Rise in Graffiti in Some Areas

The summer weather sometimes means an increase in crime, but police say any time of the year is an ideal time to start a Neighborhood Watch.

“I always encourage it if people want to get together and discuss problems,” said Senior Lead Officer Adam Mezquita of the LAPD Northeast Division.

One problem in the Cypress Park area is a recent increase in graffiti, according to Mezquita.

“There is a rise in graffiti throughout the division,” Mezquita said. “They’re not putting monikers up either. They’re just telling us the name of the gang.”

This has made it increasingly difficult for police to identify the suspects as a result, he said. Residents installing surveillance cameras around their houses would help assist police in apprehending those who commit such crimes, according to Mezquita.

Residents who are involved in Neighborhood Watch programs could also be a big help in helping these and other crime, police say.

Setting up a Neighborhood Watch in your neighborhood can be done by contacting your local police department, choosing block captains and setting up regular meetings with police in attendance.

In addition, anyone whether in such a program or not, can call 3-1-1 to report such crimes.

To get more tips about starting a Neighborhood Watch program on your block, visit the LAPD online.