altadenablog

Crime blotter: car burglaries, a tailgate, and a bird

Several vehicle burglaries, a Silverado tailgate (altho' that may be over now) and a stolen parakeet mark the sheriff's blotter this week from Lt. Duane Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Between 11:30 PM and 11:00 AM, Thursday – A residential burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Glen Canyon Rd.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the rear window.  Loss:  black Dynex 22” tv, (4) silver tarnished antique candleholders, silver tarnished antique pitcher.
Unknown Time Frame – A commercial burglary and vandalism occurred at New York Launderland, 1840 New York Dr.  Suspect(s) entered the business by cutting the metal bars securing the rear restroom window.  Loss:  none; suspect(s) attempted to open the coin machine with a blow-torch.  

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Between 9:00 AM and 10:40 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the  1400 block of Morada Place.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black backpack containing identification and credit cards.  
Between 6:00 PM and 12:00 PM, Thursday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1900 block of Jefferson Drive.  Loss:  black Stanley briefcase, measuring tape, moisture reader, two calculators.

Thursday, Feb. 2

Between 12:30 AM and 10:30 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2100 block of Oakwood Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the passenger window.  Loss:  black Swiss Gear backpack, nursing pediatric book, Swiss Gear rolling luggage.
Between 6:00 AM and 1:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Sacramento Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bathroom window screen.  Loss:  black Samsung 32” tv, black Sony PlayStation 3 with black remote control, (10) misc. PlayStation games, black Insignia 32” blu-ray tv, Sony 52” 3D-WiFi tv, black Nintendo Wii.
Between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM – A petty theft of vehicle parts occurred in the 2000 block of Santa Rosa Ave.  Loss:  2004 Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.

Friday, February 3rd

7:00 AM – A grand theft occurred in the 1600 block of Oxford Avenue.  Loss:  a green Parakeet with a red spot next to its beak, white metal birdcage.  The parakeet was taken from the front porch of the residence.  Suspect vehicle is a small pickup truck which was last seen southbound on Oxford Avenue.  

 

Burglars tampering with electrical panels?

A member of the President Streets neighborhood news group noted that the electrical panel on his house had been opened.  He said it does not open by itself, and as it belongs to the homeowner (and not Edison) -- and due to the uptick in burglaries and attempted burglaries in the area -- he was a little suspicious.

Are the burglars now trying to shut off a home's power in order to deactivate burglar alarms?  We know that a loss of power does trigger some alarms, but we're not familiar enough with them to know that it's universal  Still, we know our electrical panel has fittings for a lock or seal, and it might not be a bad idea to get one ...

 

Deputies arrest Pasadena man with three stolen Silverado tailgates

by Timothy Rutt

The case may be shut on the tailgate bandit.

Altadena sheriff Lt. Duane Allen said that an investigation into the theft of numerous Chevy Silverado tailgates over the past few weeks led to the Pasadena home of Wesley Eugene Taylor, 34.

Allen said that three of the stolen tailgates were in Taylor's possession at the time of his arrest by deputies Tuesday night.

With nine Silverado tailgates stolen in December and January -- eight in Altadena, one in Pasadena -- Allen said that  "we pretty much put all our manpower into it -- it was getting pretty bad, so we worked on it pretty hard."

Allen said that five detectives worked on the case to bring it to a swift conclusion, thanks to clues Allen said they were not ready to reveal at this time.

Crime blotter: three Silverado tailgates taken in separate incidents

Item of choice this week: Chevy Silverado tailgate. Crime blotter provided by Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Wednesday, Jan. 25
Between 10:30 AM and 11:15 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of E. Woodbury Road. Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bedroom window screen. Loss: black Nintendo Wii, gold/turquoise wrist watch, costume jewelry.
Between 1:00 PM and 8:00 AM, Thursday – A grand theft of vehicle parts occurred in the 900 black of W. La Canada Verdugo Road. Loss: 2000 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 tailgate.

Thursday, Jan. 26
1:15 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 800 block of New York Drive. The victim stated he heard the doorbell and a few minutes later heard some noises coming from the kitchen area. The victim walked into the kitchen and observed a female, African-American, 14 to 16 yrs, attempting to open the kitchen window. The female saw the victim and fled the location leaving behind a black glove. Deputies responded to area, contacted witnesses and arrested a male juvenile. The female juvenile and another male juvenile African-American are still outstanding. No loss.

Friday, Jan. 27t
Between 6:00 PM and 3:00 AM, Saturday – A petty theft of vehicle auto parts occurred in the 2100 block of N. Santa Anita Av. Loss: brown 2006 Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.
Between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM – A petty theft of vehicle auto parts occurred in the 300 block of W. Palm St. Loss: champagne Chevrolet Silverado tailgate.

Pictured: 2006 Chevrolet Silverado.  Picture (c) GM Media.

Burglary suspect was tracked with his own GPS ankle bracelet, sheriffs say

by Timothy Rutt

Sheriff's deputies caught the suspect in six area burglaries by tracking him with his own GPS ankle bracelet, says Altadena's captain.

Capt. Steven McLean said that Jeremiah Billingslea, 20 who was arrested Jan. 20 allegedly in the act of burglarizing a home, had been tracked through the court-ordered ankle bracelet he was wearing at the time.

The sheriff's station said Billingslea was already on parole for burglary and, as a condition of his release, was required to wear a tracking ankle bracelet.  When the Altadena station suspected Billingslea in a recent wave of burglaries that followed his M.O., McLean said that they tracked him through the global positioning system in the ankle bracelet that broadcasts his location and movements.  Deputies easily found him in the house on the 300 block of East Calavaras St., still wearing the anklet, McLean said.

Billingslea was charged with six burglaries committed in the area in recent weeks.

Chevy Silverado tailgates are the newest target for theft

by Carolyn Seitz

Some families in Altadena woke up this morning to find out the hard way that they're now a statistic, and not a good one.

If you have a Chevy Silverado truck, your truck is a target for thieves who are stealing the tailgates.

Not so long ago, it was the rear seats from Cadillac Escalades that were the prime target.

Over the last few weeks, tailgates from Chevy Silverados have been stolen from all over Southern California at very high rates.

Please find a way to park your vehicles in a garage or behind a gate or fence so you're less likely to be a victim.

If you have neighbors who may not see these posts from the Sheriff's Station, please let them know that these vehicles are being vandalized at high rates.

If you have a suggestion about how we can more effectively get the word out to the community so we can be less vulnerable targets or so we can catch criminals in the act, please speak up.

If you see something - say something!!

Please continue to be vigilant and report suspicious activity by calling the Sheriff's Station - 626 798 1131.

As always, stay safe and help keep your neighborhood safe!

--------

Carolyn Seitz is a public safety volunteer.

Crime blotter: suspect captured in broken window burglaries

Lots of broken window burglaries, but they just may have caught the guy ...

Sun., Jan. 15
Between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM (Thursday) – A petty theft occurred in the 100 block of E. Woodbury Rd.  Loss:  gray/red Jiansu 2-seater go cart.

Tues., Jan. 17
8:42 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2300 block of Santa Rosa Ave.  Suspect entered the residence by shattering the rear sliding door with a large rock.  The suspect was possibly deterred from the residence due to the activation of the burglary alarm.  Loss:  none.

Wed., Jan. 18
Between 12:00 AM and 4:00 AM – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 2200 block of Country Club Dr.  Loss:  silver MacBook laptop, black/silver taser, black flashlight, black w/orange trim backpack.
Between 1:00 AM and 8:00 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1300 block of Morada Pl.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle via unknown method.  Loss:  brown Gucci tote bag.  
Between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM – A residential vandalism occurred in the 2200 block of Maiden Ln.  Suspect(s) used a brick to shatter the rear sliding glass door.  
Between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1800 block of Mar Vista Ave.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear glass door with a brick.  Loss:  unknown at this time.

Fri., Jan. 20
Between 6:30 AM and 6:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Glenrose Av.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear office window.  No loss has been reported.
Between 9:10 AM and 9:18 AM – An attempt burglary occurred in the 300 block of E. Calaveras St.  Deputies responded to the area and subsequently arrested a male, African-American, 20 yrs, black hair, brown eyes, 6 ft. 2, in. 163 lbs., wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.  The victim stated that the suspect knocked on the front door and was observed walking through the gate that leads to the back yard.  The victim heard several knocks at the rear door and the sound of someone tampering with the door knob and using force to open the door.  The suspect saw the victim and jumped over the fence into the neighbor’s yard.  ***The investigation is on-going due to other burglaries matching the same method of operation***
Between 6:00 PM and 9:00 AM (Saturday) – A petty theft occurred in the 2200 block of Raymond Ln.  Loss:  credit card, identification card.

 

Parolee linked to six Altadena burglaries

by Timothy Rutt

A man who deputies say was caught in the act of burglarizing a home Jan. 20 has been linked to five other burglaries in Altadena.

Jeremiah Billingslea, 20, was arrested by sheriff's deputies during an attempted burglary of a home on the 300 block of East Calavaras St. according to Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena sheriff's station. Subsequent investigation linked Billingslea to five other burglaries clustered in the Morada Place neighborhood in recent weeks.  Allen says that Billingslea has been charged with six separate counts of burglary. Billingslea is a parolee with a previous burglary conviction, according to Allen.

Allen said that the burglaries followed a similar M.O., where a back window was broken with a brick or rock to gain entry to the home.

 

 

Sheriff's station washes hands of ACONA

Altadena Capt. McLean says that deputies will not participate in neighborhood coalition meetings as long as juvenile offender is volunteering

by Timothy Rutt

Deputies from the Altadena Sheriff's Station were scheduled to answer questions about dispatch and investigation complaints at Tuesday's ACONA meeting, but none showed.

Nor will they, said Altadena Sheriff Capt. Steven McLean.

"Not as long as we have someone with a criminal background collecting names," he said.

The captain was referring to Kendal Brown, who volunteers at the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Association (ACONA) meetings, usually staffing the attendance list.  Brown, 19, admits to having a juvenile criminal record, and, according to Elliot Gold, one of ACONA's organizers, his volunteer work for ACONA is counting towards his community service hours.

But law enforcement doesn't see it that way.  Brown was arrested after the last ACONA meeting, Nov. 1, 2011, after deputies at the meeting recognized him as having a warrant for  suspicion of grand theft, and called in other deputies.  Brown was released after three days, and charges were dropped in that matter.

According to McLean, someone with a record of criminal activity shouldn't be at a neighborhood meeting, collecting names and addresses of neighborhood watch block captains and listening to them discuss crime-fighting strategies with law enforcement.

"As long as he's there, we won't be there," McLean said.  As long as Brown is in the meetings, "I can't discuss what's up."

Both Brown and Gold think that the sheriff's department is targeting Brown, not believing that he's straightening out his life.  Brown said that he is being targeted because his brother belongs to a gang.  Gold, whose Upside Down T neighborhood association named Brown "Neighbor of the Year," also thinks that law enforcement isn't giving the youth a fair shake. 

In fact, Gold was removed from the sheriff's community advisory committee because he refused to not take Brown to meetings, both Gold and McLean say.

As for the complaints against the department, stemming from an Oct. 29, 2011 incident where shots were fired and neighbors did not think an adequate investigation took place, McLean said that "we sat down with the complainants in my office, we are doing an investigation."  Residents who attended that meeting reported at Tuesday's meeting that they did not feel they were being taken seriously and were being brushed off.

 

Crime blotter, Jan. 9-14: burglaries and beer

Mon., Jan. 9

11:54 AM – A commercial burglary occurred at Super King Market, 2260 N. Lincoln Ave.  Loss: one bottle of Grey Goose Vodka – item was recovered.

 

Thurs., Jan. 12

8:45 AM and 3:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1900 block of Layton Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the office window.  Loss:  Black Sony Vaio laptop.

9:00 AM – A commercial burglary occurred at Fair Oaks Burger, 2560 N. Fair Oaks Ave.  Suspect(s) entered the location by shattering the front glass door.  Loss:  $500.00 in cash.

 

Fri., Jan. 13

11:30 AM and 1:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 3200 block of Villa Highlands Drirve.  Suspects entered the residence by shattering the family room window.  Suspects described as two male, Hispanics in a dark gray sedan.  Loss:  $7,000 in cash, blue wallet. 

 

Sat., Jan. 14

8:50 PM – An armed robbery occurred in the parking lot of Rite Aid, 735 E. Altadena Dr.  The victim exited the location after purchasing a case of beer.  As the victim entered his vehicle,  he was approached by suspect #1, male, Hispanic, 20-25 yrs, 510-600, 180 lbs, wearing a navy blue sweatshirt.  Suspect #1 grabbed the victim by the neck, placed a metal object by his temple and demanded the beer.  The victim was in fear for his life and handed the beer to suspect #2, male, Hispanic, early 20’s, 510, 150-160 lbs.  Suspect #1 pushed the victim and told him to leave.  The victim entered his vehicle and observed (2) other male, Hispanics standing near a white sedan.  Loss:  (1) case of 18-pack of Budweiser beer. 

Between 10:00 PM and 11:00 AM, Sunday – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 3100 block of Thurin Avenue. 

Sheriff shares tips for keeping your home safe

Lt. Duane Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station sends along these tips for keeping your home safe from burglars:

1.      Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened. An open window or door is an open invitation for burglars. Thieves are also quick to spot weak locks that may be easily forced open. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one inch throw and reinforced strike plate with three inch screws. All windows should have window locks.

2.      Secure sliding glass doors. Place a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track and install vertical bolts. These will help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the track.

3.      Always lock the door to an attached garage. Don't rely on your automatic garage door opener for security.

4.      Create the illusion that you are home by using timers on lights, radios and TV's. Making your residence appear occupied, even when no one is home, will deter criminals.

5.      Keep the perimeter of your home well lighted. Installing low voltage outdoor lighting is a cost-effective way to discourage intruders, as well as highlight a house.

6.      Never leave clues that you are away on a trip. Have a trusted neighbor collect mail and newspapers while you are away so delivered items do not accumulate. You can also ask a neighbor to park in your driveway or parking place to make it appear that you are present.

7.      Keep some shades and blinds up and curtains open to maintain a normal, everyday appearance in your residence.

8.      Never leave a message on your telephone answering machine telling people that you are away from home. A message that you will return at a certain time leaves your home vulnerable in the interim.

9.      Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways. While large, ornate hedges may be beautiful, they also provide a hiding place for burglars who need only a minute to break in through a window or door.

10.  Organize a community watch program to protect your neighborhood

11.  Stop announcing your vacations on Facebook, MySpace etc. It’s very easy to locate your address and other personal information

 

Crime blotter, Jan. 3-6: burglary, burglary, burglary

Tuesday, Jan. 3
Between 8:15 AM and 12:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1900 block of N. Harding Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying and shattering the living room window.  Possible suspect(s) described as male, Hispanic adult(s), long curly black hair in a ponytail, wearing a white t-shirt and dark jeans in a silver 4-dr sedan.  Loss:  silver Mac Book, black Incase laptop case, black Canon digital camera, silver safe 1.5’x1’, (2) firearms – Browning 9mm and Smith & Wesson .22 cal.       
Between 11:00 AM and 6:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of El Sereno Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unsecured window.  Loss:  currency - $650.00.

Wed., Jan. 4

Between 7:50 AM and 12:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2000 block of Grand Oaks Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unsecured door.  Loss:  silver Apple computer, black Nikon digital camera, black Phillips portable DVD player, silver Ipad.
Between 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1000 block of Beverly Way.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the bathroom window.  Loss:  jewelry.

Thurs., Jan. 5
Between 5:00 AM and 7:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2100 block of Meadowbrook Road.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying and shattering the rear door window.  Loss:  light color oak wood jewelry box w/rose design, jewelry.

Fri., Jan. 6
Between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2700 block of Glenrose Av.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unsecured front door.  Loss:  black Xbox 360, Call of Duty video game.

Sheriff releases crime stats for 2011

by Carolyn Seitz
cmseitz@mindspring.com

Most of you know that the monthly crime stats published by the Sheriff's Department show us the crime rates for the previous month with a comparison to the same period of time for the years 2006 and 2010, and in addition, they show us the year to date for each period reflected in their report.

You can review the whole 119 page report here http://file.lacounty.gov/lasd/cms1_148405.pdf

Below are three pages of the report for the period ending December 31, 2011.  These three pages show you the crime rates for violent crime and property crime for all of the areas services by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on the first page. This page also allows you to see how crime rates for Altadena measure against crime rates across all service areas for the Sheriff's Department.  The second pages shows you Altadena's crime rates for violent crime and property crime and then the last page shows you a larger breakdown of these crimes so you have a little more detail.

Please note that Altadena's crime rates for Part I crimes continue to improve over the same period for 2010 with only the Avalon Sheriff's Station experiencing a greater reduction in crime.

Please continue to do your part and report suspicious activity. It does make a different.

If you have questions or comments, please feel free to let me know.  The three critical pages of the report are after the jump.

Altadena man killed in Northwest Pasadena Tuesday

by  Adolfo Flores
Pasadena Sun

Edward Santana, 43, of Altadena, was the gunshot victim killed in Northwest Pasadena Tuesday, Pasadena police have confirmed.

No one has been arrested and the L.A. County Coroner has not conducted an autopsy to determine the official cause of death, Lt. Tracey Ibarra with the Pasadena Police Department said.

Pasadena officers responded to reports of gunshots shortly after 5:40 a.m. Tuesday in the 100 block of Dearborn Street. After canvassing the scene authorities found Santana’s body with at least one gunshot.

More at the Pasadena Sun.

Crime blotter, Dec. 21-24: season's thievings

Lots of incidents of someone coming into the house to take things away -- obviously, not Santa.  Crime blotter by Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Wed., Dec. 21

Between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, Saturday – An attempt residential burglary occurred in the 300 block of Laun Street.  Suspect(s) attempted to enter the residence by removing the window screens and prying the window.  No entry was made.

Between 12:00 PM and 2:45 PM, Thursday – A residential burglary occurred in the 2300 block of Tanoble Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the bedroom window.  Loss:  unknown.

 

Thurs., Dec. 22

Between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2000 block of Lake Ave.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the front door by using bodily force.  Loss:  silver Toshiba DVD player, silver Samsung CD portable player.

12:00 PM – A petty theft occurred at Focus Point Academy, 119 W. Palm St.  Loss: misc. currency.

Between 4:00 PM and 5:50 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 600 block of Sacramento Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unlocked bedroom window.  Loss:  black HP laptop, black Sony PlayStation.

 

Fri., Dec. 23

Between 10:00 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1300 block of Westlyn Place.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the living room door.  Loss:  black Apple iPad.

Between 5:00 PM and 10:00, Saturday – A residential burglary occurred in the 500 block of W. Palm Street.  Suspect(s) entered the vacant residence via unknown means.  Loss: copper pipe.

 

Sat., Dec. 24

Between 8:00 PM and 10:30 AM, Sunday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2400 block of Washington Boulevard.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle via unknown means.  Loss:  blue Bosch jigsaw, blue Makita drill, blue Makita saw, SuperSeven edger, misc. construction tools.   

35 arrested in Wednesday morning weapons sweep

by Timothy Rutt

Police arrested 35 and confiscated 23 firearms in a Wednesday morning sweep of probationers held in Altadena, Pasadena, and the Antelope Valley, according to release from Supv. Michael D. Antonovich.

News reports say the sweep involved 250 officers from the Sheriff's Department, Pasadena Police Dept., U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The agencies conducted 158 searches in the sweep.

The sweeps were part of the DISARM program initiated by Antonovich, says the release.  DISARM involved unannounced searches of probationers and their homes, with the goal of confiscating guns, drugs, and other contraband. The DISARM program has seized almost 8,000 weapons, made over 16,000 arrests, and confiscated more than $350 million in illegal drugs and drug money since its inception in February 2000.

The D.I.S.A.R.M program entails pairing Deputy Probation Officers with local law enforcement personnel to perform unannounced searches of probationers and their homes, as a condition of probation, and targets the confiscation of guns, drugs, and other contraband.  

 

 

Sheriff blotter: home break-ins never go away

It's the same old song: residential burglaries.  Keep vigilant!  Information provided by Altadena Sheriff Lt. Duane D. Allen.

Mon., Dec. 5

 
Between 11:00 AM and 11:00 AM, Thursday – A residential burglary occurred in the 500 block of Colman Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via unknown means.  Loss:  brown/yellow Fender bass guitar, yellow Tapco music mixer.

Tues., Dec. 6

2:55 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 3400 block of Fair Point Street.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the rear window screen.  Loss:  unknown.
11:44 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 3200 block of Villa Knolls Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the side door.  Loss:  unknown.

Wed., Dec. 7

Between 7:45 AM and 1:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1500 block of Crest Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bathroom window screen.  Loss:  unknown.

Thurs., Dec. 8

Between 9:15 AM and 12:30 AM, Friday – A residential burglary occurred in the 200 block of W. Loma Alta Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by removing the bathroom window screen.  Loss:  black Apple Mac Book.
Between 7:30 PM and 7:30 PM, Friday – A burglary from an unlocked garage occurred in the 400 block of E. Alameda Street.  Loss:  silver Craftsman lawn mower.

Fri., Dec. 9

Between 8:00 PM and 7:30 AM, Saturday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1500 block of E. Morada Place.  Loss:  black digital camera, internet card.

 

UPDATE: Sheriffs arrest one, seek two others in attempted break-in, Sinaloa and Morada

by Timothy Rutt

As of about 1 PM, Altadena sheriffs, assisted by deputies from Temple City and La Crescenta stations and Pasadena police, are looking for two men dressed in dark clothing who attempted to break into a home near Sinaloa Avenue and Morada Place, according to the Altadena Sheriff's Station.

The dispatcher said that K-9 units will be deployed, and the sheriff's helicopter is keeping an eye on things for now.

UPDATE: Community volunteer Carolyn Seitz relays from the sheriffs that at about 1:20 PM, deputies took in one suspect in the break-in, and two others got away:

The only information gleaned from witness is that both of the other suspects are African/American.

One was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt or black hooded sweater.

If you see anyone matching that description or you were in the vicinity of Sinaloa and Morada Place in the last hour to hour and a half, please call the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 798-1131.

 

 

Crime log: Nov. 28- Dec. 2 -- burglars out in force

The house burglars were out in force this week -- not only taking money and electronics, but expensive bicycles and a guitar collection.  The crime blotter is by Altadena Sheriff Lt. Duane D. Allen:

Mon., Nov. 28

Between 5:00 AM and 2:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of E. Meadowbrook Road.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via the doggie door.  Loss:  gray martini shaker, diamond/garnet white gold ring, misc. currency.
Between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2700 block of Lake Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the front door.  Loss:  unknown amount of currency.  
Between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of N. Roosevelt Avenue.  Suspects(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear patio door.  Loss:  black Dell laptop, black iPod, white iPod, white iPad.

Tues., Nov. 29

 
Between 7:00 AM and 6:05 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of W. Figueroa Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the bedroom window.  Loss:  black Samsung flat screen, black Sony PS3, white queen size comforter.  

Thurs., Dec. 1

 
Between 4:00 AM and 7:30 AM – A grand theft occurred in the 200 block of E. Palm Street.  Suspect(s) stole a bicycle which was secured in the front yard.  Loss:  silver/gray Ibis Mojo SL bicycle, estimate value $5,000.00.
Between 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1700 block of Coolidge Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the rear door.  A witness observed a light colored sedan; possibly a Honda, parked to the front of the victim’s residence during the time of the reported burglary.  The vehicle was occupied by a male, Hispanic, 20-25 years, 6 ft., 185, shaved head, white tank top and a female, Hispanic, 18-22 years, dark hair, unknown clothing.  The suspects were then observed walking towards the front of the victim’s residence.  A short time later, the suspects were observed entering the vehicle with a broom in hand.  Loss:  black Coach purse, brown Louis Vuitton, black Canon SLR digital camera.
7:30 PM – A robbery and assault with a deadly weapon (hands, feet) occurred at Arco Gas Station, 2171 Fair Oaks Ave.  The victim was on foot and approached by three, male, African-Americans described as: #1 - 20-30 years, short black hair, light color shorts, #2 – 20-30 years, short black hair, thin moustache, plaid shirt, dark denim shorts, and #3 – 20-30 years, riding a bicycle.  The suspects approached the victim, pushed him down to the ground and began assaulting him and asking him for money.  Loss:  set of house keys.
Between 9:30 PM and 7:00 AM, Friday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 2100 block of Fair Oaks Ave.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the front passenger window.  Loss:  misc. currency.

Friday, December 2nd

 
Between 1:00 PM and 5:15 PM - A residential burglary occurred in the 1800 block of Pepper Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the dining room window.  Loss:  black Sony Vaio laptop, silver Dell laptop, silver Canon EOS digital camera, (3) black camera lenses, brown Blueridge acoustic guitar, blonde/mahongany Martin acoustic guitar, light gold Taylor acoustic guitar, gold/black Sony camcorder, misc. currency.  
Between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM, Sunday – A residential burglary occurred in the 2500 block of N. Allen Avenue.  Suspect(s) entered the residence via unknown means.  Loss:  beige wool/silk blend Persian rug, silver/black Sony digital camera, silver Dell 17” laptop.

 

Crime blotter: Nov. 19-24: yes, they're stealing refrigerators

Crime log provided by Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena Sheriff's station, who also reminds us that theft-related crimes normally go up 12 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year's.  Big targets are anything left in plain site in a vehicle or UPS/Fed Ex packages that are left on your porch, so be vigilant and careful this season.

Sat., Nov. 19

Between 7:00 PM and 11:00 AM, Sunday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1700 block of Beverly Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by using a slim-jim.  Loss:  black Apple iPod, black Tom Tom GPS, silver Prada sunglasses, pink/black car seat, pink Nintendo DS.
Between 8:00 PM and 10:00 AM, Sunday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1300 block of E. Woodbury Road.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by using a slim-jim.  Loss:  black Dell Inspiron 12” laptop, misc. currency.
Between 9:00 PM and 9:50 AM, Sunday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1800 block of Sinaloa Drive.  No evidence of forced entry observed.  Loss:  black/red Old Navy backpack.

Mon., Nov. 21

Between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1800 block of Sonoma Drive.  Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear bedroom window.  Loss:  silver Apple computer monitor, gray Canon printer.
12:38 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1900 block of N. Pepper Drive.  Suspects entered the residence via the unlocked door.  Suspect #1 male, Caucasian or Middle Eastern, short black hair, red t-shirt and red shorts and suspect #2 male, Caucasian or Middle Eastern, short black hair, blue shirt w/blue jeans were observed via surveillance walking up to the front door of the residence.  A short time later, one of the suspects was observed backing up onto the driveway in a silver 4-door sedan.  A gardener was present at the time however, believed the suspects were related to victim.  Loss:  black Sharp 22” tv, black Samsung 45” tv, black Canon digital camera, black Sony camcorder, gray HP 13” laptop computer  w/dragon logo.

Tues., Nov. 22

Between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, Thursday – A petty theft occurred in the 1000 block of Marcheta Street.  Loss:  purple flower planter, value $200.00.

Wed, Nov. 23

3:18 AM – A vandalism occurred in the 2500 block of E. Washington Blvd.  Damage:  front door smash.

Thurs., Nov. 24

Between 4:00 PM and 3:30 PM, Friday – A grand theft occurred in the 700 block of W. Mariposa Street.  Loss:  white Kenmore refrigerator.  

Dog day morning at Santa Rosa Avenue as canines chase, locate suspect

Pictured: Altadena Sheriff Sgt. John Stanley (we think!) with Sam, one of two crime-fighting dogs who got a workout this morning. Photo by Alan Parks.

by Timothy Rutt

As if Paco or Husky didn't send the message loud enough, add two more pups to prove the adage "Don't mess with Altadena's dogs."

That was a message one suspect received late this morning -- twice.

Altadena resident Melody Comfort says that she, her husband, and son heard their dog, Raven, barking and saw a man with a backpack in their Santa Rosa Avenue yard about 11:10 AM this morning.

According to Comfort, the intruder backed away into a prickly holly bush and prickly fern plant as as the dog charged him.  As he tried to free himself, his bag had gotten stuck in the branches, and Comfort said he dumped a handful of items including a screwdriver, wire cutters, and copper couplings and wires, which were later turned over to deputies.

Meanwhile, Comfort's 28-year-old son Patrick Comfort hailed a passing sheriff's car, responding to an earlier call about the same suspect.

According to Comfort, the intruder freed his backpack and tossed it over the wall and tried to follow before she had a chance to let the deputy into the locked yard.  As the suspect jumped the wall, their dog Raven bit down on his pantleg.  

'Raven the rescued dog from the Burbank shelter for 25 bucks," Comfort said.  "She gets steak tonight -- she earned it!"

But the story doesn't end there.  Reader Alan Parks emailed us to say that he and his wife were walking their dog Sam on Mendocino near Santa Rosa at about the same time.  Noting all the police activity in the neighborhood, including a helicopter, they headed south on Santa Anita, and about halfway down the block "Sam started to act funny."  He pulled them on the leash toward a large growth of oleander where they saw a man in a light shirt and dark pants laying face down in the bushes with a bag.  They hailed the deputies, who took the man into custody.

The deputy on duty at the Altadena Sheriff's station told us that this was all part of the same incident.  No information on the suspect was available.  

So when they say Altadena's going to the dogs -- it is.

More suspicious behavior reported

by Carolyn Seitz

Here's another experience being shared, not of a break-in, but very likely another of the many excuses being used by criminals to gain entry into your home. The incident below was shared by the Braewatch Group:

Neighbors - minutes ago a man appeared at the back door of a home at Tanoble and Mendocino. When confronted he claimed that he lived on Homewood and that his mother "Judy" directed him to practice public speaking at local homes. The then left the property. The resident called the sheriff.

The intruder's excuse is a variation on a story commonly used by burglars when encountering residents in the process of approaching a home to break in. They will knock, then immediately enter if there is no answer.

I do not yet have a description or any other information.  Please keep an eye out for suspicious people, and immediately contact the Sheriff at 626 798 1131 in the event that anyone enters your property, most especially the side or rear areas of your home.

The Sheriff's Department is still certain that many of these burglaries are being committed by gang members. It would be good to note that not all gang members wear clothing representative of their particular gang affiliation, or baggy clothing and have multiple visible tattoos. Many are college educated and have learned to dress very conservatively.

Business warned about fire inspection scams

by Timothy Rutt

The Los Angeles County District Attorney has issued a consumer alert that there are scam artists claiming to be fire inspectors making a play in the area.

The scam is, according to Los Angeles County District Attorney Steve Cooley, is that the phony "inspectors" trick employees into signing documents that are used to bill the business owner.  Actual fire inspections are conducted by local fire departments, which do not charge fees, Cooley noted.

The District Attorney, in a Consumer Alert, advised businesses and their employees to be on the lookout for the phony inspectors who claim to be inspecting fire extinguishers, smoke alarms or sprinkle systems. 

Those who suspect suspicious activity were urged to contact local law enforcement or fire departments, or the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Public Affairs Section at (323) 881-2411. 

Multiple attempted break-ins at Bungalow Heaven Saturday

Circulating around the newsgroups (and thanks to Jeff Sedlik of Braewatch for passing it on), there were three attempted break-ins in the Bungalow Heaven neighborhood of Pasadena on Sat., Oct. 29.  Officials believe that a single perpatrator is involved.  While the perpetrator attempted to enter the premises while the residents were home, nobody was hurt.  

The image was captured by one neighbor on surveillance video.  

 

Crime log: Oct. 22-28

Looks like vehicles suffered the most this week. Crime report from Lt. Duane D. Allen of Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Saturday, Oct, 22
Between 12:01 AM and 4:00 PM, Sunday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 800 block of E. Sacramento Street.  Loss: (1) Kelly tire, (1) alloy rim.

Sunday, Oct. 23
Between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – A vehicle vandalism occurred in the 2300 block of E. Midwick Dr.
Between 1:00 PM and 7:00 AM, Monday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1700 block of E. Woodbury Road.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle via the passenger door.  Loss:  multi-color wallet containing personal documents.

Tuesday, Oct. 25
11:15 AM – A petty theft occurred at Rite Aid, 735 E. Altadena Dr.  Deputies responded to the area and arrested the suspect.  Loss was recovered.
Between 2:00 PM and 11:00 AM, Wednesday – A petty theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1000 block of E. Mendocino.  Loss:  blue/gray Eddie Bauer messenger bag, blue Asus laptop, blue Logitech wireless mouse, and several books.

Wednesday, Oct. 26
7:00 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 200 block of E. Woodbury Road.  Suspect #1 male, African-American, 6 ft, 180-200lbs, black hair  Suspect #2 male, Caucasian, 5ft 7in, 160-170lbs, blonde hair.  Suspects entered the residence via the exterior attic.  Loss was recovered.
Between 12:15 PM and 8:45 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 1700block  of Meadowbrook Road.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black Magellan GPS.
Between 3:15 PM and 11:00 AM, Thursday – A petty theft occurred in the 600 block of W. Harriet Street.  Loss: registration tabs.

Friday, Oct. 28
Between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 400 block of W. Terrace Street.  Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window.  Loss:  black Kenwood car stereo.

 

Friday afternoon burglary on 2600 McNally: walked in the unlocked door

by Carolyn Seitz

The information below is being shared by residents on the 2600 block of McNally.  The information has been modified only to protect the privacy of the person sharing the information.

Please do not let door knocks go unanswered if you're home. Also can't ask often enough for you to be sure to lock your doors and windows.  Criminals entered the house through the front door which was unlocked.

Please don't make it easy for criminals and please continue to call to report suspicious activity.The Station's phone number is 626 798 1131.

We had an attempted burglary at our house today (Friday) at about 4:30 PM. It was the ole' ring the doorbell to see anyone is home routine.

We were in (the rear portion of our home) talking when someone started ringing the bell. They were ringing pretty furiously which made me think it was my neighbor and I wasn't going to interrupt my conversation to answer the door.

The person kept ringing and knocking and then we heard a voice asking if anyone was home. It was not our neighbor so I went to see who it was.

I ran into a young (16ish) Hispanic boy in the hallway. I asked what he was doing and then he ran to the back room. I followed him and saw another person climbing out of the window and the boy I saw followed him. I immediately called 911 and the sheriffs came.

Nothing was taken, though the second boy rifled through my desk.

Our front door was unlocked. A policy we will have to change.

Sheriff's blotter: Oct. 13-21

Lots of residential and vehicle burglaries, including a double hit at 24 Hour Fitness.  Crime blotter by Lt. Duane D. Allen of the Altadena Sheriff Station.

Thurs., Oct. 13 
Between PM hrs. and 4:45 PM, Friday – A grand theft from an unlocked cabinet occurred at Burbank Elementary, 2046 Allen Av. Loss: $2,661.00. 
Between Unknown hrs. – A petty theft occurred in the 300 block of West Harriet Street. Loss: red Sears Craftsman pressure washer. 

Mon., Oct. 17
Between 9:45 PM and 10:22 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2200 block of Grandure Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the residence by breaking the deadbolt from the door. Loss: black Lenovo 15” laptop, black HP 15” monitor, gray Direct TV receiver. 

Tues., Oct. 18 
Between 10:10 AM and 7:20 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 2700 block of Windsor Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the residence by unknown means. Loss: misc. gold jewelry, coin collection. 
Between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM, Wednesday – A vehicle burglary occurred in the 80 block of West Manor Street. Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the driver’s side window. Loss: black Garmin GPS. 

Wed., Oct. 19 
Between 10:10 AM and 2:15 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1600 block of Pepper Drive. Suspect(s) entered the residence via the unlocked dining room window. Loss: none. 
6:00 PM – A petty theft occurred in the 2500 block of Devonshire Lane. Loss: blue Athens trash can. 
Between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred at 24Hr. Fitness, 2180 Lincoln Ave. Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the front passenger window. Loss: beige purse, black wallet. 

Fri., Oct. 21
Between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM – A vehicle burglary occurred at 24Hr. Fitness, 2180 Lincoln Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the vehicle by shattering the rear passenger window. Loss: nude pink Miu Miu wallet containing personal documents. 
Between 9:30 PM and 10:06 AM, Saturday – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 1900 block of E. Washington Blvd, Pasadena.

 

Neighborhood newsgroups passing information about two suspicious men

by Timothy Rutt

Community safety maven Carolyn Seitz is sharing information from the local newsgroups about a couple of suspicious characters who are knocking on doors around dark.

First, in early October:

 A young man around 19 yrs of age knocked on my door.  I approached, did not open but asked how I could help him?  He said that his mother asked him to go around and meet some of his neighbors.  As I stared at this young man who is too old to be 'doing what his mother told him' really, I suggested he do that sort of thing during the daytime.  He looked around and shrugged his shoulders and said 'What does it matter?'  And I told him "well it matters to me, PAL!"  And with that he walked away leaving my gate open.  I did not open my door to go out and close my gate.  But I did call the Sheriff and gave them a description...this man was about 19 yrs old, about 5'8, caucasian male with blonde hair but dyed blonde hair.  You could see his dark roots!  For what this is all worth!

And another one reported just a few days ago:

Last evening just before dark, this same young man, along with a friend, knocked on my door.  Both were smiling broadly and thrust their hands out to shake mine. One had a spray bottle in hand which contained a small amount of liquid. When I asked what they wanted, the friend began to ask why I refused to shake hands. My antenna went up. The blond young man told me that they were selling the liquid in the spray bottle - which is guaranteed to clean anything.  I was then told that both are being paid to demonstrate the liquid on anything that I wanted cleaned.  When I refused, both began to banter about me "not trusting them."

My husband came to the door when he heard the ruckus. He got the same pitch.  When my husband refused, both men began to insist upon demonstrating the spray in an angry tone.  I then realized that this was the same young man described in the e-mail [above].  I came back to the door and told them both that we'd been warned about them via neighborhood watch. They looked shocked!  My husband told them both to leave or he would call the police. They quickly left, cursing my husband as they departed.  My husband followed them down the driveway as he phoned the sheriff.  My next door neighbor had also been approached by these two last evening for the second time!

Both are Caucasion about 19-22 years or age.  The blond one ...has a tattoo on his neck.  The second man has light brown hair, stands about 5' 9" and has missing front teeth.  Both are very menacing.

 

Crime log: Oct. 9-15

An attempted rape tops this one, along with vehicle burglaries and even a commercial oven stolen.  Blotter supplied by Altadena Det. Lt. Joseph Dempsey:

Sun., Oct. 9 
Between 6:00 PM and 10:00 AM, Monday – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 2000 block of E. Crary Street. Loss: black Dell laptop, black Garmin GPS, white Sony digital camera, misc. currency. 
11:06 PM – An attempted rape, indecent exposure and assault occurred at 1955 N. Lake Av. (Blockbuster parking lot area). Suspect described as a male, African-American, 20 years, 5ft. 8-5 ft. 10, 130-150 lbs., black short hair, brown eyes, black t-shirt, and black basketball type shorts. Investigation is on-going. 

Mon., Oct. 10 
3:31 AM – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 1800 block  of Layton St. Loss: silver Apple MacBook, black/silver JVC DVD portable player. 

Wed., Oct. 12
1:05 AM – A commercial burglary occurred at 2164 Fair Oaks Av. (Fair Oaks Carwash). The suspect entered the location by shattering the front glass door. Suspect described as a male, African-American, late teens to early 20’s, 5 ft. 10-6 ft. 10, thin build, light complexion, dark short curly hair, light color long sleeve shirt, dark pants, and a light color backpack. Loss: $45.00. 
Between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM – A grand theft occurred at the Altadena Country Club (2290 Country Club Dr.). Loss: stainless steel Wolf convection oven, value $3,000. 
Between 7:12 AM and 3:30 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 3100 block of Casitas Avenue. Suspect(s) entered the residence by prying the front door. Loss: silver coin collection (120), gray/black Toshiba laptop, misc. currency. 
12:17 PM – An attempted residential burglary occurred in the 3600 block of Skylane Dr. The victim stated that she heard the doorbell ring a few times and a short time later heard some rattling noise as she walked towards the door. The victim asked, ‘who is it?’ and the noise ceased. Damage to the front door frame was observed and no entry was made. 

Thurs., Oct. 13
1:11 PM – A residential burglary occurred in the 1300 block of New York Drive. Suspect(s) entered the residence by shattering the rear door window. Loss: black Samsung 40” flat screen, black/silver Canon PowerShot SX230 digital camera. 

Fri., Oct. 14
Between 10:00 PM and 11:59 PM – A petty theft occurred in the 2000 block of N. Altadena Drive. Loss: gray Technalon vehicle cover. 

Sat., Oct 15
1:15 PM – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 1600 block of Morada Place. The vehicle was recovered in the City of Pasadena approximately, 60 minutes later.

Deputies investigating possible Sunday night rape attempt on Lake Ave.

Altadena sheriff's detectives are investigating a report of a possible attempted rape Sunday night on Lake Avenue between New York Drive and Sacramento Street.

According to Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey, at about 10:06 PM on Oct. 9, a suspect approached a female in her 20's on the 1900 block of Lake Avenue:

The suspect exposed himself to the victim and then grabbed her.  The suspect attempted to pull the victim toward the bushes.  The victim was able to free herself and punch the suspect.  The suspect ran away from the location.  

The suspect was described as a male African American, 5 ft. 8 ins. to 5 ft. 10 ins.,, 130 to 150 lbs, black hair, brown eyes, in his 20’s.  

Image: Crimereports.com

(Fixed headline -- looked at the wrong calendar!)

Another door-knock burglary Wednesday

by Carolyn Seitz

Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey is reporting that a residential burglary occurred this morning at approximately 11:05 AM, in the 2500 block of North Allen Avenue.

The suspects are described as three male Hispanics believed to have been driving a dark gray sedan.

The suspects knocked on the front door of the residence.  A young adult was in the home at the time but did not acknowledge the knocking by letting the persons at the door know they were inside the residence.  They also did not open the door.

The suspects went into the backyard and broke a window to gain entry into the residence.  The young resident heard the window break and left through the front door and ran away, called their father who was nearby, and the father returned home immediately and called 911.

Lieutenant Dempsey is reminding all of us to respond to people who knock on your door so they know someone is there. 

Criminals do not want to encounter you or anyone inside your residence. 

They will move on to the next house looking for residences with no one home.

There have been no reported instances in which criminals have broken into a home when they knew someone was inside.

If someone knocks on your door or rings your doorbell, please let your presence be known and if the person knocking on your door isn't someone known to you or someone you were expecting, please call the Sheriff's Station at 626 798 1131, or if you suspect that someone is trying to break into your home, call 911 and report what you observed.

Please don't let that knock on your door go unanswered. 

As always, stay safe!

Another attempted burglary on East Harriet Thursday

Another knock-and-break burglary attempt Thursday, according to one of our readers on East Harriet between Fair Oaks and Raymond:

Around 9:30 AM someone knocked on our front door while my daughter was at home -- she thought it was a person selling items or advertisement. To find out a few minutes later that this individual went to our back yard and busted one of our basement windows and also an outside small bathroom window. No items were stolen nor much damaged. Sheriff filed a report. Description on the person: male Hispanic mid-30’s around 5”8” more or less , wearing black t-shirt.

Five arrested, one tased in Raymond/Sacramento disturbance

Two women and three men were arrested and one was shot with a taser during a disturbance at the intersection of East Sacramento St. and Raymond Lane Monday night.

According to Altadena Sheriff Lt. Roosevelt Johnson, deputies were called to the intersection at 11:14 PM last night on a gang disturbance and loud music call.  According to Johnson, the deputies called for backup after being surrounded by about 50-60 people who were "partying in the street." Scanner reports said that Pasadena police and deputies from the Temple City sheriff's station came in as reinforcements.

A male, Diondri Mills, 19, was shot with a taser in the confrontation and taken to the hospital to remove the taser darts, which Johnson said was standard procedure.  In addition to Mills, two other men, DeShawn Hayes, 18, and Anthony Jackson, 27, were also arrested, as were two women, Briana Triplett, 20, and Dominiqe Zavala, 22.  All were charged with inciting a riot, Johnson said.

Four homes burglarized Monday

by Timothy Rutt

The Altadena Sheriff's Station is asking for increased vigilance following a wave of four burglaries Monday.

According to Det. Lt. Joseph Dempsey at the station, all burglaries involved forced entry during daytime hours. Locations of the burglaries are:

2000 block of  E. Crary Street

1400 block of Coolidge Avenue

1700 block of Roosevelt Avenue

2300 block of Sinaloa Avenue

The sheriff's station is reminding residents to lock doors and windows and set alarms, and look out for your neighbors.

 

The Daily Paco: it was just a matter of time, wasn't it?

by Timothy Rutt

You could say that good reporting comes from experience, instincts, daring ... and it would all be true ... but it also comes from dumb luck.

Which is how we got the the scoop on last night's narcotics raid from Altadena Sheriff Capt. McLean and Sgt. John Stanley -- who just happened to be on patrol and came across us walking the dog! (THAT's hyperlocal for ya!)

Anyway, Sgt. Stanley relays this picture from later in the evening, when a particular famous Alta-doggie wanted to hitch a ride from his base at Ace's Smoke Shop:

Paco was ever vigilant and seemed eager to venture out to keep the streets of Altadena safe.

 

Update on last night's raid: narcotics seized, no arrests

by Timothy Rutt

 Not much more information available on yesterday's story about the raid on the El Sereno/Woodbury location (which is now identified as an apartment building).  Altadena Lt. Joseph Dempsey said that some narcotics were seized, but no one has been arrested at this time.

Multiagency task force raids Altadena house Thursday night

by Timothy Rutt

A multiagency task force of lawmen from the FBI, LA County Sheriffs, and Pasadena Police Dept. swooped down on a Pasadena house Thursday evening and detained several people.

Pictured: deputies on the scene of Thursday night's search.

According to Altadena Sheriff Capt. Steven McLean, the search warrant involved gang-related activity, but not much else was being said about the dramatic raid at 2157 El Sereno Ave., at the corner with Woodbury. 

An eyewitness who was driving east on Woodbury said she saw an "average-looking" man go to the back of a large van parked on Woodbury, roll up the rear door, "and about 20 GI Joes came out."  The armed and armored men were probably FBI, McLean said.

According to McLean and witnesses, the raid included flash-bang grenades meant to surprise and disorient suspects.

According to Altadena watch commander Sgt. Debra Herman, it was a multiagency task force operation involving gang units and entry teams.

McLean said that several people had been detained, but they were still sorting out if any were going to be arrested.

Pictured: several young men were seated in a courtyard at the scene, watched by officers.

Note: we rechecked several maps, and the home does fall within the Altadena side of the border, altho' it also seems to have a Pasadena mailing address.

Truck driver found guilty in fatal 2009 LCF crash

from the Los Angeles County District Attorney and other reports

Marcos Barbosa Costa, 46, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving causing injury in the
fatal April 1, 2009 crash of his trailer truck that killed a 12-year-old girl and her father in La Canada Flintridge.

Angelina Posca and her father, Angel Posca, 58, were both killed in the accident when Costa's brakes failed coming down the Angeles Crest Highway.  He ran a red light at Angeles Crest and Foothill Boulevard, hitting Posca's car and dragging it 150 feet, crashing into six other vehicles and injuring three other people before crashing into a book store and nail salon.

Costa, a Massachusetts resident, was also found guilty of injuring three people in the crash. The jury found him not guilty of two counts of murder, and hung on two charges of causing great bodily injury to two victims and found one allegation of causing great bodily injury not true.

Witnesses testified that Costa ignored warnings from an off-duty firefighter who pulled him over and said smoke was billowing from his brakes.

Costa returns to court on Sept. 8 for sentencing before Pasadena Superior Court Judge Darrell Mavis. Costa faces up to nine years in state prison.

 

Rx or X, Altadena station's got you covered with drug drop-off boxes

Altadena Sheriff Lt. Joseph Dempsey sent out an email that the the Altadena Sheriff's Station has installed two drug drop-off boxes at the station -- one for prescription drugs, and one for illegal drugs (each box is helpfully labeled). 

The boxes are located on the northwest side of the sheriff's station, 780 E. Altadena Drive.  According to a press release, "Residents are now able to drop off any unwanted prescription drugs and any illegal drugs at the Sheriff's Station with no questions asked. We anticipate installing a hypodermic needle drop box in the near future. Please feel free to use these boxes as an alternative to flushing unwanted drugs into the sewer system or placing them in the trash."

 Pictured: the drop-off box for illegal drugs.

Crime blotter, July 22-23: boozers and burglars

From Lt. Joseph Dempsey, Altadena Sheriff's Station.

Fri., July 22

2:40 PM – A petty theft occurred at Ralph’s, 2270 N. Lake Av.  The suspects - #1 female black 20-25 years of age, 5 ft. 3 in. - 5 ft. 5 in., 140 lbs., black hair brown eyes and  #2, female black  30-35 years, similar height and weight, entered the store and stole several bottles of alcohol.  Loss prevention made contact with females and the females returned three bottles.   Loss:  one bottle of alcohol.  Suspects last seen in black Dodge sedan travelling on Mendocino St.

10:23 PM – An arrest occurred at Lincoln Avenue & Woodbury Road.  The suspect was taken into custody after deputies recovered stolen property. 

Sat., July 23

1:15 AM – A residential burglary occurred in the 300 block of Laurel Drive.  The victim who was home at the time heard some commotion along the eastside of the property and looked out the window.  The victim observed a male, Caucasian, 30 yrs, 5 ft. 11 ins. -6 ft. 2 ins.,  average build, short hair, holding a flashlight and a male, African-American, 30 yrs, 5 ft. 11 ins. -6 ft. 2 ins., large build, bald, sitting in the driver’s side of a black SUV.  The victim yelled at subjects and the male Caucasian said he was looking for his keys.  At the time, the male, Caucasian, entered the black SUV and left out of view.  It is unknown if the subjects are responsible for the damage to the door latch of the garage.  Loss:  none.

 

Sheriff to hold press conference seeking help on Jackson killing

Sheriff Lee Baca will hold a press conference later today to seek the public's assistance in solving the murder of Brandon Jackson.

Jackson, 18, a student at John Muir High School, was shot and killed Feb. 12 while attending a house party on the 300 block of W. Palm St. in Altadena.  The Board of Supervisors have offered a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the killer.

Also at the conference, to be held at sheriff's headquarters in Monterey Park, will be Homicide Lt. Dave Dolson, Det. Adan Torres, Det. Jeff Leslie and Altadena Sheriff Captain Steve McLean, along with members of the victim’s family.

Your daily dose of Paco

This time, Fox News does a piece on Altadena's canine superhero.

Meet Paco the Robber-Chasing Chihuahua: MyFoxLA.com

 

Crime going down in Altadena, say sheriffs

by Carolyn Seitz
Community safety volunteer

Below are three pages of crime stats from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The first page shows you the overall view of how Altadena compares with all of the Sheriff's Stations in Los Angeles County for 2011 through June 30.  In addition, this page gives you a comparison with the same period of time for 2006 and 2010. Please note that once again, Altadena showed the greatest decrease of any Sheriff's Station in Los Angeles County in Part I crimes, with a reduction year to date of 36.1%.

The second page details just Altadena and its Part I crime statistics up to June 30, 2011, as well as the comparison with 2006 and 2010 for the same period.  There are some things worth noting.  First, reported Rapes have increased by 151.1%.  It is important to note that the alleged rape suspects were a person known to the victim according to Lt. Joseph Dempsey of Altadena Detective Bureau.  There is no serial rapist on the loose in Altadena. 

Also of note on the second page is the reduction by 45.72% of burglaries over the same period last year, and the reduction by 39.76% of Larceny-Theft crimes over the same period last year.

The third page shows that while reported rapes have increased over the same period last year, all other violent crimes have decreased by as much as 21.5% over the same period last year, and all line items in the Property Crimes report have decreased over the same period last year with the greatest reductions noted above for burglaries and larceny-theft.

 

Paco the chihuahua becomes a local hero

Security cam video of the July 7 armed robbery at Ace's Smoke Shop has been made public, and now the hero of the event comes to light: Paco, the feisty chihuahua who wasn't scared by two toughs with a rifle. ABC7's Rudabeh Shahbazi gives us the scoop:

-----

  

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Now, if somebody could only spread the word to the coyotes that Altadena's dogs are not to be messed with ...

Supervisors offer $10K reward in Brandon Jackson murder case

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion by Supv. Michael D. Antonovich to offer a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the February shooting death of Brandon Jackson in Altadena.

Jackson, a Muir High School fullback-linebacker, was shot as he was walking home from a party on the 300 block of West Palm St. at about 10:40 PM on Feb. 12.  He died at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena a short time later.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Adan Torres at (323) 890-5500.

Update on armed robbery at Ace's Smoke Shop

Altadena sheriffs are still looking for two suspects in the armed robbery of Ace's Smoke Shop last night on the 2500 block of Lake Ave.

According to Sheriff Lt. Joe Dempsey, witnesses have identified the suspects as two male Latinos. Initial reports said that the robbers were African American. The suspects were wearing masks while robbing the shop, but shed the masks in front of witnesses while making their escape. The suspects were armed with a rifle.

One Altadenablog reader, who witnessed the suspects running out of the shop, said that the suspects dropped the masks they were wearing and a backpack as they ran across Lake Avenue.  The reader identified them as two Latino men in their 20's.

If you have any information, please call the Altadena Sheriff's Staton at 626-798-1131 or anonymously at Crimestoppers:

Phone: 800-222-TIPS (8477)
Text: TIPLA plus your tip to 275637 or CRIMES
Online: go to http://lacrimestoppers.org and click the link to submit a tip.

 

Armed robbery tonight at Ace Smoke Shop

UPDATE: An updated story and a corrected description of the suspects is located here.

Altadena Sheriff Lt. Marjory Jacobs said that there was a call about an armed robbery at Ace Smoke Shop, 2501 N Lake Ave., at 7:44 PM tonight (Thursday). 

Suspects were described as two black male juveniles, who took about $200 in cash. 

There's a containment area set up right now (10 PM), and deputies are actively searching for the suspects.

 

Dog found, coyote attack on Canyon Crest this weekend

Two items from the Canyon Crest neighborhood:

Michiko found an Akita male dog with no name tag, pictured.  If it's yours, please call 818-317-0501.

UPDATE:  The Akita has been moved to Pasadena Humane Society: http://www.petharbor.com/pet.asp?uaid=PSDN.A291176

Reader Tamara Tolkin, who lives on Canyon Crest, said that her dogs were barking at about 10 AM Friday at an intruder: a coyote who hopped over her six foot backyard fence.  The coyote attacked both dogs, but only managed to bite the smaller one before getting away. There's been too much of this going on lately.

Victim's vehicle found in Nevada; husband, dog still missing

In the ongoing story of Renata Klein, whose body was found in the Angeles National Forest June 15, Nevada authorities found her vehicle, but her husband and dog are still missing.

According to a press release from the Los Angeles County Sheriff Dept., a citizen reported a suspicious vehicle parked behind an abandoned building in North Las Vega, Nevada on June 26.  Police discovered the vehicle was the Klein's missing Jeep.  The Los Angeles sheriffs were notified and the vehicle was impounded and is to be towed back to Los Angeles county.

Renata's husband, Dusan Klein, and the family dog, Cindy, are still missing. Anyone with information about them or this incident is encouraged to contact Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Homicide Bureau, 323-890-5500. 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 website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Sheriff blotter, May 8-15: serial car door rattling

Sun., May 8

Between 4:00 PM and 3:00 PM, Monday – A petty theft of a bicycle occurred in the 300 block of Sacramento Street. Loss: blue Mongoose 12‐speed mountain bike.

Mon., May 9

7:26 PM – A tagging incident was reported in the area of 2600 Glenrose Avenue. Deputies responded to the area and observed three male, Hispanic juveniles in the area of where the crime was reported. The subjects were detained and later identified to be involved in the criminal activity.

Tues., May 10

Between 5:40 PM and 8:00 AM, Wed. – A grand theft from an unlocked vehicle occurred in the 3200 block of Arrowhead Courtt. Loss: black/silver Dooney Bourke satchel, blue/white Coach coin purse, and grey wallet containing credit cards, gift cards, personal identifications and a black Garmin GPS.

Thurs., May 12

1:45 AM – A tampering with a vehicle and attempted theft occurred in the 100 block of Las Flores Aveue. A witness observed a male, African‐American, 30 years, tall, thin build, wearing a green long sleeve shirt and blue pants, checking vehicles for unlocked doors. Loss: unable to determine.

Sat., May 14

Between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – A petty theft of a bicycle occurred in the 2500 block of El Sol Avenue. Loss: green/silver Trek mountain bike.

Sun., May 15

10:05 AM – A petty theft occurred in the 200‐block of E. Calaveras Street. A witness was walking in the area and observed a male, African‐American, 6’0” – 6’3”, 185lbs, wearing a grey sweatshirt and blue pants; checking for unlocked vehicle doors. The witness recognized the suspect from a previous incident involving thefts from unlocked vehicles. At this point, the witness continued to observe the male and saw him entering a vehicle. The male then exited, look at the witness and stated “I’m just looking for a light.” The suspect left the location and was later arrested. The suspect is known to the area and was recently released and paroled to Altadena.