Mercer Island Police Officer Rob Jira answers frequently asked questions from Mercer Island residents.

What is the Mercer Island Police Department doing about all of the recent burglaries occurring on the Island?

The Mercer Island Police Department is working diligently to solve burglaries and break-ins throughout the entire Island. The Mercer Island Police Department is also working in conjunction with the Bellevue Police Department on charges for multiple suspects in these cases. Some arrests have been made. The Mercer Island Police Department is aware of groups on Island and off Island that are involved or responsible for these burglaries and break-ins. We are also trying our best to educate the public on ways to deter burglars and prowlers, and prevent citizens from becoming a victim of these crimes. Check out the City of Mercer Island’s web page (www.mercergov.org) for my monthly crime tips on how to better safeguard you and your family from becoming victims of certain crimes.

If I knew something about a crime that was committed and wanted to let the police know about it, but wanted to remain anonymous, what do I do?

There are a few ways you can do this. One is to call 911, or the non-emergency line (206-577-5656), and tell the dispatcher that you would like your name to remain anonymous. You can also go online to the City of Mercer Island’s website, www.mercergov.org, and submit an anonymous crime tip, or call the Mercer Island Tip Line (206-275-7955) and leave your information directly with our Investigations Unit.