LOS ANGELES (KABC) — More than 100 burglary suspects have been arrested as Los Angeles city leaders try to dismantle an organized theft ring that has targeted homes and businesses, officials announced Tuesday.
Burglaries are down 30% from last year, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
City leaders say that’s promising news as they aggressively try to prevent recent break-ins in the San Fernando Valley.
Burglaries, several caught on security video, have plagued the San Fernando Valley for months. From Woodland Hills to Sherman Oaks, businesses and homes have been targeted.
But on Tuesday, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and the LAPD announced the tide may be turning.
“Burglaries are down by over 30% in L.A. so far this year,” Bass said. “In the last month alone, we have made over 100 arrests related to residential and commercial burglaries.”
That includes the recent arrest of a man tied to an international theft crew who police say is responsible for more than 25 break-ins across the city and valley.
“We have presented that case for filing, which the DA filed 18 counts of burglary on that individual,” LAPD Lt. Armando Arenas said. “Our detectives are working tirelessly right now to identify the other members of that group.”
The city is using a short-term fix to treat the problem by redeploying resources and officers in areas prone to theft.
Bass says she wants to hire more officers, which is in her proposed budget under the City Council’s review.
“We are days away from the World Cup and other international events. L.A., we know, is under-policed and that’s not an option,” Bass said.
Police say they meet and strategize daily on where to send law enforcement, and they want residents to help them in their fight.
They recommend:
– Getting to know your neighbors
– Lock doors and windows
– Consider shatter proof film on windows.
– Put away tools that could be used to break into your home
– Trim trees and bushes
“If you have an alarm or surveillance equipment, please have a backup plan,” LAPD Deputy Chief Gerald Woodyard said. “In some cases, they’ll disable it. Consider a battery backup alternative. Do not post your travel plans on social media, please. And if you have a safe, make sure it is bolted down.”
Bass says she expects the extra resources and police patrols in the San Fernando Valley will cut down on burglaries.
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