The world changed these past two years, as many were working from home. The crime numbers in our neighborhood were very low. As our lives open, we are no longer home most of the day and residential burglaries in the neighborhood have increased, though the crime statistics are still low compared to other parts of the city. Here are recent residential burglaries in our neighborhood and surrounding areas.
February 21st, 3100 block of Barry Ave @ 2 PM
February 23rd, 3200 block of Butler Ave @ 2-3 PM
March 17th, 3500 block of Greenfield @ 8;30 AM
March 17th, 3500 block of Kelton Ave @ 10:30 AM
March 17th, 12100 block of Clarkson @ Noon
March 18th, 3200 block of Mountain View @ 2 PM
March 19th, 3100 block of Mountain View @ noon
March 21st, 3100 block of Colby Ave @ 1;17 PM
March 22nd, 3100 block of Stoner @ 7:30 AM
Most of these burglaries were during the day, while residents are running errands, going to lunch or appointments. Since school is now is session, burglars know the homes may be empty from about 2-5 PM, when parents are picking up from school, then off to music lessons, athletic events or appointments.
At least three of the burglaries occurred during a short time frame. The resident was gone for about two hours,. It seems like the houses were being “watched.” Try to vary your schedule,to be less predictable. Consider taking different routes leaving your house or coming home. Try to walk or walk your dog at different times and be alert for strangers watching the neighborhood.
Some Barry residents met with Senior Lead Officers, Karwon Villery and Adrian Acosta, to talk about safety measures. Here are some recommendations:
Keep the bushes and trees in front of the house trimmed. Overgrown foliage can provide a hiding spot for a burglar, who cannot be seen from a passing car.
Lock your side gates. Make it difficult for the burglar to gain access to your backyard. Most homes are entered from the rear.
Security cameras are helpful, please make them visible. A security sign in your front yard is also a plus,
Get to know your neighbors. You know your neighbors the best, and let them know if you are going out or away for a few days.
There were three different vehicles mentioned in the recent burglaries: Kia, BMW and Impala. These criminals often steal cars to use in burglaries, so the same car will probably not be used. If you notice “funny” activity, please report this to LAPD through the non-emergency line, 1 877-ASK-LAPD. This will give the patrol unit a reason to stop and question that vehicle or person because a report has been made. If you do notice a stranger looking into windows, going up the driveway or jumping a fence, that is a 911 call, as a “crime in progress”.
Keep trash cans away from fences or gates. Trash cans are sturdy and may be used as a “step stool” to jump over a fence.
If you have any questions, you may contact our Senior Lead Officer, Karwon Villery, at 38717@lapd.online.