Old Town Monrovia report: Crime to look out for throughout our city

By, Shawn Spencer

It seems like our Monrovia Police Blotters get longer every week. If you read it weekly, you know who the usual suspects are: someone sleeping where they shouldn’t, domestic disturbances, traffic violations that lead to more police involvement and car break-ins. Lately, I’ve noticed an uptick in DUI’s, burglary/theft and scams.

DUI’s are a no brainer. In this day and age, when people can summon a ride with the touch of a button, there is absolutely no reason to get behind the wheel of a car if you’ve been drinking. A Lyft is $3 in Monrovia. That’s a lot cheaper than getting a DUI, which can cost between $3600 through $10,000, for a first offense. 

Along with facing criminal and financial penalties, people that drive under the influence can potentially lose their driving privileges and job. If that isn’t enough to deter you, the potential to harm or kill another person should be. In 1989, Miller came out with the slogan, “Think before you drink.” It still rings true, today. Create a plan before you go out; one that includes a safe way home. As a mother of young adults and inexperienced drivers, I would really appreciate it if you got your sh*t together and behaved responsibly.

Be diligent at home. Ensure that your home looks occupied. Add timers to your lights and rotate the time & duration often. Add motion detecting lights to your yard. Security systems with cameras and motion detection are so easy to get now, and they’re quite affordable. Do not tempt a thief: put away bikes & tools. Do not leave your garage door open. Do not let mail accumulate in your mailbox. A lot of us live in older homes, so make sure that your door and window locks are strong and secure. 

Sliding doors are easy to open, but you can buy special locks for added security. Don’t leave items in your car — no mail, purses, bags and do not leave your garage door opener in plain view. Be cautious when moving valuables to your trunk. If you go on vacation, stop mail and other deliveries while gone. Do not post your vacation pictures on social media until you return home. Sometimes it pays to be a nosy neighbor. Sit outside or on your front porch often. If you see something that looks suspicious, call 911 immediately. 

Be vigilant when you’re out. So many people are constantly on their cell phones, oblivious to their surroundings. I fear that many “victims” are chosen this way. Your body language tells a criminal how easy or hard it may be to attack you. Walk tall, with a strong stride. Always look around. Making eye contact is a key deterrent. It lets people know that you’ve seen them and that you can describe them, if necessary. Remember that criminals don’t want to get caught and they don’t want to get hurt, so always cause a scene. Scream and fight back. 

As a banker for many years, I have seen every swindle. Senior citizens are often targeted for financial crimes. They tend to be isolated and lonely. They are usually eager to believe in people, whether someone is posing as a friend or notifying them of some impending doom with their Edison service or their Social Security. Sadly, many of these crimes go unreported because the elderly feel embarrassed and ashamed. 

They don’t want to appear incapable of living independently. Scammers don’t just target the elderly. I’ve seen men in their 40’s panic and pay $400 (in gift cards) to “Edison” so their electricity isn’t shut off. That’s where the trick lays: the panic. The number one thing to remember is DO NOT ACT IMMEDIATELY. Take time to think about what you’re hearing. Stall. Ask questions. The more time you take, the more questions you ask, the scam will show itself. Always take the time to call a trusted friend, family member or the police department prior to agreeing to anything. 

There is no emergency; no prize. Your bank will not call you. Edison will not call you. Social Security will not call you. Hang up and call the number found on your debit card or your invoice or your Social Security Award letter. Do not call the number found on caller ID. Let‘s all do our best to keep our community and our neighbors safe. Keep your eyes open, Monrovians!

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