Weekly Tip - Tax Season is Here, Along with Scams!

Tax season is here! While many folks will have legitimate contact with their tax accountants and the IRS, we would like to remind you of recurring fraud schemes where scammers reach out to you. One of the most wide spread attempts to come between you and your money is by use of phone calls to you where scammers claim to be representing the IRS. Many times, they will threaten you with a law suit or pending criminal action if you don't send payment immediately. These calls can be automated and recorded, directing you to call. Don't fall for these scams!

The IRS will not:

• Call you to demand immediate payment. The IRS will not call you if you owe taxes without first sending you a bill in the mail.

• Demand that you pay taxes and not allow you to question or appeal the amount you owe.

• Require that you pay your taxes a certain way. For instance, require that you pay with a prepaid debit card.

• Ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

• Threaten to bring in police or other agencies to arrest you for not paying.

Visit the IRS website for additional information on scams.

Officers Honored for Saving the Life of a Despondent Teen

Officer Wally Ashby and Sergeant Jeremy Lachenmyer were honored at this past City Council meeting for saving the life of a despondent teen.

Chief Bob Guthrie described the event that took place in the evening hours on October 5, 2015 during the officer's patrol shift. Officer Ashby came across a 15-year-old, despondent runaway, who had made her way to the railing of the overpass of the 210 freeway over Santa Anita Avenue. The girl was seated on the railing facing the roadway below.

Officer Ashby radioed for assistance and Sergeant Lachenmyer arrived. The pair engaged the girl in conversation, distracting her while maneuvering themselves into a position of advantage in order to prevent the girl from jumping. Officer Ashby was able to get close to the teen, telling her he was directing traffic around them on the freeway. When he was close enough, Officer Ashby grabbed the girl and was helped by Sergeant Lachenmyer to pull her off and away from the railing. The teen was unharmed due to the actions of these officers.

We are proud of the actions of Officer Ashby and Sergeant Lachenmyer and join in saying congratulations and job well done!

The presentation can be viewed during the taped broadcast of the Council Meeting HERE. The presentation begins at about minute 12:00 of the meeting.

Weekly Tip - OMG, LOL...One Text Can End it All!

One text can end it all! Please take the time to view this video. Pass it along to your kids, friends, and fellow parents. Put It Down! Thanks to Distraction.gov for the video.

Weekly Activity Highlights for February 7 - 13, 2016

Weekly Activity Highlights, Feb 7 - 13, 2016

Successful Coffee with a Cop at Hilton Garden Inn

Thanks to all who came out to our recent Coffee with a Cop event, graciously hosted by the Hilton Garden Inn, Arcadia. The event was held last Thursday, February 11th, and about 100 community members visited with our officers and staff. Coffee with a Cop is a great chance for us to meet and engage our community. Take a look at our APD Facebook page for some additional pictures of the event.

Happy Valentine's Day 2016

Wishing everyone the best on this Valentine's Day 2016!

Weekly Tip - A Heart May Not Be All That Is Broken, Break the Cycle of Abuse

Domestic Violence is a very real problem and everyone should know there are resources here in Los Angeles County to help. Valentine's Day is nearly here, and this should be a time of celebration between couples, but it can also be a time of stress and potential violence. If you are a victim, or know someone who is a victim of Domestic Violence, please help Break the Cycle of Abuse. Reach out! HERE is a link to a brochure with a number of resources available in our area, prepared by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.