
            It is important to watch your speed and be aware of your surroundings when driving.  This intersection is very busy with drivers and pedestrians moving in multiple directions.  Do not assume others will be thinking in the same way you are.  By driving defensively, you have a better chance of avoiding accidents and injuries.

I wish to thank Selectmen’s Administrative Assistant Michelle Jervis and the numerous other town hall employees and volunteers who donated their time and goods to the Dudley Town Hall Tree Lighting Ceremony held on Wednesday, December 5^th.  A large crowd was on hand to light the tree and see Santa arrive thanks to the Dudley Fire Department.  It officially opened the holiday season. Those on hand enjoyed the entertainment, food items, and goodies, most of which were donated by local businesses.  Thanks again to all who helped and all who attended for making this another successful community event.

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

With the holidays upon us, many people are buying gifts in preparation for the season.  A great deal of people shop on-line.  By doing this, they can avoid the long lines at malls and shop from the convenience of their home.  This results in the home delivery of packages.  With thefts of packages left on door steps prevalent during this time of the year, I was asked to provide some safety tips for people.

The number one goal of on-line purchasing is to receive you items in a timely manner.  Packages should be delivered to your residence if you will be there or to a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor.  Leaving items unattended outside your home can be risky.  If the item is taken illegally, you may not be aware of this until long after the incident.  The best method of insuring your delivery arrives safe is to make arrangements in advance to have these packages signed for by a person at your home or to have them left with a person you know.

It is always important to track your packages while they are in transit.  Most companies provide tracking numbers and have up to date information on where your package is located.  Check this process early and often.  This can be done over the phone or on-line.  If you experience any problems or have questions, contact the company or person who is responsible for shipping your package. Safeguarding your investment is important to making sure your holidays are happy and not frustrating.

Finally, congratulations to the Shepherd Hill Rams Football Team for a great season.  They fell just short of winning the High School Super Bowl on Saturday, December 1st at Gillette Stadium.  The coaches, staff, and players should be commended for their hard work and dedication.  They will remember this experience for the rest of their lives.  The community is very proud of their accomplishments.

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

With snow and other bad weather arriving in our area a little sooner than normally expected, I wanted to take this opportunity to once again remind residents of the sidewalk snow removal procedures.  This is always a hot topic of conversation with many people.  It is especially true when we have our first truly measurable snowfall of the year.   I wanted to provide everyone with a reminder on this important issue.

Each community should have local by-laws or ordinances addressing this subject.  In the Town of Dudley, Article Eight Section Four is the by-law covering this situation.  This law requires every owner, tenant, or occupant of a building abutting a finished sidewalk, to keep the area free from many substances, including snow and ice.  These areas should be cleared during the period when the snow plows have completed the major removal of snow during a storm and before the slush/snow has the opportunity to freeze and become ice.  As a general rule, some time within twenty-four hours after a storm's ends is the prime opportunity to perform this task.  Penalties for a failure to clear sidewalks can be twenty dollars per day.

It is important for the local property owners to perform this task.  The general public, including school children, use these sidewalks every day.  By providing free and clear paths along the roadside, we can limit the number of pedestrians on the roads and hopefully limit the risk of accidents or injuries.

For those residents who are elderly or disabled and unable to clear these areas, the Dudley Leo's Club, the junior organization of the Dudley Lions Club, has in the past volunteered to shovel these areas free of charge.  For further information, I encourage people to contact me at the station.  I thank the LEO’s once again for all their dedicated service to the community.

I wish to thank Principal Dono, the teachers, and staff of the Mason Road Elementary School for allowing me to participate in the Kindergarten Thanksgiving Feast held on Tuesday, November 20th.  The kitchen staff worked hard on preparation and the teachers, parent volunteers, and many others worked to serve all the kindergarten students a wonderful meal.  The children enjoyed the food, festivities, and the opportunity to dress up as Pilgrims and Native Americans.  Another great time was had by all at this annual celebration.

The Dudley Police Department DARE Program fundraiser is underway and will continue for the next few weeks.  Calls will be made by All Pro Productions to local residents and businesses seeking donations to this worthwhile program.  A basketball game against the New England Patriots All Stars is planned for the early spring as thanks to those who contribute.  Sergeant Dean Poplawski has conducted the DARE program at the Dudley Middle School for the last several years and it is completely funded through this fundraiser and other donations.  We thank everyone in advance for their generosity and encourage you to contact our department should you encounter any problems or have any questions.

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

The crime of assault and battery contains a number of specific offenses.  These include assaulting a disabled person, a public official, a pregnant person, etc.  In many cases, the age of the victim is a consideration.  I was asked to provide information on assaulting a "senior citizen" and what penalties apply to these individuals who commit such an offense.
        

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265 contains most of the "crimes against the person."  Section 13 includes many assault and assault and battery crimes.  Section 13A is the standard assault and battery section.  It provides a maximum penalty for a conviction of up to two and one half years in jail or a fine of up to $1,000.  The term "senior citizen" is not used, however; the term "Elders" is found in section 13K.  An elder is anyone "sixty years of age or older."  Anyone who is convicted of an assault and battery on an elder is subject to any combination of the following: Up to three years in state prison, or up to two and one half years in the house of correction, and/or up to $1,000 in fines.  If "serious bodily injury" results from the attack, the maximum state prison term increases from three to five years.
           

These sections contain many other specific crimes.  They provide other penalties for those individuals who are "caretakers" of either elders or disabled persons.  Many provisions in the laws provide added protection to these certain groups.  These crimes are considered serious and the penalties increase due to the vulnerabilities of certain individuals.

The Dudley Police Department DARE Program fundraiser is underway and will continue for the next few weeks.  Calls will be made by All Pro Productions to local residents and businesses seeking donations to this worthwhile program.  A basketball game against the New England Patriots All Stars is planned for the early spring as thanks to those who contribute.  Sergeant Dean Poplawski has conducted the DARE program at the Dudley Middle School for many years and it is completely funded through this fundraiser and other donations.  We thank everyone in advance for their generosity and encourage you to contact our department should you encounter any problems or have any questions.

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

The unexpected snowfall last week reminds us all that winter is just around the corner.  I wanted to take this opportunity to once again remind residents of the winter parking regulations.  This is always a hot topic of conversation with our local Highway Superintendent, Mr. Dan Gion.  Most people are unaware of the difficulties involved in keeping the streets clear.  I hope to provide everyone with a little further information.

Article ten of Dudley’s By-laws contains the parking regulations.  Section three, in part, deals with snow removal operations.  Vehicles are not allowed to park on any Town controlled way so as to interfere with snow removal operations.  The Superintendent of Streets may remove or cause to be removed any vehicle interfering with this operation.  For snow removal purposes, any accumulation of two inches or more can enact this provision.  Your vehicle can be towed in order to accommodate snow removal.

When plow trucks are forced to plow around vehicles, it creates ice problems and other hazards.  The highway workers must return at another time to complete the operation.  This situation doubles efforts and wastes time, fuel, and money.  I am encouraging all residents to voluntarily comply with these restrictions and assist the Town employees with providing safe roads on which to travel.  The last thing anyone wants to have is their vehicle towed or be the one responsible for an accident or injury.

I wish to thank the Dudley Veterans Agent, Mr. Richard Holewa, and the various local veterans groups for another fitting and appropriate observance of Veterans Day on Sunday, November 11th.  Brief ceremonies were held in both Towns along with a parade from the Dudley Veterans Court of Honor to the Webster Veterans Court of Honor.  It was great to see all the veterans and their organizations, the scouts, and the many others who came out to pay their respect to all our veterans, past and present.  Thank you again for this remembrance and thanks to all who put their lives on the line in service to this country.

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.