Arcadia PD Joins National Campaign to End Distracted Driving

Arcadia, CA– Distracted driving is such an important safety issue that April is recognized as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.  In California, Police, Sheriff and CHP officials are joining the Office of Traffic Safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as well as law enforcement throughout the country, working together to focus on education as well as enforcement. 

The purpose of the campaign is to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving in an attempt to change behavior and save lives, not just in April but also year-round.  The Arcadia Police Department will join statewide enforcement campaigns on April 7th and 20th, “zero tolerance days,” when all agencies will be especially vigilant for distracted drivers.  In addition to these days officers will be out on April 1st to conduct additional citywide enforcement efforts directed at distracted drivers. Although the purpose of the campaign is not to write as many citations as possible, sometimes citations are necessary for drivers to understand the importance of focusing on their driving. 

Distracted driving continues to be a problem, especially as the use of Smartphones increase.  Although such crashes are often difficult to prove, California had at least 84 fatal distracted driving collisions in 2013, 85 in 2014 and 67 in 2015, with the actual number of cases likely higher.  The number of injury collisions for the same three-year period shows an increase: 10,078 in 2013; 10,463 in 2014, and 11,023 in 2015.  NHTSA data for 2014 show nationwide, 3,179 people died in distracted driving collisions, which is 10 per cent of all crash fatalities.  An additional 431,000 people, or 18 per cent, were injured in motor vehicle collisions involving distracted drivers. 

“As we rely on our cell phones more and more in our everyday lives, we seem to be kidding ourselves in thinking that they don’t affect our driving,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft.  “Crashes are up.  The scientific evidence is solid.  The dangers are real, and they apply to all of us.  We need to silence the distractions.”

The problem of distracted driving is significant, and no surprise to drivers day in and day out.  The Department Of Transportation notes that at any given moment, during daylight hours, more than 660,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cellphone.   

NHTSA will conduct a television campaign in April with the message “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” OTS will produce public service announcements and conduct a social media campaign urging drivers to “Silence the Distraction.” 

WHAT IS DISTRACTED DRIVING?

Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types of distractions include:

• Texting

• Using a cellphone or smartphone

• Eating and drinking

• Talking to passengers

• Grooming

• Reading, including maps

• Using a navigation system

• Watching a video

• Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player

But, because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction.

The California Office of Traffic Safety, Police, Sheriff and the CHP reminds everyone that best way to end distracted driving is to educate all Americans about the danger it poses.

For additional information, contact Sgt. Kollin Cieadlo, 626-574-5475.

Robert T. Guthrie

Chief of Police

By: Kollin Cieadlo

Traffic Sergeant

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!

Weekly Tip - Bicycling in Arcadia



Did you know that the City of Arcadia has over 28 miles in suggested bicycle riding loops? The different loops tour the City and highlight our parks and neighborhoods. You can download the City of Arcadia brochure, Bicycling in Arcadia, HERE. The brochure offers loop maps, safety tips, rules of the road, and information from the MTA on public transportation and bicycles. The State of California Department of Motor Vehicles website also is a good resource with links to bicycle laws and tips.

Safety is always a concern when riding your bike! A good portion of the City brochure highlights safety topics. Be sure to review the information. Below is a list of the top three Arcadia intersections where bicycle collisions have occurred in recent years:

• Santa Anita Avenue and Duarte Road
• Holly Avenue and Huntington Drive
• Duarte Road and Baldwin Avenue

Take care on any roadway, but especially when crossing major intersections. If you are riding with family or not an experienced bicyclist, please utilize pedestrian crossings and walk your bike across major intersections. Ride Safe, Share the Road!

Weekly Activity Highlights for March 20 - 26, 2016

http://www.arcadiaca.gov/home/showdocument?id=6281

Happy Easter 2016

Wishing the best to everyone during this Easter holiday.  In addition to all those on the road for the holiday weekend, many schools are out for spring break.  Take care on the roads and travel safely. Happy Easter!

Residential Burglary Suspect Arrested

On Friday, March 25, 2016, at approximately 8:55 P.M., Arcadia Police Officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Monte Place in regards to a suspicious vehicle parked on the driveway of a residence, with a male black subject standing by it. The vehicle then left the location and was last seen southbound on Highland Oaks Drive. Responding Arcadia Police Officers located the suspicious vehicle, occupied by a male black subject, getting onto the 210 Freeway eastbound on ramp and attempted to stop it. The vehicle failed to yield and a pursuit ensued on the freeway. California Highway Patrol ultimately took over the pursuit and apprehended the driver in the city of Westmont. Arcadia Police Officers then took custody of the suspect.

The investigation revealed a residential burglary had occurred in the 200 block of Monte Place. A police scanner and stolen property from the residence were located inside of the suspect vehicle.

Suspect Steve Gainer, age 32, of Paramount, was arrested for Penal Code 459-Residential Burglary and California Vehicle Code 2800.2-Felony Evading. He is being held in custody at the Arcadia City Jail on $125,000 bail.

Susp:  Steve Gainer

Photograph of scanner in the center console of 

the suspect vehicle

Photograph of the stolen/recovered property

in the trunk of the suspect vehicle

Photograph of the stolen/recovered property

in the trunk of the suspect vehicle (close up)

  

Arrest of Package Theft Suspects

The Arcadia Police Department is committed to reducing property crimes by taking a proactive approach to catch criminals as they commit crimes.  The police department has procured a number of GPS tracking devices and placed them in a variety of packages that are left on doorsteps of residences and businesses within the city.  When these packages are stolen the police department is alerted and the packages are tracked.

On March 24, 2015, at approximately 5:15 A.M., Arcadia police officers responded to the southeast portion of the city regarding an alert of a stolen package with a GPS tracker.  Officers tracked the package and determined it was inside of a vehicle in the area.  A traffic stop was conducted and the package was located inside the vehicle. In addition to the stolen package, officers discovered other suspected stolen property, stolen mail from the area, narcotics, and narcotic paraphernalia.  Included in the suspected stolen property was an array of credit cards, checks, identifications, social security cards and other personal identifying information.

The suspects arrested were  Devon Ricco Menendez, 24 years old and Unique Rios, 19 years old both from Canoga Park.  They were  both charged with Grand Theft, Grand Theft Auto, False Impersonation and receiving stolen property.  Suspect Rios is currently on probation for Grand Theft Auto and had an outstanding warrant.  Both suspects are being held in the Arcadia City Jail. 

We would like to remind our community that if you see something that doesn't belong, call us.  Remember If you see something, say something!

DC

Child Seat Safety, Education and Directed Enforcement

During the week of March 27, 2016 through April 2, 2016, the Arcadia Police Department Traffic Bureau will be conducting directed enforcement focused on child seat safety. During this week officers will be targeting drivers who allow children to ride in vehicles while not properly restrained. 

Education is a significant deterrence when it comes to child seat safety. Educational materials will be handed out to area schools and officers will be available for questions regarding child seat safety. 

Motor vehicle crashes remain the number one cause of death for children and young adults. In 2014, over 6000 children under 14 were killed or seriously injured as a result of vehicle crashes in California. Sixty-three percent of children who died were unrestrained. 

California law requires children to ride in a safety seat or booster, in the back seat, until they are at least eight years old. However, most children need a booster seat for proper belt fit until they are 10 to 12 years old. SafetyBeltSafe U.S.A. recommends that children ride in the back seat, which is 40% safer than the front, until they are old enough to learn to drive. For more information on child passenger safety, visit www.nhtsa.gov.

The California Highway Patrol is another great resource on Child Restraint Safety. If you are not confident in your ability to properly install your car seat, contact the local CHP Office to schedule an appointment to assist in installation.

For questions or information on this directed enforcement and education campaign, please contact Traffic Bureau Sergeant Kollin Cieadlo, 626.574.5475. 

Weekly Activity Highlights for March 13 - 19, 2016

http://www.arcadiaca.gov/home/showdocument?id=6233

Weekly Tip - Dog License and Leash Law Info

Dog Licenses

 

Licenses are required for all dogs over the age of four months, along with proof of rabies vaccination. If the dog is spayed, proof of sterilization is also required when obtaining the first license.

 

Licenses may be purchased on a yearly basis at the Cashier's Office at Arcadia City Hall located at 240 W. Huntington Drive or at the Pasadena Humane Society. 

The following are current City of Arcadia license fees:

 

• $30 for non-spayed animals
• $15 for spayed animals
• $15 for senior citizens with non-spayed animals
• $7.50 for senior citizens with spayed animals

License forms can be downloaded HERE.

 

Leash Law

 

When on public property, all dogs must be kept on a leash not exceeding six feet in length. In addition, when walking a dog on a public street or in a public park, you are responsible for the prompt and sanitary disposal of any feces left by the dog.

 

Animal control services in the City of Arcadia are provided by the Pasadena Humane Society. Additional services available to animals of Arcadia residents include: affordable spay/neuter services, vaccination clinics, microchipping, pet adoption, dog daycare, dog boarding, dog behavior and training classes; and humane education classes. Please contact their offices by calling 626- 792-7151.

Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA

361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, CA 91105

Fax 626-792-3810

http://www.phsspca.org

https://www.facebook.com/pasadenahumane

 

Overnight Parking Restriction Lifted Along Huntington Drive, Downtown Arcadia, TONIGHT Only - St. Patrick's Day

In collaboration with our Downtown Business Association partners, APD will not enforce overnight parking regulations along Huntington Drive between Santa Anita and Fifth Avenues, TONIGHT, St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 2016. There will also be no enforcement for overnight parking in adjacent City parking lots in the Downtown area, tonight only.

Our local businesses will be promoting the use of alternative transportation like taxis, Uber, Lyft, or designated drivers, working with law enforcement to deter drunk driving. APD wishes to cause no one to drive under the influence for fear of receiving a parking ticket.

Please take advantage of alternative transportation should you choose to drink tonight! #DesignatedDriver #NoDUI

Be a Saint. Drive Sober!

Contact:  Sergeant K. Cieadlo

     (626) 574-5475

     kcieadlo@arcadiaca.gov

Be a Saint. Drive Sober.

St. Patrick’s Day is One of the Deadliest Days of the Year Because of Drunk Driving

Arcadia, Ca— St. Patrick's Day brings to mind shamrocks, leprechauns, pots of gold, and good luck. But no amount of luck can save you from a drunk-driving crash. So whether you’re buzzed or drunk on St. Patrick’s Day, it doesn’t matter. NHTSA wants to remind everyone that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving—drive sober.

The Arcadia Police Department will be deploying a roving DUI patrol this St. Patrick’s Day looking to stop and arrest drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs.  This dedicated DUI patrol, in addition to regularly scheduled patrol officers, are all looking for the tell-tale signs of an impaired driver behind the wheel.

In 2013, there were 31 people killed in drunk-driving crashes on St. Patrick’s Day. All in all, during the St. Patty’s Day period from 2009 to 2013, there have been 276 drunk-driving fatalities. Every one of those lives was lost because of bad decisions. Unfortunately, March 17 has become a deadly day in the United States, with a dramatic spike in drunk-driving fatalities. And we’re not just talking about a little bit too much to drink here; from 2009 to 2013, almost three-fourths of the drunk-driving fatalities on St. Patrick’s Day involved drivers who were twice the legal limit.

The Arcadia Police Department offered this advice to partygoers: “Get ahead of the decision this year. If you know you’re going to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with alcohol, then figure out a plan ahead of time for how you’ll get home. Don’t wait until you’re too buzzed to decide, and don’t let your friends drive drunk.” Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, so if you have anything to drink, count on a sober friend, taxi, or public transportation to drive you home safely. Not drinking? Maybe this St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll be the saint who drives your friends sober. Let’s make 2015 different. Use this party-planning checklist to stay safe this St. Patrick’s Day.        

• DDVIP: The California Office of Traffic Safety DDVIP app is now available for free download on iOS and Android devices. Launched last year the new DDVIP app offers enhanced features, allowing users to “Map a Spot” with their current location to find DDVIP partnering establishments in their area or a “List of Spots” to search all participating bars and restaurants throughout California. Users can stay up-to-date with the latest from DDVIP and see what other users are saying via its social tab. Also through the app, for those who want to imbibe but also make it a point to plan ahead, users can easily order a sober ride from Uber, Lyft or Curb – all from one screen. 
• NOW: Even if you don’t have plans yet, plan to drive sober or designate someone else to. Save the number of a taxi company in your phone so you always have a backup plan.
• WHEN YOU MAKE PLANS: A sober driver is an essential part of any party plan. Once you know where you’ll celebrate, decide whether you’re drinking or driving. You can only choose one.
• ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY: Before you take your first sip of green beer, leave your keys at home or give them to a friend. If you’re the designated driver, don’t drink. Enjoy non-alcoholic beverages and brag about your VIP (very important partygoer) status online using the hashtag #designateddriver. Only drive sober or ride with a sober driver.
• EVERY DAY: If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely. If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.
• DRUGS, MEDICATION & ALCOHOL= CRASHES:  Recent statistics reveal that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems.  A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent).  Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol.

Funding is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that reminds everyone to ‘Report Drunk Drivers!  Call 9-1-1.’  Stay connected with OTS via: http://www.facebook.com/CaliforniaOTS,  http://twitter.com/#!/OTS_CA, www.ots.ca.gov

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: Kollin Cieadlo

Traffic Sergeant

Weekly Tip - Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Safely!

On a holiday like St. Patrick's Day, there is no doubt that many folks will be celebrating long into the night. The Arcadia Police Department encourages everyone to party responsibly and to not drink and drive. Here are some quick statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA):

Every day, 32 people in the United States die, in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. This amounts to one death every 45 minutes. The annual cost of alcohol-related crashes totals more than $51 billion.

Here are a few tips to avoid becoming a DUI statistic:

• Designate a non-impaired driver to take you home or pick you up

• Celebrate at home and stay there

• Be a good host, offer those who have been drinking a place to spend the night

• Call a taxi

• Don't ignore the problem. If you are with someone who is intoxicated, don't let them drive. If you see someone attempting to drive that is under the influence, call the police. Stop the problem before it begins.

Don't become or cause a DUI statistic! Don't become an unwilling passenger in a police unit! Be responsible, Don't Drink and Drive!

Weekly Activity Highlights for March 6 - 12, 2016

http://www.arcadiaca.gov/home/showdocument?id=6188

Package Theft Caught on Tape

Take a look at this package theft caught on tape by one of our residents. The theft occurred back on Thursday, March 10th, at about 5:35 pm, according to the video. The report has not come through yet for details, but it occurred in the residential area south of Second Avenue and Foothill Boulevard.

Anyone with information on this incident is encouraged to contact the Arcadia Police Department at (626) 574-5150, case #1601444.  If you prefer to provide information ANONYMOUSLY, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the tip page at Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers, www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Welcome Officer Anthony Sanchez to APD

Please help welcome our newest Police Officer, Anthony Sanchez. Anthony graduated from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Academy, Class 200, last Thursday. Pictured L to R are Capt. Paul Foley, Chief Bob Guthrie, Officer Sanchez, and Capt. Larry Goodman.

Spring Forward 1 Hour Saturday Night

Daylight saving time begins this Sunday, March 13, 2016, at 2:00 a.m. Don't forget to move your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night!

Special Town Hall Meeting to Discuss Residential Burglary

In our endeavor to keep you informed of recent activity in your neighborhood, this message is being sent to you from the Community Affairs Office of the Arcadia Police Department.

We will be holding a Special Town Hall meeting to discuss the recent trend in residential burglaries that has been occurring in our City.  Without causing you unnecessary alarm, the Arcadia Police Department wants to share with you the efforts being undertaken to protect you and your property and to inform you as to how you may participate in these crime prevention efforts through our Neighborhood Watch Program and See Something, Say Something.

We encourage you to attend this very important Special Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, March 22nd, from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the Arcadia High School’s Performing Arts Center, 188 Campus Drive.

The Arcadia Police Department strives to “Make a Difference” and your safety and welfare are of the utmost concern and importance to us.  For additional information concerning this Special Town Hall meeting, call Sergeant Brian Ortiz at area code 626.574.5181.

Bike and Pedestrian Enforcement Operation in Arcadia Today!

Contact:  Sgt. Kollin Cieadlo – 626-574-5475 / kcieadlo@arcadiaca.gov

Traffic Enforcement Operations Plan for Arcadia

The Arcadia Police Department will step up Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operations on Thursday, March 10, 2016 with focused enforcement on collision causing factors involving motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

The department has mapped out locations over the past 3 years where pedestrian and bike collisions have occurred along, with the violations that led to those crashes.  Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas where bike and pedestrian traffic and crashes occur in an effort to lower deaths and injuries.

Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers, bike riders and pedestrians alike that can lead to life changing injuries.  Special attention will be directed toward drivers speeding, making illegal turns, failing to stop for signs and signals, failing to yield to pedestrians in cross walks or any other dangerous violation.

Additionally, enforcement will be taken for observed violations when pedestrians cross the street illegally or fail to yield to drivers who have the right of way.  Bike riders will be stopped and citations issued when they fail to follow the same traffic laws that apply to motorists.  All riders are reminded to always wear a helmet – those under 18 years of age must wear helmets by law.  Pedestrians should cross the street only in marked crosswalks or at corners.

In 2013, California witnessed 701 pedestrians and 141 bicyclists killed, accounting for more than 28 percent of all traffic fatalities.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.



Robert T. Guthrie
Chief of Police

By: Kollin Cieadlo
Traffic Sergeant

Join Us in Helping Conquer Kids' Cancer

Join us next coming Tuesday evening, March 15, 2016, for the St. Baldrick's fundraising event to help conquer childhood cancer.  Once again, Matt Denny's Ale House will host the event at 6:00 p.m. and dozens  of Arcadia Police and Fire Fighters will have their heads shaved to raise valuable dollars for St. Baldrick's.  There will also be community members, service organizations, local businesses, and others will also be joining the fundraiser.  Please visit the Arcadia Police Officers' Association team page and join us!  You can choose to sponsor one of our members, join the team and as a shavee, or simply make a donation to the St. Baldrick's Foundation.

Weekly Tip - Install Your License Plates

California law requires all registered vehicles that were issued two license plates, properly display both plates on the vehicle. Basically, all street legal cars are required to have two plates. Many times, vehicles may be purchased from dealerships that do not install a front license plate mount to the vehicle. This is not an excuse for failing to properly display and mount the license plate. A driver may be stopped and cited for not having license plates properly displayed.  Some communities, like Arcadia, issue parking citations to vehicles that are parked without plates properly affixed. Simply having the plate in your car or tossing it on the dash board does not suffice. Please install your license plates according to CVC 5200 and CVC 5201.  The law was modified in 2011 to also require the plates be mounted so that the characters are upright and display from left to right.  Take a look at the link provided for specific language from the California Vehicle Code. 

Weekly Activity Highlights for February 28 - March 5, 2016

http://www.arcadiaca.gov/home/showdocument?id=6142

Attempted Residential Burglar Arrested

(Stock APD Photo)

Nice arrest today with the assistance of Pasadena PD Air Support and Sierra Madre PD! A resident was startled to find a man on his balcony attempting to open the bedroom/balcony door. When the suspect saw the victim inside the home, the suspect fled and the resident called APD. Officers arrived fairly quickly, along with a Sierra Madre PD unit and the Pasadena PD Airship (PD1). PD1 saw a vehicle pulling out of the area and radioed the SMPD ground unit who stopped the car. Ultimately, the resident identified the driver of that car as the suspect seen on his balcony. Luckily for the victim, the suspect never made it inside and fled. However, the suspect's actions landed him a trip to jail for attempted residential burglary. Great example of teamwork by multiple agencies, plain clothes staff, and the airship! The incident occurred near Andrea and Santa Anita this morning.

ROAD CLOSURE: First Avenue, Santa Clara to St. Joseph Streets for Arcadia's Gold Line Celebration

WHERE: First Avenue between Santa Clara Street and St. Joseph Street

WHEN: Friday, March 4th, 8:00 pm to Saturday, March 5th, 7:00 pm

To accommodate preparations for and the ceremony of Arcadia's Grand Opening Celebration of the Gold Line, First Avenue will be closed to all traffic between Santa Clara and St. Joseph Streets from Friday night through Saturday evening.

The Grand Opening Celebration is set to take place on Saturday, March 5th, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Arcadia Transit Station.

Please join us in welcoming the Gold Line to Arcadia! 

Read Across America

Members of the Arcadia Police Department Traffic Bureau had the privilege to visit one of our local elementary schools for Read Across America.

The students at Baldwin Stocker School were great hosts. Sergeant Kollin Cieadlo is pictured left with a group of students, along with Officer Ken Lee below.

Read Across America is an annual reading awareness and motivation program held in communities across the Nation. It coincides with the birthday of renowned children's author, Dr. Seuss, March 2nd.

Thank you to the students, teachers, and staff at Baldwin Stocker School for allowing us to be part of your day with Read Across America!

Weekly Tip - APD Social Media Not Monitored 24/7

Although the Arcadia Police Department's Social Media Team is very diligent about monitoring our various social media platforms, the sites are not monitored 24/7. In the event you have an emergency, immediately dial 911. If you wish to report a crime or have questions requiring immediate assistance, please use our business line at 626.574.5150. We do enjoy engaging with the community through social media and will always work to reply in a timely manner when possible.

Weekly Activity Highlights for February 21 - 27, 2016

http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/home/showdocument?id=6088