On May 16, 2012, the Pico Rivera Sheriff's Station Vandalism Enforcement Team (VET), West Whittier Team, Problem Specific Policing Team(P.S.P) and deputies from the Sheriff's C.O.P.S. Bureau, conducted a directed patrol mission in the San Gabriel Riverbed between Whittier Boulevard and Telegraph Road.
The purpose of the operation was to address the rising burglary rate to residences and businesses operating adjacent to the riverbed and to address the numerous complaints of illegal activity in and around the riverbed.
As a result of the operation, five homeless encampments were located. Some of the encampments had running water and electrical power. The electricity was obtained by illegally tapping into an electrical power box operated by Southern California Edison. Three adults were arrested for theft of utilities and possession of narcotics paraphernalia. Additionally, two juveniles were detained who were truant from nearby El Rancho High School. El Rancho Unified School Police assisted deputies by transporting the juveniles back to school. Southern California Edison was notified and responded to the discovered encampments to safely remove the illegal electrical wiring. The Los Angeles Homeless Shelter Association also responded along with Public Works to refer the homeless to established assistance programs and to remove the debris created by the illegal encampments.
You can partner to prevent or report crime by contacting Pico Rivera Sheriff’s Station at (562) 949-2421 to report suspicious activity. Or if you wish to remain anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), or text the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637,) or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org
