Celebrating the New Year with Gunfire will Not be Tolerated

The following information is a reprint from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, but is applicable to the City of Arcadia:

Every year, a significant number of people throughout the City and County of Los Angeles engage in the extremely dangerous practice of discharging firearms into the air to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.  In an effort to educate and warn the public of the problem, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) have embarked upon an awareness campaign. This campaign is designed to help reduce incidents of indiscriminate gunfire that, while on the decline, has continued to be a deadly tradition in our County and in our City.

The Gunfire Reduction Campaign aims to advise the community that celebrating the New Year with gunfire will not be tolerated in the County andCity of Los Angeles.  California Penal Code Section 246.3 prohibits negligent discharging of firearms.  Any person who violates Section 246.3 will have their firearm confiscated and will be arrested for a felony crime.

On Monday, December 27, 2010, LAPD Assistant Chief Sandy Jo MacArthur and LASD Sheriff Lee Baca held a news conference to publicize their concern about holiday-related celebratory gunfire.  To make a significant impact on this problem, thousands of “Don’t Shoot” flyers and posters have been printed and distributed to the community.  It is the hope of both agencies that with the partnership of the media and the distribution of “Don’t Shoot” flyers, the public will be informed regarding the dangers and dire consequences of this irresponsible act.

On July 4, 1999, Brian Perez, a young, outgoing, 9 year-old boy was playing with family members in the front yard of his home.  Someone in the area shot a firearm into the sky and the stray bullet struck Brian in the head, killing him.  Assistant Chief MacArthur stated “Thankfully, since Brian Perez, and with the effectiveness of this Gunfire Reduction Campaign, there have been no known deaths by indiscriminate gunfire in the City of Los Angeles.”

The public is also reminded that toy replica guns that resemble real weapons are also a concern for law enforcement officers and that playing with replica guns is strongly discouraged.

Together, all law enforcement agencies ask the public to STOP the senseless act of firing weapons into the air and CELEBRATE SAFELY. 

In addition, should a shooting occur, members of the community are encouraged to call 9-1-1. 

To report information regarding a crime, please call your local sheriff's station or police station.  Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the websitehttp://lacrimestoppers.org 

Kid Sitting for New Year's Eve?

The City of Arcadia Recreation & Community Services Department is hosting a "New Year's Eve Kid's Night Out" event at the Arcadia Community Center from 6pm to 1am this Friday night, December 31st.  Recreation Staff and Volunteens offer themed games, movies, dinner, snacks and supervision for children ages 4 and above.  Kids will enjoy a New Year’s Eve Party, while their parents enjoy all of the New Year’s Eve Festivities out on the town or a quiet evening at home.  The cost is $25 per child.  For more information, visit the City website for the latest issue of "The Buzz" (page 7),  or call (626) 574-5113.  

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 19-25, 2010

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12-19.pdf

Weekly Tip - Check Your Credit

With a new year approaching, it is a good time to check your personal credit. Thieves can gain access to your personal information through various means these days and you may not become aware of the problem until damage is already done. The Federal Trade Commission has a website with a link to the only authorized on line source to obtain your credit report from the 3 main credit reporting companies. The service is free and you are entitled to obtain the report once every 12 months. There are some other legitimate sources to obtain the information, however, most come with strings attached or a fee to continue monitoring your credit. Protect yourself from ID theft and potential loss due to ID theft.  Make this a New Year's resolution and moreover, an annual practice!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

All of us at the Arcadia Police Department would like to wish everyone the very best during this holiday season.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

Expect Traffic Delays on Sunday

The day after Christmas is sure to bring many visitors, shoppers, and racing fans to the City of Arcadia. The Westfield Santa Anita Shopping Mall will be filled with people seeking sales, exchanges, and returns. The Santa Anita Race Track comes to life once again with opening day of live racing. Yes, this Sunday, December 26th, will surely be a busy day in town!

The mall can be accessed off Baldwin Avenue and Huntington Drive. Shoppers may see gate closures inside Gate 8 (north of JC Penney) and best times for arriving or departing the mall would be in the morning, mid-afternoon, or evening hours after the race track has closed.

The majority of Race Track patrons leave between the hours of 3:00pm - 7:00pm, so the following closures and restrictions will be in place during that time period:

BALDWIN AVENUE:
- Traffic congestion between Huntington Drive & the 210 freeway
- There will be No Parking on Baldwin Avenue between Hugo Reid and Huntington Drive from 3:00pm – 7:00pm

HUNTINGTON DRIVE:
- There will be No Left Turns from E/B Huntington to N/B Baldwin Avenue (Left Turn Lanes will be Closed from 3pm-7pm)
- There will be No Right Turns from W/B Huntington Drive to N/B Baldwin Avenue (Right Lane Closed from 3pm–7pm)

COLORADO PLACE:
- All Southbound lanes of Colorado Place will be closed at the intersection with Colorado Boulevard (closure in effect from 4pm – 7pm). All traffic will be detoured onto E/B Colorado Blvd towards Santa Anita Avenue.

If you would like to avoid the traffic congestion in these areas, you are advised to use the following alternate routes:

ALTERNATE NORTH/SOUTH ROUTES:

Michillinda Avenue
Santa Anita Avenue

ALTERNATE EAST/WEST ROUTES:

Foothill Boulevard
Duarte Road

Santa Anita Race Track gates will open at 10:00 am and the first post is at noon. Racing fans can access Gate 8 off Baldwin Avenue, however, other gates may be less congested. Suggested routes for easier access may include;

• From the west or northbound on Baldwin Avenue, use Huntington Drive to Gate 3 at Holly Avenue.
• From the south, use Santa Anita Avenue to Campus Drive for Gate 3 access, or to Huntington Drive for access to Gates 5 and 6.
• From the east, use Huntington Drive or Colorado Boulevard to access Gates 5 and 6.

Police officers will be manning traffic signals and certain intersections throughout the day. Traffic will be heavy and you should expect delays. Allow extra time for your travel and please be patient.

WANTED! Distraction Burglary Suspect

The above photo is the likeness of a suspect wanted in connection with a distraction type, residential burglary. The crime occurred on December 17, 2010, at about 11:30 am, at a residence in the 1000 block of Fairview Avenue.

The suspect knocked at the residence door and said that he worked for the water department. The suspect wore an identification badge around his neck that had "State of California" written on it and the name, "John". The suspect said that he was there to check water pressure and the victim allowed him to come inside. The suspect walked throughout the residence and turned on water faucets. While inside the master bedroom, the suspect asked the victim to go and turn off water in the kitchen. The victim left the suspect unattended for a time and returned to find the suspect leaving the residence, telling the victim that he was going to get some paperwork from his truck. The suspect did not return. Shortly thereafter, the victim found the bedroom ransacked and jewelry missing.

The suspect is described as a male, unknown race, 30-39 years old, 5'-09", 150 lbs, black hair, brown eyes, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call Arcadia Police Detectives at 626-574-5160. You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by clicking on the "Submit a Tip" button on the APD Blog side bar.

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 12-18, 2010

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12-12.pdf

Weekly Tip - Holiday Fire Safety

One of our Public Safety partners, CAL FIRE, provides this video as a great reminder of the need for holiday fire safety in our homes!  Please be safe during this holiday season and celebrate wisely.  You can follow CAL FIRE on Twitter @CalFireNews for Statewide fire information and news.

Parole & Probation Compliance Operation

On Thursday, December 16, 2010, Detectives from the Arcadia Police Department were joined by personnel from State Parole, the Alhambra, Monterey Park, and San Gabriel Police Departments, for the purpose of conducting parole / probation compliance checks at 22 locations: Arcadia (7), Rosemead (7), San Gabriel (3), Temple City (1), and Alhambra (4). These checks targeted 23 subjects who are on active parole or probation, or who had outstanding arrest warrants. The majority of these subjects are either Asian gang associates or sex registrants.

Results of the compliance checks resulted in:

• 1 arrest for violation of parole

• 1 arrest for a felony warrant and probation hold

• 2 arrests for misdemeanor warrants

• Documentation for 1 violation of parole and 2 probation violations in order to seek future prosecution

• 18 of the 23 subjects were contacted during the compliance checks

Detectives from each of the law enforcement agencies involved came together after several incidents involving Asian gang members that occurred in Arcadia and Alhambra in late November. Arrests were made in those cases. Local investigators will continue to work together and this event is an excellent example of information sharing and the ongoing collective effort to combat gang activity in our communities.

Refer questions to Sergeant Jeremy Lachenmyer, Arcadia Police Department Special Enforcement Team, (626) 574-5183.

Annual Overnight Parking Permits Now Available

The 2011 Annual Overnight Parking Permits are now available for purchase at Arcadia City Hall, Cashier's Office.  You can download the application form on the City website as well as review rules and regulations.  The fee for the annual permit is $84.00 and you are also required to submit a copy of the current vehicle registration, along with your permit application.  For additional information, contact the Cashier's Office at (626) 574-5400.

Congrats are in Order!

Officers Mike Turrell (left) and Kevin Fox (right) are pictured with Chief Bob Sanderson (center) shortly after their ceremonial "swearing in" yesterday.  Both officers graduated from the Rio Hondo Police Academy back in July 2010 and have successfully passed their field training.  Officers Turrell and Fox each received their issued police officer badge during the ceremony.

Officer Turrell is a US military veteran, having served two tours of duty in Iraq with the Marine Corps.  Officer Fox served as a civilian Community Services Officer with APD prior to attending the police academy.  Both men bring great experience and are welcomed additions to our APD family.

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 5-11, 2010

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12-5.pdf

Holiday DUI Enforcement

The Arcadia Police Department Traffic Bureau will be participating in countywide DUI enforcement activities over the next few days as follows:

• DUI Checkpoint, Thursday evening, December 16, 2010, undisclosed location in the City of Arcadia from 6 pm to midnight.
• Roving DUI Patrol, Friday evening, December 17, 2010, from 6 pm to 2 am.

The holidays bring many celebrations.  Please don't drink and drive!  Remember to have a designated driver or take advantage of programs like Jan's Towing "Tipsy Tow."

Weekly Tip - Watch Out for Your Children!

As a parent, the safety of my children is something that is constantly on my mind. I am sure that any mom or dad will echo that sentiment.   In this holiday season, stores and malls are packed with patrons making your job even more difficult. Stay alert to your children. Never assume that they are just around the corner or hiding behind a clothing rack. Keep them in your sight and don’t hesitate to report suspicious activity to your local police.

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children offers child safety tips along with a great deal of information for parents on their website.  Another resource to take advantage of is Wireless Amber Alert; visit the site, enter your cell number, and you will be notified in the event of a local Amber Alert via text message.

Remember that it is never too early to talk with your children about their safety.  Take advantage of the links above and be proactive with your family safety.

Overnight Parking Enforcement Suspended for Holidays

Residents and visitors will not have to obtain temporary overnight parking permits for passenger vehicles parked on the City streets from December 20, 2010 through January 6, 2011.  This permit suspension affords the community the opportunity to entertain guests and visitors without worrying about purchasing permits during the holidays.

This enforcement suspension pertains only to overnight parking restrictions for passenger vehicles between 2:30 am and 5:30 am.  All other parking restrictions remain in effect and will be enforced, such as time zones, street sweeping, curb markings, etc.

If you have any questions, please contact the APD Watch Commander at (626) 574-5156.

Robbers Leave Empty Handed

Officers were called to a residence in the area of Lovell and Camino Real last night at about 8:50 pm, after a foiled robbery.  A couple returning home from a trade show in Orange County had just pulled into their driveway, when an older black Honda occupied by four males stopped behind the couple and blocked the driveway.  Two of the males jumped out and pointed handguns at the victims.  The victims ran away and were unharmed.  The suspects proceeded to smash out a couple of windows on the victim's vehicle in order to gain entry.  When the suspects found no property in the vehicle, they fled.

The victims deal in jewelry and believe the suspects had followed them from the show venue.  There was no loss, since the victims contract with a security service who removed all jewelry at the conclusion of the show.  The victims had no valuables with them at the time of the crime.

The suspects were only described as male Hispanics, 20-25 years old, dressed in dark clothing.

Anyone with information is asked to call Arcadia Police Detectives at 626-574-5160. You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by clicking on the "Submit a Tip" button on the APD Blog side bar.

Arcadia Police Department Honors Police Officer & Civilian of the Year for 2010

The Arcadia Police Department awarded their annual Police Officer of the Year and the Civilian Employee of the Year awards last night at the annual Police Association Christmas party.  For 2010, the award recipients were Officer John Jurman and Logistical Services Officer Cris Hoefflin.

Officer John Jurman is pictured above left, along with Chief Bob Sanderson.  Officer Jurman is a tenured member of the Department and is currently assigned to the Traffic Bureau.  John was recognized for his service to the Department, the Police Association (APOA), and the community.  John headed up the Arcadia Police Department Relay for Life team in 2010, spearheading our fundraising efforts to fight cancer.  Most recently, John took it upon himself to seek donations from fellow personnel in order to purchase a market gift card for a family in need that he had come upon during a work shift, going above and beyond the normal call of duty.

Logistical Services Officer Cris Hoefflin was awarded the Arcadia Police Department, Civilian of the Year award for his service and dedication to not only the Department, but to his fellow employees, as well.  Cris is our "go to" person and truly keeps our agency running on a daily basis.  Cris is never without a friendly welcome and a smile to match.  Whenever there is a task to be dealt with or a job to be done in our facility, Cris makes it happen.  Pictured left to right are: Mike Hale, APOA Vice-President; Troy Hernandez, APOA President; Cris Hoefflin; and Chief Bob Sanderson.

Congratulations to both Officer John Jurman and to Logistical Services Officer Cris Hoefflin on their deserving awards!

Arcadia restaurant employee beaten by two men - Pasadena Star-News

Arcadia restaurant employee beaten by two men - Pasadena Star-News

Chief's Annual Christmas Breakfast

Chief Bob Sanderson carried out a long standing Arcadia Police Department tradition this morning, hosting the Chief's Annual Christmas Breakfast.  The breakfast is a great event where current and former members of APD can gather to share memories and a meal prepared by the Chief and fellow police management staff.  In addition to the APD family, all City employees and City staff are invited to attend, along with our elected officials.  

There was a great turnout today with well over 200 plates served.  A special thanks to Vons, Nichol's Egg Ranch, and Papa Cantella's for the generous donations of food for the event.

(Pictured left - Chief Sanderson serving breakfast with Lieutenant Colleen Flores)

Parking Violation Bail Increase

The Arcadia City Council voted last night to approve a $3.00 increase in bail amounts for parking violation citations issued in the City of Arcadia.  The fee increase is necessary to cover State and court increases over the last year.  The new bail amounts are effective immediately and the increase applies to all parking violations.  The current supply of parking bail envelopes will be used for the immediate future and the new bail amount will be noted by the issuing officer. 

Weekly Tip - Rain, Fog, Mist? Use Your Headlights!

"Headlights are on for safety." Ever see that statement on the back of a big rig? Headlights improve the visibility that other drivers have of your car. That is one reason California adopted a Vehicle Code section(24400) that requires you to drive with lights on when driving in the rain. The section also includes driving conditions that require you to have your windshield wipers on continuously, such as rain, fog, mist, snow or other atmospheric moisture. So, if you are using your windshield wipers, use your headlights as well!

Weekly Activity Highlights for November 28 - December 4, 2010

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_11-28.pdf

Arcadia Police Chief Spends Time in the MDA Slammer!

Chief Bob Sanderson was hauled off to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) jail earlier today!  The MDA Judge threw away the key until Chief Sanderson was able to come up with "bail" in support of the MDA.  Lucky for the Chief, many local supporters, friends, family, and co-workers were able to help achieve his goal and raise sufficient bail.  Chief Sanderson was released from the MDA "Lock-Up" at the Arcadia BJ's Restaurant shortly after lunch today.

As of this afternoon, Arcadia Fire Chief Tony Trabbie and Arcadia Police Chief Bob Sanderson led the fundraising effort for this year's Arcadia MDA "Lock-up", raising $2,690 & $2,600 respectively.  The funds raised will help the MDA sponsor summer camp, treatment research, clinics, and much more.  Thanks to all for your support!

Watch Your Packages!

As we have recently warned about and see other reports in the news, a local resident became the latest Arcadia victim of package theft earlier today.  At about 2:52 pm this afternoon, a witness observed a female approach the front porch of a home in the 300 block of West Woodruff Avenue.  The female removed a package from the front porch and left what was later found to be an empty box in its place.  The female left the area in a black Cadillac driven by a male.

The suspects are only described as a female White, 25-28 years old, 5'-02", thin build, and a male African-American with a shaved head.

The ironic part of this crime is that these two suspects were only rewarded with a small amount of anti-aging cream.  This type of theft is likely to continue to occur with the holidays upon us.  Please be extra vigilant and call the police if you see any suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Anyone with information is asked to call Arcadia Police Detectives at 626-574-5160. You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by clicking on the "Submit a Tip" button on the APD Blog side bar.

Holiday Season Brings Increased Patrols at the Mall

The holiday season brings with it large crowds at shopping centers throughout the area.  The Westfield Santa Anita Shopping Mall in Arcadia is a popular destination that is filled with shoppers on a daily basis.  The Arcadia Police Department and Westfield Security coordinate and work together to provide additional officers and police presence during the holiday period.  Members of the Arcadia Police Mounted Enforcement Team along with our police officers provide additional uniform patrols on horseback, foot patrol, and in police units throughout the mall property.  Volunteers in Patrol Services (VIPS) also patrol the area as increased visible presence and assist patrol officers with traffic control, parking citations, and other duties as needed.  The Arcadia Auxiliary Communications Service (Ham Watch) also works in conjunction with our officers providing eyes, ears, and instant communication to field units from atop the mall and in the parking lot.  Mall Security provides additional officers on foot and on patrol in the parking lot, along with much needed traffic control during peak periods.  Together, we work to bring you a safe and enjoyable experience.    

Late Night Robbery of Taxi Driver

A taxi driver was flagged down by two males last night at about 11:35 pm on Baldwin Avenue south of Duarte Road.  The males entered the cab and directed the driver to the rear of businesses east of Baldwin.  One of the suspects pointed a revolver at the taxi driver demanding his money and the keys to the taxi.  The driver complied and then was told to get out of the taxi by the suspects.  The driver fled the taxi on foot, leaving the suspects in the vehicle.  A few moments later, a witness saw the suspects walk away from the taxi, eastbound on Naomi Avenue toward Lovell Avenue.  The driver was not harmed and the loss was only cash.

The suspects were both described as male Hispanics, 17-20 years old, wearing dark clothing.  One suspect was tall and "skinny", about 6'-05", wearing a black beanie and gloves.  The second suspect was approximately 5'-05", also "skinny", wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call Arcadia Police Detectives at 626-574-5160.  You can also submit crime tips and information via text, phone, or web to LA Regional Crime Stoppers, 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by clicking on the "Submit a Tip" button on the APD Blog side bar.

Four Charged in Baldwin Avenue Stabbing

On November 5, 2010 at about 6:50 pm, a 17 year old young man from Arcadia was lured into a physical altercation by a lone suspect, at a business located in the 1000 block of South Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia. The fight moved outside the business toward the parking lot when the suspect was joined by three additional suspects who attacked the victim. The suspects struck, kicked, beat the victim with a pipe-like object, and during the attack, the victim was stabbed twice in the torso. The suspects fled and were not apprehended. The victim was hospitalized and is recovering from his injuries.

Over the course of the next few weeks, Arcadia Detectives conducted follow-up investigation and developed information that led to the arrest of four individuals for this crime. Two adults, Andy Lieu, 18 years old from El Monte, and Jonah Moon, 18 years old from Norwalk, along with two 17 year old juveniles were booked at the Arcadia City Jail on attempted murder charges. The juveniles were from Alhambra and Cypress. Detectives believe that the attack was in retaliation for an altercation that took place earlier in the day in another local city and that both incidents were gang related. All four suspects are believed to be members of a local Asian street gang.

A felony complaint was filed on November 29, 2010 by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office with charges of attempted murder - PC 664/187(a) and criminal street gang enhancements on each of the four suspects. Lieu, Moon, and the two juveniles are being held on $1,000,000.00 bail at Los Angeles County facilities.



Weekly Tip - Parking Lot Survival

The holiday season is upon us!  And with that brings large crowds and parking lots filled with anxious shoppers.  Private property accidents contribute to a number of our calls for service during the holiday season and most of these incidents are avoidable.  Here are some tips to help avoid collisions and other vehicle related incidents on private property;

•Slow down, don't be in a rush. The sales will still be going on when you get there.

•Obey shopping center or mall stop signs, yield signs, speed limit signs. They are there for a reason...SAFETY!

•Drive only in marked isles. Avoid driving across the parking lot and watch out for those that are using parking stalls as a short cut.

•Park a little further away. It is probably quicker than driving up and down looking for that perfect spot.

•Look all around before backing out and back SLOWLY from your stall.

•Watch for pedestrians and watch out for yourself while walking in the parking lot.

•Avoid the urge to "beat" the other driver to that one last spot.

•Practice common sense and courtesy. Everyone can be on edge in a crowded parking lot. Give each other a break.

•Leave valuables at home or at least out of sight in your LOCKED vehicle.

•Park only in marked stalls.  Fire lane, red zones, handicap stalls may all be enforced at most shopping centers.

•Always be aware of your surroundings. Park in well lighted areas. Alert store security or the police to suspicious persons or vehicles.