Barger Makes $1 Million Available to Boost Sheriff’s Patrols During Shopping Season in Altadena, Other Unincorporated Communities

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said Tuesday her office will make up to $1 million in discretionary funding available to sheriff’s stations in her district in hopes of boosting patrols and deterring crime during the upcoming holiday shopping season.

Her announcement comes as the busy holiday shopping season approaches – and, along with it, an increased threat of crime.

According to Barger’s office, the funds will be directed to bolster patrols at the sheriff’s stations in Altadena, Crescenta Valley, Lancaster, Palmdale and San Dimas.

“This month’s busiest holiday shopping days are quickly approaching and the threat of increased criminal activity is real,” Barger said in a statement. “Last year’s smash-and-grab crime wave taught us we need to be ready to prevent theft before it happens. The funds I’m allocating to sheriff stations in the Fifth District will help provide more law enforcement patrols and increase their presence in the communities I represent.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe during the holidays, whether they work in retail, are out shopping for loved ones, or simply enjoying time off at home.”

Newly sworn-in Sheriff Robert Luna responded to the move.

“With Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s significant financial support, we will be increasing high visibility patrols in the unincorporated areas in the Fifth District, in an effort to deter crime and provide for a safer shopping experience,” Sheriff Robert Luna said in a statement. 

“As always, we encourage the public to be aware of their surroundings, keep valuables hidden out of sight when parking their vehicle, and report any suspicious activity to their local sheriff’s station.”

Dr. Sandra Thomas, President of the Altadena Chamber of Commerce, also commented on Supervisor Barger’s action. 

“Retail shop owners need to feel protected and families need to feel safe while strolling and shopping during this holiday season,” Dr. Thomas said. “Neighborhood shops and small businesses in particular will greatly benefit from Supervisor Barger’s commitment of funds for more law enforcement presence in the communities she represents. We are thankful for her support.”