Sheriff Villanueva to Explain Decision to Close Altadena Station in Virtual Meeting Today

Sheriff Alex Villanueva will discuss closing the Altadena substation at 9 a.m. on Thursday in a virtual meeting of the Sheriff’s Civilian Oversight Commission.

“In the last few days, I have heard from many of you concerning the closure of the Altadena station; as mentioned, I share in your frustration,” said LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger.

On Monday, Villanueva announced his decision to shutter the station on July 1. Barger represents Altadena where the station is located.

The board of supervisors allocates the budget, but Villanueva controls it, which gives him the power to close the station.

Hours after Monday’s announcement, Barger told Pasadena Now said she was “disappointed” in the decision.

“The Chief Executive Office has provided the Sheriff’s Department with guidance and suggestions for appropriate budget cuts that would not impact public safety or community service, such as limited overtime and scaling back academy classes. I am disappointed that instead of more sensible adjustments, he is responding by eliminating sheriff’s stations, including in Altadena, an unincorporated area that I represent.”

Last week the two sides traded insults as they sparred over the department’s $3.5 billion budget.

According to supervisors, the county’s jail population has decreased by 5,000 inmates, yet Villanueva has not decreased the staffing in the county’s jails.

Supervisors also want Villanueva to further cut overtime.

Villanueva was elected in 2018 when he beat incumbent Jim McDonnell, becoming the first outsider to lead the department in a century. He soon came under fire for critics for hiring deputies formerly fired.

To participate in the meeting, visit https://bit.ly/2KHPTxF to register now. Then on May 7, join via computer or smart phone. When prompted, enter the information requested and the event password: COC-123

If you have any questions, please email cocnotify@coc.lacounty.gov or call (213) 253-5678.