School Board Member Alex Zucco says that the Monrovia High robotics team, "Kings and Queens," is half way to its goal of raising the money the team needs to go to St. Louis to compete in the robotic world championships. (Actually, at this writing, the team has raised more than half, $8,020 of the $14,000 it needs.) You can contribute here: http://goo.gl/IAZUht
- Brad Haugaard
Minor Mud Flow Danger in Monrovia Because of Rains This Week
The City of Monrovia is warning that possible rain through Wednesday, if it becomes too heavy, "could bring the threat of minor mud and debris flows" in the area just below the Madison fire area ( http://goo.gl/qEUKJE ). Sixty percent chance of rain predicted for tonight: http://goo.gl/CoUEuv
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Car Roll Over, Attempted Robbery, Shoplifting, Drugs, Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 27-30. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.
Theft from a Vehicle
On March 27 at 7:16 a.m., an officer responded to the 1100 block of East Lemon regarding a vehicle theft. The victim parked his unlocked vehicle in the driveway. When he returned to the car the following morning the car had been ransacked and items had been scattered throughout the car. Unknown if there is a loss.
Commercial Burglary -Suspect Arrested
On March 27 at 4:13 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary. Loss prevention observed a male suspect inside the store, concealing items on his person. The male suspect left the location and was followed to another business by loss prevention. The suspect entered the restroom and was approached by Monrovia Police officers. The suspect admitted taking the property and was arrested and taken into custody.
Theft from a Vehicle
On March 27 at 6:03 p.m., a victim came into the police department to report a theft from his vehicle. The victim parked his unlocked vehicle in the 100 block of West Colorado. When he returned he noticed his sunglasses were missing and his car ransacked. The investigation is continuing.
Commercial Burglary / Possession of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested
On March 28 at 9:03 p.m. officers responded to the 400 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary. A female suspect walked into a business with an empty backpack and selected merchandise, including a backpack. The female suspect concealed the merchandise in her backpack and in the backpack she selected. She left the location without paying for the merchandise and was stopped by loss prevention. During a search of her property a controlled substance was located. She was arrested for commercial burglary and possession of a controlled substance.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On March 29 at 6:53 p.m., officers were investigating a theft in the 600 block of West Huntington when they observed a parked vehicle with what appeared to be a methamphetamine pipe and a baggie of methamphetamine displayed out in the open on the center console. The officers were able to locate the owner of the vehicle who admitted the drugs belonged to him. The suspect was arrested.
Attempt Robbery
On March 29 at 9:17 p.m., dispatch received a call of an attempt robbery in the 800 block of West Foothill. The victim was exiting his residence and approaching his vehicle in the parking lot of his apartment complex. He observed a male suspect inside his vehicle and confronted the suspect. The suspect pulled out a knife and said he would take his vehicle, but then fled on foot to an awaiting vehicle. The victim obtained a plate and officers searched the area, but could not find the suspects or the vehicle. The suspect was described as a male Hispanic in his late 30's or early 40's with a tattoo on his right eye area. The investigation is continuing.
Under of the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On March 29 at 9:26 p.m., dispatch received multiple 911 calls from a subject in the 500 block of East Olive saying he needed protection. A subject was located and questioned. During the questioning, the subject displayed symptoms of being under the influence of a stimulant. The subject admitted smoking methamphetamine earlier and stated he had more in his apartment. The subject gave officers consent to enter his apartment and retrieve the drugs. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol - Suspect Arrested
On March 30 at 1:45 a.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 100 block of West Foothill of a possible drunk driver, in the drive through. Officers arrived and stopped the vehicle as it left the location. During the investigation, it was determined that the driver was under the influence and was arrested.
Injury Traffic Collision
On March 30 at 1:59 p.m., officers responded to the 900 block of South Mayflower regarding a vehicle rollover traffic collision. Further investigation revealed the driver fell asleep and crashed into a parked vehicle, causing the vehicle to rollover. The driver was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Property under Observation
On March 30 at 6:25 p.m., officers responded to 400 block of Stedman regarding a suspicious person loitering on the property and possible drug activity. Officers arrived and detained a subject they suspected of committing vehicle burglaries and another female that lives at the residence. Inside the open garage, officers noticed a pile off cell phones and drug paraphernalia. An officer recognized property that looked like a sunglass case that was taken in a prior vehicle burglary. Officers searched the residence for additional stolen property. Investigation is continuing.
Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.
Theft from a Vehicle
On March 27 at 7:16 a.m., an officer responded to the 1100 block of East Lemon regarding a vehicle theft. The victim parked his unlocked vehicle in the driveway. When he returned to the car the following morning the car had been ransacked and items had been scattered throughout the car. Unknown if there is a loss.
Commercial Burglary -Suspect Arrested
On March 27 at 4:13 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary. Loss prevention observed a male suspect inside the store, concealing items on his person. The male suspect left the location and was followed to another business by loss prevention. The suspect entered the restroom and was approached by Monrovia Police officers. The suspect admitted taking the property and was arrested and taken into custody.
Theft from a Vehicle
On March 27 at 6:03 p.m., a victim came into the police department to report a theft from his vehicle. The victim parked his unlocked vehicle in the 100 block of West Colorado. When he returned he noticed his sunglasses were missing and his car ransacked. The investigation is continuing.
Commercial Burglary / Possession of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested
On March 28 at 9:03 p.m. officers responded to the 400 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary. A female suspect walked into a business with an empty backpack and selected merchandise, including a backpack. The female suspect concealed the merchandise in her backpack and in the backpack she selected. She left the location without paying for the merchandise and was stopped by loss prevention. During a search of her property a controlled substance was located. She was arrested for commercial burglary and possession of a controlled substance.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On March 29 at 6:53 p.m., officers were investigating a theft in the 600 block of West Huntington when they observed a parked vehicle with what appeared to be a methamphetamine pipe and a baggie of methamphetamine displayed out in the open on the center console. The officers were able to locate the owner of the vehicle who admitted the drugs belonged to him. The suspect was arrested.
Attempt Robbery
On March 29 at 9:17 p.m., dispatch received a call of an attempt robbery in the 800 block of West Foothill. The victim was exiting his residence and approaching his vehicle in the parking lot of his apartment complex. He observed a male suspect inside his vehicle and confronted the suspect. The suspect pulled out a knife and said he would take his vehicle, but then fled on foot to an awaiting vehicle. The victim obtained a plate and officers searched the area, but could not find the suspects or the vehicle. The suspect was described as a male Hispanic in his late 30's or early 40's with a tattoo on his right eye area. The investigation is continuing.
Under of the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On March 29 at 9:26 p.m., dispatch received multiple 911 calls from a subject in the 500 block of East Olive saying he needed protection. A subject was located and questioned. During the questioning, the subject displayed symptoms of being under the influence of a stimulant. The subject admitted smoking methamphetamine earlier and stated he had more in his apartment. The subject gave officers consent to enter his apartment and retrieve the drugs. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol - Suspect Arrested
On March 30 at 1:45 a.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 100 block of West Foothill of a possible drunk driver, in the drive through. Officers arrived and stopped the vehicle as it left the location. During the investigation, it was determined that the driver was under the influence and was arrested.
Injury Traffic Collision
On March 30 at 1:59 p.m., officers responded to the 900 block of South Mayflower regarding a vehicle rollover traffic collision. Further investigation revealed the driver fell asleep and crashed into a parked vehicle, causing the vehicle to rollover. The driver was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Property under Observation
On March 30 at 6:25 p.m., officers responded to 400 block of Stedman regarding a suspicious person loitering on the property and possible drug activity. Officers arrived and detained a subject they suspected of committing vehicle burglaries and another female that lives at the residence. Inside the open garage, officers noticed a pile off cell phones and drug paraphernalia. An officer recognized property that looked like a sunglass case that was taken in a prior vehicle burglary. Officers searched the residence for additional stolen property. Investigation is continuing.
Pastor of Monrovia's Second Baptist Celebrates 40 Years
Monrovia's Second Baptist Church in Monrovia celebrated the fortieth anniversary of its pastor, Dr. William Larue Dillard, with a banquet Saturday. http://goo.gl/4y9RuH
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Quake in Monrovia
Apparently an earthquake in Monrovia. I'll update when I get more information.
Update: Centered near La Habra.
LA Times says it was a 5.3: http://goo.gl/ZmYfES
Star-News says a 3.6, and no damage reported: http://goo.gl/3Naazx
It felt like shaking then swaying to me. Not too bad.
- Brad Haugaard
Update: Centered near La Habra.
LA Times says it was a 5.3: http://goo.gl/ZmYfES
Star-News says a 3.6, and no damage reported: http://goo.gl/3Naazx
It felt like shaking then swaying to me. Not too bad.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia VFW Honors Students, Receives Fire Fighter's Donation
The Monrovia VFW has given awards for leadership excellence to two Civil Air Patrol cadets from the El Monte Squadron and one to an ROTC cadet from Azusa Pacific. CAP is the auxiliary of the Air Force and offers teens training in aerospace and leadership in a military frame work. Each cadet received a medal, certificate, proclamation from the City of Monrovia, and a grant from the post Memorial Scholarship & Grant Fund to support their educations.
Also, the Monrovia Fire Fighters' Association made a substantial donation (amount currently confidential) to the VFW's Memorial Scholarship & Grant Fund, allowing the post to offer larger grants and scholarships. The Fund accomplishes the organizational goal, "to preserve the memory and history of our dead." Each grant (including those given to the cadets) comes with a certificate listing every service member from the Monrovia-Arcadia-Duarte area who has been killed in combat.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Gene's Grinders
Lunch at Gene's Grinders, at Myrtle and Olive. Got the Friday Special, a large Italian sausage sandwich ($7.50) and an iced tea (huge, for $1.70). Very big. Half would have been plenty, but, well, it was good and I ate it all. I'm now officially stuffed.
- Brad Haugaard
The Art of Monrovia's New Train Station
Hand painted ramp tiles by Cha Rie Tang, Artist.
Art for the coming Monrovia Gold Line station is being called, "River of Time," and celebrates Monrovia's architectural heritage and natural beauty. Artist Cha-Rie Tang has combined tile, glass and natural materials, with a suggestion of water toward the station platforms by a band of field tiles glazed to suggest a stream, as well as from handmade glass bricks around a river-worn boulder that will sit at the entrance to the station. Each column base will include decorative tiles, created to celebrate the local history of Batchelder tiles. Source: http://goo.gl/Zc8w1q
- Brad Haugaard
Gold Line Progress in Monrovia
Canopy structure at the Monrovia Station, which will have two side platforms.
Crews are completing light rail track installation at the Myrtle Ave grade crossing in Monrovia.
Source: Gold Line Construction Authority press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Trader Joe's Markets Rated Best | Candle Fundraiser | Yoga at St. Luke's
~ Monrovia-based Trader Joe's comes out as top supermarket in survey. Good service, good perishables, good prices, and clean stores. http://goo.gl/LjmNoh
~ During April Monrovia's Xylem Spa (198 S. Myrtle) will donate 100 percent of the purchase price ($12) of its "Light the Way" candles to Global Greengrants Fund, a non-profit working to solve environmental problems. The scented candles are in reclaimed glass beverage bottles and the cartons contain recycled paper materials.
~ Gyl Elliott, of Gita Yoga Learning, will host yoga workshops at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. all from 6 to 9 p.m. April 16, Potions for Powerful Healing: aromatherapy based on Indian philosophy of healing; May 14, Shakti Yoga Philosophy and Practice, to "gain physical, mental and emotional strength via movement, breath, healers and meditation;" June 18, Yoga of Breath and Focus. Breathing exercises. Bring a compact or hand mirror. $45 each workshop.
- Brad Haugaard
~ During April Monrovia's Xylem Spa (198 S. Myrtle) will donate 100 percent of the purchase price ($12) of its "Light the Way" candles to Global Greengrants Fund, a non-profit working to solve environmental problems. The scented candles are in reclaimed glass beverage bottles and the cartons contain recycled paper materials.
~ Gyl Elliott, of Gita Yoga Learning, will host yoga workshops at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. all from 6 to 9 p.m. April 16, Potions for Powerful Healing: aromatherapy based on Indian philosophy of healing; May 14, Shakti Yoga Philosophy and Practice, to "gain physical, mental and emotional strength via movement, breath, healers and meditation;" June 18, Yoga of Breath and Focus. Breathing exercises. Bring a compact or hand mirror. $45 each workshop.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council: City Manager Search, Transit Village, Plastic Bag Report, Honors and Arbor Day
The Monrovia City Council will hold another closed session on March 31 at 4 p.m. about the city manager ( http://goo.gl/6w9r7a ), and again on April 1 ( http://goo.gl/0agRtq ). Comment: This search for a new city manager seems to be going on for quite a long time.
At a study session at 5 p.m. on April 1, the council will get an update and discuss the Station Square Transit Village project. http://goo.gl/NpjHaI
At the regular 7:30 p.m. meeting on April 1 (agenda: http://goo.gl/b6zDqi ), the council will:
- Hear a recommendation from the Reuseable Bag Regulation Ad Hoc Committee recommending the city prepare an ordinance for consideration.
- Introduce newly hired Director of Community Services Tina Cherry.
- Proclaim April 24, 2014, as "Arbor Day"
- Recognize Margarita Sandoval, 2014 Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills Youth of the Year and 2014 Boys and Girls Club Los Angeles County Alliance Youth of the Year; and Samantha Rodarte and Donye Neal, 2014 Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills Youth of the Year finalists.
- Brad Haugaard
At a study session at 5 p.m. on April 1, the council will get an update and discuss the Station Square Transit Village project. http://goo.gl/NpjHaI
At the regular 7:30 p.m. meeting on April 1 (agenda: http://goo.gl/b6zDqi ), the council will:
- Hear a recommendation from the Reuseable Bag Regulation Ad Hoc Committee recommending the city prepare an ordinance for consideration.
- Introduce newly hired Director of Community Services Tina Cherry.
- Proclaim April 24, 2014, as "Arbor Day"
- Recognize Margarita Sandoval, 2014 Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills Youth of the Year and 2014 Boys and Girls Club Los Angeles County Alliance Youth of the Year; and Samantha Rodarte and Donye Neal, 2014 Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills Youth of the Year finalists.
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at the VFW
Dinner at the VFW, corner of Magnolia and Chestnut. Robert Parry invited me to come to its Thursday night (5-7:30 p.m.) open-to-the-public Burger Feast. Got a $5 cheeseburger with fries (he paid) and a beer for $2.50 (I paid). It was a really good burger, a great price, and it helps support the VFW's education and veteran relief efforts.
Also, the post has Sunday breakfast brunch 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday tacos, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's St. Baldrick's Foundation Helps Arcadia Go Bald
Arcadia's Matt Denny's restaurant and Del Sol Salon, working through Monrovia's St. Baldrick's Foundation, sponsored a head-shaving event to raise money for kids with cancer. http://goo.gl/OfGGSu
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Lost Mountain Biker - and Dog - Rescued; Drunk and Mean; Hit and Run; Car Crimes
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 24-26. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 398 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 398 service events, resulting in 82 investigations.
Vehicle Burglary
March 24 at 8:42 a.m., an officer was dispatched to Duarte and Encino regarding a suspicious vehicle that had the right rear door and trunk open, and appeared ransacked. Through investigation, the officer determined that the victim had parked and secured the vehicle on the night before at about 9:00 p.m. The loss was two tennis rackets and a soccer ball from the trunk. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered
March 24 at 10:08 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 1800 block of South Mountain on the report of a recovered vehicle. A company van was reported stolen to Monrovia Police Department on March 22. The company received a call from a resident in Rowland Heights telling him a van from their company had been parked there for several days. The company had the vehicle towed back to their business in Monrovia and called police to report the vehicle had been recovered. A carpet cleaning pump had been taken from the van. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft from a Vehicle
March 24 at 4:31 p.m., an officer responded to a parking lot in the 1700 block of South Mountain on the report of a theft from a vehicle. The victim parked her vehicle in the parking lot after lunch and went into work, but did not lock the vehicle. When she returned to it, she found someone had broken into her vehicle and the backseat was missing. The officer handling the investigation checked the area and found another vehicle that had also been burglarized. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 24 at 5:51 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim had parked his company vehicle in a business parking lot. He locked the vehicle, but left a company laptop computer and a duffle bag containing a camera, cell phone, and tools on the front seat of the vehicle. He left the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes. When he returned to it, he found a window had been smashed and his property had been taken. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
March 24 at 7:00 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim parked and secured his vehicle behind his business two days earlier and possibly left the ignition key in the center console or driver's door storage compartment. When he returned, his vehicle was missing. The vehicle is described as a Gray, 2005, Ford Excursion. The investigation is continuing.
Public Intoxication / Obstructing & Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
March 24 at 9:34 p.m., a business in the 100 block of West Foothill called police regarding a disturbing subject. An intoxicated male adult entered the store and attempted to purchase beer. The employee refused service because he seemed too intoxicated. The subject began verbally abusing the store employees and refused to leave. The officer arrived and contacted the subject, who became aggressive by getting into a fighting stance. The officer was able to quickly control the subject and arrested him without further incident. No one was injured.
Lost Mountain Biker Rescued
March 24 at 10:52 p.m., an officer was dispatched to Canyon Park regarding the report of a lost mountain biker. A 46-year-old male subject from Pomona entered the Fish Canyon area on his mountain bike at about 6:00 p.m. with his dog following him on a leash. The mountain biker was attempting to ride up the mountainous trail leading to the radio tower and became disoriented and unable to find his way back to the city limits. He rode for several hours without water and had become very thirsty. He was cold as a result of the drop in temperature and did not have warm clothing. The biker had 7% battery life on his cell phone, but was able to call his friend, a Monrovia resident, for help. The biker was able to provide the fire road number he was traveling on just before his cell phone lost complete power. The friend immediately called police to report his friend was in need of help. Monrovia dispatchers attempted to call the lost biker's cell phone but it went straight to voice mail, indicating his phone was either shut off or dead. The dispatchers conducted a search of the fire road number and discovered it to be near the Camp Trask Boy Scout Camp. All available officers were sent to the area to begin searching for the biker. Arrangements were being made for additional resources to join in the search when an officer located the biker on the main road leading to Camp Trask at approximately 11:15 p.m. The biker was thirsty and cold, but in good condition. His dog appeared fine as well.
Note: I took a wrong road down from up there and ended at a dead-end beneath a power tower. Had to push my bike a long way up a very steep road to get back to the top. Careful up there! - Brad
Grand Theft Auto
March 25 at 4:04 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business in the 1600 bock of South Mountain. The victim parked and secured her vehicle in the parking lot. She went into the store for about ten minutes, and when she returned to the vehicle, it was gone. The vehicle is a white, two-door, extra cab, 1997 Nissan Frontier. The hood has grey primer spots on it and it has a black lumber rack in the bed. The investigation is continuing.
Theft From a Vehicle
March 25 at 4:44 p.m., a theft from a vehicle in the 1600 block of South Myrtle was reported to police. The incident occurred the day prior on March 24. The victim parked his vehicle in the Park and Ride lot. While he was away, someone entered his vehicle and took several pairs of glasses, subwoofers, and a backpack. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
March 26 at 7:43 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of West Walnut. The victim parked and secured her vehicle across from her residence in the evening. She was up late and discovered the vehicle missing at 12:10 a.m. The vehicle is a white, 1997, Ford F150 truck. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 26 at 8:10 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of East Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle and went inside a business. When he returned, the left rear window of his vehicle was smashed. The victim's computer and other miscellaneous items that were left in the vehicle were taken. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 12:35 p.m., a citizen called police to report four homeless subjects hiding in a parking structure in the 100 block of West Lemon. They were in the southeast corner of the parking structure near a white BMW. Officers arrived and recognized them as local homeless subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of a methamphetamine pipe and was arrested.
Grand Theft
March 26 at 12:54 p.m., a victim called police and reported that while he was working to the rear of a location in the 400 block of East Huntington, someone stole a pallet jack and aluminum topper for an ATM from the rental truck he was using. The investigation is continuing.
Hit & Run Traffic Collision / Vandalism
March 26 at 6:51 p.m., an officer responded to the area of Olive and Shamrock regarding a hit and run traffic collision. The officer’s investigation revealed the cause of this collision was possibly intentional and the parties possibly knew each other. Apparently, three vehicles were involved and a suspect threw a hammer at the victim's windshield. One of the suspects came to the police lobby approximately one hour after the incident in an effort to report that he was involved in a traffic collision, but he failed to provide accurate details about how the collision occurred. The investigation is continuing. At 7:14 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Lime and Heliotrope was flagged down by a victim who reported that someone had smashed the windshield of his vehicle. The victim did not have any further details to provide about how the incident occurred. There is a possibility this vandalism is related to the above hit and run traffic incident. The victim vehicle in this incident is the same vehicle used during a stabbing that occurred last week. The investigation is continuing
Vehicle Burglary
March 26 at 10:10 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the victim's right, rear, passenger window.The victim does not know if any of her property was taken. The incident occurred sometime between 1:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The investigation is continuing.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 398 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 398 service events, resulting in 82 investigations.
Vehicle Burglary
March 24 at 8:42 a.m., an officer was dispatched to Duarte and Encino regarding a suspicious vehicle that had the right rear door and trunk open, and appeared ransacked. Through investigation, the officer determined that the victim had parked and secured the vehicle on the night before at about 9:00 p.m. The loss was two tennis rackets and a soccer ball from the trunk. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered
March 24 at 10:08 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 1800 block of South Mountain on the report of a recovered vehicle. A company van was reported stolen to Monrovia Police Department on March 22. The company received a call from a resident in Rowland Heights telling him a van from their company had been parked there for several days. The company had the vehicle towed back to their business in Monrovia and called police to report the vehicle had been recovered. A carpet cleaning pump had been taken from the van. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft from a Vehicle
March 24 at 4:31 p.m., an officer responded to a parking lot in the 1700 block of South Mountain on the report of a theft from a vehicle. The victim parked her vehicle in the parking lot after lunch and went into work, but did not lock the vehicle. When she returned to it, she found someone had broken into her vehicle and the backseat was missing. The officer handling the investigation checked the area and found another vehicle that had also been burglarized. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 24 at 5:51 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim had parked his company vehicle in a business parking lot. He locked the vehicle, but left a company laptop computer and a duffle bag containing a camera, cell phone, and tools on the front seat of the vehicle. He left the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes. When he returned to it, he found a window had been smashed and his property had been taken. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
March 24 at 7:00 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim parked and secured his vehicle behind his business two days earlier and possibly left the ignition key in the center console or driver's door storage compartment. When he returned, his vehicle was missing. The vehicle is described as a Gray, 2005, Ford Excursion. The investigation is continuing.
Public Intoxication / Obstructing & Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
March 24 at 9:34 p.m., a business in the 100 block of West Foothill called police regarding a disturbing subject. An intoxicated male adult entered the store and attempted to purchase beer. The employee refused service because he seemed too intoxicated. The subject began verbally abusing the store employees and refused to leave. The officer arrived and contacted the subject, who became aggressive by getting into a fighting stance. The officer was able to quickly control the subject and arrested him without further incident. No one was injured.
Lost Mountain Biker Rescued
March 24 at 10:52 p.m., an officer was dispatched to Canyon Park regarding the report of a lost mountain biker. A 46-year-old male subject from Pomona entered the Fish Canyon area on his mountain bike at about 6:00 p.m. with his dog following him on a leash. The mountain biker was attempting to ride up the mountainous trail leading to the radio tower and became disoriented and unable to find his way back to the city limits. He rode for several hours without water and had become very thirsty. He was cold as a result of the drop in temperature and did not have warm clothing. The biker had 7% battery life on his cell phone, but was able to call his friend, a Monrovia resident, for help. The biker was able to provide the fire road number he was traveling on just before his cell phone lost complete power. The friend immediately called police to report his friend was in need of help. Monrovia dispatchers attempted to call the lost biker's cell phone but it went straight to voice mail, indicating his phone was either shut off or dead. The dispatchers conducted a search of the fire road number and discovered it to be near the Camp Trask Boy Scout Camp. All available officers were sent to the area to begin searching for the biker. Arrangements were being made for additional resources to join in the search when an officer located the biker on the main road leading to Camp Trask at approximately 11:15 p.m. The biker was thirsty and cold, but in good condition. His dog appeared fine as well.
Note: I took a wrong road down from up there and ended at a dead-end beneath a power tower. Had to push my bike a long way up a very steep road to get back to the top. Careful up there! - Brad
Grand Theft Auto
March 25 at 4:04 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business in the 1600 bock of South Mountain. The victim parked and secured her vehicle in the parking lot. She went into the store for about ten minutes, and when she returned to the vehicle, it was gone. The vehicle is a white, two-door, extra cab, 1997 Nissan Frontier. The hood has grey primer spots on it and it has a black lumber rack in the bed. The investigation is continuing.
Theft From a Vehicle
March 25 at 4:44 p.m., a theft from a vehicle in the 1600 block of South Myrtle was reported to police. The incident occurred the day prior on March 24. The victim parked his vehicle in the Park and Ride lot. While he was away, someone entered his vehicle and took several pairs of glasses, subwoofers, and a backpack. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
March 26 at 7:43 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of West Walnut. The victim parked and secured her vehicle across from her residence in the evening. She was up late and discovered the vehicle missing at 12:10 a.m. The vehicle is a white, 1997, Ford F150 truck. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 26 at 8:10 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of East Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle and went inside a business. When he returned, the left rear window of his vehicle was smashed. The victim's computer and other miscellaneous items that were left in the vehicle were taken. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 12:35 p.m., a citizen called police to report four homeless subjects hiding in a parking structure in the 100 block of West Lemon. They were in the southeast corner of the parking structure near a white BMW. Officers arrived and recognized them as local homeless subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of a methamphetamine pipe and was arrested.
Grand Theft
March 26 at 12:54 p.m., a victim called police and reported that while he was working to the rear of a location in the 400 block of East Huntington, someone stole a pallet jack and aluminum topper for an ATM from the rental truck he was using. The investigation is continuing.
Hit & Run Traffic Collision / Vandalism
March 26 at 6:51 p.m., an officer responded to the area of Olive and Shamrock regarding a hit and run traffic collision. The officer’s investigation revealed the cause of this collision was possibly intentional and the parties possibly knew each other. Apparently, three vehicles were involved and a suspect threw a hammer at the victim's windshield. One of the suspects came to the police lobby approximately one hour after the incident in an effort to report that he was involved in a traffic collision, but he failed to provide accurate details about how the collision occurred. The investigation is continuing. At 7:14 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Lime and Heliotrope was flagged down by a victim who reported that someone had smashed the windshield of his vehicle. The victim did not have any further details to provide about how the incident occurred. There is a possibility this vandalism is related to the above hit and run traffic incident. The victim vehicle in this incident is the same vehicle used during a stabbing that occurred last week. The investigation is continuing
Vehicle Burglary
March 26 at 10:10 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the victim's right, rear, passenger window.The victim does not know if any of her property was taken. The incident occurred sometime between 1:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The investigation is continuing.
Monrovia Maryknoll Events: Early Days Luncheon, Pechanga Trip
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 - Sister's Day & Luncheon. A presentation of "Maryknoll Monrovia the Early Days," followed by three sisters talking about their work as a missioner. The luncheon will begin at noon. Cost is $15 for the luncheon. Please make reservations by Friday, April 4. Maryknoll Sisters, 300 Norumbega Dr., Monrovia, 358-1825.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014 - Maryknoll Guild Pechanga Turn-Around Trip. Start at the Maryknoll Sisters parking lot at 8:30 a.m., board a bus to the Pechanga Casino. $25 per person. Payment by April 15. Send name, address, telephone, with check payable to Maryknoll Guild to: Pattie Tellez, 175 N. Sunset Pl., Monrovia, CA 91016. Parking lot address: Maryknoll Sisters 300 Norumbega Dr., Monrovia.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014 - Maryknoll Guild Pechanga Turn-Around Trip. Start at the Maryknoll Sisters parking lot at 8:30 a.m., board a bus to the Pechanga Casino. $25 per person. Payment by April 15. Send name, address, telephone, with check payable to Maryknoll Guild to: Pattie Tellez, 175 N. Sunset Pl., Monrovia, CA 91016. Parking lot address: Maryknoll Sisters 300 Norumbega Dr., Monrovia.
Former Monrovia Mayor Honored by Gold Line Construction Authority
Tonight, the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority Board of Directors recognizes the service and departure of its longest-serving member - former Monrovia mayor and councilmember Lara Larramendi, and welcomes its newest member - Caltrans District 7 Director Carrie Bowen.
A 30-year veteran of Caltrans and advisor on numerous transportation projects throughout California, Ms. Bowen will serve as the gubernatorial appointee, replacing Ms. Larramendi.
The board will also recognize outgoing board member Lara Larramendi for her 11 years of service on the board. Ms. Larramendi was appointed to the board in 2003 by then-Governor Gray Davis, and has served as one of the agency's strongest and most outspoken proponents ever since. Her public service history includes serving 15 years as a Monrovia city councilmember, with two of those years serving as the directly-elected mayor. Ms. Larramendi began serving on the board following completion of the initial Gold Line segment between Pasadena and Union Station, and has helped direct the agency as it has completed the planning efforts for the Foothill Gold Line, the first half of which broke ground in 2010 and is on-schedule and on-budget to be completed in September 2015.
"I must truly commend Lara for the positive legacy she is leaving behind on our board," stated Tessitor. "She has always been the first one in line to get the word out about the needs of the project, and has worked tirelessly on its behalf." Tessitor added, "We will definitely miss her ideas, enthusiasm and energy."
Following recognition of Ms. Larramendi's efforts over the last 11 years by the board at tonight's meeting, Ms. Bowen will be officially sworn in and attend her first meeting. The meeting takes place at the Construction Authority's office, 406 E. Huntington Drive, Suite 202, Monrovia; starting at 7 PM.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
A 30-year veteran of Caltrans and advisor on numerous transportation projects throughout California, Ms. Bowen will serve as the gubernatorial appointee, replacing Ms. Larramendi.
The board will also recognize outgoing board member Lara Larramendi for her 11 years of service on the board. Ms. Larramendi was appointed to the board in 2003 by then-Governor Gray Davis, and has served as one of the agency's strongest and most outspoken proponents ever since. Her public service history includes serving 15 years as a Monrovia city councilmember, with two of those years serving as the directly-elected mayor. Ms. Larramendi began serving on the board following completion of the initial Gold Line segment between Pasadena and Union Station, and has helped direct the agency as it has completed the planning efforts for the Foothill Gold Line, the first half of which broke ground in 2010 and is on-schedule and on-budget to be completed in September 2015.
"I must truly commend Lara for the positive legacy she is leaving behind on our board," stated Tessitor. "She has always been the first one in line to get the word out about the needs of the project, and has worked tirelessly on its behalf." Tessitor added, "We will definitely miss her ideas, enthusiasm and energy."
Following recognition of Ms. Larramendi's efforts over the last 11 years by the board at tonight's meeting, Ms. Bowen will be officially sworn in and attend her first meeting. The meeting takes place at the Construction Authority's office, 406 E. Huntington Drive, Suite 202, Monrovia; starting at 7 PM.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High Has Only LA-Area Robotics Team to Qualify for Robotics World Championship
"Your Highness" the Monrovia High robot.
Five young women from Monrovia High School and their rhinestone-encrusted robot Five young women from Monrovia High School and their rhinestone-encrusted robot qualified to advance to the 2014 First Tech Challenge Robotics World Championships as a result of their strong performance at the West Super-Regional Robotics Tournament held near Sacramento at the former McClellan Air Force Base this past weekend, the Monrovia High School Robotics Program announced today. The Monrovia team, the only qualifier from the Los Angeles area, joins three San Diego teams and four Northern California teams to be among the 128 top teams from around the world to compete at the First Robotics World Championships to be held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis April 23-26. A total of 24 teams advanced from the West Super-Regional including teams from Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona.
These five junior class women – the “Kings and Queens” team – stand out not just for their signature costumes of purple-velvet-and gold-embroidered renaissance dresses and the purple and gold medieval royal pavilion where the team relaxes between matches. Their purple robot “Your Highness” performed flawlessly during the competition even after a failure of the robot’s transport cart sent it plunging to the floor of the arena in an unplanned four-foot “drop test.” In fact, during the crucial and difficult software-controlled “autonomous period” of the matches, Your Highness achieved a perfect record of 10 of 10 successful autonomous runs scoring an average of 56 autonomous points per match out of a possible 60.
The members of the Kings And Queens team - Amanda Sullivan, Melissa Johnson, Emma McIntosh, Jordan Nunez and Nicole Miller - designed and built their 18 by 18 inch robot from Tetrix parts, plexiglas, metal shapes and machined aluminum to compete with alliances of robots on a 12 by 12 foot field. In competitions the robots are required to perform a variety of tasks in 2-1/2 minutes including picking up 2-inch plastic cubes and depositing them into elevated goals, navigating a wooden ramp, raising a flag up a pole, and gripping a cross bar and pulling themselves up completely off the floor, all while coordinating with a partner robot and while sharing the field with an opposing team of robots intent on accomplishing the same tasks.
This marks the first trip to the world championships for Monrovia High School’s four-year-old FTC robotics program which fields four separate student robotics teams supported by company sponsors, the community, and parents, and is led by physics teacher Tom Dobson. The success of the Kings And Queens caps a strong year for Monrovia High which saw all four of the program’s teams qualify over the season to compete in the Los Angeles Regional Championship Tournament held in Monrovia in February. At the L.A. regional tournament the Kings And Queens team was awarded the Inspire Award, FTC Robotics highest award naming them the "role-model" team for their on-field success, teamwork, inspiration to others, representation of the First Robotics program to their school and community, and embodiment of "Gracious Professionalism," the core value of the FIRST program.
The Monrovia High FTC robotics after-school program is one of many opportunities at Monrovia High School supporting STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and math) in conjunction with Monrovia’s Math and Science Academy, and supported by the Monrovia Schools Foundation. The Monrovia High School FTC robotics program is actively seeking tax-deductible donations and company sponsorships to help cover the approximate $13,000 cost of taking the team to St. Louis in April. Donations may be made through our GoFundMe page at http://www.gofundme.com/75ehc4.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Bark for Life Monrovia This Sunday
Earlier Bark for Life Monrovia
The 5th Annual Bark For Life of Monrovia will be held this Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Library Park, Myrtle side. Proceeds will support the American Cancer Society.
More than 15 vendors will attend, including Two Dogs Petsitting with Beans The Whippet, GoodDogBeds, Unleashed by Petco, The Dog Zone, Family Dog & Cat Hospital, Dr. Domotor's Animal House Vet Hosp, Arcadia Methodist Hospital's Therapy Pet Team, Romping Dogs Dog Training, Pawmazing Photography, Pasadena Humane Society, Highlander Pet Center, and more.
The event will begin and end with a tour of Myrtle Ave. dog-friendly merchants, plus contests and games to challenge your pups and donate to ACS. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet, and be well-behaved around other dogs.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Myrtle Avenue Railroad | Monrovia High Class of 72 | Unity Center 'Fabulous 50s' Dinner
~ The Myrtle Avenue Railroad, powered by mules. A bit of history: http://goo.gl/Vyw0a0
~ Monrovia High Class of 1972 is having its 60th Birthday Bash on Sat., July 19, from 3-10 p.m., with food, music and dancing. Open to MHS alums from around 1972 who are 60ish. - Send checks ($30/person) payable to Shirley Slattery, P.O.Box 2112, Monrovia, CA 91016, or, to pay by Paypal go to www.paypal.com, click on "send money" and enter email address monrovia72@gmail.com. RSVP to monrovia72@gmail.com.
~ Foothill Unity Center's "Fabulous 50s" 15th Golden Plate Awards Dinner on April 26. Details: http://goo.gl/MKdarl
- Brad Haugaard
~ Monrovia High Class of 1972 is having its 60th Birthday Bash on Sat., July 19, from 3-10 p.m., with food, music and dancing. Open to MHS alums from around 1972 who are 60ish. - Send checks ($30/person) payable to Shirley Slattery, P.O.Box 2112, Monrovia, CA 91016, or, to pay by Paypal go to www.paypal.com, click on "send money" and enter email address monrovia72@gmail.com. RSVP to monrovia72@gmail.com.
~ Foothill Unity Center's "Fabulous 50s" 15th Golden Plate Awards Dinner on April 26. Details: http://goo.gl/MKdarl
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Hires Tina Cherry as New Community Services Director
Cherry's career focus has been on service to the community through youth and recreation programs. Her career has taken her through many cities and given her great experience, starting as a recreation leader and making her way up through the ranks of the Community Services Departments of Yorba Linda, Diamond Bar, Laguna Hills and Chino.
Cherry has managed before and after-school programs, seasonal camps for youth, intervention and prevention programs, city-wide special events, literacy and health initiatives, the Chino Youth Museum and the armed forces banner program. As Community Services Director for the City of Monrovia, Cherry will oversee the Recreation and Library Division.
Cherry graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Cal State Fullerton in 2003, and received her Master's in Public Administration from Cal State Northridge in 2010.
"I am honored to be part of this very strong team here in Monrovia- it seems to be a really good fit," said Cherry. Ms. Cherry began work in Monrovia on Monday, March 24, 2014. Former Community Services Director April Soash retired in November 2013.
Born in Yorba Linda, CA, she now lives in the City of Corona with her husband of nine years, Craig Cherry.
Source: City of Monrovia press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High Triumphs: Color Guard Undefeated; Drum Line is Finalist; Robotics Team Among Best in Country
~ This weekend, the Monrovia High Color Guard continued its undefeated season by winning first place in Division AA at both the WGASC Golden Valley Tournament on Friday and the WGASC Arcadia Tournament on Sunday. The Sunday score set a new personal best for Monrovia Color Guard and seats the team second among 92 schools as it looks for its third championship in four years.
~ Also this weekend, the Monrovia High Drum Line competed in the WGI Western Percussion Championship, where it qualified as a finalist, seating 6th out of 18, finishing 7th at finals.
~ Monrovia High's "Kings & Queens" robotics team competed at the three-day Western Super Regional Championship, where it had an 8-2 qualifying record and made it to its divisional semifinal. At the tournament the Kings & Queens competed against 72 teams from 14 states. Teams at this level represent the top 7 percent of robotics teams in the country.
Source: http://goo.gl/UbNOi8
- Brad Haugaard
~ Also this weekend, the Monrovia High Drum Line competed in the WGI Western Percussion Championship, where it qualified as a finalist, seating 6th out of 18, finishing 7th at finals.
~ Monrovia High's "Kings & Queens" robotics team competed at the three-day Western Super Regional Championship, where it had an 8-2 qualifying record and made it to its divisional semifinal. At the tournament the Kings & Queens competed against 72 teams from 14 states. Teams at this level represent the top 7 percent of robotics teams in the country.
Source: http://goo.gl/UbNOi8
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Pit Bull Attack; Armed Play Station Robbery; Knife Fight Over Love?
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 20-23. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Stolen Vehicle
On March 20 at 9:04 a.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 1800 block of South Mountain regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim reported one of their company vans had been taken overnight. The vehicle was secured and all keys were accounted for. There were no signs of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.
Dog Incident
On March 20 at 12:29 p.m., a Code Enforcement Officer observed a pit bull attack a dog that was being walked by a couple in the 300 block of East Lemon. Code Enforcement radioed for officers to respond. Officers responded and held the dog until Pasadena Humane could respond. Pasadena Humane Animal Control Officers arrived to handle the incident.
Suspicious Activity
On March 20 at 1:05 p.m., officers attempted to contact two suspicious subjects at a park in the 700 block of East Lemon. As the officers walked up to talk to the subjects, they ran and a foot pursuit ensued. During the foot pursuit, one of the subjects discarded a baggie of marijuana. A perimeter was established around the area and one of the subjects was located. The suspect who discarded the baggie was not located, but officers involved in the foot pursuit recognized the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Shoplifting / Identity Theft / Possession of a Fictitious DMV Identification – Suspect Arrested
On March 20 at 3:18 p.m., a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain called police to report a shoplifter. Loss prevention contacted a female suspect who had concealed items on her person and left the store without paying. Officers arrived and determined the suspect was also in possession of a fake driver’s license. She did not have any other identification on her. She was arrested and taken into custody. During the booking process, an additional ID with someone else’s name was located.
Armed Robbery
On March 20 at 3:45 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 300 block of West Huntington on the report of a robbery. A male suspect walked into the store and produced a handgun. He demanded a Play Station and the cash in the register. He then ordered the employee to walk to the back of the store and he fled the location. He fled in a four-door vehicle, possibly grey. The suspect is described as a male White, 5'8", average build, 38-42 years old, green eyes, and clean shaven. He was wearing a blue hat, "security" button down shirt, grey jeans, and possibly white sneakers. The investigation is continuing.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
On March 21 at 11:05 p.m., a caller reported he was the victim of a robbery in the 300 block of West Cypress and that he had been stabbed. He reported that there were three suspects. Officers arrived and upon investigation, determined that the victim was not robbed and that the victim and the suspect have a love interest in common. The victim and suspect actually stabbed each other during an altercation. Both victim and suspect received non-life-threatening stab wounds and were treated at a hospital. The two outstanding suspects have been identified and the investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Hit and Run Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
On March 22 at 2:10 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of South Ivy regarding a hit and run traffic collision. A female claimed she was the victim of a hit and run. A description and the direction of travel of the suspect vehicle were relayed to field officers. A citizen volunteer happened on the vehicle at California and Hurstview and called for assistance. The female driver was stopped and detained for hit and run and drunk driving. The driver and passenger were arrested.
Vehicle Burglary
On March 21 at 8:01 a.m., dispatch received a call regarding a vehicle burglary in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim parked and locked his Chevy Tahoe in the rear parking lot of a hotel. When he returned late the next morning, the doors were unlocked and the third row seat was missing. A large sum of cash was also taken from the console. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On March 21 at 9:10 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of East Lime regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim found two suspects in her vehicle when she returned from the movies. She confronted the suspect in the driver’s seat. He gave her two purses and headphones he had taken from the vehicle. The suspects then fled. Based on the descriptions of the suspects, the officers were able to identify one of the suspects as a local homeless person. The suspect was found a short time later and confessed to being in the car, but would not identify his partner. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On March 23 at 3:32 a.m., an officer was patrolling in the 1600 block of South Mountain when he observed a motorist run a red traffic light. The investigation revealed the motorist was driving while under the influence of a controlled substance and was in possession of illegal smoking paraphernalia. The motorist also had an outstanding warrant issued for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Stolen Vehicle
On March 20 at 9:04 a.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 1800 block of South Mountain regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim reported one of their company vans had been taken overnight. The vehicle was secured and all keys were accounted for. There were no signs of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.
Dog Incident
On March 20 at 12:29 p.m., a Code Enforcement Officer observed a pit bull attack a dog that was being walked by a couple in the 300 block of East Lemon. Code Enforcement radioed for officers to respond. Officers responded and held the dog until Pasadena Humane could respond. Pasadena Humane Animal Control Officers arrived to handle the incident.
Suspicious Activity
On March 20 at 1:05 p.m., officers attempted to contact two suspicious subjects at a park in the 700 block of East Lemon. As the officers walked up to talk to the subjects, they ran and a foot pursuit ensued. During the foot pursuit, one of the subjects discarded a baggie of marijuana. A perimeter was established around the area and one of the subjects was located. The suspect who discarded the baggie was not located, but officers involved in the foot pursuit recognized the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Shoplifting / Identity Theft / Possession of a Fictitious DMV Identification – Suspect Arrested
On March 20 at 3:18 p.m., a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain called police to report a shoplifter. Loss prevention contacted a female suspect who had concealed items on her person and left the store without paying. Officers arrived and determined the suspect was also in possession of a fake driver’s license. She did not have any other identification on her. She was arrested and taken into custody. During the booking process, an additional ID with someone else’s name was located.
Armed Robbery
On March 20 at 3:45 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 300 block of West Huntington on the report of a robbery. A male suspect walked into the store and produced a handgun. He demanded a Play Station and the cash in the register. He then ordered the employee to walk to the back of the store and he fled the location. He fled in a four-door vehicle, possibly grey. The suspect is described as a male White, 5'8", average build, 38-42 years old, green eyes, and clean shaven. He was wearing a blue hat, "security" button down shirt, grey jeans, and possibly white sneakers. The investigation is continuing.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
On March 21 at 11:05 p.m., a caller reported he was the victim of a robbery in the 300 block of West Cypress and that he had been stabbed. He reported that there were three suspects. Officers arrived and upon investigation, determined that the victim was not robbed and that the victim and the suspect have a love interest in common. The victim and suspect actually stabbed each other during an altercation. Both victim and suspect received non-life-threatening stab wounds and were treated at a hospital. The two outstanding suspects have been identified and the investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Hit and Run Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
On March 22 at 2:10 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of South Ivy regarding a hit and run traffic collision. A female claimed she was the victim of a hit and run. A description and the direction of travel of the suspect vehicle were relayed to field officers. A citizen volunteer happened on the vehicle at California and Hurstview and called for assistance. The female driver was stopped and detained for hit and run and drunk driving. The driver and passenger were arrested.
Vehicle Burglary
On March 21 at 8:01 a.m., dispatch received a call regarding a vehicle burglary in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim parked and locked his Chevy Tahoe in the rear parking lot of a hotel. When he returned late the next morning, the doors were unlocked and the third row seat was missing. A large sum of cash was also taken from the console. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On March 21 at 9:10 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of East Lime regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim found two suspects in her vehicle when she returned from the movies. She confronted the suspect in the driver’s seat. He gave her two purses and headphones he had taken from the vehicle. The suspects then fled. Based on the descriptions of the suspects, the officers were able to identify one of the suspects as a local homeless person. The suspect was found a short time later and confessed to being in the car, but would not identify his partner. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On March 23 at 3:32 a.m., an officer was patrolling in the 1600 block of South Mountain when he observed a motorist run a red traffic light. The investigation revealed the motorist was driving while under the influence of a controlled substance and was in possession of illegal smoking paraphernalia. The motorist also had an outstanding warrant issued for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Monrovia Assemblymember's Grease Bill Approved by Committee
A bill by Monrovia's Assemblymember, Chris Holden, to combat the growing number of kitchen grease thefts, was overwhelmingly approved today in Assembly Transportation Committee.
AB 1566 beefs up requirements for licensed haulers, increasing the penalties for stealing grease and allowing law enforcement to impound vehicles for up to 15 days.
According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, a typical fast-food restaurant produces 150-250 pounds of grease a week and a fully loaded pumper truck could bring in as much as $900 at a recycling center.
AB 1566 now goes to Assembly Agriculture for consideration.
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
AB 1566 beefs up requirements for licensed haulers, increasing the penalties for stealing grease and allowing law enforcement to impound vehicles for up to 15 days.
According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, a typical fast-food restaurant produces 150-250 pounds of grease a week and a fully loaded pumper truck could bring in as much as $900 at a recycling center.
AB 1566 now goes to Assembly Agriculture for consideration.
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Easter Egg Hunt and Kids Health Event | Looking for Seniors to Honor
~ Monrovia is sponsoring an Easter egg hunt and healthy kids event on Saturday, April 19, at 10 a.m. at Recreation Park ( http://goo.gl/RbzxA5 ). Registration for all egg hunts will begin at 9:45 a.m. Activities include: arts and crafts, face painting, carnival games, refreshment area, wellness activities, demonstrations, toddler activities, teen activities, musical entertainment and a visit from the "Spring Bunny" (aka Easter Bunny). For additional information, contact the Department of Community Services at 256-8246. Source: press release
~ Monrovia is still looking for nominees for its Older American of the Year Award. Details: http://goo.gl/67Lj8e
- Brad Haugaard
~ Monrovia is still looking for nominees for its Older American of the Year Award. Details: http://goo.gl/67Lj8e
- Brad Haugaard
Location of Blaze Pizza
Here is where the Blaze Pizza will be located in Monrovia. In the Pavilions shopping center next to Baskin-Robbins.
Why Monrovia is Scraggly on the Bottom | Yoga Class
~ Why is the Monrovia border scraggly on the bottom (see here: http://goo.gl/0DRwYA )? Well, it all has to do with finding children for its first school. Fun details: http://goo.gl/wtKn6v
~ Yoga teacher Betsy Laban is teaching a new gentle yoga class at 10:30 a.m. Fridays in Swan Hall at St. Luke's Episcopal Church at California and Foothill. She is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists and Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance. Drop-ins are welcome. Signup and fee information: http://goo.gl/w1YgJW
- Brad Haugaard
~ Yoga teacher Betsy Laban is teaching a new gentle yoga class at 10:30 a.m. Fridays in Swan Hall at St. Luke's Episcopal Church at California and Foothill. She is a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists and Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance. Drop-ins are welcome. Signup and fee information: http://goo.gl/w1YgJW
- Brad Haugaard
Blaze Pizza Coming to Monrovia | San Marino Over Monrovia :-(
~ A new build-your-own pizza place called Blaze Pizza coming to Monrovia. It'll be at 108 W Foothill, which I believe is in the Pavilions shopping center at Foothill and Myrtle. More about this, and Flamzz Pizza, here: http://goo.gl/KMIeeI
~ San Marino 3-2 over Monrovia in baseball. http://goo.gl/ikN7oU
- Brad Haugaard
~ San Marino 3-2 over Monrovia in baseball. http://goo.gl/ikN7oU
- Brad Haugaard
Bella Sera Being Remodeled
Monrovia's Bella Sera restaurant is being remodeled. It's on Myrtle just south of the Krikorian Theater.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia School Board: Salary Increase for Employees; Fixing the Grass; Ballot Initiative
At its March 26 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/ViSKvb ), the Monrovia School Board will ...
- Release its tentative agreement with its various labor groups, which is to give them a 1.8 percent salary increase retroactive to July 1, 2013. http://goo.gl/O1wosy
- Consider renovating the fields at Clifton and Santa Fe middle schools. New grass will cost $350,000 to $400,000, plus incidental costs. http://goo.gl/vx7FF2 Comment: Yikes! That's a lot of money for grass.
- Discuss a proposed ballot initiative that would prevent the state from redirecting or reducing local property tax revenue away from public schools. http://goo.gl/faJQ9h
- Brad Haugaard
- Release its tentative agreement with its various labor groups, which is to give them a 1.8 percent salary increase retroactive to July 1, 2013. http://goo.gl/O1wosy
- Consider renovating the fields at Clifton and Santa Fe middle schools. New grass will cost $350,000 to $400,000, plus incidental costs. http://goo.gl/vx7FF2 Comment: Yikes! That's a lot of money for grass.
- Discuss a proposed ballot initiative that would prevent the state from redirecting or reducing local property tax revenue away from public schools. http://goo.gl/faJQ9h
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Izakaya Uppo
Lunch at Izakaya Uppo, a new Japanese restaurant about three doors up from Olive on the east side of Myrtle. Got the Uppo Signature Ramen for $7.95 and an iced tea for $2.50. Plus tax and tip. That's a pork cutlet in the picture, by the way. It came with a little garden salad. Very nice for a cool day.
- Brad Haugaard
Salsas Taqueria Replaces S'Links
The former S'Links Gourmet Hot Dogs, at the corner of Myrtle and Olive, is now Salsas Taqueria, and it's open. S'Links is moving, but I know not where.
Fundraiser to Replace Equipment from Monrovia's Centre Stage | Bear Video
~ "The Lights of Broadway", a musical fundraiser to replace equipment stolen from Monrovia's Centre Stage, 7 p.m. tonight at Arcadia Christian Church, 1900 S. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia. For information call Keely Milliken at 297-4758.
~ Another bear video. This one looks as if it was filmed on Hillcrest. http://goo.gl/oEnYsg
- Brad Haugaard
~ Another bear video. This one looks as if it was filmed on Hillcrest. http://goo.gl/oEnYsg
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Radio Shack Robbery | Baseball Loss to Rosemead :-(
~ Monrovia Radio Shack robbed. http://goo.gl/fmuUAB
~ Rosemead 4-2 over Monrovia in baseball. http://goo.gl/UBzJBW
- Brad Haugaard
~ Rosemead 4-2 over Monrovia in baseball. http://goo.gl/UBzJBW
- Brad Haugaard
Yappy Hour for Monrovia Dogs
Yappy Hour for dogs at The Dog Zone, 150 W Foothill (next to Pavilions) 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 21. Bring your social pup(s) for fun and snacks! Meet The Dog Zone crew, Two Dogs Petsitting, Beans The Whippet, Romping Dogs Dog Training, Pawmazing Pets Photography, get info on Bark For Life of Monrovia, etc.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Planned Apartments at Monrovia Train Station | Peach Cafe to Open for Dinners
~ Local developer Samuelson Fetter is proposing a five-story, 261-unit apartment building that will be right next to the Monrovia Gold Line station. Monrovia city staff held a preliminary review of the plan to give suggestions to the developer. http://goo.gl/VV5hnz (Photo from City of Monrovia)
~ With more nightlife, Peach Café (141 East Colorado) will begin opening for dinner. For the past eight years it has been open only for breakfast and lunch. http://goo.gl/VV5hnz
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council to Meet About Appointment of a New City Manager
The Monrovia City Council will hold a closed session meeting March 24 at 5 p.m. regarding the appointment of a city manager. http://goo.gl/uBjbn6
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Support Monrovia Boy Facing Chemotherapy
Scott Stokes posts on Facebook about Joncee Troy Lenker, a seven-year-old Monrovia boy who will have to undergo chemotherapy following cancer surgery to remove an eye ( http://goo.gl/oRVFL4 ). Stokes writes: "If you can afford it, please purchase a fundraising shirt to show your support for this amazing kid and his family." Here is the link to purchase a t-shirt: http://goo.gl/r7pwPc
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Pub Crawl to Fight Cancer
Relay For Life of Monrovia is sponsoring a pub crawl to raise money to fight cancer. http://goo.gl/BOeq98
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Electricians Catch Robbery Suspect; Homeless Evicted from Roof of Church; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 17-19. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, resulting in 87 investigations.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 2:14 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle traveling the wrong way down a one-way street in the 100 block of West Lime. The 19-year-old male driver was intoxicated. Field sobriety tests were conducted and he was determined to be DUI. He was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released on citation to appear in court.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 2:26 a.m., an officer stopped a blue Jeep in the 400 block of West Colorado for failing to stop for a stop sign. He approached the male driver and smelled a strong odor of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the male subject was determined to be DUI. He was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released on citation to appear in court.
Altered Vehicle Registration Tabs / Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:55 p.m., a parking control officer working in the field saw a vehicle displaying altered registration tabs. An officer responded, confirmed the tabs were altered and stored the vehicle. On March 18, the registered owner of the vehicle came to the police department to dispute the claim. When a computer check was run on the registered owner, the registered owner was found to have an outstanding warrant and was arrested. The registered owner admitted to driving the vehicle, but did not admit to altering the tabs. The vehicle has not been registered since 2006.
Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 8:50 p.m., an officer saw a subject he knew had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was standing at the corner of Foothill and Sunset. A computer check revealed the subject had a $30,000 warrant for his arrest for failing to appear in court on a charge of being under the influence of narcotics. The subject was stopped and arrested for the warrant, then taken to the Monrovia Jail, where he was booked and will be housed until his court appearance.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 9:41 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of North Magnolia on the report of domestic violence. When they arrived, officers contacted the female victim outside the home. She said her husband had just come home intoxicated and began yelling at her. He pushed her to the ground and started punching her, causing open wound injuries. Officers contacted the male suspect, who denied hitting his wife. The paramedics examined the victim, and the male subject was arrested for domestic violence.
Residential Burglary
March 19 at 1:58 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 300 block of North Mountain. The resident left the location at 10:00 a.m. that morning, securing the property. The housekeeper arrived at 1:05 p.m. and found the master bedroom had been ransacked. The loss appears to be mainly jewelry. The suspect(s) appear to have entered the home through a rear door. The investigation is continuing.
Robbery – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 2:30 p.m., officers responded to the report of a robbery that just occurred in the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim was having her nails done at a local salon and had hung her purse on the back of a chair where she was sitting. The suspect entered the business and asked for the manager. When the employee left to get the manager, the suspect grabbed the purse and ran out the door. An employee began to scream and an electrician working outside the business heard the screams. He tried to stop the suspect by grabbing him. The suspect struck the electrician. A second electrician working at the location jumped in to help. Together, they detained the suspect until officers arrived. The suspect was taken into custody and held for bail.
Trespassing – Suspects Arrested
March 19 at 8:56 p.m., the pastor of a church in the 100 block at California called police to report two homeless subjects, one male and one female, camping on the roof of the church. Officers arrived and successfully removed the two subjects off the roof. They removed blankets and all of their property off the roof, as well. The two were placed under private person's arrest for trespassing and taken into custody.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, resulting in 87 investigations.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 2:14 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle traveling the wrong way down a one-way street in the 100 block of West Lime. The 19-year-old male driver was intoxicated. Field sobriety tests were conducted and he was determined to be DUI. He was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released on citation to appear in court.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 2:26 a.m., an officer stopped a blue Jeep in the 400 block of West Colorado for failing to stop for a stop sign. He approached the male driver and smelled a strong odor of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the male subject was determined to be DUI. He was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released on citation to appear in court.
Altered Vehicle Registration Tabs / Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:55 p.m., a parking control officer working in the field saw a vehicle displaying altered registration tabs. An officer responded, confirmed the tabs were altered and stored the vehicle. On March 18, the registered owner of the vehicle came to the police department to dispute the claim. When a computer check was run on the registered owner, the registered owner was found to have an outstanding warrant and was arrested. The registered owner admitted to driving the vehicle, but did not admit to altering the tabs. The vehicle has not been registered since 2006.
Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 8:50 p.m., an officer saw a subject he knew had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was standing at the corner of Foothill and Sunset. A computer check revealed the subject had a $30,000 warrant for his arrest for failing to appear in court on a charge of being under the influence of narcotics. The subject was stopped and arrested for the warrant, then taken to the Monrovia Jail, where he was booked and will be housed until his court appearance.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 9:41 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of North Magnolia on the report of domestic violence. When they arrived, officers contacted the female victim outside the home. She said her husband had just come home intoxicated and began yelling at her. He pushed her to the ground and started punching her, causing open wound injuries. Officers contacted the male suspect, who denied hitting his wife. The paramedics examined the victim, and the male subject was arrested for domestic violence.
Residential Burglary
March 19 at 1:58 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 300 block of North Mountain. The resident left the location at 10:00 a.m. that morning, securing the property. The housekeeper arrived at 1:05 p.m. and found the master bedroom had been ransacked. The loss appears to be mainly jewelry. The suspect(s) appear to have entered the home through a rear door. The investigation is continuing.
Robbery – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 2:30 p.m., officers responded to the report of a robbery that just occurred in the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim was having her nails done at a local salon and had hung her purse on the back of a chair where she was sitting. The suspect entered the business and asked for the manager. When the employee left to get the manager, the suspect grabbed the purse and ran out the door. An employee began to scream and an electrician working outside the business heard the screams. He tried to stop the suspect by grabbing him. The suspect struck the electrician. A second electrician working at the location jumped in to help. Together, they detained the suspect until officers arrived. The suspect was taken into custody and held for bail.
Trespassing – Suspects Arrested
March 19 at 8:56 p.m., the pastor of a church in the 100 block at California called police to report two homeless subjects, one male and one female, camping on the roof of the church. Officers arrived and successfully removed the two subjects off the roof. They removed blankets and all of their property off the roof, as well. The two were placed under private person's arrest for trespassing and taken into custody.
Monrovia Menchie's Opens Saturday | Should Fed Administer Mountains for Recreation? | Xencor Revenue | Prison for Threats
~ The frozen yogurt chain, Menchie's ( http://www.menchies.com/ ) is opening a store this Saturday, March 22, at 606 West Huntington, between Chipotle and Smashburger. "The franchise is the fastest growing frozen yogurt chain with currently 391 locations globally and 20 opened locations in the Los Angeles market."
~ Representative Judy Chu is asking for comment on her proposed legislation to create a San Gabriel National Recreation Area administered by the federal Department of Agriculture. http://goo.gl/dCL6qM
~ Monrovia's Xencor reports that "revenues for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2013 were $1.7 million, compared to $2.4 million in the same period of 2012. Revenues for the full year 2013 were $10.2 million, compared to $9.5 million in the same period of 2012." http://goo.gl/mKALWy
~ Monrovian gets three years for threatening hospitals and schools. http://goo.gl/BgN6C3
- Brad Haugaard
~ Representative Judy Chu is asking for comment on her proposed legislation to create a San Gabriel National Recreation Area administered by the federal Department of Agriculture. http://goo.gl/dCL6qM
~ Monrovia's Xencor reports that "revenues for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2013 were $1.7 million, compared to $2.4 million in the same period of 2012. Revenues for the full year 2013 were $10.2 million, compared to $9.5 million in the same period of 2012." http://goo.gl/mKALWy
~ Monrovian gets three years for threatening hospitals and schools. http://goo.gl/BgN6C3
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Seidner's Collision Center Donates Car to Needy Family
Seidner's Collision Center of Monrovia has presented a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, fully refurbished by Seidner's and equipped with new tires, and accompanied by a one-year State Farm insurance policy to a Foothill Unity Center client family.
The car was presented through Recycled Rides, a nationwide service project of the National Auto Body Council, which donates vehicles to families and service organizations. The program recruits insurers, paint suppliers, parts vendors and others to contribute. Recipients must have a valid driver's license; the ability to maintain the vehicle as shown by proof of income; a safe driving record; be in financial need; and must not already own a good working vehicle.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
The car was presented through Recycled Rides, a nationwide service project of the National Auto Body Council, which donates vehicles to families and service organizations. The program recruits insurers, paint suppliers, parts vendors and others to contribute. Recipients must have a valid driver's license; the ability to maintain the vehicle as shown by proof of income; a safe driving record; be in financial need; and must not already own a good working vehicle.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Plastic Bag Ban Discussion Postponed | Community Garden at St. Luke
~ At tonight's City Council meeting, an item on whether to ask city staff to draw up an ordinance restricting the use of plastic grocery bags was postponed until April 1. City Clerk Alice Atkins said Councilmember Blackburn "couldn't be in attendance tonight and didn't want to miss the discussion."
~ According to a post on the Nextdoor network, St. Luke's Church on Foothill is offering some of its land for a community garden. This is in the planning stages and there will be an open meeting this Saturday at noon in the parish hall.
- Brad Haugaard
~ According to a post on the Nextdoor network, St. Luke's Church on Foothill is offering some of its land for a community garden. This is in the planning stages and there will be an open meeting this Saturday at noon in the parish hall.
- Brad Haugaard
Vets Bill by Monrovia's Assemblymember Approved by Committee
Legislation by Monrovia's Assemblymember, Chris Holden, to give veterans a stronger voice in college leadership was approved today in the Assembly Higher Education Committee. AB 1557 has bipartisan support - 14 Democrats and Republicans co-authored the bill.
AB 1557 gives veterans permanent seats on the Board of Governors of the California Community College system by adding a student member who is a veteran or current member of the military. The bill also requires one of the existing 12 board seats to be held by a member or former member of the Armed Forces who has demonstrated expertise and leadership in the field of veterans' affairs.
"This bill is designed to give veterans a voice in college leadership," explained Assemblymember Holden. "As we wind down these wars, veterans returning to college face unique challenges and need a voice in their college leadership. If campuses are not prepared to help these soldiers transition from combat to college, we run the risk of alienating thousands of returning vets."
Thousands of veterans are expected to fill the seats at California's public colleges and universities. Already the state's community colleges lead the nation with more than 44,000 vets enrolled - the largest number since World War II.
AB 1557 is supported by American Legion - California, AMVETS - California, California Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans Caucus of the California Democratic Party, Veterans of Foreign Wars - California.
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
AB 1557 gives veterans permanent seats on the Board of Governors of the California Community College system by adding a student member who is a veteran or current member of the military. The bill also requires one of the existing 12 board seats to be held by a member or former member of the Armed Forces who has demonstrated expertise and leadership in the field of veterans' affairs.
"This bill is designed to give veterans a voice in college leadership," explained Assemblymember Holden. "As we wind down these wars, veterans returning to college face unique challenges and need a voice in their college leadership. If campuses are not prepared to help these soldiers transition from combat to college, we run the risk of alienating thousands of returning vets."
Thousands of veterans are expected to fill the seats at California's public colleges and universities. Already the state's community colleges lead the nation with more than 44,000 vets enrolled - the largest number since World War II.
AB 1557 is supported by American Legion - California, AMVETS - California, California Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans Caucus of the California Democratic Party, Veterans of Foreign Wars - California.
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's S'Links Hotdog Restaurant Papered Up
It appears S'Links Gourmet Hotdogs, at Myrtle and Olive, is closed. (No! See update.) The windows are all papered up. Too bad. I liked their hotdogs. But, just a few doors up Myrtle, Izakaya Uppo, a ramen and yakitori restaurant, is now open. Thanks to Doran for the tip.
UPDATE: No, S'Links is not closing, just moving. Hooray! According to the Chamber of Commerce, the owners are putting a new restaurant in this location and moving S'Links elsewhere. Thanks to Keith Johnson for the tip.
Monrovia Police: Fake Money; Stealing Cement; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 13-16. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Possession of Fictitious U.S. Currency / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 13 at 8:39 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of North Grand on the report of a suspicious white truck that had been driving up and down the street and was now stopped in the neighborhood. Officers arrived and saw three occupants in the truck, the driver walked out from a rear yard. The driver said he was in the area to purchase an engine from a friend that lived in the back house. A female passenger denied having any identification, but a consent search of the vehicle revealed her wallet containing $1,300.00 in fictitious U.S. currency. She also possessed a methamphetamine pipe. She was arrested and taken into custody. The Secret Service was contacted regarding the fictitious bills. The other occupants of the vehicle were released.
Grand Theft Auto
March 14 at 7:42 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1900 block of South Peck Road. The vehicle is a four-door, white, 1994 Honda Accord and was stolen sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.
Recovered Stolen Vehicle
March 14 at 1:27 p.m., parking control ran the license plate on a vehicle parked in the 400 block of Lemon. It returned stolen out of Covina. The vehicle is a four-door, tan, 1994 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 5:38 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of East Walnut regarding a male subject who was acting erratic. Officers arrived and located the subject in an alley by Shamrock. Their investigation revealed the subject was in possession of methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe. He was arrested and taken into custody. Ex-Felon with a Gun / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested March 14 at 10:47 p.m., dispatch received a 9-1-1 hang-up call from a residence in the 100 block of North May, with a possible dispute heard in the background. Officers arrived at the location and could hear a male and female arguing inside. When contacted, both subjects admitted to using cocaine and consented to a search of the residence. During the search, a stolen shotgun and methamphetamine was found. The male subject was determined to be an ex-felon. Both subjects were arrested.
Foot Pursuit / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
March 15 at 10:25 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Bradbury and Orange saw a male subject on a bicycle with a satchel over his shoulder. The subject was acting suspicious, looking at every residence as he passed. The officer attempted to contact the subject, and as he pulled up behind the bicyclist and turned on his emergency lights, the subject quickly rode away. The subject dropped his bike and the satchel, and then jumped a fence. The officer ran after the subject and was able to detain him. The subject was found to have methamphetamine, along with burglary tools in the satchel. The suspect was arrested. He also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Commercial Burglary – Suspects Arrested
March 15 at 2:45 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding three shoplifting suspects in custody, one male adult and two female juveniles. The three suspects walked into the store and began selecting merchandise. They went to the women’s department, where they concealed the merchandise in a blue leather purse one of the female suspects was carrying. After all the merchandise was in the purse, the females exited the store without paying for the merchandise. All three suspects were detained by loss prevention outside the store. Officers responded to the location and arrested the three suspects.
Driving Under the Influence / Drunk in Public – Suspects Arrested
March 16 at 2:30 a.m., an officer stopped a driver in the area of Evergreen and Myrtle. After investigation, the female driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested. The female passenger was also intoxicated and was arrested for being drunk in public.
Residential Burglary
March 16 at 6:39 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 800 block of West Duarte Road. The neighbors called the victim because they noticed the doors at his residence were unsecured. The owner is in the process of fixing up the residence prior to moving in and the residence is vacant. It appears the suspects broke one of the garage door windows and unlatched the garage door. The suspect(s) then made entry into the residence and took tools and remodeling fixtures. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft From a Vehicle – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 9:25 p.m., an officer responded to a petty theft from a vehicle at a parking lot in the 1600 block of South Mountain. A male suspect was seen removing items from the bed of a truck in the parking lot. The suspect took bags of cement and power tools. The suspect then fled in a black Chevy Camaro. At 5:10 a.m., an officer from the Arcadia Police Department stopped the vehicle and arrested the suspect for possession of stolen property.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Possession of Fictitious U.S. Currency / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 13 at 8:39 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of North Grand on the report of a suspicious white truck that had been driving up and down the street and was now stopped in the neighborhood. Officers arrived and saw three occupants in the truck, the driver walked out from a rear yard. The driver said he was in the area to purchase an engine from a friend that lived in the back house. A female passenger denied having any identification, but a consent search of the vehicle revealed her wallet containing $1,300.00 in fictitious U.S. currency. She also possessed a methamphetamine pipe. She was arrested and taken into custody. The Secret Service was contacted regarding the fictitious bills. The other occupants of the vehicle were released.
Grand Theft Auto
March 14 at 7:42 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1900 block of South Peck Road. The vehicle is a four-door, white, 1994 Honda Accord and was stolen sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.
Recovered Stolen Vehicle
March 14 at 1:27 p.m., parking control ran the license plate on a vehicle parked in the 400 block of Lemon. It returned stolen out of Covina. The vehicle is a four-door, tan, 1994 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 5:38 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of East Walnut regarding a male subject who was acting erratic. Officers arrived and located the subject in an alley by Shamrock. Their investigation revealed the subject was in possession of methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe. He was arrested and taken into custody. Ex-Felon with a Gun / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested March 14 at 10:47 p.m., dispatch received a 9-1-1 hang-up call from a residence in the 100 block of North May, with a possible dispute heard in the background. Officers arrived at the location and could hear a male and female arguing inside. When contacted, both subjects admitted to using cocaine and consented to a search of the residence. During the search, a stolen shotgun and methamphetamine was found. The male subject was determined to be an ex-felon. Both subjects were arrested.
Foot Pursuit / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
March 15 at 10:25 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Bradbury and Orange saw a male subject on a bicycle with a satchel over his shoulder. The subject was acting suspicious, looking at every residence as he passed. The officer attempted to contact the subject, and as he pulled up behind the bicyclist and turned on his emergency lights, the subject quickly rode away. The subject dropped his bike and the satchel, and then jumped a fence. The officer ran after the subject and was able to detain him. The subject was found to have methamphetamine, along with burglary tools in the satchel. The suspect was arrested. He also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Commercial Burglary – Suspects Arrested
March 15 at 2:45 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding three shoplifting suspects in custody, one male adult and two female juveniles. The three suspects walked into the store and began selecting merchandise. They went to the women’s department, where they concealed the merchandise in a blue leather purse one of the female suspects was carrying. After all the merchandise was in the purse, the females exited the store without paying for the merchandise. All three suspects were detained by loss prevention outside the store. Officers responded to the location and arrested the three suspects.
Driving Under the Influence / Drunk in Public – Suspects Arrested
March 16 at 2:30 a.m., an officer stopped a driver in the area of Evergreen and Myrtle. After investigation, the female driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested. The female passenger was also intoxicated and was arrested for being drunk in public.
Residential Burglary
March 16 at 6:39 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 800 block of West Duarte Road. The neighbors called the victim because they noticed the doors at his residence were unsecured. The owner is in the process of fixing up the residence prior to moving in and the residence is vacant. It appears the suspects broke one of the garage door windows and unlatched the garage door. The suspect(s) then made entry into the residence and took tools and remodeling fixtures. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft From a Vehicle – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 9:25 p.m., an officer responded to a petty theft from a vehicle at a parking lot in the 1600 block of South Mountain. A male suspect was seen removing items from the bed of a truck in the parking lot. The suspect took bags of cement and power tools. The suspect then fled in a black Chevy Camaro. At 5:10 a.m., an officer from the Arcadia Police Department stopped the vehicle and arrested the suspect for possession of stolen property.
Monrovian Connor Sams Signs Letter of Intent for Northwestern
Connor Sams of Monrovia, has signed a letter of intent to continue his soccer career at Northwestern (Iowa) beginning in the fall of 2014.
Sams, the son of Todd and Maureen, is a 5-11 defender/midfielder from Monrovia High School in California. He has earned four letters and was a part of a 18-4-5 Monrovia team that won their league championship last season. Sams finished with six assists and was named a First Team All-Rio Hondo League as a junior and was an Honorable Mention as a sophomore.
A scholar-athlete all four years at Monrovia, Sams has also been named to the National Honor Society, National French Honor Society, and is a member of the California Scholarship Federation. Sams plans to major in Public Relations/Sports Management while at Northwestern.
"Connor is a smart and tough defender who can play centrally or on the outside," said head coach Dan Swier. "He has a strong soccer pedigree and will help us as we look for players who can replace the likes of Matt Dowie and Justin Lehman. Connor is a great addition to our program and our school."
Northwestern College is a NAIA school located in Orange City, Iowa.
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
Sams, the son of Todd and Maureen, is a 5-11 defender/midfielder from Monrovia High School in California. He has earned four letters and was a part of a 18-4-5 Monrovia team that won their league championship last season. Sams finished with six assists and was named a First Team All-Rio Hondo League as a junior and was an Honorable Mention as a sophomore.
A scholar-athlete all four years at Monrovia, Sams has also been named to the National Honor Society, National French Honor Society, and is a member of the California Scholarship Federation. Sams plans to major in Public Relations/Sports Management while at Northwestern.
"Connor is a smart and tough defender who can play centrally or on the outside," said head coach Dan Swier. "He has a strong soccer pedigree and will help us as we look for players who can replace the likes of Matt Dowie and Justin Lehman. Connor is a great addition to our program and our school."
Northwestern College is a NAIA school located in Orange City, Iowa.
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
Small Earthquake Felt in Monrovia
If you felt your house jiggle this morning, that was a 4.4 quake. (I didn't even wake up but my wife felt it and several people on Twitter confirmed feeling it.) http://goo.gl/GX56NU
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Gets an 'A-' for Historic Preservation
Los Angeles Conservancy gives Monrovia an "A-" grade for historic preservation. http://goo.gl/1lQbkt
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Deer Herd
I saw this herd of deer in North Monrovia today, on Canyon Boulevard. I think there were eight.
Monrovia Healing Connections Promoting Suicide Prevention
March4Balance task force members hand out materials on suicide awareness.
Monrovia Healing Connections, a task force of community members, city officials, students and Monrovia Unified School District staff, is presenting March4Balance, a series of community outreach and educational events to raise awareness of suicide prevention and related mental health issues.
Through March 23, task force members are visiting service clubs, teen commissions, churches, and other community-based gatherings to give a short presentation on suicide awareness, talk about what is being done in Monrovia to aid and support those dealing with emotional and psychological issues, and provide a brochure listing tools and resources
"Over the past four years, we have lost five Monrovians under the age of 24 to suicide, " says Ulises Gutierrez, March4Balance campaign coordinator. "We can't all be mental health professionals, but all of us should learn how to respond when someone needs help. Our goal is to get all community members trained on how to recognize and respond to people who are suffering and in danger of harming themselves."
The campaign will end on Tuesday, March 25, with a 5:30 p.m. with a community rally in Monrovia Library Park. We invite our local community to join us. To join the effort or book a presentation, contact Gutierrez, ugutierrez1@yahoo.com.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Boys & Girls Clubs Gets Donation from Toyota
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Foothills has received a $12,857 donation from Toyota Financial Services (TFS), in partnership with four auto remarketing firms, ADESA, Manheim, DAA Northwest, and Norwalk Auto Auctions. This is part of a larger contribution of $500,000 from TFS to Boys & Girls Clubs of America that will be divided equally among 35 clubs across the country running the Diplomas to Degrees (D2D) college readiness program.
Launched in 2012, D2D provides tools, resources, and training for thousands of teens to help transition from high school to college.
“Our partnership with Toyota allows us to continue combatting the high school dropout crisis and prepare our teens for successful futures in college,” said Executive Director, John Wilson. He added that Toyota employees also volunteer as mentors and help with fundraising.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Café X2O
Lunch at Café X2O. What does X2O mean? Two kisses and a hug. This is the former Mediterranean Grill on Foothill, and it is still Mediterranean food but the decor is more hip. Got the chicken kebab ($10) and a beer ($5). Plus tax and tip. Food was tasty and very pleasant sitting on the semi-outdoor patio on a nice day.
- Brad Haugaard
Get Trained for an Emergency | Tzu Chi Anniversary
~ If you would like to be trained in emergency response, the City of Monrovia suggesting this program, put on by LA County Fire Department, tomorrow in La Canada. Details: http://goo.gl/14Utf6
~ Tzu Chi Academy of Los Angeles will hold a 20th anniversary celebration carnival on March 16, from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Monrovia's Clifton Middle School. http://goo.gl/Rs99st
- Brad Haugaard
~ Tzu Chi Academy of Los Angeles will hold a 20th anniversary celebration carnival on March 16, from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Monrovia's Clifton Middle School. http://goo.gl/Rs99st
- Brad Haugaard
Opera of Zombies, Sorcery and Enchantment at Monrovia's St. Luke Church
The 1688 Baroque Dido and Aeneas, Purcell's first opera and one of his foremost theatrical works, has always had a hefty helping of sorcery, elves and enchantment. But fearing it might be too mild for modern-day audiences, Opera Animata has added zombies.
The roles of Dido and Aeneas will be sung by Trisha Rivera and Joel Castro. Production director Jenny Ohrstrom will portray Belinda. Other singers include Alyssa Brode, Sarah Reynolds, Kari Burgess, Jennifer White and Steve Nolen. MacKenzie Reed is keyboardist, and LeVanna Atkinson-Williams is Stage Manager.
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Planning Commission Okays Vehicle Storage Lot for South End of Town
The Monrovia City Planning Commission has approved the use of a property at 3331 Peck Road, at the very south tip of Monrovia, for vehicle storage for "Jorge's Get Around Transport," a private transportation service. http://goo.gl/V5XfrU
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia City Council to Consider Plastic Bags, Fourth of July, Police Vehicle
At its Tuesday, March 18 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/WH1ZSy ), the Monrovia City Council will ...
~ Consider restricting single-use plastic bags. More here: ( http://goo.gl/YQgJH9 )
~ Consider contracting with Pyro Spectaculars, Inc., for $20,500.00 to produce the 2014 Fourth of July Fireworks Show.
~ Consider buying a "Ford Police Interceptor Utility Replacement Vehicle" from Wondries Fleet Group for $29,323.21.
- Brad Haugaard
~ Consider restricting single-use plastic bags. More here: ( http://goo.gl/YQgJH9 )
~ Consider contracting with Pyro Spectaculars, Inc., for $20,500.00 to produce the 2014 Fourth of July Fireworks Show.
~ Consider buying a "Ford Police Interceptor Utility Replacement Vehicle" from Wondries Fleet Group for $29,323.21.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council to Consider Plastic Bag Restrictions
A city-appointed "Reusable Bag Regulation Ad Hoc Committee" is recommending to the City Council that Monrovia follow the lead of Pasadena and other cities by restricting the use of single-use plastic bags. The council will consider a ban at its March 18 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/WH1ZSy).
The restrictions "would affect approximately 34 Monrovia retailers: 8 grocery stores, 3 liquor stores, 3 drug stores, 1 drive-in dairy, 6 gas stations with foodmarts, and 13 miscellaneous food stores," according to the staff report.
Source: http://goo.gl/r4rWV5
Opinion: I have already written of my objections to this type of ban here (http://goo.gl/DdX3sx), but I would like to add some points.
1) Some people say that even supermarkets approve of these bans. Of course! They get to charge extra whenever someone forgets to bring in a reusable bag, and at the same time they can say, "We understand your frustration entirely, but the city is forcing us to do this."
2) In response to objections that multiple-use bags can transmit disease (meat juice leaks out and contaminates the bag), some ban proponents have said, "Well, wash them." But this means using scarce water, and if this is a trivial environmental concern, then single-use plastic bags are even more so.
3) I don't think there actually are any "single-use" bags. People use them for dozens of purposes after they've brought in their groceries, from sharing vegetables with a friend to picking up dog poop.
4) How is it fair to prevent food stores from using these bags but it is okay to let newspapers be delivered in precisely this kind of bag every morning?
- Brad Haugaard
The restrictions "would affect approximately 34 Monrovia retailers: 8 grocery stores, 3 liquor stores, 3 drug stores, 1 drive-in dairy, 6 gas stations with foodmarts, and 13 miscellaneous food stores," according to the staff report.
Source: http://goo.gl/r4rWV5
Opinion: I have already written of my objections to this type of ban here (http://goo.gl/DdX3sx), but I would like to add some points.
1) Some people say that even supermarkets approve of these bans. Of course! They get to charge extra whenever someone forgets to bring in a reusable bag, and at the same time they can say, "We understand your frustration entirely, but the city is forcing us to do this."
2) In response to objections that multiple-use bags can transmit disease (meat juice leaks out and contaminates the bag), some ban proponents have said, "Well, wash them." But this means using scarce water, and if this is a trivial environmental concern, then single-use plastic bags are even more so.
3) I don't think there actually are any "single-use" bags. People use them for dozens of purposes after they've brought in their groceries, from sharing vegetables with a friend to picking up dog poop.
4) How is it fair to prevent food stores from using these bags but it is okay to let newspapers be delivered in precisely this kind of bag every morning?
- Brad Haugaard
Grow Food With Less Water | Fundraiser for Monrovia Y
~ Learn to grow food with less water. Frank McDonough of the LA Arboretum teaches how. Thursday, March 20, 2:30-3:30 p.m. at the Library Community Room. Sign up here: http://goo.gl/kCBJU1
~ Totally 80s fundraiser for Monrovia's Santa Anita Family YMCA, Saturday, March 22, 6-11 p.m. $50 per person. Dress in 80s attire. Buffet dinner, trivia games and more.
- Brad Haugaard
~ Totally 80s fundraiser for Monrovia's Santa Anita Family YMCA, Saturday, March 22, 6-11 p.m. $50 per person. Dress in 80s attire. Buffet dinner, trivia games and more.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Bath Salts and Ice Cream; Assault With Paint Can Opener; Fake Firearm; Arrest in Machete Robbery
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 10-12. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, resulting in 73 investigations.
Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 1:51 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of South Violet called police and reported a suspect inside a neighbor's house. The suspect was seen leaving the residence holding a tub of ice cream, which he was eating with a spoon. The suspect was reportedly going door-to-door, trying doorknobs to see if he could gain entrance. Officers responded along with the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, which helped direct officers to the suspect. The suspect had entered several homes ending up at a residence in the 400 block of South Sunset. While officers were checking the rear of the location, the suspect exited the home but would not comply with the officer’s commands. The suspect appeared to be under the influence and took aggressive steps toward the officers. The officers hit the suspect with a beanbag round in an attempt to get him to comply, and the suspect fled back into the residence. Containment of the area was established and Monrovia High School was placed on lockdown by the district as the residence backs up to the school. After a 45 minute standoff, the suspect eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody. He was evaluated by paramedics and taken to a hospital for clearance. The suspect told officers he was under the influence of bath salts. He was later released, brought to Monrovia Police Department for booking, and then taken Los Angeles County Jail for housing.
Burglary / Assault with a Deadly Weapon / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 3:45 p.m., police responded to a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain. A subject was seen entering the men’s restroom with a can of computer dust cleaner. A loss prevention officer walked in and saw the subject was inhaling the substance. Loss Prevention officers followed the subject as he exited the store. As the suspect exited the store, he noticed loss prevention following him. Before they could detain him, he smashed a passing vehicle's window and then pulled out a paint can opener and threatened to stab the loss prevention officers, who then grabbed acrowbar to protect themselves. They tried to stop the subject, but he fled the location. He was stopped by the responding officers a block away and taken into custody.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 7:40 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Seymour Place reported a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspect(s) smashed a window on the vehicle and stole items from inside. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 10:14 a.m., a victim came into the police department to report a vehicle burglary. The victim believes the burglary occurred the day prior while he was parked in a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in the lot and went into a restaurant to eat. He believes unknown suspect(s) went into the vehicle, opened the trunk of the vehicle and his tools from the trunk. The victim does not remember if he locked the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 2:50 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the police department lobby on the report of a vehicle burglary. The victim parked her vehicle at her residence in the 200 block of East Lemon. She reported that someone entered her vehicle and took her purse, which she had left on the floorboard of the vehicle under a sweatshirt. She found her purse in the trashcan behind her home. The purse had been emptied out on the ground by the trashcan and her identification was missing from the purse.
Theft from an Unlocked Vehicle
March 11 at 4:15 p.m., a resident from the 100 block of North May Avenue reported a theft from his vehicle. Unknown suspect(s) entered the unlocked vehicle overnight and took the victim’s wallet, which he had left inside.
Commercial Burglary
March 11 at 5:00 p.m., loss prevention from a business in the 500 block of West Huntington phoned police to report a female suspect inside the store, concealing items into her purse and on her person. She emptied the contents of her purse before leaving, but fled the store with the items concealed on her person. She was detained outside the store by responding officers and arrested for burglary.
Brandishing a Replica Firearm – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 1:00 a.m., security from a bar in the 300 block of South Myrtle called police to report that a 21-year-old male subject had brandished a black handgun at them and yelled at them for no apparent reason. The suspect was last seen entering a bar in the 400 block of South Myrtle. Officers arrived at the location, surrounded the bar and located the suspect in the rear alley. He appeared to drop something in the shadows of the alley when officers told him to stop. The officers detained him and recovered the gun on the ground next to him. It was a black, metal, Airsoft pellet gun, which had the red tip removed. After the suspect was positively identified by the victim, he was arrested for brandishing a replica firearm.
Criminal Threats / Obstructing or Resisting Officers with Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 10:36 p.m., officers responded to an apartment in the 800 block of West Walnut regarding a 16-year-old male juvenile who had been making threats to kill his family members, as well as punching holes in his bedroom wall. When officers arrived and attempted to speak with the juvenile, he yelled obscenities at them and became physically violent toward them. A struggle ensued during the attempt to arrest the juvenile for criminal threats, but the officers were able to detain the juvenile and took him into custody. Both of the officers sustained injuries during the altercation due to the juvenile flailing around so violently. The juvenile was arrested and taken to Los Angeles County Juvenile Hall, where he will be held until his appearance. During the altercation with the 16-year-old male, one of his sisters outside of the room had to be taken into custody to keep her from entering the room. She refused to cooperate with officers and began yelling obscenities at assisting officers.
Wanted Persons Arrest for Robbery
March 13 at 12:59 a.m., sheriff's deputies stopped a suspicious male subject at Buena Vista and Central. A computer check revealed he was wanted by the Monrovia Police Department for robbery. Monrovia officers responded and took custody of the suspect. The suspect was wanted for a robbery that occurred at a park in the 800 block of East Olive on November 10, 2013. Several suspects had approached the victims at the park. One of the suspects threatened the victim’s with a machete and they took a computer and one of the victim’s wallets and fled the area.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, resulting in 73 investigations.
Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 1:51 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of South Violet called police and reported a suspect inside a neighbor's house. The suspect was seen leaving the residence holding a tub of ice cream, which he was eating with a spoon. The suspect was reportedly going door-to-door, trying doorknobs to see if he could gain entrance. Officers responded along with the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, which helped direct officers to the suspect. The suspect had entered several homes ending up at a residence in the 400 block of South Sunset. While officers were checking the rear of the location, the suspect exited the home but would not comply with the officer’s commands. The suspect appeared to be under the influence and took aggressive steps toward the officers. The officers hit the suspect with a beanbag round in an attempt to get him to comply, and the suspect fled back into the residence. Containment of the area was established and Monrovia High School was placed on lockdown by the district as the residence backs up to the school. After a 45 minute standoff, the suspect eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody. He was evaluated by paramedics and taken to a hospital for clearance. The suspect told officers he was under the influence of bath salts. He was later released, brought to Monrovia Police Department for booking, and then taken Los Angeles County Jail for housing.
Burglary / Assault with a Deadly Weapon / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 3:45 p.m., police responded to a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain. A subject was seen entering the men’s restroom with a can of computer dust cleaner. A loss prevention officer walked in and saw the subject was inhaling the substance. Loss Prevention officers followed the subject as he exited the store. As the suspect exited the store, he noticed loss prevention following him. Before they could detain him, he smashed a passing vehicle's window and then pulled out a paint can opener and threatened to stab the loss prevention officers, who then grabbed acrowbar to protect themselves. They tried to stop the subject, but he fled the location. He was stopped by the responding officers a block away and taken into custody.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 7:40 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Seymour Place reported a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspect(s) smashed a window on the vehicle and stole items from inside. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 10:14 a.m., a victim came into the police department to report a vehicle burglary. The victim believes the burglary occurred the day prior while he was parked in a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in the lot and went into a restaurant to eat. He believes unknown suspect(s) went into the vehicle, opened the trunk of the vehicle and his tools from the trunk. The victim does not remember if he locked the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
March 11 at 2:50 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the police department lobby on the report of a vehicle burglary. The victim parked her vehicle at her residence in the 200 block of East Lemon. She reported that someone entered her vehicle and took her purse, which she had left on the floorboard of the vehicle under a sweatshirt. She found her purse in the trashcan behind her home. The purse had been emptied out on the ground by the trashcan and her identification was missing from the purse.
Theft from an Unlocked Vehicle
March 11 at 4:15 p.m., a resident from the 100 block of North May Avenue reported a theft from his vehicle. Unknown suspect(s) entered the unlocked vehicle overnight and took the victim’s wallet, which he had left inside.
Commercial Burglary
March 11 at 5:00 p.m., loss prevention from a business in the 500 block of West Huntington phoned police to report a female suspect inside the store, concealing items into her purse and on her person. She emptied the contents of her purse before leaving, but fled the store with the items concealed on her person. She was detained outside the store by responding officers and arrested for burglary.
Brandishing a Replica Firearm – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 1:00 a.m., security from a bar in the 300 block of South Myrtle called police to report that a 21-year-old male subject had brandished a black handgun at them and yelled at them for no apparent reason. The suspect was last seen entering a bar in the 400 block of South Myrtle. Officers arrived at the location, surrounded the bar and located the suspect in the rear alley. He appeared to drop something in the shadows of the alley when officers told him to stop. The officers detained him and recovered the gun on the ground next to him. It was a black, metal, Airsoft pellet gun, which had the red tip removed. After the suspect was positively identified by the victim, he was arrested for brandishing a replica firearm.
Criminal Threats / Obstructing or Resisting Officers with Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 10:36 p.m., officers responded to an apartment in the 800 block of West Walnut regarding a 16-year-old male juvenile who had been making threats to kill his family members, as well as punching holes in his bedroom wall. When officers arrived and attempted to speak with the juvenile, he yelled obscenities at them and became physically violent toward them. A struggle ensued during the attempt to arrest the juvenile for criminal threats, but the officers were able to detain the juvenile and took him into custody. Both of the officers sustained injuries during the altercation due to the juvenile flailing around so violently. The juvenile was arrested and taken to Los Angeles County Juvenile Hall, where he will be held until his appearance. During the altercation with the 16-year-old male, one of his sisters outside of the room had to be taken into custody to keep her from entering the room. She refused to cooperate with officers and began yelling obscenities at assisting officers.
Wanted Persons Arrest for Robbery
March 13 at 12:59 a.m., sheriff's deputies stopped a suspicious male subject at Buena Vista and Central. A computer check revealed he was wanted by the Monrovia Police Department for robbery. Monrovia officers responded and took custody of the suspect. The suspect was wanted for a robbery that occurred at a park in the 800 block of East Olive on November 10, 2013. Several suspects had approached the victims at the park. One of the suspects threatened the victim’s with a machete and they took a computer and one of the victim’s wallets and fled the area.
Monrovia's St. Luke Church Broken Into
St. Luke Church, on Foothill, reports that it has been broken into. Here is its Facebook report:
"So our sacristy was broken into, and we have had transients and drug dealers hiding out, shooting up, toking, smoking and sleeping in our outdoor stairwell. Sadly, time to spend more oney on gates, lighting and security. I guess it is part of the mission of the church to make our neighbors as well as parishioners feel safe and secure."
- Brad Haugaard
"So our sacristy was broken into, and we have had transients and drug dealers hiding out, shooting up, toking, smoking and sleeping in our outdoor stairwell. Sadly, time to spend more oney on gates, lighting and security. I guess it is part of the mission of the church to make our neighbors as well as parishioners feel safe and secure."
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovian Named 'Woman of the Year'
Judy Cooperman, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich and Monrovian Joan Schmidt Clayton
At the Los Angeles County Commission for Women's annual "Woman of the Year" luncheon, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich honored Monrovian Joan Schmidt Clayton and Judy Cooperman, who epitomize the theme: "Educating, Motivating, and Inspiring Women."
A longtime resident of Monrovia, Joan Schmidt Clayton graduated from Mt. St. Mary College in Newburgh, New York and was an educator and influential member of the Monrovia/Arcadia/Duarte Town Council for many years.
She is also a longtime journalist, having written for several papers including the Gem City News, Monrovia Arcadia Weekly, San Gabriel Examiner; and most recently the Mountain View News where she continues to contribute regularly. She has been honored with the State Assembly District Woman of the Year award and the Duarte Community Service Award.
Judy Cooperberg is a longtime Antelope Valley resident, Supervisor Antonovich's appointee to the Los Angeles County Mental Health Commission and Executive Director of Antelope Valley Services for Mental Health.
Monrovia Library Playground Closed Thursday | Care Cafe, for Seniors
~ The City of Monrovia announces that Library Park playground will be closed tomorrow, March 13 for maintenance, but will be back open on Friday.
~ Monrovia Providers Group invites local homebound seniors and their caregivers to a morning of fun and relaxation at Care Cafe on Thursday, March 20. Details: http://goo.gl/GYLloz
- Brad Haugaard
~ Monrovia Providers Group invites local homebound seniors and their caregivers to a morning of fun and relaxation at Care Cafe on Thursday, March 20. Details: http://goo.gl/GYLloz
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Scam Alert - Business Utilities Shut-Off Threat
The Monrovia Police Department wants to alert the public to a scam that has been occurring in the area targeting businesses.
The suspects in this scam call the business claiming to be in billing or collections for Southern California Edison (SCE) and/or Verizon. The caller tells the business their services are going to be shut off within 45 minutes to an hour, and a crew has already been dispatched to cut off the service unless a same-day payment is made immediately. They claim their records show the business is late on their payment and the service to the business will be affected within the hour.
The caller then requests the payment be made by a prepaid VISA or Money Pak Card and then tells the business where they are available. The suspects sound legitimate and are targeting businesses, as businesses typically cannot afford to be without phones or power over the weekend.
It is NOT normal SCE or Verizon protocol to shut off service on the weekends.
The Monrovia Police Department is asking the public to spread awareness to this scam in hopes of preventing this crime from happening and to help keep Monrovia businesses from becoming the victim. Please be aware that utility companies do not work this way and always call the company to verify any information. If you feel something is suspicious, you can always call the Monrovia Police Department at (626) 256-8000.
Source: Monrovia Police press release
- Brad Haugaard
The suspects in this scam call the business claiming to be in billing or collections for Southern California Edison (SCE) and/or Verizon. The caller tells the business their services are going to be shut off within 45 minutes to an hour, and a crew has already been dispatched to cut off the service unless a same-day payment is made immediately. They claim their records show the business is late on their payment and the service to the business will be affected within the hour.
The caller then requests the payment be made by a prepaid VISA or Money Pak Card and then tells the business where they are available. The suspects sound legitimate and are targeting businesses, as businesses typically cannot afford to be without phones or power over the weekend.
It is NOT normal SCE or Verizon protocol to shut off service on the weekends.
The Monrovia Police Department is asking the public to spread awareness to this scam in hopes of preventing this crime from happening and to help keep Monrovia businesses from becoming the victim. Please be aware that utility companies do not work this way and always call the company to verify any information. If you feel something is suspicious, you can always call the Monrovia Police Department at (626) 256-8000.
Source: Monrovia Police press release
- Brad Haugaard
Still No Trader Joe's in Portland | Schurr Over Monrovia :-(
~ Some folks in Portland, Oregon, are trying to get Monrovia-based Trader Joe's to reconsider its decision not to open a market there, caused by complaints that it would "gentrify" the neighborhood. TJ's says its statement [saying it won't open there] "hasn't changed." http://goo.gl/blvv2e
~ Schurr over Monrovia in softball, 7-6. http://goo.gl/nPv4YV
- Brad Haugaard
~ Schurr over Monrovia in softball, 7-6. http://goo.gl/nPv4YV
- Brad Haugaard
Car Wash for Clifton Band and Spirit Marchers
Saturday, March 15, Clifton Middle School's Band and Spirit Marchers are having a Car Wash/Bake Sale at Walgreen's on Foothill Blvd. from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
National Weather Service Says Fire Danger in Monrovia Area Hills
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag alert for the San Gabriel Valley for tomorrow (Wednesday) from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. because of gusty winds and low relative humidity. I.e. fire danger. http://goo.gl/YL7LLV
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Support Your Teen at Monrovia High | Giving Hands Needs Volunteers
~ Support Your Teen Night at Monrovia High. Learn about challenges that teens face and resources to help them thrive. http://goo.gl/yT0Y2B
~ Monrovia's Giving Hands Thrift Store, at 925 W. Foothill, is looking for volunteers, men and women 18 or older, to join its street team in staffing informational booths around town. Flexible hours. Contact Arin at 213-248-8186. http://www.givinghandssocal.org
- Brad Haugaard
~ Monrovia's Giving Hands Thrift Store, at 925 W. Foothill, is looking for volunteers, men and women 18 or older, to join its street team in staffing informational booths around town. Flexible hours. Contact Arin at 213-248-8186. http://www.givinghandssocal.org
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Arrest Man in Bath Salts and Ice Cream Caper
A burglary suspect under arrest by Monrovia Police was allegedly under the influence of bath salts and had a taste for ice cream. http://goo.gl/HsLAUC
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Wildcat Color Guard Takes First Place | Be On a City Board
~ The Monrovia High Marching Wildcat Color Guard hosted 70 Southern California color guards this weekend in the WGASC LA/Ventura Invitational, and took first place in regional division AA. http://goo.gl/HNlJPZ
~ Monrovia is accepting applications to fill positions on the Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Community Services Commission, Library Board and Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board. Details: http://goo.gl/e7YhnV
- Brad Haugaard
~ Monrovia is accepting applications to fill positions on the Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Community Services Commission, Library Board and Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board. Details: http://goo.gl/e7YhnV
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia VFW Hosting Seminar for Vets
VFW Post 2070 will host a seminar and Q&A session with a representative of the Veterans Administration at the Post Hall, 825 S. Magnolia, in Monrovia, on Thursday, March 27 from 5:30-7:30PM.
Topics to be covered include all aspects of veterans benefits, including education, healthcare, housing and disability, among others.
All veterans and/or their families in the San Gabriel Valley are invited to attend. The Post equally encourages all current and former military personnel from all eras of service, from World War II to present day, whether the veteran served in combat or not. Refreshments will be served, and the event is scheduled concurrent to the Post's weekly burger feast, so dinner will be available. Families are welcome to attend, especially if seeking help for a veteran who resists assistance.
For more information, contact Post 2070 Service Officer Robert Parry at (626) 698-0878 or rcjparry@yahoo.com
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
Topics to be covered include all aspects of veterans benefits, including education, healthcare, housing and disability, among others.
All veterans and/or their families in the San Gabriel Valley are invited to attend. The Post equally encourages all current and former military personnel from all eras of service, from World War II to present day, whether the veteran served in combat or not. Refreshments will be served, and the event is scheduled concurrent to the Post's weekly burger feast, so dinner will be available. Families are welcome to attend, especially if seeking help for a veteran who resists assistance.
For more information, contact Post 2070 Service Officer Robert Parry at (626) 698-0878 or rcjparry@yahoo.com
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard