Library Fine Amnesty

If you are dreading to return those books to the library because they are waaaaay overdue, rejoice! because January is an amnesty month. Zero fine if you return overdue books any time during January, 2018. https://goo.gl/ubwxEp

- Brad Haugaard 

Pari Passu Cafe And Peets Coffee Coming



According to this sign, it appears the unoccupied space in the building at the northwest corner of Myrtle and Foothill will be occupied by “Pari Passu: Cafe &Art” and by a Peets Coffee. Or does this mean the aafe will serve Peets coffee? 

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Elements



Dinner at Elements Restaurant and Bar, in the Double Tree hotel on Huntington. Got the “Airline Chicken Breast” for $19 and a beer for the happy hour price of $4. Odd name for the chicken but very good!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Councilman Larry Spicer Helps Run Rose Parade

The folks in white suits are the people who run the Rose Parade. One of them is Monrovia City Council member Larry Spicer. https://goo.gl/PXNWgz

- Brad Haugaard 

New Year's Eve on Myrtle


Here's what will be happening on Myrtle during New Year’s Eve:

  • Live atmospheric music in various locations in Old Town, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Enhanced stage and live music at the intersection of Myrtle and Lemon, 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
  • Enhanced seating with heaters and lights at the intersection of Myrtle and Lemon,6:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
  • Child Care services from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. for a fee of $20 at the Monrovia Community Center
  • Old Town restaurants small bite offerings
  • Enhanced outdoor dining and drinking at Old Town Restaurants within the event area
  • Opportunity for retail shops to have a Sidewalk Sale
  • Celebratory Ball Raising at Midnight
  • Shuttle Services from Station Square
  • Designated rideshare (Lyft / Uber) drop off and pick up at Library Park

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Find Homes for Eight Homeless; Library Science; Tree Recycling; Library Reading Challenge

In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O), City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ Monrovia Police Department has found permanent homes for eight homeless people this year, most recently for "Rose," a long-time homeless resident who slept in front of the Community Center or next to the Library. New Community Policing Officer, Javier Leon, found her 87-year-old mother in Seattle, and Rose agreed to fly there. Leon and School Resource Officer James Ruano bought Rose new clothes, she showered at the police station with the help of Jailer, Anisa Ortiz, and a team drove her to the airport for the flight.

~ The library has received a $10,000 grant from the California State Library to partner with the Oak Crest Institute of Science (Oak Crest) in developing an Innovation Station at the Monrovia Library. The money will go for equipment and classes, such as Cool Chemistry, Creepy Crawly Science, environment, circuitry, and 3D printing.

~ Athens Services will recycle your Christmas trees through Jan. 7. Remove ornaments, tinsel, plastic bags, nails, lights, and stands. For questions contact Public Works Division at 932-5575, or Athens Services at (888) 336-6100.

~  Mark Cuban will donate $25,000 to First Book (an organization that provides new books, learning materials and other educational resources for children in low-income households) if Americans read for 1,000,000 minutes in January. Monrovia Library is challenging Monrovians to read for 10 hours, and has a goal of 120,000 minutes.

- Brad Haugaard

Merry Christmas, Monrovia!

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the father, full of grace and truth. - John 1:14

Merry Christmas, everyone!

- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Eve in Monrovia

I always enjoy the manger scene in front of Monrovia First Presbyterian Church. 

Also worth seeing: 

- Valmont Drive. The whole block is lit up. Take Norumbega north almost to the hills. Valmont is on the left.

- A house on the east side of Primrose just south of Greystone has lights that dance to music you can hear through your car radio. The frequency is posted on a sign out front. 

- Alta Vista just north of Hillcrest is decorated in a community theme. 

What am I missing?

- Brad Haugaard 

Rocket Launch Seen From Monrovia




SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket shortly after it takes off from Vandenberg Air Force Base at 5:27 p.m. tonight.

- Brad Haugaard

Four Arrests in Gem City Grill Shootings

Four arrests in Gem City Grill shootings, in which Monrovian Michael Lowe died. Three more suspects are being sought. https://goo.gl/p3jPGz

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at The Monrovian


Lunch at The Monrovian, at Myrtle and Colorado. Got the Grilled Chirizo Sandwich (chorizo, egg, cheese) off the lunch menu for $9.95 and an iced tea for $2.69. Nice!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Old Man Arrested for Meth; Toolbox Stolen from Old Train Depot; Two Wallets Stolen Stolen While Shopping; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 18-20. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 408 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 11:08 a.m., an elderly male subject that was acting suspicious in the 200 block of E. Chestnut was reported to police. The subject was knocking on doors and messing around with a water hose at a residence. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. A consent search of the subject revealed a pouch which contained methamphetamine. The subject was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and was found to have an outstanding no-bail probation warrant.

Grand Theft
December 18 at 8:47 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 100 block of W. Lime. The victim parked her vehicle on the street and left her purse in the vehicle with the doors unlocked. When she returned to the vehicle, she found her purse had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 10:18 p.m., a grand theft of a bicycle was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers responded to the area and located the bicycle. A subject was detained in the area and admitted to stealing the bicycle. The subject was arrested for the theft.

Burglary
December 19 at 6:51 a.m., unknown suspects picked the lock and made entry into the old train depot in the 1700 block of S. Myrtle. The suspects stole tools from a toolbox inside the depot. The investigation is continuing.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 1:52 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding the report of a subject acting suspicious. Officers contacted the subject and found he had three outstanding warrants. The subject was arrested for the warrants.

Theft
December 19 at 3:15 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. An elderly female was shopping at the store and left her open purse inside her shopping cart. An unknown suspect stole the wallet out of her purse without her knowledge. When she tried to pay for her merchandise, she discovered the theft. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 19 at 3:39 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residential burglary that occurred in the 600 block of W. Olive. The resident left her home at 1200 noon and all doors and windows were locked. When she returned at 3:00 p.m., she found that someone had kicked in the back door. The loss is undetermined until the victim can inventory the location. The investigation is continuing.

Theft / Assault – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 3:54 p.m., a theft and assault were reported at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. A male suspect concealed merchandise in his clothing and as he was walking toward the registers, a loss prevention officer stopped him and asked him for the property he concealed. The subject gave the loss prevention officer the property and the officer told him to stay there, but the subject walked out the doors. The loss prevention officer followed the subject and again told him to stay. The subject then hit him in the face with his fists. Bystanders called police and a citizen’s arrest was completed on the subject for assault and theft. The suspect was arrested.

Grand Theft Auto
December 20 at 4:46 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim parked his 1999 Ford F350 in a business parking lot and left for approximately 4 hours. When he returned, the vehicle was not there. All keys are accounted for and the doors and windows were secured. The investigation is continuing.

Theft
December 20 at 5:27 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte. The victim said she was shopping at the store and her wallet was stolen without her knowing. She received a call from her credit card company asking about a purchase and that is how she realized it had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Controlled Substance / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 10:40 p.m., officers responded to the area of Mayflower and Palm regarding two male subjects arguing. They arrived and contacted the two subjects. One subject was found to have multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and when he was searched, officers located methamphetamine in his pocket. He was taken into custody. 

See Rocket Launch Early Friday Evening

According to Monrovia Old Town Astronomers and assuming everything goes as planned, you should be able to see the dramatic exhaust plume of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket shortly after it takes off from Vandenberg Air Force Base at 5:27 p.m. Friday, tomorrow. Look to the west. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Changes Planned for New Year's Eve Party; Parade Award Winners; Playground Finished

In his weekly update, City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~ There will be a few changes at the New Year's Eve festival on Myrtle:

  • Instead of having a single beer garden, restaurants with a liquor license can expand their service area into the street. 
  • Live music in various locations in Old Town from 6 to 9 p.m.
  • Live music at the intersection or Myrtle and Lemon from 9 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
  • Enhanced seating with heaters and lights at the intersection or Myrtle and Lemon from 6 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
  • Child Care services from 6 p.m. - 1 a.m. for $20 at the Library Community Room.
  • "Small bites" from Old Town restaurants.
  • Opportunity for retail shops to hold sidewalk sale.
  • Ball raising at midnight.
  • Shuttle from Station Square.
  • Lyft/Uber drop off and pick up at Library Park.

~ Winners in the Monrovia Holiday Parade are: Best Band – Santa Fe Middle School

  • Best Float – Foothill Oaks Academy
  • Best Themed Entry – Bradoaks Elementary School
  • Judges Award – Plymouth Elementary School
  • Best Cheerleading Squad – Monrovia High School Cheerleaders
  • Best Dance Troop – Infinity Roller Derby
  • Spirit of Santa Award – Monrovia Reads

~ The resurfacing of the Library Park Playground is complete and the playground has been reopened.

- Brad Haugaard

Husband of Monrovia’s Congresswoman Dies

The husband of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano has died of esophageal cancer, according to a report by the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership. Napolitano represents much of Monrovia. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Widow Faces Husband’s Killer in Court

Monrovia widow Erica Nelson faces off her husband’s drunk driver killer in court. https://goo.gl/TK4eKw

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Rotary Sponsors Blood Drive

Monrovia Rotary Club is sponsoring a blood drive on Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 800 Royal Oaks Drive, Monrovia. Walk-ins welcome but you can make a reservation here (https://goo.gl/qkw2tM) or by calling City of Hope at 218-7171.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hiking Shortcut Leads to Fall; Lots of Drunk Driving; Drunk Accidents; Jimmying Mail Boxes; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 14-17. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Traffic Collision
December 14 at 7:40 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at Duarte and Myrtle. A driver was traveling east on Duarte, approaching Myrtle, when a vehicle pulled away from the curb and failed to yield, colliding into the vehicle. No one was injured in the incident.

Traffic Collision
December 14 at 12:36 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 100 block of W. Olive. A driver was traveling east on Olive and began to make a left turn into an alley, failing to yield to oncoming traffic. She collided into a vehicle traveling west on Olive. There were no injuries involved.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 4:02 p.m., an officer on patrol saw a vehicle run the red light at Myrtle and Foothill. The officer stopped the vehicle, and further investigation determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 6:09 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police regarding a male and female subject they were detaining for shoplifting. The female subject had placed store merchandise in her purse and left the store without paying for the items. An officer was dispatched and handled the investigation. The female subject was arrested for shoplifting and the male subject was released.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 7:50 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona called police to report his adult son was trespassing and disturbing their peace. The son has an active no-trespassing order signed against him. The subject was contacted and arrested.

Attempted Mail Theft
December 14 at 9:36 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of Monterey witnessed a subject attempting to force open the mailboxes at an apartment complex. A tenant came out and scared the suspect away. The mailbox locks appeared to have been damaged. The suspect was not located and the investigation is continuing.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 15 at 7:47 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 800 block of W. Colorado. A driver was dropping off his son in front of the high school and was parked along the north curb. As he pulled away from the curb, he collided into a vehicle that was traveling west on Colorado. The driver who was traveling west on Colorado was determined to be driving under the influence with a suspended driver's license. He was arrested and taken into custody for DUI.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 2:11 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for unsafe speed in the 700 block of W. Huntington. The investigation determined the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. He was arrested for DUI and the vehicle was stored.

Traffic Collision
December 16 at 3:42 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. A driver was traveling in the number two lane heading eastbound on Huntington, just east of Encino. The driver attempted to make a lane change and sideswiped the vehicle in the number one lane. The driver making the lane change was issued a citation at the scene. No injuries were reported.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 3:46 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of California Avenue. The victim parked his vehicle in front of the location the day before, and when he returned to his vehicle the next day, he saw the lock on the driver-side door was dislodged. Construction tools had been stolen from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 9:12 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of W. Huntington. The victim reported that someone forced the window open to her SUV and took a purse and a speaker from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Package Theft / Attempted Mail Theft
December 16 at 9:19 p.m., a package theft was reported in the 900 block of California. The victim was expecting a package during the day while both residents were at work. When they arrived home, the package was not there. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 10:34 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1000 block of Oakleaf and stopped a vehicle for impeding traffic. A computer check revealed the female passenger of the vehicle had a warrant for shoplifting out of Arcadia. She was arrested and taken into custody for the warrant.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 17 at 12:57 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a male adult subject who was loitering in their restaurant and acting strange. An officer arrived and contacted the subject, who was walking east on Huntington. The subject was found to be too intoxicated to care for himself or others and was arrested for being drunk in public.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 17 at 12:58 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at California and Huntington for vehicle code violations. Further investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. He was arrested for DUI and the vehicle was stored.

Grand Theft
December 17 at 1:01 p.m., an employee at a church in the 100 block of W. Palm reported that cash was taken from a locked drawer in their thrift store. The money was taken sometime between December 14 through 17. The investigation is continuing.

Missing Hikers Located
December 17 at 1:21 p.m., a husband and wife that had gone on a hike with their dog in Canyon Park were reported lost. Apparently, they took a wrong trail which led them to a dead end. Rather than back tracking, they tried to take a shortcut, which led them to a cliff area, where the female fell. The couple and dog were then stranded on the side of the cliff. It took the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter about an hour to find them and all three were airlifted. They were then transported to a hospital for treatment of scrapes and bruises.

Theft From a Vehicle
December 17 at 2:58 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The victim parked her vehicle in the carport area of her apartment complex and left her vehicle unlocked and the windows down. When she returned to the vehicle, someone had stolen her handicap placard from her car. 

Christmas Cantata This Sunday

Christmas cantata, “When Earth Received Her King,” at Calvary Road Baptist Church (319 W. Olive) Sunday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. Refreshments to follow. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Council: Give City Manager a Raise? Two New Taxes

At its Tuesday, Dec. 19 meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/H2gA76) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Giving City Manager Oliver Chi a 5 percent raise, to $18,363.51 per month. The staff report says that would still put him below the pay of other local cities. https://goo.gl/J2qqLb

~ Holding a special election on June 5 to vote on a hotel bed tax to help pay for unfunded retirement liability. https://goo.gl/ghE7RA

~ Creating districts where new housing is likely to be built, and levy an additional tax on new housing built in those areas. Again, to help help pay for unfunded retirement costs. https://goo.gl/VpV8oQ


- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Mikomi Sushi



Dinner at Mikomi Sushi on the east side of Myrtle just south of the theater. Got the Spicy Chicken entree ($14), which comes with miso soup, salad and tempura, and a beer for $7.95.  Really quite good food! And a lot; had to take some home.

- Brad Haugaard 

Navy Commander Surprises His Children at Monrovia Schools

A touching story of Navy Commander Jeffrey Mitchel who arrived home to Monrovia early and surprises his children in their schools. https://goo.gl/ZjNwVJ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Serial Shoplifter; Truck With Keys Stolen; Auto Thief Will Return Car 'When He's Ready'; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 11-13. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 441 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Vehicle Tampering
December 11 at 10:04 p.m., an incident of vehicle tampering was reported in the 800 block of W. Olive. The victim stated that someone entered his unlocked vehicle and went through it, but it appeared nothing was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
December 11 at 2:10 p.m., the manager of a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a shoplifter. A male suspect entered a business and filled up a bag with items. He then exited the store with the merchandise and the manager ran after him. The business reported that the same suspect has stolen items before from them. The suspect dropped the stolen items and fled the scene. The store desires prosecution. An area check was conducted, but the suspect was not found. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 11 at 8:13 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of Monterey. The victim parked her vehicle at the location at 2:00 p.m. and returned at 8:00 p.m. The passenger window had been shattered and the vehicle was ransacked. It appears that nothing was taken from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 12 at 8:17 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of E. Colorado. The victim parked his vehicle on the street and went inside for the evening. The next morning, his girlfriend looked out the window and saw the truck being driven away from the location. She told the victim, who then realized he had left his keys in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 12 at 9:25 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of W. Colorado. The vehicle was parked at the victim’s residence. The following day it was not there and a family member called the victim to tell her that a male subject they all knew was driving the vehicle. The family member told the male subject he needed to return the car, but the subject replied that he would return it when he was ready. The vehicle was entered as stolen and the male subject entered as the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 12 at 11:04 a.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 500 block of W. Palm Avenue. The suspect driver struck two vehicles on Palm and fled the area. A witness reported that the suspect vehicle is a green, box-type Scion. The vehicle was last seen traveling east on Foothill from the area. Officers arrived and checked the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Sign Up for Home Security Rebate; Congrats to Fire Department; New Bed Tax; Etc.

From City Manager Oliver Chi's his weekly update ...

~ Monrovia's Home Security Rebate Program has been approved and the city will begin accepting applications in January. The program will rebate you up to $250 when you install a home security system. If you are interested send an email to securityrebate@ci.monrovia.ca.us. You'll be notified when the City begins to accept applications.

~ Congratulated the fire department and other personnel who jumped on the Norumbega fire and doused it so quickly. Comment: Yes! Much appreciated.

~ Just as other fire agencies helped Monrovia, Monrovia has also been sending firefighting support for the fires in the San Diego and Santa Barbara areas.

~ In case of future evacuation orders, "the City will always utilize law enforcement personnel to start knocking on doors to personally notify residents of the need to evacuate."

~ Monrovia's RED Program is designed to help elderly and disabled citizens who may not be able to help themselves in critical and life-threatening situations, such as evacuations. To sign up for the program, contact the Monrovia Fire Department at 256-8181, or visit Fire Station 101 (141 East Lemon Avenue).

~ As part of Monrovia's response to its huge unfunded retirement problem the city wants to raise the bed tax on hotels from 10 to 12 percent. It will have to go on the ballot of a special election in June 2018. Chi said "Staff has spoken with the DoubleTree, Courtyard Marriott, and the developer of the proposed Marriott TownePlace Suite hotel about the proposed 2% increase" and they're okay with it.

~ Horse-drawn carriage rides for $5 on Thursdays and Sundays this month in Old Town. Thursdays, Dec. 14 and 21, from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, from 3-6 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Basketball 'Thriller' Victory; Christmas Parade on Video

~ The Monrovia High boys basketball team beat Bellflower 97-93 in a double-overtime thriller. https://goo.gl/BehGwr

~ Here's the Monrovia Christmas Parade on video, if you missed it in person: https://goo.gl/Mjy4zq

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Center Food Distribution Day on Dec. 16

Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center will hold a food distribution day for families with children on Saturday, Dec. 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Ayres Hall, at the LA County Arboretum in Arcadia. Packing Day will be Friday, Dec. 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Each family will take home a holiday food box with a meat and the makings for a traditional dinner. Boxes are packed to family size. Families with children will also take home bags of unwrapped gifts specifically requested by their kids through the Center’s Adopt an Angel program. The bags are opaque, so families can wrap and give them as part of their own holiday traditions.

More than 400 youth and adult volunteers will work together to pack nearly 1,000 holiday food boxes and organize the gift bags Friday in preparation for the distribution day on Saturday, staffed by more than 150 volunteers.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Chamber of Commerce Award Winners

Monrovia Chamber of Commerce award winners:

~ Stephen Bray will receive the Iris Award, equivalent to Citizen of the Year.

~ The 2017 Monroe Award honoree, for business person of the year, will go to Paul Kalemkiarian.

~ Penny Arroyo, of Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley, has been selected as the recipient of the
Service to the Chamber Award.

~ The Military Service & Stewardship Award will be presented to Gene Glasco.

Source: https://goo.gl/cs9LPk

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: First He's In an Accident, Then His Car is Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 7-10. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Warrant / Possession of Personal Identifying Information / Possession of Access Card – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 10:13 a.m., officers responded to a business parking lot in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject walking around and yelling, causing a disturbance. Officers contacted the subject and a computer check revealed he had an outstanding warrant; he was arrested. An inventory of his property revealed he was in possession of someone else's driver's license and debit card. Further investigation revealed the two items were reported stolen from a vehicle in another city. The victim did not know the subject and did not give him permission to be in possession of his license or debit card. The suspect was additionally charged with possessing another person’s identifying information and for possession of an access card without cardholder's consent.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 9:28 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for several vehicle code violations. The driver was found to be too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and was arrested for DUI. Due to driver’s high level of intoxication, the Monrovia Fire Department paramedics were summoned. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical treatment.

Grand Theft Auto
December 7 at 10:01 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the area of Myrtle and Central. The victim called police and reported that he had been in an accident on the freeway and he exited at Myrtle. He parked his car near Myrtle and Central and then went to call his daughter. When he returned to the vehicle, it was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Battery – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 2:29 a.m., officers were dispatched on the report of a family disturbance at a residence in the 500 block of E. Olive. After interviewing both parties, the husband was arrested for battery and taken into custody.

Theft From a Vehicle
December 8 at 12:00 noon, a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of W. Lemon. An unknown suspect entered the victim's unlocked vehicle and stole his wallet from the center console. His wallet contained various debit and credit cards. One of the cards had already been used at an unknown location. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 3:58 p.m., a female subject was detained for shoplifting at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. She entered the location, grabbed a handbag and exited the store without paying. The suspect did not have any identification or form of payment on her. She was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect was also found to have an outstanding warrant. She was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 8:27 p.m., a disturbing subject was reported at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who showed signs of drug influence. A search of his person revealed he had a methamphetamine pipe in his possession. After investigation, the subject was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 8:40 p.m., officers responded to the report of a shoplifting in progress at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. As officers arrived, the loss prevention officer was detaining a male adult for shoplifting. A search of the suspect revealed methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe. The suspect was arrested for shoplifting, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 9 at 2:02 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations in the area of Mountain and Royal Oaks. The investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and the suspect was arrested for driving under the influence. The vehicle was stored.

Warrants / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 9 at 4:18 a.m., an officer observed a suspicious subject in a vehicle at a closed business. He contacted the subject and a computer check revealed he had two warrants for his arrest. During a search of the subject, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The subject was arrested.

Grand Theft
December 9 at 10:19 a.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 100 block of W. Chestnut. Unknown suspects cut the lock to the gate and took a compressor from the rear of the business. The investigation is continuing.

Theft
December 10 at 11:29 a.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. The victim realized her wallet had been taken from her purse while she was at the business the day prior. When she contacted the bank to cancel her accounts, she was informed of two fraudulent transactions made to her account. The investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 10 at 7:43 p.m., an officer on patrol saw a subject trying to jump start a vehicle parked in a no-parking zone. The officer contacted the subject and noticed the subject appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance. A computer check of the subject revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. He was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Grand Theft Auto
December 10 at 8:24 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business parking lot in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The victim had been shopping and was returning to her vehicle, when she saw her vehicle being driven away. The vehicle had been parked and secured at the location. Officers conducted an area check, but did not locate the vehicle. The investigation is continuing. 

Norumbega Fire Under Investigation

The city reports that, "The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and fire investigators have already been deployed on scene to assess the situation."

Comment: Yeah, two fires in just a few days. Suspicious.

- Brad Haugaard

Burned Water Tank Above Monrovia Not Being Used

On the TV news last night you may have seen a large water tank on a hillside north of Monrovia engulfed in fire. Well, that won't cause any disruption because it is not in use. City Manager Oliver Chi reports that it was decommissioned in late 1950s.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Above East Monrovia



A substantial fire is burning in the hillsides of east Monrovia. Possibly around Norumbega. This bad picture taken from Hillcrest near Magnolia. Apparently just above Grant Park.

Update: No homes damaged yet but it appears a water tank on the hillside may be damaged.

Update: People evacuating the area may go to the Community Center, just north of the library.

Update: You can take your dog to Wonder Dog Ranch if you are evacuating the area. 220 Taylor Street, east off Myrtle two blocks south of Duarte Road.

Update: Very low winds helping a lot. Firefighters seem to be getting a handle on it. Encouraging, except I'm wondering about the cost of fixing/replacing that water tank.

Update: Mayor Tom Adams reports that Foothill Gym has opened for anyone needing a place to go. On the east side of Myrtle just across from the Pavilions shopping center.

Update: From TV coverage it looks like firefighters have it pretty much under control. It looks as if it is now a job of keeping an eye on the embers to make sure there are no flare-ups.

- Brad Haugaard 

School Board to Consider Social Justice Camp; New Courses; Online Chat Software

At its December 13 meeting (agenda), the Monrovia School Board will consider ...

~ Approving a deal for 20 students to attend a free multi-day Building Bridges Camp by the California Conference for Equality and Justice during the 2017-18 school year. "After attending Builing Bridges Camps, students return to campus as leaders on anti-bias and social justice efforts." Details here.

~ Approving several new courses: Global Affairs, Avid (college prep), Math II and III, and Advanced Video Production.

~ Approving a contract with Fulcrum Management Solutions for its online software "that creates online conversations for meaningful engagement by parents, staff, and community members." Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Gem City Grill




Had lunch yesterday at Gem City Grill, on the north side of Olive just east of Myrtle. Got a Bacon Cheddar Ranch Sandwich for $7.95 and a beer for $5. Nothing trendy about this place. It’s an old style bar and grill with pool tables but the  sandwich (really a burger) was great. Patty was twice as thick compared to burger patties at most places. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Bake Sale Sunday to Benefit Young Musicians

The Monrovia Young Musicians Ensemble will hold a bake sale this Sunday, Dec. 10, from 3-5 p.m. at the Pavilions market. Live music and goodies to buy.

- Brad Haugaard

Firefighters Put Out Brush Fire in North Monrovia

Firefighters last night quikly put out a small brush fire in north Monrovia, in back yards near the entrance to Canyon Park.  Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Tree ... With Snow



The Monrovia Christmas tree was lit this evening by Mayor Tom Adams. A new addition was a couple of snow machines that started up as the tree went on. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Woman Accidentally Spends Fake $100 Bill; Cannon Shell Found in Car; Arrest In Auto Theft; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 4-6. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 59 investigations.

Counterfeit Bill
December 4 at 9:33 a.m., a female subject called police to report she had inadvertently used a fictitious $100 bill at a gas station in the 900 block of W. Foothill. She reported that she received the bill from a bank. An officer responded and confirmed the $100 bill was fictitious and the U.S. Secret Service was notified. The investigation is continuing.

Battery / Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 4 at 10:47 a.m., a caller reported a disturbing subject at a gas station in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and learned the subject had punched a customer at the gas station and then while attempting to drive away, the subject collided into a vehicle. The suspect fled the scene. The investigation is continuing.

Artillery Round Found – Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad Notified
December 4 at 1:01 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of E. Pomona to assist a subject with retrieving property from his impounded vehicle. While the subject was getting his property, the tip of an artillery round was located in the trunk. The item belonged to the registered owner’s grandfather. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad was notified; they responded and took possession of the device.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 9:51 a.m., the manager of a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called police to report a disturbing male subject at the location. The subject has a notrespassing order issued to him for the location. Officers arrived and detained the subject. The no-trespass authorization was posted on the front entry and exit doors, and the subject has been notified that he is not to be at the location. He was arrested for trespassing.

Stolen Vehicle
December 5 at 8:17 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of W. Huntington. A female subject parked her vehicle in the business parking lot and went into work. When she returned to her vehicle, she found it had been stolen. The vehicle is a 2004 Acura. The investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
December 6 at 11:26 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Wildrose reported an incident of mail tampering. She was at her home when FedEx dropped off a package and she heard a knock at the door. When she opened the door, she saw a female, White subject, wearing jeans and a jean jacket, walking away with her package. She yelled at the female, who then dropped the package and fled in a brown, 4-door Honda, with a male suspect driving. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto / Felon With a Gun / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
December 6 at 1:42 p.m., a parking control officer observed a suspicious black Honda Accord with no plates making two quick turns in what he thought was an attempt to get away from him. The vehicle parked in an alley in the 200 block of east Colorado. A computer check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Westminster. Patrol officers responded and the vehicle went mobile. As officers were attempting to stop the vehicle, the male, front passenger threw a handgun out the window. Once the vehicle was stopped, the three occupants were detained. The driver was arrested for grand theft auto, the front passenger was arrested for felon with a gun, and the rear passenger was arrested for a no-bail warrant. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 3:14 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain saw a subject in the store taking items and placing them in his clothing. Officers responded to the location and also observed the suspect placing items in his clothing. The suspect walked past the manned registers without stopping to pay for the items and was detained. The suspect was arrested and received a citation to appear in court on the charges. 

What Does Hayley Mills Have to Do With Restoring the Monrovia Train Station?

A really great article about the soon-to-be-completed restoration of the old Monrovia train station. Did you know that one of the best sources of historical images for the restorers came, oddly, from the 1966 comedy, "The Trouble with Angels," starring Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell?   https://goo.gl/rbWCDj

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Aldi Supermarkets Now Open




Although the Grand Opening is tomorrow, Thursday, The Aldi supermarket (in the old Albertson's shopping center site on Huntington) is open today. I walked through and two things struck me: 1. How wide the aisles are, and 2. That you need to deposit a quarter to get a cart, but you get the quarter back when you return the cart. The store opens at 9 a.m. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment Jumps 30 Percent

The stock in Monrovia drone-maker, AeroVironment, jumped 30 percent after it reports a 45 percent quarterly revenue jump compared to last year: https://goo.gl/8apqDd

- Brad Haugaard

Santa's Monrovia Schedule

This year, Monrovia will continue our 19 year long tradition of celebrating the holiday season by touring Santa Claus around city streets on top of a fire engine. Escorted by a police car and a decorated public works sleigh, Santa will give candy canes to the public in the spirit of giving. City employees will be volunteering their time to help make the program fun and successful for all Monrovians and visitors in our premier city.

Last year’s event was a great success! This year’s Santa Tour will be another exciting and fun time for members of our community when they see Santa visiting their neighborhoods. Everyone is encouraged to come out and wave to Santa. The route dates are as follows:

Monday, December 18, 2017 – will tour streets south of Huntington, west of Myrtle to Fifth, north of southern city boundaries. Also includes Valley Circle.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

Wednesday, December 20, 2017 –will tour city streets west of Myrtle, south of Foothill to Huntington, between Myrtle and Fifth.

Thursday, December 21, 2017 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Duarte Road, and west of the eastern city boundaries.

Friday, December 22, 2017 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

Assembly Time – 5:00 p.m. assemble at the City Hall parking lot, 415 S. Ivy, Monrovia, CA 91016

Sleigh Departure Time and Tour Hours – 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The police car will be driven by police officers who are volunteering their time. The police car will lead the procession using its red lights and siren. Holiday carols will be played over the police car’s P.A. system.

The fire engine will be driven by firefighters who are volunteering their time. The fire engine will follow the police car. Santa will ride on top of the fire engine with spotlights shining on him as he wishes everyone a merry Christmas and happy holidays. The fire engine will be decorated with hundreds of lights.

The public works truck will be driven by public works employees who are volunteering their time. Our reindeer sleigh, bright with over 1500 lights, will also be playing holiday carols. Community members are welcome to ride with city employees and their families in the sleigh during the tour. Space is limited and participation is first come first served. Parents are reminded that children must be accompanied by an adult, and you must bring appropriate warm clothing for cold weather and umbrellas for possible rain, as the sleigh is open air.

Venture outside, welcome Santa and enjoy the candy canes!  HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all and may you all have a safe holiday season.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard
 

Monrovia Sells Bonds Cheap; Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade Thursday; Aldi's Opening; Etc.

In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ The City successfully sold $111.6 million worth of pension obligation bonds to refinance all of the City's pension liabilities at a lower cost than projected, resulting in an estimated savings of $50.3 million rather than just $43.2 million, as earlier estimated. Chi said this was because of "the City’s strong financial position and an uptick in demand for municipal securities."

~ The Annual Tree Lighting will be at 6 p.m. this Thursday, followed by the Christmas Parade at 7 p.m. The parade will travel north on Myrtle from Chestnut Avenue to Palm Avenue.

~ And here's a great, compact list of Christmas and New Year's events in Monrovia: https://goo.gl/XjXPsq

~  Aldi’s Supermarket will have its grand opening celebration on Thursday, Dec. 7, with a ribbon cutting at 8:25 a.m. Aldi's is in the old Albertson's shopping center in east Monrovia.

~ Here's a video of the rehab work at the old train station: https://goo.gl/Zu93eC

~ The bouncy rubber coating on the Library Park Playground is scheduled to be replaced Dec. 11-20.  While the work is being completed, the playground will be closed.

~ The Library's Veterans Resource Center is partnering with the American Legion Women's Auxiliary to support the USO and local military personnel who are hospitalized. They are collecting white socks for men and women; coloring books for adults; coloring pencils, markers, and pens; and board games for adults. You can drop off donations in the large yellow box in the Library's main lobby. contact Mabel Cross, Librarian, at 256-8294 if you have any questions.

- Brad Haugaard

Former Monrovia Mayor Lutz Plans a Run for Congress

Former Monrovia Mayor Mary Ann Lutz has announced on Facebook her intention to run for Congress representing the 32nd Congressional District ...  someday, but only after the current representative, Grace Napolitano, steps down. 

Here is her full statement:

“Running For Congress...

“Like many of you, the past few months have been incredibly difficult for me to watch. The current administration creates one national crisis after another as their reckless, wrong-headed and discriminatory actions create unprecedented anxiety and division throughout the country.   We need to fight back against the fear-mongering forces that divide us and remake our country into one that has immense promise for all, not one that is dominated by a politics driven by fear of the unknown. 

“After serving 3 terms as Mayor of Monrovia and six years as council member, my experience in local, regional and federal policy and public service, and decades as a neighborhood activist, I know what it takes to generate positive change and produce tangible results for the people in our local neighborhoods. 

“ In 2015 I was honored to join the staff of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, as a Policy Advisor for Water, Transportation and Environment.  This experience led me to a greater understanding of how Congress can work with and for our community.

"Congresswoman Napolitano is a widely respected leader in the community, is still the sitting Member and representative for California’s 32nd District. She is my mentor and has my support.   That said, at some point in the future, the Congresswoman will likely retire.  I believe I have the knowledge, passion and experience to represent you in Congress, thus I have opened a campaign committee in anticipation of a future race.   As I have said publicly, my plan is to run when the seat opens.

“If I have the privilege of representing the 32nd District in Congress, I will fight tooth and nail to resist the Trump agenda and work toward reducing inequality, fighting for social and economic justice, and a future full of hope and possibility for all.”

- Brad Haugaard 

Unity Center Needs December Volunteers

Foothill Unity Center needs help sorting and packing food for family distribution events this month. A limited number of volunteers are needed for each shift. Registration is mandatory and is available for individuals and groups until December 10. Register at www.foothillunitycenter.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Package Theft Suspect Caught; Woman's Foot Run Over; Drugs, Alcohol, and Gem City Grill Shooting

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 30 – December 3. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Package Theft – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 2:14 p.m., a suspicious subject who was looking into vehicles in the area of Primrose and Linwood was reported to police. An officer responded and located the subject nearby. The subject was wearing a backpack when officers first saw him, but he had dropped the backpack and walked away from it before he was detained. The subject gave officers consent to search the backpack, which contained a package that had been stolen from a residence in the 200 block of S. Primrose. The suspect was arrested for possession of the stolen property and taken into custody. The victim did not desire prosecution and the suspect was released after he was identified.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 3:15 p.m., a parking control officer was impounding a vehicle and trailer that had suspended registration as of 2015. After the tow truck arrived to tow the vehicle, a subject came out and confronted the parking control officer. Officers responded to assist and discovered the subject had multiple warrants for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Ex-Felon in Possession of a Firearm / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 4:20 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a disturbing subject who management wanted to complete a no trespass authorization form against. Officers recognized the subject from previous contacts and a computer check revealed the subject had warrants for his arrest. During a pat-down search of the subject, he admitted to officers that he had something he shouldn't have in his pocket. The officers recovered a .38 caliber revolver from his right pants pocket and black gloves in his left pocket. The suspect was arrested for being an ex-felon in possession of a firearm and the warrants.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 9:57 p.m., officers responded to the area of Foothill and Mayflower regarding the report of a suspicious subject loitering in the area. They contacted the subject and a consent search revealed the subject was in possession of a pipe for smoking methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 1 at 1:43 a.m., an officer contacted a suspicious male subject in the area of Myrtle and Lemon. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest and during a consent search of the subject, he was found to have cocaine in his possession. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 1 at 2:59 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at the intersection of Peck and Live Oak for vehicle code violations. The driver was determined to be too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and was arrested for driving under the influence. The driver was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision
December 1 at 11:01 a.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the 500 block of W. Huntington. An elderly female was walking through a business parking lot to her vehicle when a driver made a left turn into the parking lot and struck her foot at a slow rate of speed. The vehicle's tire hit the pedestrian's ankle. Paramedics responded and the pedestrian was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Homicide Investigation
December 2 at 12:01 a.m., officers responded to shots fired at the Gem City Grill in the 100 block of E. Olive. When they arrived, they found three subjects had been shot. All three subjects were taken to local hospitals for treatment. One of the victims involved in the incident succumbed to his injuries while at the hospital. The crime is being investigated by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit.

Public Intoxication / No-Bail Parole Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 2 at 8:34 p.m., a citizen called police to report an intoxicated subject causing a disturbance in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and detained the male adult, who they recognized as a subject they knew had a no-bail warrant for his arrest. The subject was also determined to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety. The warrant was confirmed and the subject was arrested for public intoxication and the warrant.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence Investigation
December 3 at 4:19 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the 2600 block of California. A driver struck a telephone pole, cutting his vehicle in half. The driver was taken to a hospital for treatment and an officer responded to have blood drawn for a DUI investigation. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 3 at 6:32 p.m., employees at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called police to report a subject that was a causing a disturbance at the location. Officers responded and contacted the subject, who was found to be in possession of a pipe used for smoking methamphetamine. He was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. He was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges. 

Man Killed in Bar Shooting Identified

The 43-year-old man who was killed at the Gem City Grill has been identified as Michael Lowe, a Monrovia resident, according to the coroner's office. https://goo.gl/uA6t94

Update: A GoFundMe page has been set up for the funeral expenses of Michael Lowe: https://goo.gl/jrcgw1

- Brad Haugaard

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Old Town Monrovia

Horse drawn carriage rides have begun in Old Town Monrovia for the Christmas season. Gem City Images has a picture and details about how to take a ride: https://goo.gl/XxhYEe

- Brad Haugaard

Police Search for Suspect in Bar Killing

Police are looking for a adult Hispanic man as suspect in Gem City Grill shooting. Police surrounded a home on West Olive but apparently did not make any arrest. The shooting left one man dead and two wounded.  https://goo.gl/tM1Dj5

- Brad Haugaard 

Man Killed, Two Injured This Morning at Monrovia Bar

One man was killed and two injured in a shooting just after midnight this morning at Gem City Grill, on the north side of Olive just east of Myrtle.  https://goo.gl/LTrdwT

- Brad Haugaard

City Council: $500 Rebate for Home Security Systems; Ban Additional Food-Styrofoam From City Facilities

At its next meeting (https://goo.gl/F13rp3) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Setting aside $100,000 to fund a program in which the city would kick in up to $500 per home to reimburse homeowners for "alarm systems, security cameras, home protection devices, and other related products." If you already have a security system, sorry, the offer is not retroactive. Why? Because, "Monrovia, like many communities throughout California, has experienced an alarming increase in crime." https://goo.gl/iBj488

~ Banning any additional use of expanded polystyrene ("Styrofoam") food products at city facilities. Why? Because - the staff report says - it is "a major source of litter and marine pollution, which frequently clogs storm drains and waterways throughout our region. Furthermore, as a non-biodegradable and non-recyclable plastic, expanded polystyrene has the potential of continuing to persist in the environment for hundreds to thousands of years if not managed properly." https://goo.gl/sp2c6H

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Peach Cafe



Had lunch yesterday at Peach Cafe, on the north side of Colorado just west of Ivy. Got the chicken sandwich with scalloped potatoes for $12  and an iced tea for $2.75. Pleasant atmosphere and food was very tasty. That pancake-looking thing, by the way, is the scalloped potatoes. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Did Car Accelerate On Its Own, Causing Crash? Hoodie Suspects Escape; Etc.

Link to Blogger

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 27-29. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 362 service events, resulting in 64 investigations.

Vehicle Burglary
November 27 at 6:44 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 300 block of Lincoln. The victim parked the vehicle in their complex carport. When they returned to the vehicle, they found the rear driver-side door ajar and the trunk open. There were no signs of forced entry. A watch was taken from the glove box. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 27 at 12:37 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 600 block of Parkrose regarding a burglary. The resident’s son found the front door ajar and contacted police. It appears the suspect attempted to break the sliding glass door, but did not succeed. The suspect then kicked in a rear door to gain entry. The home was ransacked, so the resident was unable to determine what was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
November 28 at 12:16 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a man down in the 100 block of W. Cypress. Officers responded to the location and found a male adult subject lying on the ground. The subject was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself and he was arrested for public intoxication. He was held for a sobering period.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
November 28 at 10:33 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck Road. The business was contacted by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department because they had impounded the vehicle as abandoned. It is unknown how the vehicle was taken off the lot. The vehicle was recovered and the investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 28 at 2:03 p.m., a driver turned into a driveway in the 300 block of W. Duarte Road to turn around, and as he was turning in, accelerated through a brick wall onto the property. The driver complained of pain. He stated that the vehicle, a Toyota Camry, had accelerated on its own through the wall. A parked vehicle on the other side of the wall sustained minor damage.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
November 29 at 12:16 a.m., police dispatch received a call reporting a man down in the 100 block of W. Cypress. Officers responded to the location and contacted a male adult who was too intoxicated to care for himself. The subject was arrested for public intoxication. He was held for detoxification.

Attempt Burglary
November 29 at 10:14 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of E. Greystone on the report of an alarm activation. They arrived at the location and saw the screens had been taken off the rear windows and someone had tampered with the rear door. It did not appear the suspects were able to gain entry. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Burglary
November 29 at 11:10 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Cherry called police and reported that two male suspects attempted to enter her home through a window. They were described as male adults wearing hoodies. They did not make entry and fled in a dark, possibly green, vehicle. Officers responded and searched the area, but were not able to locate the vehicle or suspects. The investigation is continuing. 

Man Pleads Not Guilty to Shooting Deer in Monrovia

A Duarte man has pleaded not guilty to charges related to shooting a deer with an arrow in north Monrovia. https://goo.gl/39PAiF

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Plans to Help Residents With Home Security

Monrovia Mayor Tom Adams commented today on social media that the city plans to help residents with home security systems, although exactly what type of assistance that will entail he did not specify. He wrote that, “The program was approved by the council about 2 months ago, stay tuned for the information on how to take advantage of this.”

- Brad Haugaard 

Auditions for 'She Loves Me' Dec. 17-19

Auditions for The JFed Players' Spring 2018 production of She Loves Me, will be held on December 17, 18, and 19, with performances in late April - early May.

She Loves Me takes place in Budapest in the 1930s, and focuses on two employees of a perfume shop, Georg and Amalia, who bicker constantly with each other at work, unaware that they are each other's secret pen pal.

She Loves Me is based on the 1937 play Parfumerie by the Hungarian playwright Miklós László, which also inspired the motion pictures, The Little Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail. A collaboration between composer Jerry Bock and lyricist Sheldon Harnick, She Loves Me immediately preceded their smash hit, Fiddler on the Roof.

Audition dates and times:

  • Sunday, December 17, 2-4 p.m.
  • Monday, December 18, 7-9 p.m.
  • Tuesday, December 19, 7-9 p.m.

All auditions will be held at the Jewish Federation, 114A Lime Ave., in Monrovia.

Performances will be in April and May at the Clarke Center in Arcadia.

For more information contact the Jewish Federation at 445-0810.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Girl Selling Doggy Treats for Children's Hospital

Monrovia girl, Hannah IIer, plans to raise $5,000 for Children’s Hospital by selling her homemade rawhide and peanut butter doggy treats. Available on Saturday Dec. 16 from 9-11 am at 710 Oakdale Ave., in Monrovia. https://goo.gl/NdXYz5

- Brad Haugaard

Lower Interest Rate for Monrovia Bond; Christmas Tree Lighting, Parade; Santa Touring Times

In his weekly report, City Manager Olive Chi reports that ...

~ The bond-rating agency, S&P, has this past week assigned Monrovia's proposed $115 million bond (to cover unfunded retirement costs) a rating of AA-, its fourth highest rating, giving the bond a "High Grade" rating, meaning Monrovia can borrow money at a lower interest rate. Also, the city as a whole has been assigned an AA rating, S&P's third highest rating.

Chi said, "This is a terrific accomplishment for the City, and our entire community should be proud of the achievement!  It wasn't that long ago that securities from the City were considered lower medium grade investments in the BBB- to BBB+ range."

Here is S&P's rating report for Monrovia: https://goo.gl/XEYZML

~ On Thursday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m., the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held in Library Park, followed by the Holiday Parade at 7 p.m. The parade will travel north on Myrtle from Chestnut to Palm.

~  Santa will tour Monrovia in a fire engine, accompanied by other city vehicles. Here's the schedule:

  • Monday, Dec. 18, south of Huntington, west of Myrtle.
  • Tuesday, Dec. 19,  east of Myrtle and north of Foothill.
  • Wednesday, Dec. 20, west of Myrtle and south of Foothill to Huntington.
  • Friday, Dec. 22, west of Myrtle Avenue and north of Foothill.

For more information, please contact the Police Department at 256-8000.

~ You should be getting the Monrovia Today winter brochure in your mailbox on November 30, but if you'd like an early peek: https://goo.gl/WdsFkn

~ This Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 29 and 30, concrete panels on Foothill at Acacia and Melrose that were removed during the recent sewer improvements will be replaced. Foothill will be reduced to one lane in eac direction while the concrete is placed and cures.

~ In the next few weeks the city will be installing at Kiwanis Park at Grand Avenue fencing, lighting, tables, bike racks, trash cans, benches, better watering, a Christmas tree, and a new Samson Bear, which has been ordered by the Kiwanis Club and is being painted.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Noted in Capitol Weekly Newspaper

The newspaper, Capitol Weekly, which covers California government, has taken note of Monrovia's efforts to avoid bankruptcy from unfunded retirement costs.  https://goo.gl/ByH3fH

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Drunk Crashes Into Cemetery; Gun Robbery; Red-Light Runner Crashes; Cell Phones Stolen; Lots More

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 20-26. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
November 20 at 12:06 a.m., a domestic violence incident was reported at a business in the 600 block of S. Myrtle. A female subject who works at location reported that she was pushed by and ex-boyfriend. When he pushed her, she fell into a bookcase, which left a mark on her back. The male suspect was arrested and taken into custody for domestic violence.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 21 at 1:56 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at Duarte and Walker. A vehicle was traveling eastbound on Duarte Road at a high rate of speed and failed to negotiate the curve. The vehicle hit the curb and crashed through the fence at the cemetery. The driver was the sole occupant and was uninjured. The investigation revealed she was too intoxicated to operate a vehicle safely and she was arrested for driving under the influence.

Vandalism
November 21 at 9:13 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 100 block of E. Olive. The victim reported a window had been smashed at the location. Surveillance video showed a suspect wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt throwing something at the window. The suspect then looked inside the location, but did not make entry. The item thrown at the window was found to be an empty glass vodka bottle. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 21 at 1:37 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at Shamrock and Huntington. A driver was traveling west on Huntington, approaching Shamrock, and failed to stop for the red light. The driver broadsided a vehicle that was traveling south on Shamrock with a green light. The driver that ran the red light had a complaint of pain and was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Commercial Burglary
November 21 at 2:29 p.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a construction site in the 1600 block of S. Shamrock. An employee at the site realized there had been a theft at the location and called police. Unknown suspects entered the site and removed a lockbox which contained a key to a trailer and a building at the site. The suspects entered the trailer and took power tools. They also entered the building, but there was nothing to take inside. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 21 at 4:39 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 1700 block of California observed a traffic collision at the intersection of California and Evergreen. A driver was traveling east on Evergreen and ran a red light at California. The vehicle was broadsided by a vehicle that was traveling south on California and had a green light. The driver of the vehicle traveling on California complained of neck pain and was taken to a hospital for further treatment.

Commercial Burglary / Grand Theft
November 22 at 7:07 p.m., two male African American suspects entered a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington and used bolt cutters to remove several cell phones from a display. The suspects fled to a waiting vehicle, which then left the area. The vehicle was described as an older model, black Mercedes Benz. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 22 at 8:11 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 400 block of Kirkwood. The victim returned to his home and discovered it had been ransacked. Officers responded and cleared the residence. The investigation revealed the suspects entered the location by breaking through a set of doors to the rear. The investigation is continuing.

Robbery
November 22 at 8:35 p.m., a robbery incident was reported in the 500 block of Fano. The male victim was sitting in his vehicle waiting for a friend. The friend arrived and sat in the vehicle with the victim. A third person approached with a handgun and threatened to kill the victim while the friend took the victim's phone and backpack. The two suspects then fled on foot. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Burglary
November 22 at 9:03 p.m., officers responded to an alarm activation at a residence in the 700 block of Ridgeside. The officers arrived and found a back window had been broken. It does not appear that the suspects made entry to the home. The investigation is continuing.

Indecent Exposure – Suspect Arrested
November 24 at 3:02 a.m., a caller reported a male subject that was exposing himself inside the lobby of a hotel in the 900 block of S. Fifth Avenue. Officers arrived and detained the suspect inside the lobby. Video surveillance showed the suspect exposing himself near the front lobby counter. He also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody for indecent exposure.

Attempt Burglary
November 24 at 6:06 a.m., an attempt burglary was reported at a residence in the 100 block of Montana. The victim heard their living room window break. When she went out to check, she saw an arm reaching in the window. The suspect then fled in an unknown direction. Officers responded and searched the area, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
November 24 at 10:36 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 900 block of Sierra Blanca. The vehicle is a silver, 1996 Honda Accord. All keys are accounted for and the investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 24 at 1:05 p.m., a burglary was reported at a residence in the 400 block of Granite Avenue. Unknown suspects stole a remote for the garage in September, but the homeowner did not report the theft at the time. The suspects returned at a later date and stole tools that had been left in the garage by the homeowner. There were no signs of forced entry to the garage. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Forgery / Fraud / Parole Hold – Suspect Arrested
November 24 at 1:26 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of S. Lincoln regarding drug activity going on in a vehicle. Four subjects were contacted at the scene. The investigation revealed one of the subjects was on parole and in possession of a controlled substance, an altered credit card and a fraudulent out-of-state identification card. He also had keys to two rental vehicles which were rented using another person's name. He was arrested, the vehicles were stored and a parole hold was obtained. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovered
November 24 at 4:21 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a vehicle parked in the 300 block of Bella Vista with the windows down and the keys on the driver’s seat. The investigation revealed the vehicle was an unreported stolen vehicle out of Rosemead. The vehicle was recovered.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 24 at 8:07 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of Huntington regarding a theft in progress. The suspect was detained in the parking lot. The suspect was positively identified by store security and was arrested for shoplifting.

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
November 25 at 3:15 a.m., an officer contacted a suspicious subject that was loitering outside a closed business in the 3300 block of Peck Road. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest and during a search, he was found to have methamphetamine in his wallet. He was arrested for the warrant and possession of a controlled substance.

Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
November 25 at 3:22 a.m., a citizen called police and reported a suspicious vehicle parked near their residence that was occupied by two subjects. The vehicle was parked near the intersection of El Nido and Hillcrest. An officer arrived and one of the suspects fled. The officer told the suspect to stop, but he continued to run. He was detained moments later by two other responding officers. The suspect was arrested for resisting and delaying an officer.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
November 26 at 2:14 a.m., an officer responded to the 100 block of E. Olive regarding a person possibly in distress. The officer arrived and contacted a subject that was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for his own safety. He was arrested for being drunk and public.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 26 at 7:17 p.m., a shoplifting incident in progress was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The suspect exited the store and fled from store security. Officers arrived in the shopping center parking lot and detained the suspect. The suspect was arrested for shoplifting. 

View the Moon Tonight

Get a close-up view of the moon tonight (weather permitting) with the Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers In Library Park at the corner of Myrtle and Lime Streets. The telescopes should be set up by roughly 7 p.m. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Lunch at LeRoy’s



Lunch at LeRoy’s, on the north side of Huntington just west of Mayflower. Got the Hobo sandwich for $8.95 and an iced tea for $2.50. I’d always though of LeRoy’s as a breakfast place but no, great lunches, too. The sandwich was excellent and I could barely finish it. 


- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Three-Car Smash-Up; She Breaks a Water Main and Drives Off; Roll-Over Crash at Mayflower and Lime; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 16-19. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 16 at 10:54 a.m., an elderly female driver was pulling out of a parking lot onto eastbound Huntington and failed to yield to traffic coming off the 210 Freeway offramp. She collided into three vehicles. She complained of pain to her shoulder from her seat belt. A DMV re-examination form was completed for the driver.

Vehicle Burglary
November 16 at 6:29 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of S. Myrtle. The victim’s car had been parked in the parking structure for two days. When he returned to his vehicle, he discovered the window had been broken and electronic items that had been left in the vehicle were missing. The investigation is ongoing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
November 17 at 1:41 p.m., a suspicious vehicle was reported in the 800 block of W. Chestnut. The vehicle was parked in a red zone for several days with a flat tire and it had paper plates on it. Officers responded and conducted a computer check of the VIN number, which revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of San Dimas. The vehicle was recovered.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 17 at 4:35 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect entered the store, took a circular saw from a display and walked out of the store without paying for it. He was detained by loss prevention personnel. A private person's arrest was completed and the suspect was taken into custody for the theft.

Shoplifting / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 17 at 8:07 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a shoplifting incident in progress. The suspect fled and ran through the parking lot. An officer arrived and the suspect was detained on Huntington. A computer check of the suspect revealed an outstanding warrant. The suspect was arrested for shoplifting and the warrant.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
November 18 at 11:31 a.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. The female suspect parked her vehicle in the rear lot of a business. Another driver double parked behind the suspect’s vehicle. As the suspect was backing out and was trying not to hit the vehicle that blocked her in, she ended up colliding into the building, striking a water main. Water started shooting out into the parking lot. The suspect then fled the scene in her vehicle at a high rate of speed.

Witnesses obtained a license plate number from the vehicle. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department was called to assist in locating the registered owner at their residence, however, they were unable to locate the owner at the location. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 18 at 1:29 p.m., a traffic collision involving injuries was reported at Mayflower and Lime. A driver was traveling west on Lime, stopped at the stop sign at Mayflower and entered the intersection, failing to yield to oncoming traffic. The vehicle collided into another vehicle and rolled over in the intersection. Three subjects involved were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment for minor to moderate injuries.

Vehicle Burglary
November 18 at 5:49 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1200 block of N. Canyon. The victim parked their vehicle and went hiking in Canyon Park. When they returned approximately four hours later, they found their wallet containing credit cards and cash had been taken from their car. The victim's credit card was used at a business in Monrovia and then in Pasadena. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
November 18 at 10:59 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle in the 100 block of W. Walnut for vehicle code violations. After investigation, the passenger was arrested for warrants and the driver was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 19 at 2:06 a.m., an officer stopped a subject riding a bike without lighting equipment during darkness. After further investigation, the rider was cited in the field for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 19 at 2:43 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations in the area of California and Euclid. The driver was found to be too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. After further investigation, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. The vehicle was stored.

Citrus College Again Named a 'Military Friendly School'

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has been named a 2018 Military Friendly School by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs and Military Spouse magazines.

This is the college's eighth consecutive appearance on the Military Friendly Schools list, which honors the top 15 percent of the nation's colleges, universities and trade schools that have demonstrated a commitment to embracing military students by providing them with the resources needed to ensure success.

Source: Citrus press release

- Brad Haugaard

Homes for the Homeless; Virtual Tours of City Facilities; Washing Sidewalks

In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O), City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ The Monrovia Homeless Outreach Team has rounded up permanent housing for seven of our homeless population. They are required to enroll in a program to teach job training, and rehabilitation / mental health care.

~ Monrovia was recently awarded $30,000 to address homelessness. L.A. County and the United Way developed the grant program, that allows a maximum award of $30,000 for cities the size of Monrovia.

~ Wander around in more city facilities using Google 360. See the  Monrovia Community Center (https://goo.gl/42SPuv), Canyon Park Cabin (https://goo.gl/KSgmWj), and the Monrovia Historical Museum (https://goo.gl/18VzDo), although this one looks like just a patio and clicking "Monrovia Historical Museum" in the image takes you to Florida. Especially helpful if you'd like to rent a facility. You can check it out easily.

~ The City has scheduled pressure washing Old Town sidewalks during the next few weeks. Preparation for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

- Brad Haugaard

Beauty and the Beast at Monrovia High


The Broadway musical, Beauty and the Beast, at the Taylor Performing Arts Center (Monrovia High auditorium) on Nov. 30-Dec. 3. Details and tickets: https://goo.gl/bKyofp

- Brad Haugaard

Wheelhouse Ceramics Sale Dec. 1 & 2

Wheelhouse Ceramics (Monrovia Adult Education) will have its Holiday Ceramic Sale Friday Dec.1, 6 p.m.-9pm and Saturday Dec 2,10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is a non-profit group and the sale helps fund the studio.  This year, 40 artists' work will be displayed to view and/or purchase.  The studio is located near the corner of Myrtle and Duarte, behind AAMCO and Troy's Donuts & Burgers and just east of Santa Fe school.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia-Based Trader Joe's Recalls Some Salads

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's is recalling its White Meat Chicken Salad, Curried White Chicken Deli Salad, and Turkey Cranberry Apple Salad because its supplier notified the company that they may contain pieces of glass or hard plastic. https://goo.gl/w3n7Qd

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council to Consider Making Another House An Historic Landmark


At its Nov. 21 meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/Y9L2xw) the Monrovia City Council will, among other things, consider making the house at 101 East Greystone Avenue an historic landmark. https://goo.gl/3VD2dN

Update: Please see clarification in comments section.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at T Phillips



Dinner at T Phillips, at the corner of  Colorado and Myrtle. Got the Reuben sandwich for $13 and a beer bigger than I could drink for $10.50. Very nice. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Get Your Poem Stamped in a Monrovia Sidewalk

Get your poetry stamped into a Monrovia sidewalk.

As part of Monrovia Renewal, the city will stamp Monrovia resident's original poems into newly poured sections of sidewalk.  The contest is open to all residents of Monrovia. Your poem could appear anywhere around the city.

Which poems will be selected will be determined by a contest which ends December 31, 2017. For more information, a contest application, and a poem I hope does not win the contest, click here: https://goo.gl/fRMnHz

- Brad Haugaard

Stores Within a Store for Small Business Saturday

Smitten on Paper, at 114 E Lemon, will host about 15 vendors in its store - selling a variety of items, from jewelry, stationery, and apparel to coffee and baked goods - on Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as part of  Small Business Saturday.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Two Pedestrians Hit By Cars in Separate Incidents; Did Fire Mask Auto Theft? Check Stolen From Monrovia Post Office, Cashed; Theft; Drugs; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 13-15. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 376 service events, resulting in 64 investigations.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 8:32 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Huntington regarding the report of a traffic collision. A driver was traveling westbound on Huntington when she was sideswiped by another vehicle that continued westbound and never stopped. The driver of the hit and run vehicle was reportedly swerving all over the roadway, striking the center divider several times. The suspect driver was eventually located in Arcadia. He was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and the hit and run traffic collision.

Burglary / Theft From a Vehicle – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 9:00 a.m., an officer was dispatched to an apartment complex in the 700 block of W. Foothill regarding the report a burglary. An unknown suspect stole items from an unlocked storage space located in the carport of the complex. Items were also stolen from the bed of a truck, which was parked in the carport. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 13 at 10:25 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 200 block of Los Angeles regarding an alarm activation. Upon arrival, officers saw the two doors on the west side of the residence were kicked open. The master bedroom had been ransacked, but it is unknown what was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 11:14 a.m., police received a call reporting a possible domestic dispute in the area of Foothill and Garfield. The male subject fled from the location in a vehicle and the female fled on foot. Officers located the male subject in the 700 block of Mountain View and the female was located by Arcadia police officers at Colorado and Fifth. The female was uncooperative and would not provide any information. The male subject had a visible injury to his face and was treated at the scene by the Monrovia Fire Department paramedics, and he refused prosecution. The male subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and released on a citation to appear in court on the drug charges.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 3:11 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a theft in progress. Two suspects stole electronics and fled the store without paying. Both suspects were apprehended and arrested. The property was recovered and returned to the business.

Injury Traffic Collision – Vehicle vs. Pedestrian
November 13 at 3:35 p.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the 1600 block of S. Mountain Avenue. A pedestrian was walking in a marked crosswalk when a vehicle turned onto Mountain from a parking lot and struck the pedestrian in the crosswalk. The pedestrian complained of pain on both sides of her body and had an abrasion on her right elbow. She was treated at the scene by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics.

Vehicle Burglary
November 14 at 9:28 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 500 block of W. Duarte Road. The suspects entered the victim's open garage and went into the victim's unlocked vehicle. The suspects stole the victim's wallet and laptop from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Fraud Incident
November 14 at 9:57 a.m., a victim came into the police lobby to report a fraud incident. On October 6, the victim dropped off a check written to Southern California Edison at the post office in the drive-through mailbox. The victim later received a notice from her bank advising her that she had insufficient funds in her account. Upon checking her bank account, the victim realized the check she had made out to Southern California Edison was cashed for a much larger amount than she had written on the check. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 14 at 3:51 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect entered the business, selected items, and walked to the return desk. He used a fraudulent receipt in an attempt to return the selected items. The suspect then fled, but was apprehended by officers nearby in Duarte. The suspect was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collison
November 14 at 4:11 p.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the area of Colorado and Magnolia. The driver of a vehicle was turning onto Magnolia from Colorado, when he struck a pedestrian walking in the crosswalk. The pedestrian complained of pain to his left jaw and left knee. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Grand Theft Auto
November 15 at 3:24 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business in the 900 block of S. Magnolia. The victim dropped off his vehicle at the business in October. The business was destroyed in a structure fire. The victim was informed by the detective handling the case that his vehicle was not at the scene when the fire took place. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 15 at 11:50 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 700 of E. Lemon when he contacted a subject in a park after closing hours. A computer check of the subject revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and received a citation for being in the park after hours.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 16 at 2:43 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 400 block of W. Huntington when he observed a suspicious subject on a bicycle with his face covered. The officer contacted the subject and identified him. The subject was found to be in possession of a pipe used for smoking methamphetamine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
November 16 at 3:41 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a theft in progress in the 100 block of N. Mayflower. Officers responded and detained an adult, female suspect. The investigation revealed the victim met the suspect and brought the suspect to his brother's home. The suspect went into a room, took jewelry and attempted to leave the location. She was detained by the victim until officers arrived. The stolen property was recovered and the suspect was arrested. She was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.