LASDHQ

VALOR AWARD PRESENTED TO SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT BUREAU 1024 681 SIB Staff

VALOR AWARD PRESENTED TO SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT BUREAU

On Tuesday, April 27, 2021, San Bernardino County Undersheriff Shannon Dicus presented the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD) Medal of Valor to five Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Air Rescue 5 helicopter crew members for their effort, skill, determination, and commitment during the search and recovery operation of SBSD Search and Rescue (SAR) member Timothy Staples.

Staples was one of 126 people across 23 teams searching for Sreenivas “Sree” Mokkapati, who was reported missing on December 8, 2019, after becoming separated from his group while ascending Mount Baldy. Staples’ partner on the search and rescue team alerted the sheriff’s department on Saturday that he had become separated from Staples. Despite inclement weather conditions and treacherous terrain, members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Air Rescue 5 helicopter crew located Staples in “an area of ice and snow.” He was unresponsive, and a crew member lowered to Staples determined he was dead.

Even though the operation turned into a recovery, the crew’s efforts still demonstrate the dangerous working conditions search and rescue personnel face every day. “In my opinion, the LASD has one of the best search and rescue programs in the nation, and the Flight Deputies and Crew of Air 5 are the cream of the crop,” said Sheriff Villanueva.

San Bernardino County Undersheriff Shannon Dicus presented the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor to Los Angeles County Air Rescue 5 Crew member Deputies Todd Kocisko, Scott Helbing, Steve Pratt, Jennifer Shepard, and Sergeant Dave Carver for their act of bravery during the operation.

Image of fake pharmaceuticals confiscated by LASD.
Intellectual Property 900 503 SIB Staff

Intellectual Property

National Day of World Intellectual Property

Today we mark National Day of World Intellectual Property. The event was established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2000 to “raise awareness of how patents, copyright, trademarks and designs impact on daily life” and “to celebrate creativity, and the contribution made by creators and innovators to the development of societies across the globe.”

Counterfeiting is the largest global criminal enterprise affecting economic growth and impacting the health and safety of consumers. This illicit trade is a significant problem worldwide that continues to grow. Whether it is smuggling, counterfeit, or tax evasion, governments are losing billions of dollars in tax revenues, legitimate businesses are being undermined, and consumers are being exposed to poorly made and unregulated products.

Image of 40 or 50 fake motorcycle helmets displayed in an office. The Helmets are on a wall rack along the wall.

It is a crime to steal, with the intention to, Sell and/or Manufacture of someone’s registered trademark and/or logo, whether it’s a song, artwork, or tangible property. 

Within the County of Los Angeles, the Sheriff’s Department enforces trademarks to protect against Intellectual Property theft and ensure the health and safety of consumers. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Counterfeit and Piracy Enforcement (CAPE) Team is an active investigative unit consisting of Sheriff Deputies, a Sergeant, and a Lieutenant responsible for enforcing counterfeit-related crimes and investigation of various “quality of life” issues, including counterfeit pharmaceuticals, and safety products. 

If you know of someone who is selling counterfeit products, you can call the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Community Partnerships Bureau, Counterfeit and Piracy Enforcement Team at 323-981-5300 to provide information on the Sale and/or Manufacture of counterfeit goods. Or if you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google Play or the Apple App Store, or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org

Sheriff Alex Villanueva & Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn Host Covid Vaccination Clinic 1024 576 SIB Staff

Sheriff Alex Villanueva & Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn Host Covid Vaccination Clinic

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Fourth District, hosted a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the Cerritos Civic Center. They were joined by the City of Cerritos Mayor Naresh Solanki, Dr. Sean Kossari, and Cesar Landeros from the Center for Family Health and Education.

Sheriff Villanueva was pleased to announce that after a year of uncertainty, lockdowns, and health concerns, this week, the COVID-19 test positivity rate dropped to the lowest it has been since the pandemic began. He stated that it had been a difficult time for everyone. Many have endured the death of family, friends, and co-workers, suffered economic losses, been hospitalized, but little by little, progress is being made. 

“Although we might share differing opinions at times, the Board of Supervisors and I ultimately have the same goal when it comes to the health and wellness of the residents of Los Angeles County,” acknowledged Sheriff Villanueva as he thanked Supervisor Hahn for her support on important issues such as equipping deputies with body-worn cameras and the COVID-19 Super-Spreader Taskforce.

In addition to hosting vaccination clinics for the community, on January 7, 2021, LASD started “Operation Homebound.” This program was designed to vaccinate the most underrepresented, homebound, and underserved disabled residents of Los Angeles County, including those experiencing homelessness. Deputy Sheriff Personnel, who are state and nationally certified paramedics and emergency medical technicians, administer the vaccines and respond to residences and provide them with this life-saving opportunity.

He invited those who fall in this category to contact their local Sheriff’s Patrol Station. Send an email to the Sheriff’s Information Bureau at sibmedia24@lasd.org, or call (213) 229-1700 to receive more information about Operation Homebound. 

Sheriff Villanueva reminded everyone that aggressive variants are still out there and urged people to continue to wear their facemasks to help keep everyone safe and healthy.

LASD Sheriff's Department Logo
SHERIFF PROVIDES UPDATE ON TIGER WOODS TRAFFIC COLLISION 768 170 SIB Staff

SHERIFF PROVIDES UPDATE ON TIGER WOODS TRAFFIC COLLISION

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva along with Captain James Powers announced that the primary cause of the collision involving golfer Tiger Woods was driving at a speed unsafe for the road conditions and the inability to negotiate the curve of the roadway.

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, Tiger Woods was involved in a traffic collision on Hawthorne Blvd., in Rancho Palos Verdes. According to the vehicle’s event data recorder, estimated speeds at the first area of impact were 84 to 87 mph and when the vehicle made a final impact on a tree the speed was 75 mph.

Villanueva stated that no citations were issued and there were no signs of impairment. Contrary to various reports, Mr. Woods did not receive preferential treatment and the primary concern after the crash was providing the medical care needed to survive his life-threatening injuries.

Captain Powers reiterated that there was no evidence of impairment, no odor of alcohol, no open containers in the vehicle, no narcotics or evidence of medication on the vehicle or in his person. Also, due to the traumatic nature of his injuries, it would have been inappropriate to administer a sobriety test. Since there was no observation by a peace officer or no independent witnesses, a citation was not issued. Cell phone records were not reviewed because the only factors of the accident were speed and the failure to maintain the curvature of the roadway. There was no probable cause to obtain bloodwork at the hospital because based on the facts, there was no evidence of intoxication or impairment.

According to the event data recorder, it is believed that Tiger Woods inadvertently hit the accelerator instead of the brakes.

To view the traffic report of the collision please click here.

Operation Homebound 1024 949 SIB Staff

Operation Homebound

Operation Homebound

UPDATE: Great News, LASD’s Operation Homebound has resumed!

On January 7, 2021, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva put “Operation Homebound” into motion.  A program designed to vaccinate the most underrepresented, homebound, and underserved disabled residents in our communities, including those experiencing homelessness.

Deputy paramedics preparing vaccines for a home bound resident.

We are administering the Johnson & Johnson (1 shot only) vaccine utilizing our deputy sheriff personnel who are certified paramedics and emergency medical technicians.  LASD is working with local community based organizations like “Integrated Community Collaborative” and “Disability Voices United” to connect with LA County residents most in need, go to their residences, and provide them this life-saving opportunity.

If you fall into this category and need our help, please contact your local Sheriff’s patrol station, or send an email to the Sheriffs Information Bureau at sibmedia24@lasd.org or call (213) 229-1700, to receive more information about #OperationHomebound.

Deputy at a residence performing a welfare check on an elderly person.
A LASD welfare check may save a loved one’s life or provide peace of mind during this pandemic.

Welfare Checks

 Are you concerned about a home bound family member, neighbor or friend who is either elderly or at risk during the face of this pandemic and you live in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department jurisdiction?  We can help you by conducting a welfare check.

A “welfare check” is the term The Sheriff’s Department has for conducting a safety and wellness check of a person if you have not heard from or seen in a reasonable amount of time.  

If you believe a loved one may be at risk or know someone who may not have the resources to get their essential needs such as groceries, medical prescriptions or mental assistance please locate the information for your nearest Sheriff’s Station by visiting https://lasd.org/stations/.  

When you call the station, a dispatcher will enter a call for service and deputies on patrol will drive to your loved ones home and attempt to make contact. 

Examples of high-risk persons include the elderly community or those who suffer from blood disorders, chronic liver disease, compromised immune system, current or recent pregnancy, metabolic disorder, heart disease, lung disease, or neurological conditions. Remember we are all in this together this service has always been provided to the communities we serve, however it is even more vital today. It can save lives and offer peace of mind for the requestor. 

We are all in this together, and LA isn’t LA without all of us. Stay Safer at home, and do your part to flatten the curve. 
For up to date information regarding #COVID19 please visit https://lasd.org/covid19updates/

picture of Chief LaJuana Haselrig presented a generous donation to Freddie Muse Jr., President/C.E.O. of The Men’s Cancer Network
Court Services held its inaugural “Movember Fundraiser” 900 650 SIB Staff

Court Services held its inaugural “Movember Fundraiser”

Court Services held its inaugural “Movember Fundraiser”

For the month of November of 2020, Court Services held its inaugural “Movember Fundraiser” with the objective of raising awareness of men’s health issues, and partnering with difference-makers within Los Angeles County.

November has been designated as Movember, and in support of men’s health issues, supporters are encouraged to grow a moustache during the month of November. In correlation with the moustache theme, Sergeant Pedro Magdaleno Jr. designed a distinguished and collectable, Challenge Coin. The challenge coin displays the inaugural fundraiser year of 2020, and is complemented by a strong handle-bar moustache on the backside of the coin.

Front side of the coin has the sheriff's star siting over the American flag and the California State flag, the words "A Tradition of Service" along the bottom. The back of the coin has the LASD Cancer Awareness patch with a moustache underneith it, The words "Movember to Remember, Bringing Awareness to Men's Health Runs around the coin.

Court Services is committed to serving the community we work in. We strive to network with people who are displaying their passion to enhance the quality of life for the residents of Los Angeles County. Therefore, the profits from this fundraiser was donated to The Men’s Cancer Network, in the City of Los Angeles. The Men’s Cancer Network has been busy in the community: They offer health education, statistical literature, virtual forums, testimonials, website services, cancer screenings, and a host of other resources available to the public.

On behalf of The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department – Court Services Division, Chief LaJuana Haselrig presented a generous donation to Freddie Muse Jr., President/C.E.O. of The Men’s Cancer Network.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this worthy fundraiser. We are making a difference, where it counts, when it counts.

Family Seeks Public’s Assistance In Locating Those Responsible for the Murder of Their Loved One; Detectives AnnounceD $10K Reward 1024 819 SIB Staff

Family Seeks Public’s Assistance In Locating Those Responsible for the Murder of Their Loved One; Detectives AnnounceD $10K Reward

On Thursday, March 18, 2021, Homicide Bureau detectives announced a $10,000 reward during a press conference in exchange for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the shooting death of Rodney Donaldson Jr. The reward was sponsored by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Second District.

On Saturday, January 2, 2021, at approximately 8:35 p.m., Rodney Donaldson Jr., was out for a walk when he was shot and killed by unknown suspects in the 500 block of North Kemp Avenue in the City of Compton.  A 2001-2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, black in color, was seen fleeing the area after the shooting.

Deputies and paramedics arrived at the scene and transported Rodney to the hospital, where several days later he succumbed to his injuries at the age of 28. Rodney earned a Business Degree from Benedict College in South Carolina and also played football. He worked full time and lived at home with his family. 

“He was a productive young man in this society. He was a university graduate, was employed full time and had plans to continue to advance his life. He had no criminal history,” said Rodney’s Aunt Joycelyn Donaldson. Rodney’s Great-Uncle, Isaac Dumas, also thanked the public for any assistance with his great-nephews case, and pleaded to those responsible by saying “I just ask that you do the right thing.”

If you have information about this senseless murder, please contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile App on Google Play or the Apple App Store, or use the website http://lacrimestoppers.org/.

LASD WILL RESUME PARKING ENFORCEMENT ON APRIL 1, 2021 823 502 SIB Staff

LASD WILL RESUME PARKING ENFORCEMENT ON APRIL 1, 2021

LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT PARKING ENFORCEMENT RESUMES APRIL 01, 2021

Beginning APRIL 01, 2021, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Parking Enforcement Detail will again ENFORCE ALL PARKING VIOLATIONS and reinstate the issuance of street sweeping citations, expired registration citations, as well as towing vehicles that have been warned via a “Red Tag” or any other vehicle in violation of the parking law of the state of California as well as the County of Los Angeles.

To avoid receiving a parking citation or having a vehicle towed, we urge drivers to be mindful of this change. 

RESUMED ENFORCEMENT WILL INCLUDE:

  • Street sweeping: All streets with posted signs for street sweeping will be enforced, per 15.20.07(2) LACVC
  • Expired registration: Vehicles with expired registration will be cited for 4000(a)(1) CVC; registrations expired in excess of six months, in violation of 4000(a)(1) CVC, will be towed, per 22651 (o)(1)(a) CVC,
  • Indigent Payment Plan: Anyone in need of financial assistance to pay citations, can make arrangement though the following: 

Phone: (866) 561-9744

Online: www.lasheriffparking.com

Mail:     Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

              P.O. Box 30629

              Los Angeles, CA 90030-0629

  • Red tag warnings: Red tag warnings will be issued to vehicles parked within the public right-of-way not displaying signs of movement, such as excessive dirt, spider webs, and debris underneath and around the tires, flat tires, missing parts, and vandalism.

If a vehicle has not been moved after 72 hours’ notice has been given, a citation for Abandonment Prohibited – 22523 (a)(b) CVC will be issued and the vehicle will be towed immediately, per 22651(k) CVC.

Sheriff standing with staff in the hall of the Hall of Justice building
LASD employees are now Mirroring LA County Demographics 600 600 SIB Staff

LASD employees are now Mirroring LA County Demographics

LA County Sheriff’s Department employees are now Mirroring LA County Demographics

Since taking office, Sheriff Villanueva’s vision of LASD’s hiring practices have resulted in sworn personnel representing what our communities look like.   Currently, the LA County demographics are reflected in all ranks from entry level deputy to the top ranks.  Sheriff Villanueva oversees the LASD which is comprised of approximately 9,800 sworn personnel, 18,000 total personnel who serve throughout Los Angeles County, a County with over 10 million residents, and spread out over 4,000 square miles.

  RACE2020 LASD SWORN RACE DEMOGRAPHICS2019 LA COUNTY RACE DEMOGRAPHICS * CensusReporter.org
White31.2%26%
Black7.5%8%
Asian5.5%15%
Hispanic52.5%49%
Other3.3%2%

During Sheriff Villanueva’s tenure there has also been equity in promotions at the Executive ranks.  For example, Sheriff Villanueva has appointed one Hispanic and one Asian to the Undersheriff position, a rank designating the second in command of the Sheriff’s Department, which is currently held by Undersheriff Timothy K. Murakami.

At the Division Chief level, this is the first time in the history of the Department there are four African American Division Chiefs. 

As of January 31, 2021, the Executive ranks from Captain to Chief were represented by 26 females, compared to 94 males, which resulted in 21.66% female and 78.33% male representation.  Department females account for 18.3% of LASD personnel at all ranks (The national average is 11.9%). 

Under Sheriff Villanueva’s leadership, sworn personnel and the leadership of the LASD are truly reflective of the communities that we serve throughout LA County.

Deputy Albanese
End of watch – deputy thomas j. albanese 1024 1024 SIB Staff

End of watch – deputy thomas j. albanese

On Thursday, February 25, 2021, at 8:58 AM, Deputy Thomas J. Albanese, 41, was killed in an unfortunate traffic collision at the intersection of Del Amo Boulevard and Paramount Boulevard in the City of Lakewood. Deputy Albanese was traveling northbound on Paramount Boulevard, approaching Del Amo, when he attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a vehicle ahead of him.

As Deputy Albanese entered the intersection, he was struck by a sedan traveling westbound on Del Amo Boulevard. The force of the collision was extreme, and Deputy Albanese died instantly. Deputy Albanese was a seven-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department. He started his career with the Sheriff’s Department as a Security Assistant in 2013 in the Aero Bureau. In 2015, he took an oath of office to serve his duties as a peace officer faithfully and was assigned to Men’s Central Jail. He went to patrol at Transit Services Bureau and then transferred to Lakewood Station as a Field Training Officer.

Deputy Albanese’s last assignment was as a Pico Rivera Station Motor Deputy but was working overtime at the Lakewood Station when the tragic accident occurred. In addition to his short but impressive career with the Sheriff’s Department, Deputy Albanese was part of the Marine Corps, serving from March 2001 through March 2010. He served four tours in Iraq and was highly decorated.

Sheriff Alex Villanueva said, “Thomas touched the lives of many people while working in the Department. He received several commendations for his work in patrol and helping the citizens of Los Angeles County.”Deputy Albanese is survived by his wife of 12 years, Erica, and his two young boys. He will be greatly missed by all of us in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Family.