On the evening of January 13, 2018 the cities of Pasadena and Arcadia experienced a spree of outside fires along the Foothill Blvd. corridor, between Sierra Madre Villa and the Los Angeles Arboretum. Firefighters from the cities of Pasadena and Arcadia responded and quickly extinguished the fires. Investigation into the fire causes determined that they were intentionally set. Officers from the Pasadena and Arcadia Police Departments, as well as the California Highway Patrol, responded to the area to search for the person(s) responsible, but were unable to identify and locate a suspect.
An ongoing investigation by members of the Verdugo Fire Investigation Task Force yielded a suspect and description, and a "want flyer" was disseminated to local law enforcement entities. On January 21, 2018 at 03:00 a.m., in response to the "want-flyer", suspect Nigel Letren (DOB: 03/10/1973) was arrested in the City of San Marino by the San Marino Police Department.
On January 24, 2018 the suspect was arraigned at Pasadena Superior Court, where he was charged with five counts of arson related to the January 13th fires, and one count of arson related to the December 9th 2017 wildland fire in the City of Monrovia. The suspect is currently being held on $425,000 bail and is scheduled to return to court on February 15, 2018.
The Verdugo Fire Investigation Task Force is a regional group of investigators from the cities of Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, South-Pasadena, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, Monrovia, San Marino, San Gabriel, Alhambra, Monterey Park, and Montebello.
"This arrest is a great example of exceptional cooperation between multiple agencies and proven results from our regional Verdugo Fire Investigations Task Force," states Pasadena Fire Chief Bertral Washington. "The Regional Fire Chiefs and I are thankful for their relentless work on behalf of the communities we serve."
Source: Pasadena Fire Department press release
- Brad Haugaard
Help Applying for Health Insurance
Chapcare will hold an Open Enrollment Event to help residents apply for health insurance on Jan. 27 at its Monrovia office at 513 E. Lime, #102 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring valid ID, Social Security card and proof of income. For details call 486-9639.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovian Convicted in Money Laundering Case; Could Face 30 Years in Prison
The Daily Bulletin reports that 32-year-old Monrovian, Harinder "Sonu" Singh, has been found guilty of conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business, and operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, and faces up to 30 years in prison. https://goo.gl/Fmty3p
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Homelessness in Library Park: Poop Patrols, Hepatitis A, 'No Camping' Ordinance? Police Homeless Patrols, And Lots of Etc.
In his weekly report City Manager Oliver Chi had a detailed report of the homeless situation in Monrovia. I didn't want to summarize it because a) there's a lot of beef here, and b) because it's a hot topic and I figured people would like the details. So here it is, verbatim:
This past week, the City hosted a community conversation to discuss the issue of homelessness in Monrovia, and the meeting highlighted in very real terms the additional work that all of us have to do to try and reach a consensus as to the most effective way we can respond to the overall situation. Given the nature of the identified issues and the passion that so many have regarding the matter, staff has spent time this past week further rethinking and refining the City’s overall approach to addressing homelessness moving forward. We will certainly have more to share in the coming weeks and months, however, we did want everyone to know how seriously we take the issues that have been raised, and some of our initial thoughts include the following:
FIRST… Regular and Consistent Community Outreach
SECOND… Coordinate a Hepatitis A / Public Health Community Meeting in February 2018
THIRD… Schedule a Study Session with the City Council in Late February 2018 / Early March 2018 to Discuss Possible Rule Changes
FOURTH… Press Forward with Proposed Infrastructure Upgrades
FIFTH… Continue to Coordinate Both a Robust Law Enforcement Response AND Develop Enhanced Social Service Contacts
This past week, the City hosted a community conversation to discuss the issue of homelessness in Monrovia, and the meeting highlighted in very real terms the additional work that all of us have to do to try and reach a consensus as to the most effective way we can respond to the overall situation. Given the nature of the identified issues and the passion that so many have regarding the matter, staff has spent time this past week further rethinking and refining the City’s overall approach to addressing homelessness moving forward. We will certainly have more to share in the coming weeks and months, however, we did want everyone to know how seriously we take the issues that have been raised, and some of our initial thoughts include the following:
FIRST… Regular and Consistent Community Outreach
- Staff plans on coordinating more regular and consistent outreach activities designed to provide regular updates regarding our efforts here at the City.
SECOND… Coordinate a Hepatitis A / Public Health Community Meeting in February 2018
- One of the legitimate concerns that has been raised is a fear about contracting Hepatitis A and / or another communicable disease, due to the activities of our homeless population.
- To address this concern, staff is working to coordinate a Hepatitis A / Health Forum to discuss facts and myths in greater detail.
- We have reached out to some of our partners at LA County, and we plan to have representatives from the LA County Department of Public Health on hand to discuss actual health related risks and prevention strategies.
- In addition, we will share additional details regarding the concerns that have been raised about human excrement being found in Library Park.
- During the community meeting this past week, I raised an issue about poop being found in the Library Park playground swing area without providing proper context, and for that mistake and oversight, I do apologize profusely!
- It is absolutely true that we did find poop at the Library Park playground swing area, however, what I didn’t share was the incident occurred months ago, prior to the installation of a brand new play surface at the playground.
- In addition, I also failed to mention that we do not know the source of where the poop came from, as the incident was an isolated occurrence, and since that time, we have not seen any reoccurrence at the Library Park playground area.
- Furthermore, I also did not outline that in over 3 years (that’s more than 1,095 days), we have found poop outdoors in Library Park on only 2 occasions.
- However, given the seriousness of the issue, the City had previously established a poop patrol where our team monitors hot spots daily for any reoccurrence of the identified issue.
THIRD… Schedule a Study Session with the City Council in Late February 2018 / Early March 2018 to Discuss Possible Rule Changes
- Staff has heard impassioned pleas that the City change some of our rules regarding conduct in our public spaces, along with modifying how we impound items left by our homeless population in public spaces.
- To that end, we plan on coordinating a study session meeting with the City Council to take place in late February / early March 2018 to discuss each of the proposals in greater detail.
- An overview of the rule changes we plan on reviewing with the City Council includes:
- Considerations and challenges associated with re-adopting a “No-Camping” ordinance
- Maintaining our 72 hour notice prior to removing personal property belonging to a homeless individual, vs. transitioning to a 24 hour notice prior to removing that personal property
- An assessment of park closure times
- Discussion regarding the possibility of requiring homeless individuals to obtain a permit prior to loitering at Library Park
- Review of a proposed restriction on overnight on-street RV parking in Monrovia
FOURTH… Press Forward with Proposed Infrastructure Upgrades
- There are a number of infrastructure projects currently in the design / development process related to addressing issues of homelessness in Library Park, and staff plans to continue to aggressively pursue those initiatives.
- An overview of the projects currently in the pipeline includes:
- Comprehensive upgrades to Library Park – study session planned with City Council in February 2018, with construction scheduled to begin at some point in mid- to late-2018
- Install Real Change Movement signage and meters at Library Park – mid-2018
- Review possible signage upgrades / modifications at City parks – mid-2018
- Block off the alley between the Community Center and the bank – early 2018
- Redesign the patio area in front of the Community Center as a GoMonrovia LimeBike parking location – early 2018
FIFTH… Continue to Coordinate Both a Robust Law Enforcement Response AND Develop Enhanced Social Service Contacts
- The police department will continue to coordinate a robust law enforcement response to address any and all violations at Library Park, and we continue to maintain our commitment to engaging in those law enforcement activities in a manner which is aligned with all applicable rules and laws
- The City will continue our special homeless patrols, which occur each week for 5 hours at a time
- City staff is also working to expand our partnership with social service operators such as LAHSA, and we are working on development of a more robust plan of relentless interface with our homeless population to offer social service / housing related options
- This initial overview provides just a quick recap of some of our thoughts here at the City, and in the coming weeks, will be certain to coordinate engagement opportunities for the community to further discuss how we should respond to the issue of homelessness in Monrovia.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council: Crime Up, Fire Calls Up, Water Rates Up, and More
In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...
~ Crime continued to rise in Monrovia during 2017, up 2.8 percent, though that's more slowly than in the prior year. When compared with 2016, Monrovia experienced a total increase of 2.8% in serious crimes. There were 3 more murder / negligent manslaughter incidents than in 2016 (when there were zero incidents). Still, Chi writes, "[I] t is important to keep in mind that similar and greater increases in Part I crimes are being seen throughout Los Angeles County and in the State of California."
~ Also, more calls for fire services. Up 3 percent, 123 more incidents. The city "is now analyzing how we might reorganize our operations to better respond to changing needs."
~ The City Council has approved raising water rates. The new cost will be about $16.87 more and will take effect as of March 8, and will first appear on customers' April 2018 bills. If you think you need a discount, here's the application: https://goo.gl/kc2VDU
~ The State of the City Address is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 29, at Studio Movie Grill in Old Town, at 7 p.m. Details soon.
~ A funeral mass will be held for Monrovia leader, Pat Ostrye, on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 740 S. Shamrock Avenue, Monrovia. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Pat to the Foothill Unity Center, 358-3486.
~ The proposed GoMonrovia transportation program should be rolled out in March. Its core features are using subsidized Lyft (like Uber) rides and offering LimeBike's dockless bike-share (You can leave the bike pretty much any old where, rather than in a docking station).
~ Beer. How to make it. Wednesday, Feb. 7, 6:00 - 8 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. Space limited. Sign up by calling 256-8274.
- Brad Haugaard
~ Crime continued to rise in Monrovia during 2017, up 2.8 percent, though that's more slowly than in the prior year. When compared with 2016, Monrovia experienced a total increase of 2.8% in serious crimes. There were 3 more murder / negligent manslaughter incidents than in 2016 (when there were zero incidents). Still, Chi writes, "[I] t is important to keep in mind that similar and greater increases in Part I crimes are being seen throughout Los Angeles County and in the State of California."
~ Also, more calls for fire services. Up 3 percent, 123 more incidents. The city "is now analyzing how we might reorganize our operations to better respond to changing needs."
~ The City Council has approved raising water rates. The new cost will be about $16.87 more and will take effect as of March 8, and will first appear on customers' April 2018 bills. If you think you need a discount, here's the application: https://goo.gl/kc2VDU
~ The State of the City Address is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 29, at Studio Movie Grill in Old Town, at 7 p.m. Details soon.
~ A funeral mass will be held for Monrovia leader, Pat Ostrye, on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 740 S. Shamrock Avenue, Monrovia. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Pat to the Foothill Unity Center, 358-3486.
~ The proposed GoMonrovia transportation program should be rolled out in March. Its core features are using subsidized Lyft (like Uber) rides and offering LimeBike's dockless bike-share (You can leave the bike pretty much any old where, rather than in a docking station).
~ Beer. How to make it. Wednesday, Feb. 7, 6:00 - 8 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. Space limited. Sign up by calling 256-8274.
- Brad Haugaard
County Supervisor Barger Will Help Count Homeless in Monrovia
LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger will join other volunteers at the Monrovia Community Center at 8 p.m. Tuesday as part of the countywide effort to count the homeless population. She said: "Our homeless population has a face and a name. In addition to public safety and mental health, there is no greater emergency or mission than to protect those who are most vulnerable and in need. I count because they count."
Source: Barger press release
- Brad Haugaard
Source: Barger press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Leader Pat Ostrye Has Died
The first woman to serve on the Monrovia City Council, Mary Patricia "Pat" Ostrye, died on January 13 of this year (not last year, as the obituary says), a day after her 94th birthday. In addition to being the first woman to serve on the Monrovia City Council, in 1978 she also became the first elected mayor of the city. Here is the full obituary: https://goo.gl/vucuaR
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Schools Receives Audit Report
At its next meeting (agenda here) the Monrovia Board of Education will ...
~ Receive an audit report that to my non-accounting eye, looks fairly bleak. See image above. It would be great if someone with accounting skills could look it over. The audit report is here. Any accountants out there want to give a professional opinion on this?
~ Consider approving the rental agreement with Fellowship Monrovia, the church that meets at the Monrovia High auditorium. The church will be spending $167,708 this year to use the facilities. Report here.
~ Consider recruiting international students to attend district schools, and, related to that, will consider updating a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement form to allow Canyon Oaks High School and Monrovia Community Adult School to be added to the list of schools authorized to receive such students.
- Brad Haugaard
Citrus Fourth Best California Community College
Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has been recognized as California's fourth‐ranked community college in a recent study by Schools.com.
The website reviewed the state's 114 community colleges, scoring them on a 10‐point scale in six areas: percentage of students enrolled in distance education, cost of attendance, student‐to‐faculty ratio, graduation rate, number of transfers to the University of California system, and flexibility.
Citrus College was ranked as the fourth best community college in California and the second best in Los Angeles County.
- Brad Haugaard
The website reviewed the state's 114 community colleges, scoring them on a 10‐point scale in six areas: percentage of students enrolled in distance education, cost of attendance, student‐to‐faculty ratio, graduation rate, number of transfers to the University of California system, and flexibility.
Citrus College was ranked as the fourth best community college in California and the second best in Los Angeles County.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Scouts Tour Submarines
Monrovia scout troop gets tour of submersible vehicles at SEAmagine Hydrospace Corporation. https://goo.gl/eXuabW
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at Cafe LuMar
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Cell Phone Rescues Hiker Just Before It Goes Dead; Stake Out Catches Suspect; Pedestrian Stopped for Vehicle Code Violation, Arrested; Porch Package Theft; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 11-17. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.
Alcohol Offense / Suspended License
January 11 at 8:17 a.m., a caller reported a suspicious vehicle with two males inside parked in the area of Alta Vista and Concord. The subjects left the area but officers were able to locate the vehicle which had expired registration. Further investigation revealed there was an open container of alcohol in the vehicle and the driver had a suspended license. The driver was cited and the vehicle was stored.
Possession of Methamphetamine / Parole Violation – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 1:31 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when he noticed a suspicious subject standing by the men’s bathroom at Station Square. The officer made contact with the subject and during the search of the subject, officers found he was in possession of methamphetamine. The subject was also on active parole. The suspect was detained and taken into custody.
Apprehension of Wanted Felon
January 11 at 7:11 p.m., detectives were conducting surveillance in an attempt to apprehend a wanted felon in the 800 block of S. Magnolia. The subject was eventually seen and as officers moved in to arrest him, he fled. A short foot pursuit ensued until the subject hid in a fenced area in the 200 block of W. Huntington. A containment was set up, outside agencies including K9 Units responded to assist as well as a Police Helicopter. Once secured, a K9 announcement from the helicopter was made and the suspect surrendered. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody without incident.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 5:42 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 900 block of S. Fifth on the report of a disturbance. The female was visiting her ex-boyfriend, they drank and began to argue. The male subject hit the female, she sustained several visible injuries due to the altercation. The male was arrested for domestic violence.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspects Arrested
January 13 at 3:23 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of W. Central and noticed a traffic collision that had just occurred. The vehicles had pulled to the side of the road. The officer made contact with them and further investigation revealed both drivers were under the influence of alcohol. Both drivers were arrested and taken into custody.
Theft / Evading a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
January 13 at 7:12 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a subject stealing merchandise. While the officers were en route, the suspect fled in a vehicle. Officers caught up to the vehicle after a short pursuit on the 210 freeway eastbound when the suspect exited at Myrtle. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Outside Assist (Lost Hiker)
January 14 at 3:47 p.m., a caller reported he was lost in Canyon Park. The hiker left the trail and became disoriented. An air unit checked the area but was unable to locate him. The dispatchers called his cell phone numerous times before they were able to reach him. When they reached him, they explained to the caller step by step how to send his location over the phone. The phone died shortly thereafter. Search & Rescue were contacted for assistance and shortly after the lost hiker was located.
Theft
January 15 at 2:32 p.m., a theft was reported by a resident in the 400 block of Cloverleaf Dr. The victim reported a package was stolen from her porch. There is no suspect information at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
Petty Theft
January 15 at 5:56 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of Cloverleaf Dr. called the police to report a theft. The victim is an elderly female. She reported a bracelet valued at $250 was stolen from inside her home on January 10, 2018. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 7:46 p.m., officers on patrol in the 100 block of W. Huntington Dr. stopped a pedestrian for a vehicle code violation. A computer check revealed the subject had several warrants for his arrest. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.
Alcohol Offense / Suspended License
January 11 at 8:17 a.m., a caller reported a suspicious vehicle with two males inside parked in the area of Alta Vista and Concord. The subjects left the area but officers were able to locate the vehicle which had expired registration. Further investigation revealed there was an open container of alcohol in the vehicle and the driver had a suspended license. The driver was cited and the vehicle was stored.
Possession of Methamphetamine / Parole Violation – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 1:31 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when he noticed a suspicious subject standing by the men’s bathroom at Station Square. The officer made contact with the subject and during the search of the subject, officers found he was in possession of methamphetamine. The subject was also on active parole. The suspect was detained and taken into custody.
Apprehension of Wanted Felon
January 11 at 7:11 p.m., detectives were conducting surveillance in an attempt to apprehend a wanted felon in the 800 block of S. Magnolia. The subject was eventually seen and as officers moved in to arrest him, he fled. A short foot pursuit ensued until the subject hid in a fenced area in the 200 block of W. Huntington. A containment was set up, outside agencies including K9 Units responded to assist as well as a Police Helicopter. Once secured, a K9 announcement from the helicopter was made and the suspect surrendered. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody without incident.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 5:42 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 900 block of S. Fifth on the report of a disturbance. The female was visiting her ex-boyfriend, they drank and began to argue. The male subject hit the female, she sustained several visible injuries due to the altercation. The male was arrested for domestic violence.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspects Arrested
January 13 at 3:23 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of W. Central and noticed a traffic collision that had just occurred. The vehicles had pulled to the side of the road. The officer made contact with them and further investigation revealed both drivers were under the influence of alcohol. Both drivers were arrested and taken into custody.
Theft / Evading a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
January 13 at 7:12 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a subject stealing merchandise. While the officers were en route, the suspect fled in a vehicle. Officers caught up to the vehicle after a short pursuit on the 210 freeway eastbound when the suspect exited at Myrtle. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Outside Assist (Lost Hiker)
January 14 at 3:47 p.m., a caller reported he was lost in Canyon Park. The hiker left the trail and became disoriented. An air unit checked the area but was unable to locate him. The dispatchers called his cell phone numerous times before they were able to reach him. When they reached him, they explained to the caller step by step how to send his location over the phone. The phone died shortly thereafter. Search & Rescue were contacted for assistance and shortly after the lost hiker was located.
Theft
January 15 at 2:32 p.m., a theft was reported by a resident in the 400 block of Cloverleaf Dr. The victim reported a package was stolen from her porch. There is no suspect information at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
Petty Theft
January 15 at 5:56 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of Cloverleaf Dr. called the police to report a theft. The victim is an elderly female. She reported a bracelet valued at $250 was stolen from inside her home on January 10, 2018. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 7:46 p.m., officers on patrol in the 100 block of W. Huntington Dr. stopped a pedestrian for a vehicle code violation. A computer check revealed the subject had several warrants for his arrest. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Tattooing in Old Town? Homeless Meeting Tonight; Housing/Retail Complex Planned on Myrtle; Etc.
In his weekly update, City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...
~ Should tattooing be allowed as a secondary service for Old Town businesses? The city is considering allowing such services if it is limited to a small portion of the business. "This is similar to the way Monrovia regulates massage businesses, where in Old Town, massage can be offered as one of the services provided by a business as long as it does not occupy more than 20% of the floor area of the business." Mini four-question survey here: https://goo.gl/rPrK9t
~ There will be a community meeting tonight (Jan. 17) to discuss homeless issues. 6:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room.
~ Public meeting at 6 p.m. on Feb. 1 at the Library to discuss AvalonBay, a proposed 154 unit housing and retail complex that would be located at the northwest corner of Myrtle and Chestnut. It would also have 2,900 square feet of retail space, and a 286-space parking structure.
~ The Monrovia Police Officers' Association's Tip-A-Cop Fundraiser last week raised $500 for Foothill Unity Center. The event was held during lunch at Copper Still Grill. All tips from Monrovia police officers, along with 25% of all sales, were donated.
~ The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a study session to review the Citywide Historic Context Statement on Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Center. The statement will be a tool to evaluate potential historic landmarks and districts.
~ Monrovia's State of the City Address will be on Monday, Jan. 29, at Studio Movie Grill at 7 p.m. Details to come.
~ The Chamber of Commerce has named Sari Canales as its new executive director. There will be a welcome reception today (Jan. 17) from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Chamber. Canales has worked for the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce since 2015 as an Administrative Assistant, Membership Development Coordinator, and Membership Services Director.
- Brad Haugaard
~ Should tattooing be allowed as a secondary service for Old Town businesses? The city is considering allowing such services if it is limited to a small portion of the business. "This is similar to the way Monrovia regulates massage businesses, where in Old Town, massage can be offered as one of the services provided by a business as long as it does not occupy more than 20% of the floor area of the business." Mini four-question survey here: https://goo.gl/rPrK9t
~ There will be a community meeting tonight (Jan. 17) to discuss homeless issues. 6:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room.
~ Public meeting at 6 p.m. on Feb. 1 at the Library to discuss AvalonBay, a proposed 154 unit housing and retail complex that would be located at the northwest corner of Myrtle and Chestnut. It would also have 2,900 square feet of retail space, and a 286-space parking structure.
~ The Monrovia Police Officers' Association's Tip-A-Cop Fundraiser last week raised $500 for Foothill Unity Center. The event was held during lunch at Copper Still Grill. All tips from Monrovia police officers, along with 25% of all sales, were donated.
~ The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a study session to review the Citywide Historic Context Statement on Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Center. The statement will be a tool to evaluate potential historic landmarks and districts.
~ Monrovia's State of the City Address will be on Monday, Jan. 29, at Studio Movie Grill at 7 p.m. Details to come.
~ The Chamber of Commerce has named Sari Canales as its new executive director. There will be a welcome reception today (Jan. 17) from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Chamber. Canales has worked for the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce since 2015 as an Administrative Assistant, Membership Development Coordinator, and Membership Services Director.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council to Consider Monument to Allen Allensworth
At its next meeting (https://goo.gl/PLSvf4) the Monrovia City Council will consider this 10-foot tall monument to early Monrovian, Allen Allensworth, which would be installed on Shamrock, near Second Baptist Church, which I believe Allensworth helped found. The art piece would be produced by Ron Hubbard, "known for his work at Walt Disney Feature Animation, where he has 24 animation credits associated with Walt Disney related films. Mr. Husband is also a Monrovia resident and has the distinction of serving as the first African American Disney animator." https://goo.gl/B3RyMn
Also, the council will hold a hearing and vote on proposed water rate hikes. https://goo.gl/XDtTKx
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at at Sakura Sushi House
Dinner at at Sakura Sushi House, at the corner of Foothill and May, a couple blocks east of Myrtle. Got the Bento Dinner A (chicken) for $16.95 and a small beer ($3.95). The meal came with a little salad and a miso soup. Very good!
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Attack With Machete; Massage Therapist Opens Door for Robbery; Threat Against MHS - In Virginia; Peeper; Fake IRS Scam
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 4-10. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 408 service events, resulting in 88 investigations.
Fraud Incident
January 4 at 9:52 a.m., a fraud incident was reported at a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. The victim purchased two gift cards from the business and had a receipt as proof of purchase. When the recipients of the gift cards went to use them, one did not have a value and the other had already been used. The investigation is ongoing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 10:59 a.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The shoplifter exited the store and ran into a neighboring business, where he was contacted by officers. The subject was not found to be in possession of any merchandise from the business, but a computer check revealed he had numerous warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody. A no trespassing order was completed against the subject for the business.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 408 service events, resulting in 88 investigations.
Fraud Incident
January 4 at 9:52 a.m., a fraud incident was reported at a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. The victim purchased two gift cards from the business and had a receipt as proof of purchase. When the recipients of the gift cards went to use them, one did not have a value and the other had already been used. The investigation is ongoing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 10:59 a.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The shoplifter exited the store and ran into a neighboring business, where he was contacted by officers. The subject was not found to be in possession of any merchandise from the business, but a computer check revealed he had numerous warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody. A no trespassing order was completed against the subject for the business.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:14 p.m., officers responded to a fight in progress in the 400 block of Monrovista. The fight involved two adult brothers and one had been cut with a machete. Both subjects were injured, with one having a laceration on his head. After investigation, the brother identified as the suspect was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and taken to a hospital to be checked out. The brother identified as the victim was also taken to a hospital for treatment.
Suspicious Subject / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:28 p.m., a suspicious subject was reported in the 200 block of N. Primrose looking at houses and in vehicles. Officers responded and detained a subject that fit the description. The subject had no valid reason to be loitering in the residential area, and a computer check revealed he had several warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.
Vandalism
January 5 at 10:46 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. Unknown suspect(s) broke two windows on the victim's vehicle. The investigation is ongoing.
Vandalism
January 5 at 9:49 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 200 block of S. Primrose. The victim reported that the rear window to his Dodge Durango had been smashed. There was a rock laying on the ground near the vehicle. At 7:00 p.m., the victim did hear a loud crash and saw two juveniles running north on Primrose. At the time, the victim did not know the crash sound was the window to his SUV breaking. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
January 6 at 12:30 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 500 block of N. Myrtle. The residents arrived home and discovered an upstairs window was broken. The victims could not determine what was taken at the time of the report. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 3:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations at Evergreen and California. The investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and the driver was arrested for DUI. The vehicle was stored and the driver was held for a sobering period.
Criminal Threats – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 9:57 a.m., an incident of criminal threats was reported in the 100 block of S. Mountain. The victim reported that her neighbor’s boyfriend was at the location and he was threatening to kill her. Officers arrived and took statements from the parties involved and a witness. The suspect was ultimately arrested for verbal threats and was taken into custody.
Grand Theft From a Vehicle
January 6 at 4:48 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 500 block of Fano. The victim reported that her laptop and work identification were taken out of her unlocked vehicle. Her vehicle was parked in her carport when the theft occurred. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglaries
January 6 at 9:56 p.m., two vehicle burglaries were reported in the area of Parker and Mayflower. The victims parked their cars on Parker, near Mayflower, and went inside their homes for the day. Both victims were not sure if they locked their cars or not, and both returned to their vehicles and discovered items missing. The investigations are continuing.
Residential Robbery
January 6 at 9:56 p.m., a robbery was reported at a residence in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks. The victim hired a massage therapist on Craigslist to come to his residence. Eventually, a female and a male subject came to the door and he let them in. While the victim was talking to them, two more male subjects entered his residence. The four suspects hit the victim with a lamp and robbed him of his wallet and cell phone. The suspects fled in a white SUV. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 7 at 11:54 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of N. Mayflower regarding two subjects possibly smoking drugs. The subjects were contacted and one subject was found to have a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.
Traffic Collision
January 7 at 4:09 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Primrose and Linwood. A motorhome struck a parked vehicle and drove away from the scene. Officers arrived and found the motorhome still in the area. The driver had pulled over and was trying to make his way back to the location. The parties exchanged information and the driver was cited for driving on a suspended license.
False Threat Reported at Monrovia High School
January 7 at 9:00 p.m., police dispatch received dozens of calls reporting a photo of rifles and a threat to "MHS" being posted on social media. After investigation, it was determined through Facebook postings that the threat was actually to Monticello High School in Virginia. The post began trending here because it had the hashtag #MHS on it. Nonetheless, there were many upset students and parents, so extra police patrol was provided.
Stolen Vehicle
January 8 at 7:10 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of S. Alta Vista. The vehicle was parked on the street and was stolen sometime overnight. The vehicle is a white, 2001 GMC Savanna. The investigation is continuing.
Hit and Run Traffic Collision
January 8 at 11:45 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of W. Huntington on the report of a hit and run traffic accident. The victim stated his vehicle was struck by a grey Mazda that was traveling east on Huntington. The suspect vehicle fled the area, heading north on Primrose and out of sight. The victim was not injured and the investigation is continuing.
Non-injury Traffic Collision
January 8 at 5:21 p.m., a single vehicle traffic collision occurred on Myrtle at Chestnut. The vehicle overturned as a result of the collision, however, the occupant was not injured. The cause of the collision is under investigation.
Grand Theft
January 8 at 10:20 p.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect placed merchandise into a shopping cart and left the store without paying for the items. The suspect was last seen driving north through the parking lot and east onto Evergreen. The investigation is continuing.
Burglary
January 9 at 6:00 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm activation at a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. When they arrived, they found the front door open. No suspects were at the location and the investigation showed the cash register and some cash had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Peeping / Prowling
January 9 at 7:59 a.m., a peeping/prowling incident was reported at a residence in the 300 block of E. Colorado. A female adult subject was inside her bedroom and noticed a male Hispanic subject peeping through a hole in her blinds. She screamed and the suspect fled in a black truck through an alley. The investigation is continuing.
Burglary
January 9 at 11:10 a.m., a burglary was reported in the 1100 block of S. Fifth Avenue. The victim called and reported his parking garage had been burglarized in the early morning hours. There were two suspects that stole tools and equipment from the location. The suspects loaded the stolen property into a tan Jeep SUV, possibly a Commander. The vehicle had black rims, a burned out headlamp and a sticker in the rear window. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
January 9 at 10:09 a.m., a grand theft incident was reported to police. The victim reported that an unknown suspect called and claimed to be from the IRS. The suspect told the victim she needed to pay back taxes and that she could pay them with Apple gift cards. The victim went to two different Apple stores and purchased gift cards. She then provided the PIN numbers to the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Traffic Collision
January 10 at 6:17 a.m., dispatch received multiple calls reporting an accident at Myrtle and Lime. The collision involved one vehicle that collided with a city bench at the intersection. The driver was found to have a suspended driver's license. He was arrested and later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges. There were no injuries involved.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered
January 10 at 11:37 a.m., the owner of a stolen vehicle called police to report he had located the vehicle in the 600 block of W. Olive. He had received a phone call from a friend of his that had found the vehicle. Officers responded, recovered the vehicle, and it was released to the registered owner.
Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 2:35 p.m., a suspicious person in a vehicle was reported in the 600 block of E. Lime. Officers arrived and contacted the occupant, who was found to be on parole. A computer check revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and a search of his person revealed methamphetamine hidden in his socks. The additional crime was added to his charges.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 5:11 p.m., employees at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to advise they were chasing a theft suspect through the parking lot. The suspect was possibly armed with a knife. The suspect went into a nearby business and locked himself in the bathroom. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He was arrested and booked for shoplifting.
Missing Person
January 10 at 7:25 p.m., a male subject came into the police lobby to report his roommate had been missing for a few days. He was last seen at his residence on Monday, January 8, 2018. He called out sick to work on January 4 and 5. He was a no show to work on January 8, 9 and 10. Local hospitals and jails were checked with negative results. Officers went to the missing person’s residence to see if he showed back up, but he had not returned. The missing person and his vehicle were entered into the law enforcement missing person’s system. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 10:16 p.m., officers stopped a bicyclist for traffic violations. Further investigation revealed she was in possession of an illegal drug. She was arrested and taken into custody. She was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.
Suspicious Subject / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:28 p.m., a suspicious subject was reported in the 200 block of N. Primrose looking at houses and in vehicles. Officers responded and detained a subject that fit the description. The subject had no valid reason to be loitering in the residential area, and a computer check revealed he had several warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.
Vandalism
January 5 at 10:46 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. Unknown suspect(s) broke two windows on the victim's vehicle. The investigation is ongoing.
Vandalism
January 5 at 9:49 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 200 block of S. Primrose. The victim reported that the rear window to his Dodge Durango had been smashed. There was a rock laying on the ground near the vehicle. At 7:00 p.m., the victim did hear a loud crash and saw two juveniles running north on Primrose. At the time, the victim did not know the crash sound was the window to his SUV breaking. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
January 6 at 12:30 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 500 block of N. Myrtle. The residents arrived home and discovered an upstairs window was broken. The victims could not determine what was taken at the time of the report. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 3:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations at Evergreen and California. The investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and the driver was arrested for DUI. The vehicle was stored and the driver was held for a sobering period.
Criminal Threats – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 9:57 a.m., an incident of criminal threats was reported in the 100 block of S. Mountain. The victim reported that her neighbor’s boyfriend was at the location and he was threatening to kill her. Officers arrived and took statements from the parties involved and a witness. The suspect was ultimately arrested for verbal threats and was taken into custody.
Grand Theft From a Vehicle
January 6 at 4:48 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 500 block of Fano. The victim reported that her laptop and work identification were taken out of her unlocked vehicle. Her vehicle was parked in her carport when the theft occurred. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglaries
January 6 at 9:56 p.m., two vehicle burglaries were reported in the area of Parker and Mayflower. The victims parked their cars on Parker, near Mayflower, and went inside their homes for the day. Both victims were not sure if they locked their cars or not, and both returned to their vehicles and discovered items missing. The investigations are continuing.
Residential Robbery
January 6 at 9:56 p.m., a robbery was reported at a residence in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks. The victim hired a massage therapist on Craigslist to come to his residence. Eventually, a female and a male subject came to the door and he let them in. While the victim was talking to them, two more male subjects entered his residence. The four suspects hit the victim with a lamp and robbed him of his wallet and cell phone. The suspects fled in a white SUV. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 7 at 11:54 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of N. Mayflower regarding two subjects possibly smoking drugs. The subjects were contacted and one subject was found to have a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.
Traffic Collision
January 7 at 4:09 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Primrose and Linwood. A motorhome struck a parked vehicle and drove away from the scene. Officers arrived and found the motorhome still in the area. The driver had pulled over and was trying to make his way back to the location. The parties exchanged information and the driver was cited for driving on a suspended license.
False Threat Reported at Monrovia High School
January 7 at 9:00 p.m., police dispatch received dozens of calls reporting a photo of rifles and a threat to "MHS" being posted on social media. After investigation, it was determined through Facebook postings that the threat was actually to Monticello High School in Virginia. The post began trending here because it had the hashtag #MHS on it. Nonetheless, there were many upset students and parents, so extra police patrol was provided.
Stolen Vehicle
January 8 at 7:10 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of S. Alta Vista. The vehicle was parked on the street and was stolen sometime overnight. The vehicle is a white, 2001 GMC Savanna. The investigation is continuing.
Hit and Run Traffic Collision
January 8 at 11:45 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of W. Huntington on the report of a hit and run traffic accident. The victim stated his vehicle was struck by a grey Mazda that was traveling east on Huntington. The suspect vehicle fled the area, heading north on Primrose and out of sight. The victim was not injured and the investigation is continuing.
Non-injury Traffic Collision
January 8 at 5:21 p.m., a single vehicle traffic collision occurred on Myrtle at Chestnut. The vehicle overturned as a result of the collision, however, the occupant was not injured. The cause of the collision is under investigation.
Grand Theft
January 8 at 10:20 p.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect placed merchandise into a shopping cart and left the store without paying for the items. The suspect was last seen driving north through the parking lot and east onto Evergreen. The investigation is continuing.
Burglary
January 9 at 6:00 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm activation at a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. When they arrived, they found the front door open. No suspects were at the location and the investigation showed the cash register and some cash had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Peeping / Prowling
January 9 at 7:59 a.m., a peeping/prowling incident was reported at a residence in the 300 block of E. Colorado. A female adult subject was inside her bedroom and noticed a male Hispanic subject peeping through a hole in her blinds. She screamed and the suspect fled in a black truck through an alley. The investigation is continuing.
Burglary
January 9 at 11:10 a.m., a burglary was reported in the 1100 block of S. Fifth Avenue. The victim called and reported his parking garage had been burglarized in the early morning hours. There were two suspects that stole tools and equipment from the location. The suspects loaded the stolen property into a tan Jeep SUV, possibly a Commander. The vehicle had black rims, a burned out headlamp and a sticker in the rear window. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
January 9 at 10:09 a.m., a grand theft incident was reported to police. The victim reported that an unknown suspect called and claimed to be from the IRS. The suspect told the victim she needed to pay back taxes and that she could pay them with Apple gift cards. The victim went to two different Apple stores and purchased gift cards. She then provided the PIN numbers to the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Traffic Collision
January 10 at 6:17 a.m., dispatch received multiple calls reporting an accident at Myrtle and Lime. The collision involved one vehicle that collided with a city bench at the intersection. The driver was found to have a suspended driver's license. He was arrested and later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges. There were no injuries involved.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered
January 10 at 11:37 a.m., the owner of a stolen vehicle called police to report he had located the vehicle in the 600 block of W. Olive. He had received a phone call from a friend of his that had found the vehicle. Officers responded, recovered the vehicle, and it was released to the registered owner.
Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 2:35 p.m., a suspicious person in a vehicle was reported in the 600 block of E. Lime. Officers arrived and contacted the occupant, who was found to be on parole. A computer check revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and a search of his person revealed methamphetamine hidden in his socks. The additional crime was added to his charges.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 5:11 p.m., employees at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to advise they were chasing a theft suspect through the parking lot. The suspect was possibly armed with a knife. The suspect went into a nearby business and locked himself in the bathroom. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He was arrested and booked for shoplifting.
Missing Person
January 10 at 7:25 p.m., a male subject came into the police lobby to report his roommate had been missing for a few days. He was last seen at his residence on Monday, January 8, 2018. He called out sick to work on January 4 and 5. He was a no show to work on January 8, 9 and 10. Local hospitals and jails were checked with negative results. Officers went to the missing person’s residence to see if he showed back up, but he had not returned. The missing person and his vehicle were entered into the law enforcement missing person’s system. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 10:16 p.m., officers stopped a bicyclist for traffic violations. Further investigation revealed she was in possession of an illegal drug. She was arrested and taken into custody. She was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.
Student Acting Workshop; Emergency Training
~ Five-week Readers Theatre Workshop for students grades 4-12. Combine puppetry, reading, and acting to create mini sketches for a performance at the library. Participants must attend all workshops and the performance. No experience necessary. Thursdays, Jan. 11, 18, 25, and Feb. 1 and 8, 3:30-5 p.m., Library Community Room. Public performance Saturday, Feb. 10, 2 p.m.
~ Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) on Feb. 17, 24, and March 3. Email Suzi Dobson at sdobson@ci.monrovia.ca.us to register.
Source: Becky Shevlin’s calendar
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Senator's Bill Would Help Protect Legislative Staffers From Sexual Harassment
California's Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously passed SB 419, co-authored by Senator Anthony Portantino, who represents Monrovia. The bill "protects victims of sexual harassment in and around the Legislature against retaliation once cases are reported." It is now headed to the full Senate Floor for a vote.
Source: Portantino press release
Comment: What a novel idea! having our legislators live under the same rules they make us live under. I approve.
- Brad Haugaard
Source: Portantino press release
Comment: What a novel idea! having our legislators live under the same rules they make us live under. I approve.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia City Sponsored Meeting on Homelessness
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's New Transportation Plan; Train Depot Almost Done; Help Count Homeless
In his weekly update (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...
~ The city has been working on a new transportation plan called GoMonrovia! that will include:
~ Monrovia’s Historic Santa Fe Depot is almost done. Final inspections will be done within the next few weeks, and then much of construction fencing will come down to allow for partial access of the Station Square Transit Plaza. But there will still need to be tenant improvements for a restaurant.
~ If you are interested in participating in the city's homeless count show up at the Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave.) by 8 p.m. A volunteer training and orientation session will occur at that time, and representatives from the City's Public Services Department and Police Department will be on hand to address any questions / concerns. The actual count is expected to begin at 9 p.m. You an also register online at http://www.theycountwillyou.org/
- Brad Haugaard
~ The city has been working on a new transportation plan called GoMonrovia! that will include:
- More parking.
- A deal with Lyft to provide reduced-fare car rides for Monrovians. (Lyft is like Uber.)
- A deal with LimeBike to provide bicycles for people to ride around town. This bike-share program doesn't require docking stations, but uses a GPS system so bikes can be picked and dropped off anywhere. Use an app to find a bike, scan bike, ride it, lock it when you're done. http://www.limebike.com/
- A scaled down version of the current dial-a-ride program.
Comment: Frankly, I'm impressed. This is good, up-to-date, non-bureaucratic thinking!
~ Monrovia’s Historic Santa Fe Depot is almost done. Final inspections will be done within the next few weeks, and then much of construction fencing will come down to allow for partial access of the Station Square Transit Plaza. But there will still need to be tenant improvements for a restaurant.
~ If you are interested in participating in the city's homeless count show up at the Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave.) by 8 p.m. A volunteer training and orientation session will occur at that time, and representatives from the City's Public Services Department and Police Department will be on hand to address any questions / concerns. The actual count is expected to begin at 9 p.m. You an also register online at http://www.theycountwillyou.org/
- Brad Haugaard
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