Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of December 17-19, 2012

Monrovia Police Department Providing Police Presence at City Schools

Our hearts go out to all touched by the tragedy that has occurred in Newtown, Connecticut.  This horrific event has affected us all.  Safety in our schools has always been, and continues to be, a high priority for law enforcement.  In response to this senseless act of violence, the Monrovia Police Department is providing an increased police presence at schools throughout the city.  Patrol officers have been instructed to periodically visit and touch base with all schools in the city during daytime hours.  The visits will be random and will occur at various times and locations.  This increased visibility is meant to help comfort and calm the fears of the children, parents, and school staff, alike.     

The Monrovia Police Department trains annually to deal with incidents of violence that might occur at a school.  The department has a tremendous collaborative working relationship with the Monrovia Unified School District.  Police Department and school staff meet and train regularly to ensure employees are prepared to deal with these rare, but critical, types of incidents.  Police officers conduct scenario training, yearly, at actual school campuses throughout the district, and each school in the district has prepared a crisis response box for the Police Department with information necessary to deal, immediately, with any incident at any school.    

Theft of Packages

December 17 at 3:15 p.m., a theft of packages was reported in the 500 block of Terrado.  The victim had packages delivered and they were left on the front porch.  A neighbor saw a white Chevy Silverado drive up quickly to the front of the victim's home.   The suspect exited the truck and ran up to the home, grabbed the two packages and ran back to the truck.  The vehicle fled southbound, out of sight.  The suspect is described as a young, male, African American.  Investigation continuing.

Tip of the Week

Prevent Theft of Packages

Theft of packages is an easy crime to commit and can be perpetrated by even the least professional type of criminal.  Below are some simple steps you can take to protect your package delivery:

Request a specific drop off time when you know that you will be at home to receive the package.

Ask for your parcel to be placed on a back porch or even beside the front porch or anywhere that is not visible from the street.

Arrange to pick up your parcels at a package store, such as a UPS store that is convenient for you.  

Let a trustworthy neighbor know you are expecting a package delivery on a specific day and ask them to look out for it and bring it into their home for you.

Have your package delivered to your work address during daytime hours.

Know when a package is scheduled to arrive and if it doesn't, contact the sender to track the transport status of the package.

And if you see mail theft happening in your neighborhood, be sure to call your local police at once to report exactly what you have seen.  Time can be a decisive factor in the apprehension of mail thieves.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of December 13-16, 2012

Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested

On December 14 at 12:52 a.m., an officer observed a driver go through a stop light at Huntington and Magnolia. He conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle, and the investigation determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol.  The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested

On December 14 at 5:50 a.m., an officer observed a driver go through the stop sign at Mountain and Foothill.  He stopped the driver and conducted a DUI investigation.  The driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.

Commercial Burglary - Suspect Arrested  

On December 14 at 6:29 p.m., a burglary was reported at a business in the 100 block of West Foothill.  A male suspect entered the store, concealed alcohol under his clothing and fled the location.  Loss prevention chased the suspect, caught him and called police.  The suspect admitted to entering the store with the intent to steal alcohol as he had no money to pay.  He was arrested and charged with burglary.

Weapons Violation / Warrants - Suspects Arrested

On December 15 at 3.20 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle occupied by two male subjects in the 200 block of East Huntington.  Both occupants had outstanding warrants, and the driver had a suspended driver's license.  Upon searching the vehicle, the officers located metal knuckles beneath the center bench seats.  The driver claimed ownership of the metal knuckles and was additionally charged for the weapons violation.  Both subjects were arrested.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of December 10-12, 2012

Possession of Methamphetamine for Sale - Suspect Arrested

December 11 at 12:28 a.m., police received a call reporting suspicious individuals in the 300 block of West Palm.  When officers approached, they saw a male subject hide something in a bush.  Methamphetamine and cash was recovered.  The suspect, who is currently on parole, was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary

December 12 at 5:07 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported by a resident in the 500 block of Date Court.  The vehicle was parked on the second level of a parking structure between midnight and 5:00 a.m.  The victim reported that he locked his vehicle.  There were no signs of forced entry.  Tools were stolen from the vehicle.  Investigation continuing.

Hot-Prowl Burglary

December 12 at 11:26 p.m., a hot-prowl residential burglary was reported in the 1300 block of South Primrose.  The victim left for work at 8:00 a.m.  She locked her bedroom door before leaving.  When she returned at 11:15 p.m., she found her bedroom had been ransacked and her jewelry had been stolen.  The suspect had removed the screen from an unlocked rear window to enter the bedroom.  The victim's mother was in the house when the crime occurred, but did not hear or see anything suspicious.  Another family member was in the rear house, which faces the point of entry.  The family's dogs were heard barking at approximately 4:00 p.m., but no one checked to see what was disturbing them.  Investigation continuing.

Tip of the Week

DON'T FILL YOUR VEHICLE WITH PRESENTS FOR THIEVES!

It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables.

It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.

Don't Be a Victim!

Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort.  Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables.  Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.  

Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!

The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips. Click on The Police Notebook to visit their website.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of December 6-9, 2012

Vandalism

December 8 at 5:12 a.m., an employee at a business in the 100 block of West Foothill called to report that the glass front window of the neighboring business had been smashed.  Officers responded and checked for any evidence.  The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary - Suspect Arrested

December 8 at 7:06 p.m., a burglary was reported at a business in the 300 block of West Huntington.  A male suspect entered the business and went directly to an isle, where he placed two three-packs of beer under his sweater.  A store employee observed him leaving the store without attempting to pay and pursued him.  The suspect was apprehended by the store employee and convinced to return to the store.  He admitted to entering the store with the intent to steal the beer without any means or intent to pay for it.  He was arrested and charged with burglary.

Possession of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested

December 8 at 9:36 p.m., the Monrovia Special Enforcement Team was assisting the El Monte Police Department in the containment of an armed robbery suspect and they were checking cars leaving the area for the suspect.  They observed a driver nearly collide with the car in front of him as he was talking on his cell phone.  They stopped him and while investigating the driver for possible driving under the influence, they observed a small baggie containing a white crystalline substance on the seat of the car.  The substance turned out to be methamphetamine.  The driver was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance.

Traffic Collision - Light Signal Damaged

December 10 at 12:27 a.m., a male driver who was not paying attention to his driving while looking for a gas station collided into a light signal mounted on a center island.  The signal was damaged and will need to be replaced.  The Monrovia Fire Department and Southern California Edison responded to turn off the power to the loose wires. 

Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested

December 10 at 2:17 a.m., a male driver stopped his vehicle in the middle of the roadway at Mayflower and Duarte Road, turned the ignition off and fell asleep, leaving his headlights on and the car in drive with the keys in the ignition.  Passersby called police to check on the welfare of the subject.  When officers arrived, they discovered the driver was heavily intoxicated.  He was arrested for driving under the influence. 

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of December 3-5, 2012

Grand Theft Auto / Vehicle Pursuit / Felony Evading / Conspiracy to Commit Grand Theft Auto - Suspects Arrested

December 4 at 4:43 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of East Greystone called to report two suspicious male subjects who were standing next to the resident's parked truck.  When the resident asked the subjects what they were doing, they ran to two nearby vehicles and quickly fled the area.  The vehicle descriptions were broadcast and officers located both of them driving south on Mountain from Foothill. 

Officers stopped one of the vehicles at Mountain and Lemon.  The other fled, continuing southbound on Mountain.  The vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and collided into a wall at Mountain and Shrode.  The suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot through yards and into a wash.  Los Angeles Sheriff's Department deputies responded to assist and detained the suspect at Mountain and Meridian.  He was positively identified as the driver of the vehicle, which was determined to be stolen out of West Covina. 

The suspect detained at Mountain and Lemon was found to be in possession of new power tools and had a suspicious story about how he obtained them.  A search was conducted of the area and officers found a vehicle parked in the 300 block of East Greystone that had fresh damage to the driver's door lock similar to the damage on the stolen vehicle.  Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody.  The suspect who fled was charged with grand theft auto, felony evading, and conspiracy to commit grand theft auto.  The second suspect was charged with conspiracy to commit grand theft auto and suspicion of receiving stolen property.

Bank Robbery - Chase Bank in Monrovia

November 5, at approximately 10 a.m., a male suspect trying to disguise himself as a female robbed the Chase Bank at 690 West Huntington in Monrovia, California.

The suspect approached the teller's window carrying a briefcase.  The suspect made a demand for money and told the teller there was anthrax in the briefcase.  The teller gave the suspect the money. The suspect took the money and the briefcase and left the bank.  The suspect was seen getting into a silver PT Cruiser.

The suspect is described as an African American male, wearing a tan women's tracksuit with a hood.  The hood was pulled up.  The suspect had a white bandana on his head, clear lip gloss, cherry red nail polish, gold hoop earrings, dark brown Ugg style boots, glasses with black plastic frames and clear lenses, and was clean shaven.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau.

Commercial Burglary - Suspects Arrested

November 5 at 3:50 p.m., two adult suspects walked into a business in the 100 block of West Foothill.  The suspects were witnessed on camera stealing liquor and fleeing the business.  Police located the suspects at Foothill, near May.  Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Tip of the Week

DON'T FILL YOUR VEHICLE WITH PRESENTS FOR THIEVES!

It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables.

It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.

Don't Be a Victim!

Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort.  Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables.  Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.  

Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!

The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips. Click on The Police Notebook to visit their website.

Highlighted Activity for November 29 - December 2, 2012

Man Attempts to Lure Teen into Car

On Thursday, November 29, 2012, at approximately 8:10 a.m., a 15-year-old high school student was walking to school in the 500-600 block of West Olive when she was approached by a male white suspect driving a white, four-door, pickup truck, unknown size.  The suspect asked the student to get into his vehicle, but the student refused, stating she did not know him.  He drove forward and turned onto the 600 block of Monterey, parking along the curb.  He waited for the student to approach.  As the student approached the vehicle again, the driver offered the student $200 to get into his vehicle.  The student refused, and the suspect left the area.  The student notified school officials as soon as she arrived at school. 

It is unknown if this is related to the incident which occurred on November 8, but detectives are investigating and are coordinating their investigation with school officials. 

Suspect Description:  male, white, 30-35 years old, unknown height, thin build, black shaggy hair - medium length, wearing black framed prescription glasses.  The victim could not describe the suspect's clothing.

Suspect Vehicle Description:  older model, white, four-door, pickup truck.

Residential Burglary

November 30 at 10:50 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of North Alta Vista to investigate a burglary that had occurred within the last two days.  The victims had been out of town and returned home to discover someone had broken into their home.  The suspect(s) smashed the glass backdoor and gained entry into the home.  Once inside, they took a purse and some jewelry from the home.  The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary

November 30 at 4:14 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 800 block of Ridgeside Drive.  The location is a vacant residence that is in the process of being remodeled and was left unlocked.  The suspects entered the residence and took tools from the attached garage.  The suspect(s) then left the location undetected.  Investigation continuing.

Elder Abuse / Grand Theft

November 30 at 5:24 p.m., an elderly male subject came into the police department lobby and reported that several guns he owns were stolen from his apartment while he was in the hospital.  Further investigation revealed he had begun to associate with two female neighbors, who steadily gained his trust and took over his finances.  While he was in the hospital, they went into his apartment and took his property, including bank statements and gold jewelry.  He told the investigating officer that he never gave anyone permission to go into his apartment and take his property.  A call was made to the female neighbors, who admitted they had his property, but claimed he told them to take it for safekeeping while he was in the hospital.  An Adult Protective Services referral was generated.  The investigation is continuing.

Parolee at Large - Suspect Arrested

November 30 at 8:11 p.m., an adult male subject was aggressively confronting two people who were waiting for the bus at Magnolia and Huntington.  An officer in the area had stopped, noticing the subject, and was waved over by one of the people waiting for the bus.  The officer contacted the male subject, who then immediately became confrontational with the officer.  Additional officers arrived and the subject was determined to be intoxicated and had been in possession of an open container of alcohol.  He was arrested and taken into custody.  At the police station, a computer check revealed the subject is a parolee at large and considered armed and dangerous.  He has an extensive history of violent crimes.  A parole hold was obtained for the suspect.

Transformer Fire and Power Outage

November 30 at 8:48 p.m., a transformer on California, south of Evergreen, blew after the pole it was on fell due to the soft soil from the rain.  The transformer then struck another power pole.  Officers responded with fire personnel and contained the area. Southern California Edison was called and responded.  Power was restored quickly and Edison was to repair the downed pole.

Possession of Fraudulent Social Security and California Identification / Drinking in Public - Suspect Arrested

November 30 at 12:55 p.m., an officer observed a subject with an open alcohol container on Myrtle Avenue.  He stopped and detained the subject.  The subject presented a fraudulent identification card.  He was subsequently arrested and booked.  The investigation is continuing.

Fight in Progress

December 1 at 1:55 a.m., officers were dispatched to a possible fight in progress at a hotel in the 900 block of Fifth Avenue.  Several subjects were detained, and one male subject was checked by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics after reporting he had been sprayed with pepper spray.  He declined medical treatment and officers could not confirm the fact the he was sprayed with pepper spray.  One female subject was arrested for a warrant.  All of the subjects were detained and field interview cards were completed.  All persons not staying at the hotel left the premises.

Grand Theft Auto

December 2 at 9:10 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of Los Angeles.  The vehicle is a red, 1996 Honda Civic, which was taken from the street in front of the victim's home.  The investigation is continuing.  

Domestic Violence / Driving Under the Influence / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer

December 2 at 10:43 p.m., an officer on patrol observed a maroon van driving east on Huntington at an unsafe speed.  The van turned into a parking lot in the 700 block of West Huntington and scraped the bottom of the front bumper.  The officer stopped the vehicle and contacted the male driver and two female occupants.  One of the female subjects was found to be a juvenile.  The driver was determined to be operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.  The female juvenile gave a false name and was arrested.  The adult female complained of medical problems and was taken to a hospital, and while at the hospital, she stated the male driver had physically abused her.  The male driver was arrested for driving under the influence and domestic violence

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of November 26-28, 2012

Under the Influence of Narcotics / Vandalism / Burglary / False Imprisonment - Suspect Arrested

November 26 at 9:34 p.m., police were dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of East Los Angeles.  A female resident reported her adult son was under the influence of narcotics so she wouldn't allow him into her home.  The son broke a window on the home with a shovel and fled on foot.  He went into the backyard of a residence across the street.  He broke a window and gained entry into the home, where he was confronted by a woman who lived there.  The suspect restrained the woman by grabbing both of her arms.  When she tried to pull free, the suspect tightened his grip and told her she wasn't going anywhere.  Another female heard the commotion and began to scream at the suspect, who then fled.  He was detained by officers a short distance away, and was arrested without further incident.

Possession of Narcotics for Sale / Destruction of Evidence - Suspect Arrested

November 27 at 12:10 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a suspicious vehicle in the 600 block of East Colorado.  Officers responded and saw the vehicle leaving the area and stopped it.  While one officer was speaking to the male driver, another officer saw the female passenger conceal something in the seat.  The female subject was ordered out of the vehicle and the officers noticed she was chewing something and told her to spit it out.  She spit out several plastic baggies with narcotic residue in them.  Another baggie containing methamphetamine was found in the seat where she attempted to conceal it.  The female suspect was arrested and taken into custody for possession of narcotics for sale and destruction of evidence.

Resisting and Obstructing a Peace Officer - Suspect Arrested

November 28 at 5:15 p.m., a family disturbance was reported in the 400 block of Genoa.  The reporting party said they could hear children crying and screaming.  When officers arrived and asked to see the children, a male resident blocked the doorway and told the officers to leave.  The officers explained to the male suspect the reason why they were there and the need to see that the children were okay, but the male suspect continued to forcibly prevent the officers from entering the residence.  He was taken into custody and charged with resisting and delaying an investigation.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-Up

The Special Enforcement Team obtained a search warrant for a gang member in El Monte who had weapons.  The Foothills Special Enforcement Team served the search warrant and two subjects were arrested; the primary suspect was charged with being an ex-felon in possession of a shotgun.

Tip of the Week

DON'T FILL YOUR VEHICLE WITH PRESENTS FOR THIEVES!

It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables.

It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.

Don't Be a Victim!
Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort.  Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables.  Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.  

Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!

The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips. Click on The Police Notebook to visit their website.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of November 20-25, 2012

Theft From a Vehicle

November 21 at 2:13 a.m., police dispatch received an alarm activation from a car dealership in the 1400 block of South Shamrock.  Officers responded and detained a male suspect at the location without incident.  The suspect stole CD's and coins from a vehicle that had been left at the dealership for repairs.  Investigation continuing.

Theft of a City Backflow Valve

November 21 at 10:30 a.m., a City backflow valve was reported stolen from the 300 block of West Cypress.  The theft occurred sometime during the night.  Investigation continuing. 

Criminal Threats / Battery on a Peace Officer / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer - Suspect Arrested

November 21 at 3:00 p.m., officers responded to a report of criminal threats in the 800 block of Alta Street.  The suspect was sitting on a car that belonged to the female victim's son.  When the victim asked the suspect to leave, he threatened to kill the victim and then tried to force his way into the victim's house.  Officers arrived and detained the suspect.  Once the suspect was told he was being arrested, he began to fight with the officers and attempted to run from them.  The suspect was taken into custody and arrested for the above listed charges.

Grand Theft Auto

November 21 at 4:15 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of East Huntington.  The vehicle is a white, 1999 Honda Civic.  Investigation continuing.

Fire Assist

November 23 at 2:22 p.m., police dispatch received a call reporting a possible structure fire.  When officers arrived, they found a wooden fence on fire as a result of a resident cooking a turkey in a deep fryer.  Apparently, oil spilled over and caught a portion of the fence on fire.  A neighbor then decided to protect his side of the fence with a garden hose, which made the situation worse.  Monrovia Fire Department personnel responded and managed to put the fire out, limiting the damage to about 15 feet of fence, only. 

Child Endangerment / Domestic Battery / Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested

November 24 at 9:29 p.m., officers were on patrol in the area of Shamrock and Huntington when they saw a female exit a vehicle and take a child out of the backseat of the vehicle.  The male driver then exited the vehicle, approached the female, and began trying to take the child from her, pushing her.  Officers detained them and learned they had left a party due to an argument, which continued as they were driving home.  The female said she did not want the child witnessing them arguing so she took the child out of the car.  The driver of the vehicle was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested for the above listed charges. 

Domestic Battery - Suspect Arrested

November 25 at 2:20 a.m., officers responded to the 300 block of East Lime Avenue regarding a boyfriend and girlfriend fighting.  Officers arrived and determined the male subject was intoxicated.  He and his girlfriend got into an argument and he hit his girlfriend in the head with his fist, causing a large bump.  The male suspect was arrested for domestic battery.

Residential Burglary / Grand Theft Auto

November 25 at 8:37 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 1100 block of Sesmas Street.  The residents were away from their home for a day and returned to find all of their electronics missing, which included two big screen TV's, DVD players and a PlayStation. The suspect also took a set of car keys and stole the victim's Nissan Maxima.  The suspect(s) cut the screen on a back window that leads into a bedroom.  The window had been left unlocked.  It appears the suspects exited through the front door.  The investigation is continuing.

Thursday 3AM house window broken

Just an FYI. We had either a vandal, burglar or general prowler on the street late Wednesday night into early Thanksgiving morning.

At 3AM Chris in 208 heard breaking glass.  He got up and looked around with a flash light on.  He didn't see anything in his general inspection of his home.  It wasn't until daylight when they went into one of the bathrooms that they found a window broken out.

Please remember to call MPD immediately whenever you see someone somewhere on the street that doesn't belong here.  Its unclear if this incident has anything to do with the rash of home burglary's in our area the last  couple of weeks but it pays to be vigilant.

I have called MPD and talked with them asking for more late night patrols on our street.  Based on this incident they are willing to have an officer check out our street the next few nights while on patrol.

As MPD has said in their Tips of the Week, if you want to keep it lock your doors and windows.  That goes for cars too, take stuff in that you want to keep and lock it when you park it.

I've asked recently and will ask again, do you feel the need for a Neighborhood Watch meeting?  IF so sound off in the comments and I will arrange.

Frank, 225

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of November 15-19, 2012

Domestic Violence Warrant Arrest - Suspect Arrested

November 15 at 11:30 a.m., officers went to a residence in the 600 block of South Primrose to serve a domestic violence warrant.  When they arrived, the suspect was located and identified.  While officers were attempting to arrest the suspect outside of his residence, the suspect tried to get away from officers by running and jumping a fence.  A brief struggle ensued, but the suspect was taken into custody.  As a result of the struggle, the suspect and officers sustained minor injuries.

Residential Burglary

November 18 at 6:02 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of Monterey.  Upon arrival, they found the suspect(s) had entered the residence through the window of a backdoor and ransacked the home.  A family member who responded did not know what had been taken.  The owner was away at the time of the burglary.  Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision

November 18 at 7:52 p.m., police responded to an injury traffic accident in the 400 block of East Colorado.  A driver fell asleep at the wheel and struck a parked vehicle, which then pushed two other cars into each other.  The driver complained of pain to the wrist, but declined medical treatment after being examined by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics. 

Injury Traffic Collision

November 19 at 2:17 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 1500 block of California regarding an injury traffic accident.  A driver fell asleep while driving home from work and he struck a tree.  The driver was taken to a hospital for treatment. 

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision

November 19 at 4:49 a.m., a driver collided with a parked vehicle in the 200 block of Magnolia.  Officers responded and conducted a DUI investigation.  The suspect was arrested for driving under the influence.  Investigation continuing.

Ex-Felon With a Firearm

November 19 at 9:44 p.m., a witness called police to report seeing a man stash something in the bushes along a driveway in the 800 block of West Duarte Road.  The man returned a few minutes later and was detained by officers.  A loaded pistol was found in the bushes; the suspect was arrested for ex-felon in possession of a firearm

Rash of Burglaries in the Area - lock up tight even during the day

Series of burglaries reported in Monrovia this month

Posted:   11/16/2012 09:10:50 AM PST

Updated:   11/16/2012 09:39:44 AM PST

MONROVIA - Police cautioned residents this week following a series of six daytime home burglaries in the north end of the city.

Two break-ins took place Tuesday in the 600 block of Laurel Lane and the 400 block of North Grand Avenue, Monrovia, police Sgt. Nick Manfredi said.
Others were reported Sunday in the 200 block of North Encinitas Avenue, Nov. 8 in the 900 block of East Greystone Avenue, Nov. 6 in the 700 block of Mountain View Avenue and Nov. 5 in the 400 block of East Greystone Avenue, Manfredi said.
While it was unclear if the same burglars were responsible for the spate of break-ins, they have primarily been daytime crimes in which the thieves overlook large items such as televisions in favor of smaller items like cash, jewelry and laptop computers, according to Lt. Michael Lee.
Though overall crime rates have risen slightly in Monrovia this year, largely due to an increase in car burglaries, home break-ins have declined by 29 percent over the past nine months, Manfredi said.
As the investigation continues, police advised residents to make sure doors and windows are locked when away from home and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, where they can tempt opportunistic burglars.
____________________________________________________________________________________

FYI these are all close to us and are taking place during the day.  It pays to lock up everything when you leave, even for a few minutes.
Do we need another Neighborhood Watch meeting, if you think so sound off in the comments and I will set one up.
Frank #225

Highlighted Activity for November 8-14, 2012

Battery on a Peace Officer / Parole Violation - Suspect Arrested

November 8 at 6:50 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of East Olive regarding a subject trespassing.  An officer located and detained a person matching the suspect's description at the corner of Olive and Myrtle.  The officer confirmed it was, in fact, the suspect, and also learned that the suspect was on active parole.  An assisting officer arrived and during a search of the suspect, a bag of illegal narcotics was found in his possession.  The suspect became uncooperative and made attempts to break free from the officers.  A brief struggle ensued, but the suspect was eventually taken into custody.  As a result of the struggle, one of the officers sustained minor injuries.  The suspect was charged with battery on a peace officer and violation of parole.

Residential Burglary

November 8 at 3:43 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 900 block of East Greystone.  The burglary occurred sometime between 7:00 a.m. and 3:40 p.m.  The point of entry appears to be an unlocked bathroom window.  The items taken were a Kindle, laptop computers, and a television.  The investigation is continuing.

Man Attempts to Lure Teen into Car

November 8, at approximately 4:00 p.m., a 14-year-old middle school student was walking home alone after attending an after school sporting event.  As the student approached the area of Canyon and Colorado, a male suspect approached her and made inquiries about schools, as if he were unfamiliar with the area.  When the student answered the suspect's questions, he told her he needed to go to the high school and was in a hurry.  The suspect asked the student to get in his car and direct him to the high school.  When the student refused, the suspect offered her $200 to get in his car and direct him to the high school, but she refused again and continued to walk away.  The student glanced back and observed the suspect enter his vehicle and drive away. 

The suspect is described as a male, Hispanic, 20-25 years old, 5-09 to 5-10, 180 to 190 pounds, black shaggy hair - medium length, brown eyes, clean shaven, with silver metal-framed prescription glasses.  The suspect was wearing a black t-shirt and khaki pants with a brown camouflage pattern stripe on the legs.  The suspect vehicle is described as a silver, late 90's model, Honda Civic, 4-door, with a bicycle rack attached to the back of the trunk.  Click on Press Release to see a sketch of the suspect.  The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary - Two Suspects Arrested

November 9 at 6:24 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 700 block of East Huntington regarding a burglary.  A male and female entered a grocery store and concealed packages of meat on their person; the female suspect concealed meat in her purse.  Both suspects attempted to exit without paying.  Loss prevention attempted to stop them.  The female stopped long enough for the loss prevention agent to grab her purse, and then both the male and female fled to a waiting car, which was driven away by another male suspect.  Officers located the vehicle with the suspects.  One suspect fled, while the other two were detained by officers.  Despite an area search, the male suspect that ran was not located.  The other two suspects were arrested and taken into custody.  

The female admitted they had planned the theft and to several prior thefts from the same store.  The three subjects are suspected of several thefts of meat and alcohol in recent weeks from the location.  Both have extensive prior criminal history.

                                              

Vandalism

November 10 at 6:59 p.m., vandalism was reported in the area of California and Cypress.  Green spray paint was used to write graffiti on a residential wall.  Three male Black subjects were observed tagging the wall with a spray can; however, they were not located.  The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

November 11 at 3:00 a.m., a blue, 1989 Toyota Camry was stolen by unknown suspects.  The reporting party saw the vehicle being driven away toward the City of Arcadia.  Officers made an area search, but were unable to locate the vehicle.  Investigation continuing.

Residential Burglary

November 11 at 7:29 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 200 block of North Encinitas. The victim left his home on November 9 at 9:00 p.m. in the evening and returned at 7:15 p.m. on November 11 to discover his backdoor had been broken into and items had been taken.  Four firearms, one laptop, and a tablet were taken.  The investigation is continuing.

Battery Report

November 11 at 9:14 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a hospital regarding a female victim who was battered by her adult son.  The victim stated she was punched by her son, who had recently been kicked out of a sober living home.  The son also pushed the victim's boyfriend during the attack.  The victim sustained a fractured nose.  A wanted person entry for felony battery was made into the system for the suspect.  Investigation continuing.

Attempt Burglary

November 13 at 11:09 a.m., an attempt burglary was reported in the 600 block of Laurel Lane.  Neighbors witnessed a suspect coming out of a residence on Laurel Lane.  It initially appeared that the suspect was carrying a laptop.  The suspect was chased away and the neighbors called police.  Containment was set up and the area was searched on foot and by air, with no results.  The investigation continues.  The home owner responded and determined there was no loss.

Vehicle Burglary

November 13 at 6:35 p.m., police responded to the report of a vehicle burglary that occurred in a business parking lot in the 700 block of East Huntington.  The passenger side window was smashed and a purse that was left in the vehicle was stolen.  The investigation is continuing.

Special Enforcement Team Activity

Possession of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested

November 8, Special Enforcement Team officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle near the 200 block of East Cherry.  The driver and vehicle were searched, and the driver was arrested for possession of cocaine.  The vehicle was stored.

Tip of the Week

DON'T FILL YOUR VEHICLE WITH PRESENTS FOR THIEVES!

It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables.

It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.

Don't Be a Victim!
Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort.  Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables.  Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.  

Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!

The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips. Click on The Police Notebook to visit their website.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of November 5-7, 2012

Residential Burglary

November 5 at 3:55 p.m., police responded to a residence in the 300 block of Greystone.  The resident came home and found a large quantity of items had been gathered by the suspects, but was left near the front door.  It appears the suspects were scared off and left the items behind.  A laptop computer and PS3 video game were taken.  The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence / False Imprisonment / Assault With a Deadly Weapon / Attempted Robbery - Suspect Arrested

November 5 at 11:06 p.m., a domestic violence incident was reported in the 400 block of Monrovista.  A 19-year-old male subject held a knife to the throat of his girlfriend as he restrained her and demanded money.  She was not injured during this crime; however, during the investigation, it was learned the suspect hit the victim in the face earlier that day in the City of El Monte, which caused an injury.  The suspect was arrested without incident.

Residential Burglary

November 6 at 5:55 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of Mountain View Avenue.  A residential burglary had occurred sometime between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.  Unknown suspect(s) gained entry by climbing through a window.  An IPAD, X-Box, two Laptops, and two handguns were stolen.  The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

November 7 at 7:51 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of East Los Angeles Street.  The victim left his vehicle running in his driveway while he was moving some equipment from his house to his car.  While he was inside the house, he heard the sound of his vehicle being driven away.  He tried to locate the vehicle with negative results.  A firearm was in the car when it was taken.  The vehicle was later recovered in the City of El Monte.  The vehicle had been set on fire and burned.  The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary

November 7 at 7:13 p.m., an officer responded to a vehicle burglary report in the 100 block of Orange Court.  The victim parked his vehicle and locked the doors at around 9:00 p.m. in the evening.  He returned to the vehicle at 8:00 a.m. in the morning and saw his vehicle had been ransacked and items were taken.  The Items taken were golf clubs, workout clothing, a watch, and sunglasses.  Investigation continuing.

Burglary / Possession of Burglary Tools - Suspect Arrested

November 8 at 3:27 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a suspicious subject in the area of 200 North Grand.  Due to the time of morning and the area having many recent burglaries, the officer stopped to talk to the subject.  During the contact, the officer found the subject was in possession of a crow bar, car stereo, and other burglary tools.  An area check was conducted for evidence of a crime and a vehicle missing a stereo was found a short distance away.  The owner of the vehicle confirmed his vehicle had been burglarized and the stereo found on the suspect detained was, in fact, the one missing from his vehicle. 

Tip of the Week

Home Burglary Prevention

Criminals look for easy targets.  Burglars watch for homes that are dark and seem to be temporarily unoccupied.  You can do a few simple things to help prevent your home from being burglarized:

Locks - Use the locks you have on all doors and windows.  Make it a routine to check all locks before you leave your home.  Use dead bolt locks having a 1" throw.

Shrubs - Should be kept low enough so they do not block possible points of entry or help conceal a potential burglar.

Doors - Solid core wood doors with frames that cannot be spread apart with a pry bar are preferable.

Burglar Alarm - Install an alarm and be sure to prominently display all signs and decals that your home is protected by an alarm system.

Lights - Install in front, back, and by garages.  Motion detector lights are an alternative to lights being on all the time.  Interior-timed lighting devices should be utilized when you are not home.

Garage - Never leave your garage unlocked, especially if it has a connecting door to the home.

Mail and Newspapers - Make sure someone picks up your newspaper and mail if you are to be away for an extended period of time so potential burglars don't see them piling up when you are not home.  

Spare Keys - Never leave a spare key in a hiding place outside your home.  Burglars know all the common hiding places.

These are simple steps you can take to help ensure you home is safe.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of November 1 - 4, 2012

Vehicle Vandalism

On November 2 at 5:57 a.m., a vehicle was reported vandalized in the 700 block of West Huntington.  It was determined that a rock was used to break the window of the victim's Dodge RAM truck.  The victim has no idea who would vandalize his truck as he is not from this area.  Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

On November 4 at 2:52 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of South Shamrock.  The victim parked the vehicle on the street at 11:00 p.m. in the evening and locked the doors and windows.  The victim looked outside the window at about 2:30 a.m. and saw vehicle was missing.  The vehicle stolen was a 1996 Silver Acura.  The investigation is continuing.

Unlawful Discharge of a Shotgun / Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested

On November 4 at 10:01 p.m., a 45-year-old male subject was in an alley in the 200 block of West Lime and he unlawfully and intentionally fired his new shotgun in the air.  He then drove away from the scene in a blue jeep with the shotgun.  He had been visiting family in the 200 block of West Lime and was returning to Los Angeles.  Officers located and stopped the male subject a couple blocks from the scene and found the shotgun in the vehicle.  The subject was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol.  The ejected shotgun shell casing was found in the alley next to the house he had been visiting.  The suspect was arrested for negligent discharge of the weapon and for driving under the Influence of alcohol.

Highlighted Activity for the Weekdays of October 29-31, 2012

Commercial Burglary / Grand Theft Auto

October 29 at 6:53 a.m., police responded to the report of a burglary and stolen vehicle from a business located in the 500 block of East Fig Avenue.  Unknown suspect(s) broke into the business and loaded up tools and equipment into a company truck, and then drove away with the property and the truck.  The vehicle is a white, 1991, Dodge Ram truck.  The investigation is continuing.    

Commercial Burglary

October 29 at 7:12 p.m., the owner of a business in the 500 block of South Shamrock called to report a theft had occurred earlier in the morning that they just discovered when they were reviewing surveillance footage of the store.  The footage showed a male Black and female Black had entered the store together.  The male subject distracted the employee, while the female took items and concealed them in her purse.  The investigation is continuing.

Hit and Run Traffic Accident / Driving Under the Influence

October 30 at 1:52 a.m., officers were dispatched to a solo vehicle traffic accident.  It appeared a single vehicle traveling north on Peck Road struck a parked vehicle on the east side of the street.  The vehicle struck a parked car, spun out of control, struck a steel fence along the wash, and then finally hit a power pole and came to rest.  Any occupants fled the scene prior to police arrival.    

After approximately 20 minutes, the driver who had fled the scene called police and told the dispatchers his location.  Police located the subject and Los Angeles County Fire paramedics arrived and rendered first aid.  The driver was determined to be driving under the influence.  He was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.  The District Attorney will be reviewing the case for filing charges.

Petty Theft from Vehicle

October 30 at 8:05 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 800 block of West Foothill.  The victim parked the vehicle in his complex parking lot and left the vehicle unlocked.  When the victim returned to the vehicle the next day, he saw that someone had taken a coat, an Ipod and some Christmas ornaments from inside the vehicle.  Investigation continuing. 

Outside Assist - Secret Service Search Warrant

October 31 at 6:35 a.m., Monrovia detectives and patrol staff assisted the U.S. Secret Service in a search warrant service at a location in the 400 block of East Greystone.  One suspect was arrested for five warrants, two were no-bail warrants, and a second suspect was arrested for nine counts of identity fraud.

Tip of the Week

Vehicle Burglary Prevention

Thieves look for easy and inviting targets when it comes to selecting a vehicle to burglarize or steal from.  It is up to you to make every effort to prevent your car from being targeted.  Here are some basic tips that will make your vehicle a little less inviting to thieves:

LOCK your car!

Always park in well-lighted areas.

Install motion lights in your driveway.

Install and use a vehicle alarm.

DO NOT leave valuables in plain view.

Leave all items of value at home if possible.

Many auto burglaries or thefts from cars occur right in a residential driveway and too often it is because the vehicle was never locked.  Suspects will often target cars that are left unlocked, walking up and down a street trying car doors all the way.  Take the time to secure your vehicle.  Other thieves target victims by watching what is placed inside a trunk or hatch. If you plan on stopping by the gym, park, or elsewhere after work, take the time before you leave to place your belongings safely in the trunk. Don't wait until you park to then transfer your laptop, purse, bag, or briefcase to the trunk. Thieves may be watching and targeting your car.  These are just a few tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim of auto burglary. Be proactive, look around, and most importantly, don't hesitate to call the police if you see something or someone suspicious.