Residents in Los Angeles (LA) are getting frustrated with the Democratic mayor, Karen Bass, over a recent rise in crime. People in the community feel “on edge” and believe more needs to be done in these circumstances.
The city of Encino is facing a rise in property crime, including home invasions and burglaries, which has been heightened by a double homicide and a multitude of other break-ins.
Encino residents gathered in front of Van Nuys City Hall, demanding action from city officials to address public safety concerns throughout the community, such as the recent break-ins and double murder.
The call for more security in the California neighborhood comes after “American Idol” music producer Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found dead inside their home on July 15.
“We are not asking for miracles…just modern tools and accountability,” commented Encino Neighborhood Council president, Roy Nwaisser.
Police believe that the couple was killed a few days before being called, as two calls were placed reporting a burglary at the couple’s house. The suspect was arrested on double homicide charges. Officials believe the alleged killings were random.
The primary suspect involved in the crimes is Raymond Boodarian, a 22-year-old man.
One neighbor told Fox News that the suspect had mental health issues and would sometimes stalk people. One neighbor stated about the suspect’s struggles, “He had mental health issues. He would walk around all day. We got Ring cameras – he would walk by and flash knives at our Ring cameras.” The suspect had also stalked and hit on the neighbor’s son, wanting to be friends.
President of the Encino Property Owners Association, Robert Glushon, who is also a neighbor of the couple, told Fox News that the double murder is only one flashpoint in a recent rise in crime.
“I had a next-door neighbor and her husband was killed by a burglar,” Glushon said. “But that happened while other increases in burglaries and home invasions were going on. So the reality is, people are on edge because everyone knows someone who’s been victimized.” He added, “And that isn’t normal.”
Two more break-ins were reported on the same day of the Encino neighborhood meeting to discuss their list of demands to the Bass.
Following the break-ins, a resident told the station, “We are being targeted… It’s scary.”
Glushon stated that city leaders aren’t doing enough revolving the concerns of the Encino residents and that the LAPD is understaffed. He noted, “We’re frustrated, we’re angry…You know, people are understandably fearful and they want action.”
The LAPD responded to the crimes by increasing patrols in the Encino Neighborhood.
Residents presented the city with their action items, which included a reporting center that tracks crime in real-time, increased law enforcement patrols, drone surveillance and automated license plate readers.
The mayor’s office states that the city has implemented many of the demands and they are working to increase collaboration with the sheriff’s department.
Adam Wright emphasized the urgency of the circumstances. “We demand our elected officials to take immediate action…and enforce existing laws, clear the encampments,” he told KTLA.
Recently, many neighbors have come together to create watch groups and have installed more outside cameras. When people feel safe, they are more likely to protect and trust others. You never want to live in constant fear.