Guests, Family, or Friends in town for the Tournament of Roses?

Visitors in town for the parade or big game?  Have a friend staying at one of our local hotels?  Nixle is a great resource for those living in town or visitors to the area.  The two major agencies responsible for Tournament of Roses activity both have active Nixle accounts and share valuable safety information with the public.  The Pasadena Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, along with other local police agencies like Arcadia, Burbank, and South Pasadena, all use the Nixle platform for instant messaging.

We would like to encourage everyone, including those visiting the area, to take advantage of these services and subscribe to local public safety before the need arises.

A simple method to subscribe for Nixle alerts is to text your zip code, or perhaps the zip code for your local hotel, to 888777.  For those in Arcadia, text either 91006 or 91007 to 888777 and you will be included in any emergency alerts sent by APD.  Check with your host or concierge for the local zip code for your area hotel in neighboring cities.

You can also download our smart phone app for links to other information and services.

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 16-22, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12.16.12.pdf

Sorry for the delay in posting, been off for the holidays! ^TL

Weekly Tip - Jan's Towing "Don't Drive Drunk Detour Program"

Jan's Towing offers a free service known as "Don't Drive Drunk Detour Program" throughout the year. Jan's is committed to helping to keep drunk drivers off the road and takes an active role by offering this program to those who have indulged a little too much. With the holiday weekend upon us, take advantage of this offer should the need arise. Jan's can be reached at (626) 334-1383.

Remember to report drunk drivers, call 9-1-1 and help keep our roads safe! Have a safe and fun New Years!

Merry Christmas 2012!

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas

and Happy Holidays!

Road Closure & Traffic Info for Wednesday, December 26th

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 for live racing. Yes, this coming Wednesday, 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 earlier 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/Place 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.

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 9-15, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12.9.12.pdf

Death Investigation News Release

Incident:                                  Death Investigation

Date/Time of Release:            December 21, 2012 at 10:30 AM

Location:                                 500 Blk. South First Ave

On December 20, 2012 at approximately 4:00 PM Arcadia Police Officers responded to a medical assist in the 500 block of South First Ave.  The reporting party advised that his daughter was choking.  Upon arriving at the scene, the officers encountered a child who was not breathing.  Officers began CPR and were relieved by Arcadia Fire Paramedics.  The child was transported to Methodist Hospital of Southern California in Arcadia where life-saving efforts continued.  At approximately 4:40 PM, the child was pronounced deceased. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim may have died as a result of choking on strawberries.

Arcadia Police Detectives along with the Los Angeles Coroner’s Office will be conducting follow up with this incident.

Any information refer to APD Case Number 12-5905

Robert T. Guthrie

Chief of Police

By:  Dan Crowther

        Sergeant

Suspicious Package Brings Police/Bomb Squad to Santa Anita Mall

Incident: Suspicious Package
Date and Time of Release: December 20, 2012 at 1345 hours


Location: Westfield Santa Anita

400 S. Baldwin Ave, Arcadia

Arcadia Police Officers responded to the report of a suspicious package at the Westfield Santa Anita Mall on December 20, 2012 at approximately 0952 hours. The package was located in a northern parking lot and a safety perimeter was established. The Los Angeles County Bomb Squad was requested for assistance and arrived on scene at approximately 1055 hours. A short time later the Bomb Squad rendered the package safe and determined it was not an explosive device. It was determined that the package contained what appeared to be marijuana.

No suspect(s) were arrested and there were no injuries to officers or bystanders.

The investigation into the origin of the package is ongoing by Arcadia Police Officers.

Any information refer to APD Case Number 12-5896.

Robert T. Guthrie

Chief of Police


By: Dan Crowther

Sergeant

Santa Pays a Visit in a Police Helicopter

Santa arrived at Huntington Memorial Hospital via a Pasadena Police Department helicopter yesterday, delivering toys to children in the pediatric unit.  This has been an annual tradition carried out by the PPD Air Support Unit for many years.  PPD provides air support for Arcadia through the Foothill Air Support Team (FAST). 

APD Detective Mike Hale is a Tactical Flight Officer with FAST and had the honor of playing Santa for the children this year.

After the visit to HMH, Santa and his PPD elves made their way to the Hathaway Sycamores Children's Home in Altadena.  This was bit more conventional ride in a police unit.  Even Police Chief Phil Sanchez helped out!  

Find Your Arcadia Neighborhood on Nextdoor.com

Interested in connecting with you neighbors, exchanging ideas and sharing information? We have a great way for you to do just that!

The City of Arcadia has a long history of encouraging neighborhood interaction and communication. We believe that knowing the people who live near us makes for stronger neighborhoods, and oftentimes results in cherished friendships. The way we communicate with our family, friends, and neighbors has changed significantly in recent years with the increasing popularity of social media. One social network you may want to take a look at is Nextdoor.com. Nextdoor.com is a private network that posters communication between neighbors. Participation is free. Discussion topics can range from information sharing to notices about local events and school activities, contractor recommendations, disaster preparedness, crime prevention, lost pets and…what would you like to talk about? Neighborhoods establish and manage their own Nextdoor website. The information shared on each Nextdoor site is visible only to the members who live in the neighborhood and have verified their address.

How does Nextdoor work?

Nextdoor allows neighbors to create a private website for their neighborhood. On Nextdoor, members can find neighbors in the directory, view a neighborhood map, ask for advice, exchange local recommendations, and share neighborhood information with each other. Residents can choose to see and respond to updates via e-mail, or only on the website.

How much does Nextdoor cost?

There is no charge for an Arcadia resident to participate in their neighborhood site.

How is Nextdoor different from a neighborhood mailing list?

Nextdoor is designed for the specific communication needs of a neighborhood. For example, Nextdoor websites include a neighborhood map and directory, and a catalogued list of recommendations for local services. Members can choose to receive e-mails about each new post, see everything in a daily digest, or turn off e-mails and check the website for new posts from neighbors.

What is the City’s involvement in Nextdoor?

The City will have the ability to post information on an Arcadia neighborhood site; however; the City cannot view discussions that take place outside of those related to the City post. Information the City will share with neighborhoods – individually or collectively – might include that relate area street projects, event announcements, crime prevention and safety tips, and emergency bulletins.

How do I get started?

Go to Nextdoor.com and put in your address to see if your neighborhood is already established. If not, define your neighborhood, invite your neighbors to the group, and get the discussion going! The website includes step-by-step instructions for getting started – it’s easy! Please note that for optimal participation and success, it is recommended that your neighborhood have between 250 and 2,500 properties.

If you have any questions about the City’s participation in Nextdoor, please call Lt. Tom Le Veque at 626.574.5163, or Linda Garcia, Special Projects Manager, at 626.574.5401.

 https://nextdoor.com/

Follow Nextdoor on Twitter @Nextdoor or like them on Facebook.

Multi-Agency Sobriety & Driver's License Checkpoint

Incident: Sobriety & Driver’s License Checkpoint

The Arcadia Police Department will be hosting a multi-agency sobriety and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, December 21st, 2012, evening hours, in accordance with a grant issued and administered by the Glendora Police Department from the Office of Traffic Safety, as part of the AVOID the 100 DUI Campaign, East-Los Angeles County. Participants will include officers and personnel from the Arcadia, Monrovia, El Monte and Sierra Madre Police Departments.

One of the goals of the checkpoint is to promote public safety and increase awareness of the dangers associated with drinking and driving. This will be accomplished by providing a highly visible enforcement and publicity campaign, in order to deter intoxicated drivers from getting behind the wheel and driving. Through these efforts, we also seek to reduce the number of injuries and deaths associated with collisions involving intoxicated drivers.

We would like to remind the public of the dangers associated with drinking and driving. It simply is not worth it to drive while impaired. Give the gift of life this holiday season and celebrate responsibly by using a sober designated driver. Remember, “Friends don’t let friend’s drive while impaired.”

Jan’s Towing provides a no cost “Don’t Drive Drunk” detour program, 365 days a year, and will provide a free lift home for drivers and their vehicles up to 7 miles in their service area. Call (626) 334-1383 for more information.

Don’t forget to visit the Arcadia Police Department News & Information Blog or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Nixle for other pertinent news and information. Remember, the solution begins with you!

Robert T. Guthrie, Chief of Police

By: Brett Bourgeous, Traffic Sergeant

(626) 574-5475

Weekly Tip - Holiday & Christmas Tree Safety

FEMA and the US Fire Administration offer some valuable tips on Holiday and Christmas Tree safety.  The video above is an example of how quickly a dry Christmas tree can catch fire and spread to your home.  Please keep your Christmas tree watered, never overload an outlet, and maintain your lighting in good working order for your tree.  Visit the FEMA/USFA website for other tips and information.

Holiday Hours for APD Records Bureau

The Arcadia Police Department Records Bureau and Front Counter will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on each of the following days: 

Christmas Eve, December 24th 
Christmas Day, December 25th 
New Years Eve, December 31st 
New Years Day, January 1st 

The normal operating hours for the Records Bureau are 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 

http://arcadiapolice.blogspot.com/2012/09/new-operating-hours-for-apd-records.html 


http://local.nixle.com/alert/4930642/

Continuing on through Tragedy

Our thoughts and prayers continue for all touched by the tragedy in Newtown.  As stated last Friday in an APD Facebook post, safety at our schools is always a priority with the Arcadia Police Department and all law enforcement. Our officers are trained and equipped to respond to situations involving active shooters and other threats similar to this senseless violence. While we cannot change what has occurred, we always prepare for the future. Hug your kids, talk with them, and reassure them...

Increased patrols were visible and continue at Arcadia schools.  The following comment came through the City online portal and has been shared with our staff.  The feedback is very much appreciated and we would like to share this parent's voice with the community.

"I am a parent whose children go to Baldwin Stocker Elementary School. I want to thank you for sending police officers to check on the school after the news of mass shooting in Connecticut came out this morning. The principal ... told me that she didn't request the police presence. You guys just came by to be sure everything was ok. I feel a great sense of gratitude for the sensitivity the police department has shown after such an unthinkable tragedy. It calmed my nerves and increased my trust in the department. Though I know ultimately no one can prevent such insanity from happening to us there in Arcadia, I certainly feel very cared for and safe because my police department cares enough to come over to check on us. Thank you so much!!!"

Annual Chief's Christmas Breakfast 2012



Chief Bob Guthrie 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 250 plates served. A special thanks to Vons, Nichol's Egg Ranch, and Papa Cantella's for the generous donations of food for the event.

Weekly Activity Highlights for December 2 - 8, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_12.2.12.pdf

Congrats are in Order

City Clerk Gene Glasco performs the swearing in at a ceremony held yesterday honoring two new officers and a recently promoted sergeant.  Officers Elders and Tafoya (left and center) have completed field training and are now working as patrol officers.  Officer Elders started his career with the Arcadia Police Department as a Police Cadet several years ago.  He was hired as an officer and graduated from the police academy earlier this year.  Officer Tafoya comes to us as a lateral police officer having worked as a deputy sheriff with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for the previous two years. 

Sergeant Cieadlo has been utilized as an Acting Sergeant for the last year and his promotion was formalized in September.  He has been with APD for over five years now and is also an active member of our SWAT team.

Congratulations to Officers Elders and Tafoya, and to Sergeant Cieadlo.

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.

Overnight Parking Enforcement Holiday Suspension begins December 16th

Residents and visitors will not have to obtain temporary overnight parking permits for passenger vehicles parked on the City streets from December 16, 2012 through January 6, 2013. 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.

The 2013 permits are available at the City Hall Cashier's Office and are being honored for the remainder of 2012, if properly displayed.

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

Gold Line Bridge Nears Completion - Four Full Closures Expected

UPDATE:  The closures will take place each night, Monday-Thursday, December 10-13, 2012.  Please see APD Nixle message for details.

I-210 Freeway Closures Next Two Nights

Weekly Tip - Valuables In Your Car Invite Theft

Vehicle burglaries are reported to local police throughout the year. However, during the holiday season, mall parking lots and parking structures are packed with vehicles that are sometimes stuffed with presents and packages. Just like presents under your family Christmas tree being an invite for a child's curiosity, your car filled with packages is an invitation for theft and auto burglary. Here are some tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim this holiday season:

•Park in well lighted areas.

•Lock your vehicle and set your alarm.

•If you must leave packages in your car, keep them out of sight. Some stores and malls offer to hold your packages while you shop. Pick all of them up when you are done shopping.

•Do NOT make multiple trips to your vehicle. Thieves watch and wait in parking lots targeting persons leaving items in their cars.

•Be aware of your surroundings! Look about and see who is around when you park.

Sobriety & Driver's License Checkpoints this Saturday

News Release: 11/28/12, 9:00 a.m.
Incident: Sobriety & Driver’s License Checkpoint

The Arcadia Police Department Traffic Bureau will be conducting sobriety checkpoints at multiple locations within the city on Saturday, December 1st, 2012. We would like to remind the public of the dangers associated with drinking and driving. It simply is not worth it to drive while impaired. Give the gift of life this holiday season and celebrate responsibly. Use sober designated drivers and remember, “Friends don’t let friend’s drive while impaired.”

Jan’s Towing provides a no cost “Don’t Drive Drunk” detour program, 365 days a year, and will provide a free lift home for drivers and their vehicles up to 7 miles in their service area. Call (626) 334-1383 for more information.

Don’t forget to visit the Arcadia Police Department News & Information Blog or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Nixle for other pertinent news and information.

Remember, the solution begins with you!

Robert T. Guthrie, Chief of Police

By: Brett Bourgeous, Traffic Sergeant

(626) 574-5475

Weekly Activity Highlights for November 18-24, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_11.18.12.pdf

Weekly Tip - Preventing Package Theft

Have you ordered Christmas presents over the phone, via the Internet, or by mail? Chances are that those packages will be delivered straight to your front porch. The majority of deliveries do not require a signature and are generally left at your door, even if no one is home to accept them. This time of year brings out those looking for a crime of opportunity as well as those thieves that actually target your delivery. Thieves will follow or watch for the UPS, Fed Ex or other delivery trucks and then target a home after a delivery is made.

Here are some suggestions for helping to prevent a theft of your packages:

• Use your workplace as the shipping address.
• Track your shipments by phone or on-line so you know what day they should arrive.
• Ask you neighbor to watch for your delivery and then hold the items until you arrive home.
• Keep an eye on your neighborhood and report suspicious persons and vehicles sitting or cruising the area.
• Request a signature delivery option, if available.
• Have the shipment be held at the shipping facility such as a UPS office.
• Utilize a "mailbox" businesses in your town and see if they will accept shipment of your item for a fee.
• If you do not receive your shipment on time, check with the company of origin and confirm the delivery. If the item was delivered and you did not receive it, then report the theft or loss to the original company, the shipping company, and your local police.

Weekly Activity Highlights - November 11-17, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_11.11.12.pdf

Black Friday = Traffic!

Happy Thanksgiving 2012!

The Arcadia Police Department wishes everyone the best on this Thanksgiving 2012! Enjoy a safe holiday with family and friends. And, a special thanks to all the public safety members at work today - be safe, and know that we are thankful for all of you!

Weekly Tip - Tis the Season...Don't Become a Victim!

With "Black Friday" upon us, tis the season for thieves to be looking for an easy target. Shoppers everywhere will be crowding stores and check-out counters in search of grabbing bargains and deals. But just as you may be shopping for a gift, the bad guys (and gals) may be shopping for your wallet, credit & debit cards, car keys, or your recently purchased treasures. What can you do to help protect yourself?

Start by shopping smart. Always be aware of your surroundings and who is near you. Don't become so engrossed in your shopping or check-out that you fail to see the person sliding up next to you or your cart. Never leave your purse or purchased items unattended in a cart, on a counter, or at a table...not even for "just a minute." Thieves will look for easy targets and persons who may be inattentive to their belongings. That open purse or wallet next to you while you are making your purchase is an invitation for theft.

Be mindful of your personal space. If you are "bumped" on the side or someone just happens to slide up close to you, check your wallet or purse and make sure that you have not become the target of a thief.

Watch your cards! Credit, debit, charge cards are easily "skimmed" by use of portable devices meant to quickly capture your card information. Your information can be later transferred to a magnetic strip on a different card and used for theft. The employee should be sliding your card right in front of you. If there is a need to move to a different register, go with them.

Keep an eye on your accounts. Check your balances and statements often. Watch for any unauthorized activity and report it immediately if discovered.

Don't leave valuable items in your vehicle. Do your best not to use your car as a storage compartment. Thieves will target persons who load up their vehicle and then walk away. Keep any items out of plain sight.

Tis the season for celebrations, not for becoming the unfortunate victim of theft. Do what you can to help prevent a crime before it happens! Don't become a victim!

Weekly Tip - Power Outage Preparation

Most power outages are for relatively short periods of time and have minimal impact on our lives.  But even a power outage lasting a few hours can cause a great deal of disruption in our activity.  The Red Cross has developed a Power Outage Checklist with excellent advice and steps to take not only during an outage, but steps to take ahead of time to prepare for an outage.  Take a look at the Red Cross Power Outage Checklist today!

 

Southern California Edison is also a great resource for valuable information regarding power outages. In the event of an outage, you can report the event to SCE at (800)611-1911, or through an online link at The Outage Center.  SCE also provides an interactive map of current and planned outages on the page as well.

Road Closures for 59th Annual Festival of Bands

The City of Arcadia is hosting the 59th Annual Festival of Bands Parade on Saturday, November 17, 2012. Dozens of high school bands will compete in this prestigious event. There will be a number of street closures associated with the event that will impact vehicular travel. The parade will take place on Baldwin Avenue and Duarte Road in Arcadia on Saturday, November 17, 2012. Street closures will be as follows:

 Baldwin Avenue between Huntington Drive and Naomi Avenue – CLOSED for vehicular traffic from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

 Duarte Road between Golden West and El Monte Avenue – CLOSED of vehicular traffic from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

 Campus Drive between Santa Anita Avenue and Holly Avenue – CLOSED from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

There will be no street parking in the above parade areas on November 17, 2012 between 6:00 AM and 1:00 PM. There will be no parking on Campus Drive through 5:00 PM. Temporary No Parking signs will be posted. Vehicles parked in violation will be towed.

Residents living south of Huntington Drive, north of Duarte Road, east of Baldwin Ave, and west of Holly Ave are asked to use the intersection of La Cadena and Huntington Drive as the primary entrance and exit from the area. Other residents will be allowed into the surrounding areas with proof of residency.

If you need access to businesses on the south side of Duarte Road inside the closure, please approach from Longden Avenue by travelling north on either Holly Avenue (east of Baldwin) or Golden West Avenue (west of Baldwin).

For further information, contact Lieutenant Bob Anderson at (626) 574-5156.

Veterans Day 2012

We salute and give thanks to those who have served our Nation. And, a special nod of gratitude to those members of the Arcadia Police Department, past and present, who have committed themselves not only to the City of Arcadia, but to our Nation in military service.

Weekly Activity Highlights for October 28 - November 3, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_10.28.12.pdf

Weekly Tip - Minimize Theft at the Gym

The gym is a great place to shed pounds and lessen the stress of your day, but it is also a place where thieves land in order to fulfil their goal to rip you off. A past tip on auto burglary prevention reminded you not to leave valuables in your car and items in plain sight, but you must also be alert when inside the gym.

Use a good quality lock and choose a locker in the open that is visible to the room if you choose to bring items inside. Always double check that the lock is secure.  If possible, leave what you can at home. Try using a lanyard to hang a minimal set of keys and your ID around your neck, forgoing the use of a locker. Use clothing with zippered pockets as an alternative to lessen the chance of items falling out. Bottom line, minimize your exposure to the chance of loss and becoming a victim. Be alert and pay attention.

2001 Arcadia Homicide Results in Murder Warrant and Arrest Nov. 4, 2012 of Husband - LASD Homicide & Arcadia PD

Adapated from LASD News Release:

2001 Arcadia Homicide Results in Murder Warrant and Arrest Nov. 4, 2012 of Husband - LASD Homicide & Arcadia PD

Charlotte S. Cole, a resident of Arcadia, was 50 years old when she was stabbed multiple times and brutally murdered behind a restaurant on the 50 block of Las Tunas Drive in the City of Arcadia, on September 1, 2001.

Homicide Detectives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department were called in and took the lead in the investigation with Arcadia Police Detectives.

Although there were no initial arrests, Charlotte’s then husband, Richard Keith Cole, was a person of interest in the case. The case remained open, but went cold for about a decade.

Cold Case Detectives from the Sheriff’s Department worked in conjunction with Arcadia Police Detectives and revisited the case in 2011, serving a search warrant at Richard Keith Cole’s new residence in Arcadia. Evidence was gathered and Cole was initially arrested for the murder on April 28, 2011, but was soon released pending further investigation.

Over the course of the past year, additional evidence was gathered, leading to charges being filed against Richard Keith Cole by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for the murder of his former wife, Charlotte S. Cole.

A murder warrant with a bail of one million dollars was issued for Suspect Cole’s arrest.

Sunday, November 4, 2012, at about noon, Suspect Cole, now 72 years old, was found at a restaurant in the City of Pasadena and was taken into custody by Sheriff’s Detectives. Suspect Cole was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance and was then booked at the Arcadia City Jail on the warrant, with plans to transfer him to the Los Angeles County jail.

2004 News Release seeking information about the homicide of Charlotte S. Cole - Arcadia Police Department

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/reward4.pdf

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau Detective Sergeant Steve Davis or Detective Joe Purcell (323) 890-5500. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Lieutenant Wes Sutton

Homicide Bureau

Detective Division

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

323-890-5500

Bicycle Patrol Launched

The Arcadia Police Department proudly launched a bicycle patrol unit yesterday as part of the operations deployment for Breeders' Cup at the Santa Anita Race Track.  The unit development was spearheaded by two of our detectives who have an interest in mountain biking and cycling.  At the direction of the department, they researched and contributed greatly to the molding of the program and procurement of the equipment.  Through some private donations and assistance of both Helen's Cycles and Rusnak here in Arcadia, the cost to begin the program was minimal.

The bike program will be staffed by APD personnel as an ancillary duty to there daily assignments and will consist of four, fully outfitted police bikes.  The use of bicycles instead of cars can make our police officers more easily approachable, will enhance the mobility and range of foot patrols, and the bicycles will be effective crime-fighting tools when used in densely populated or congested areas. The bikes are nearly silent in operation and many criminals do not realize that an approaching person on a bike is actually a police officer. Furthermore, if the criminal attempts to flee on foot, the riding police officer has a speed advantage while able to quickly dismount if necessary.

The Arcadia Police Department looks forward to utilizing the bike patrols throughout the year, not only enforcement details, but for deployment at many special events held here in Arcadia as well.

Daylight Saving Time Ends Tonight

Tomorrow (Sunday) marks the end of daylight saving time.  Be sure to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed.  Take advantage of the extra hour sleep!  At 2:00 a.m. tonight, we will be back on Pacific Standard Time.

This is also a great time to replace the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Test them to make sure they are in working order!  Keep your family safe and use the opportunity to review your home evacuation and emergency plan.

APD has an App for that!

The Arcadia Police Department is proud to partner with MyPD in order to provide a user friendly smart phone application linking you to our services and information. Yes, we have an app for that!

The app is available for download to both iPhones and Androids. Some of the features include contact information and one button dialing, links to our social platforms, push notifications for messaging, tip and commendation submission forms, question and feedback links, ability to report quality of life issues, sex registrant info, and more. Best of all - the app is free to the public!

Whether a resident, business owner, or a visitor to our community, you will benefit from the use of the Arcadia Police Department's MyPD app.

Visit the My Police Department website for additional information and to download our MyPD app, or click on the icon below.

Still have a text only phone?  Not to worry!  Text either of the Arcadia zip codes, 91006 or 91007, to 888777, and you will enroll in our Nixle emergency alert platform.

Weekly Activity Highlights for October 21 - 27, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_10.21.12.pdf

Halloween Traffic Safety!

Halloween night will bring plenty of gatherings and activity to our neighborhoods. As you drive or make your way around town, please pay close attention for pedestrians and little goblins running across the street. Watch out for our kids as they trick or treat on Halloween night from house to house or while getting out of parked cars.

Arcadia, like many communities, has many homes that are decorated and offer "haunted houses" attracting crowds of kids and traffic. When visiting these locations, enjoy the experience but remember to obey traffic laws and parking regulations.

• Don't double park or drop off passengers in the roadway.
• Don't block driveways.
• Don't park in crosswalks.
• Don't park in front of fire hydrants.

Please be courteous and respectful of your neighbors. Drive carefully and be aware of all the children celebrating tonight!

Longden Avenue will be closed to through traffic between El Monte - Holly Avenues tonight from 5:00 - 10:00 pm.  The closure is to accomodate expected pedestrian and vehicle traffic converging on this area on Halloween night.  Please use Duarte Road or Las Tunas Drive as alternate east-west roadways.  Residents with identification living in the 200-400 blocks West Longden Avenue will be able to access the closure.

And always - Don't Drink & Drive!

Weekly Tip - Halloween Safety

The safety of our children is on our minds each and every day. The celebrations and traditions that go along with Halloween add to the importance of monitoring our children's activity and giving them the guidance to help keep them safe. Here are a couple of websites that offer good tips on Halloween safety:

- CDC (Department of Health and Human Services)

- Halloween-Safety.com

- Pasadena Humane Society (for our four-legged friends)

There are also options to traditional "trick or treating" that allow your children to celebrate in a controlled and safe environment.  The City will be hosting their annual Halloween event for elementary age kids at the Community Center tomorrow, Wednesday, October 31st from 4:30-6:30 pm. The Community Center event is open to the public.  The Westfield Santa Anita Mall will also be hosting trick or treating in the mall from 4:30-6:30 pm tomorrow.

Holiday DUI & Driver's License Enforcement

Weekly Activity Highlights for October 14 - 20, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_10.14.12.pdf

Weekly Tip - Origin of Red Ribbon Week

Red Ribbon Week runs October 23rd-31st, 2012. Red Ribbon Week began in remembrance of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena who was kidnapped and murdered in Mexico in 1985. Agent Camarena had been working undercover for the DEA and was key in developing information that led to the eradication of large scale narcotics manufacturing operations in Mexico. Mexican cartel leaders sought revenge for these operations, murdering alleged informants and ultimately Agent Camarena. The RedRibbon.org website gives a well written summary of the history of Red Ribbon Week and offers an excellent tribute to slain DEA Agent "Kiki" Enrique Camarena.

Following his death, in Agent Camarena's home town, Calexico, CA, the public outpouring of support turned in to an organized community response in which citizens dawned red ribbons. They became a voice for prevention in order to reduce the demand for illegal drugs and use of drugs in America. The following year the California State PTA adopted the Red Ribbon Campaign. Then, in 1988, Red Ribbon Week was recognized nationally with President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan serving as the Honorary Chairs.

Today, the Red Ribbon Celebration brings millions of people together to raise awareness regarding the need for alcohol, tobacco and other drug and violence prevention, early intervention, and treatment services. It is the largest, most visible prevention awareness campaign observed annually in the United States.

Weekly Activity Highlights for October 7 - 13, 2012

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/weekly_10.7.12.pdf

Weekly Tip - Are you Prepared?

Are you prepared for the next big earthquake?  Tomorrow, Thursday, October 18, 2012, at 10:18 am, millions of people will join in the annual Great California ShakeOut, bringing awareness to a very real threat to California.  Preparedness and knowledge are the keys to surviving during and after a significant earthquake.  The Los Angeles Fire Department offers an excellent preparedness booklet with information about steps you can take before and after an earthquake to help keep you safe, family plans for earthquakes, disaster and emergency supplies, and much more.  The LAFD booklet is available through either of the embedded links above.

Remember, if an earthquake strikes us today - Drop!  Cover!  And, Hold On!

•DROP to the ground (before the earthquake drops you!),

•Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and

•HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.



Teen Driver Safety Week 2012

Teen Driver Safety Week runs from October 14-20, 2012.  Take some time this week to discuss good driving habits and traffic safety with your teen and young adult drivers - before it is too late!  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a great selection of online facts, safety tips, and videos dedicated to educating both the teen drivers and parents alike.

Here are some quick stats to think about:

• In 2010, 3092 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver.  And an estimated additional 416,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver.
• In 2012, 11 percent of all drivers under the age of 20 who were involved in fatal crashes were reported to be distracted at the time of the crash.
• Unfortunately teens are more likely to driver distracted than other drivers.  Drivers under the age of 25 are two to three times more likely than older drivers to send text messages or emails while driving.
• Sending or receiving a text takes a driver's eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent - at 55 mph - of driving the length of an entire football field, blind.
• All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety.  From texting and talking on a cell phone, to eating and playing with the radio, using a navigation system, CD player, or MP3 device, any of these distractions while driving a car, can be deadly.

*Stat information courtesy of NHTSA.