By Mary O’KEEFE

This week Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger announced she will provide up to $1 million in discretionary funding to boost law enforcement services in unincorporated areas in her district. 

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

“This month’s busiest holiday shopping days are quickly approaching and the threat of increased criminal activity is real,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “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.”

Locally, the Crescenta Valley will benefit from the additional funds.

“This funding will be used to hire additional personnel to patrol the shopping centers and residential areas within the unincorporated areas. Increased visibility will hopefully deter any criminal activity,” said Crescenta Valley Sheriff Station Captain Robert Hahnlein.

Recently inducted sheriff Robert Luna reacted to Supervisor Barger’s announcement stating, “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. 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.”

“As the businesses in LA County continue to improve from the pandemic and economically harmful business shutdowns, its business community is poised for a strong comeback,” said Pat Anderson, President & CEO, La Cañada Flintridge Chamber of Commerce. “The business leaders in La Cañada Flintridge believe they are posed for economic growth and job creation especially during the Christmas and holiday seasons. Stores are stocked. People are feeling free to shop, dine and enjoy life again. To this end, we embrace the much-needed funds dedicated to the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. to protect our businesses and keep residents safe. With cautious optimism we work together to prepare for a better future for all.”

Dr. Sandra Thomas, president of the Altadena Chamber of Commerce, 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.”