Community Meeting January 24th

I hope I see you there!

Thievery or Smart Governance?

"Let's re-purpose the fruits of our crime!"

Last year when I was a member of the City of Fullerton's Water Rate Study Ad Hoc Committee I hoped to end the illegal water tax (done!).  I also hoped to take the money overcharged to rate payers from the General Fund and put it back in the Water Fund where it was intended to be spent.  This would help offset and suspend any immediate need to raise rates for infrastructure investment.  This seemed like the smart thing to do.

However, after many thoughtful discussions and meetings with community members, ratepayer advocates, and tax fighters I realized the error in keeping the money.  From an ethics point of view, it is wrong to keep something that was taken through deception.  It's also wrong to hang onto something that is not yours without the consent of the owner.  

In this case, the City took ratepayers' money and told them it was needed to fund the water system.  The City then raised water rates repeatedly while skimming 10% to cover rising pension costs and personnel benefits.  According to the City's own records 70% of the skimmed funds were spent on police and fire salaries and benefits.  About 10% covered other staff salaries and benefits with the remainder being spent on subsidizing other departments, like Parks & Recreation.  That's the simple but ugly truth.  

None of the skimmed funds were spent laying new pipelines, treating contaminated water, or building reservoirs.  

If your employee (think city council) had been overcharging your customers (think ratepayers) to prop up the employee's retirement benefits and pay for office supplies for their side business, wouldn't  you fire the employee (think recall election) and give your customers a refund equal to the amount which they were over charged?  What if...after getting caught the employee concocted a scheme to keep the money or at least most of it?  What if they were convinced that they could do more good with it than your customers could?  Would you really tell your employee to just hang on to the cash and use it more wisely?  Look at it this way, after discovering your child took a cookie out of the cookie jar without your permission, would you let them eat it or maybe give it to the dog?  Or would you make them put it back where they got it?

Opponents of the refund would like you to believe that a refund would drain the reserves and bankrupt the City.  While the burden would be great, this assumes that the City would not cut expenditures in other areas and would instead simply raid the reserves much like the previous administrations continuous raids of the Water Fund since 1970.  

A refund of $7,000,000 is not an insurmountable figure to overcome but it will require a change in the way we do business.  Also, let's consider how much money a "typical" ratepayer can expect to be refunded given that City staff had assumed that the refund was going to be $2,500,000 and not the full $7,000,000.  The difference is due to the "costs" which staff attempted to lay on the Water Fund but which the current council rejected.

Staff had calculated that a "typical" water ratepayer could expect a refund of around $45 per meter.  That figure assumes the refund is $2.5 million, not $7-million.  Ratepayers can expect to receive $120 to $170 each for their portion of the $7-million refund depending on how much they were actually over charged.

While I appreciate the notion of reinvesting the ill-gotten revenue, I believe the ratepayers should have a say in the matter.  Perhaps allowing them to opt out of receiving a refund is more appropriate.  I am open to considering how to manage the refund process but absolutely reject the notion that the City of Fullerton, the same agency that created this mess, should simply keep the money.  

L.A. Gangbanger Busted in Fullerton, Two Escape

Story and photos by Jeanne Hoffa/FullertonStories.com –

http://fullertonstories.com/gang-member-arrested-in-fullerton-burglaries/

An L.A. gang member was caught and arrested after a homeowner found him and another man in his backyard  Wednesday in North Fullerton.  The homeowner called police from the 2900 block of Lantana Avenue  after he saw the two men, who were wearing  gloves, lifting his barbeque. The suspects saw him and scaled his back fence, initiating a two hour manhunt  that included a helicopter search by [Huntington Beach]  PD.

Two blocks away, Detective Chris Wren caught  23-year-old Undra Anthony Williams III as he ran from the east alley of the Rolling Hills Manor Apartments on Rolling Hills Drive.  Wren pointed his gun in William’s face and told him to get on the ground. Williams complied, and he was arrested.  Meanwhile  more than a dozen police units set up a perimiter and began a house to house hunt for William’s cohort.  

Read the rest HERE...

Fullerton PD Offers Some Friendly Advice

After hearing about the recent burglaries in North Fullerton, I asked FPD Sergeant Goodrich to comment on the difficulties of solving thefts and what people can do to deter thefts.  Below is Sergeant Goodrich's response which closely mirrors the recommendations on the FPD website:

Unfortunately, property crimes across this country, not just in Fullerton, are difficult to solve.  There is often little to no evidence, and personal items are often challenging to trace.  Even those items like serialized property are rarely identified by owners because they neglect to record the serial numbers themselves.  They assume the number(s) are on a receipt, or the store would have them.  It is also difficult to look for “46 inch Sharp TV” on Craig’s List when there are no serial numbers to check it with.  When we do have evidence, like fingerprints or possible DNA, it is processed and sometimes comes up as a match.  This will typically lead to an arrest warrant, or at least questioning.  When we detect trends in time and place, we can deploy units to conduct surveillance of an area.  Our detectives also meet with detectives from other agencies to talk about potential trends.  We use our detectives, patrol officers, as well as our crime analyst to identify trends. As far as safeguards and precautions, the first is easy: lock your doors and windows.  You would be surprised how often a burglar gains entry into a house through an unlocked rear sliding glass door or window.  Keeping your garage door closed is also helpful.  Many thefts occur when the resident is home, but with the garage door open.  Also, record the serial numbers of serialized electronics so that if the items are stolen, the police can input that information into the computer. Alarms can be helpful in getting the police to a home, but probably not in time to catch the thieves.  There is usually a significant delay, and the thief will know he/she tripped an alarm by the sounds and other cues.  I don’t have information on the effectiveness of dogs as a deterrent.   I do know that many burglaries happen when the thief gains access from the rear yard, so anything that would make a burglar think twice about going in a back yard would probably be beneficial. I also do not have information on whether the residents in the burglaries mentioned below had dogs or alarms or not.

FPD Acting Chief Dan Hughes says this video offers a good look at how burglars operate.
 http://www.myfoxla.com/dpp/news/investigative/rolling-30s-the-knock-knock-burglars-20100215

North Fullerton Hit With Residential Burglaries

A friend alerted me to a rash of burglaries in North Fullerton and wanted to know what was going on.

As it turns out, there were several residential burglaries:

400 block of Cienega – February 1, 2012 between 5:30pm and 8:30pm
2000 block of Seaview – February 2, 2012 between 8am and 11:15am
400 block of E. Las Palmas – February 3, 2012 between 11:45am and 12pm
600 block of Santa Barbara – February 3, 2012 between 4pm and 7pm
2800 block of Sunny Wood – February 7, 2012 between 9:30am and 10:15am
900 block of Oakwood – February 8, 2012 between 8am and 11:15am
400 block of Pebble Beach – February 20, 2012 between 7:15am-5:15pm

"The only possible suspect information we have at the moment came from the burglary on Sunny Wood," said Fullerton Police's Sergeant Andrew Goodrich.  "There was a black older model mid-size pick-up truck, possibly a Nissan or Toyota , seen near the house at the time of the burglary. A neighbor reports a partial license plate ending in 065."


FPD Crime Map

 The Police Department's website offers the following tips:

Outside Your Home Protect your home by starting where the burglars usually start - outside.

Landscaping
Look around. Are large trees near the house? Prune lower limbs that could help a thief climb in second floor windows. Trim trees and bushes so a burglar cannot use them for cover. High wooden fences also allow a burglar to work unnoticed. Remember to lock up ladders and tools. Ask your neighbors to do the same. Trellises look great, but place them where they cannot be used as ladders to the second floor.

Lighting
Criminals avoid the spotlight. Porches, yards, and all entrances to your home and garage should be well lit. Ask your police or sheriff's department for suggestions about lighting.

Your House Number
Make sure law enforcement or fire agencies can locate your house in an emergency. Your house number should be clearly visible from the street day and night. Use numbers that are 6 inches high and made of reflective materials or black numerals against a white background. Avoid script numbers - they can be confusing. If your house is some distance from the road, post the number at the driveway entrance. If you live on a corner, make sure the number faces the street named in your address.

Windows
You can buy special key locks for windows at a hardware store. Ask for locks best suited to your type of windows and get the installation instructions. Keep the keys away from the windows, but make sure everyone in the house knows where to find them in case of an emergency. Be sure to check with your local law enforcement agency or housing officials to see if they restrict installation of these locks. An easy, inexpensive way to secure double-hung windows is to use a nail. Drill an angled hole through the top frame of the lower window partially into the frame of the upper window. Then insert a nail or an eyebolt. The window cannot be opened until you remove the nail. Make a second set of holes with windows partially open so you can have ventilation without inviting intruders. For sliding windows, try the preventative tips suggested for sliding doors.

Doors
Hinged Doors
Entry doors should be solid core wood (at least 1 3/4 inches thick) or metal. Most hollow core doors can be easily broken through. They offer little protection, no matter what locks you use. Your door should fit its frame tightly - with no more than 1/8-inch clearance between the door and frame. If the gap is too large, replace the door. If that is too expensive, bolt a sturdy metal strip to the door edge. You boost your protection and save energy. Any hardware dealer can show you the kind of strip to use. Doors with decorative glass panels or windows are an easy mark. It takes only seconds to break the glass and unlock the door. If you do not want to replace the door, install a break-resistant plastic panel or decorative grill over the glass. Attach the grills with non-removable screws. Most door hinges are on the inside, safe from a burglar's tools. If hinges are on the outside, the hinge pins can be easily removed and the door taken out of the frame. To protect such doors, replace hinges with new ones with non-removable pins.

Sliding glass doors

Burglars look for sliding glass doors because they are easy to open. Several types of locks are made especially for these glass doors. The existing lock can be bolstered by placing a solid strip of wood in the track of the closed door. That helps block the door even if the lock is broken. Determined thieves may lift the door off its tracks. Use these preventative tips:

• Adjust rollers so the door cannot be pushed up enough to lift it off the track.
• Insert screws along the upper track of the door. Leave enough room for the door to slide, but not enough space to lift the door out.
• Drill a hole and insert a nail through the inside frame and part way through the metal door frame. You can remove the nail, but a burglar cannot.

Locks
Deadbolt Locks
A deadbolt lock can provide good protection. When you turn the key, the lock mechanism slides a strong metal bolt from the door into the frame. When you buy a deadbolt lock, make sure:

• The bolt extends at least 1 inch from the edge of the door (has a 1-inch throw).
• The connecting screws that hold the lock together are on the inside of the door.
• The strike plate is attached to the door frame with screws that measure at least 3 inches.
• The cylinder has a steel guard - a ring around the key section. The cylinder guard should be tapered or rotated around the key to prevent wrenching if twisted.

Double-Cylinder Deadbolt Locks
To improve security on a door with glass panels, use a double-cylinder deadbolt lock. These locks can only be opened with a key from either side. Keep keys near the door, but not within reach of the glass panel. That way intruders cannot get in, but you and your family can get out quickly in case of fire or other emergency. Check with your local law enforcement agency or housing officials before you install this lock. Some communities restrict its use.

Padlocks
Padlocks are typically used for garages, sheds, and workshops. Look for a sturdy padlock that does not release the key until the padlock is locked. Be sure the padlock is case-hardened with a 3/8-inch shackle so it can resist bolt cutters. A double-locking design can prevent the shackle being pried away from its case. Remember that a padlock is only as good as the hasp on which it is mounted. The hasp should be secured with bolts that are concealed when the padlock is locked. All the hardware in the world will not protect you if you open your door without checking who is on the other side. Buy an inexpensive viewer. Tell your children and their babysitters not to open the door to strangers

Remember, always use your locks. Even a five-minute trip to the store is long enough for a burglar to enter you home.

Keys

Victims report that as many as half of all burglaries take place without forced entry. In many cases, the burglar used a key. Be sure your keys do not fall into the wrong hands.

• Never carry identification tags on your key ring or holder.
• When you move into a new home have the locks re-keyed or changed. A locksmith can do this or, if you are handy with tools, you can change the lock yourself.
• Know who has every key to your home. Do not give keys to maintenance or delivery people.
• Do not hide your key outside. Burglars know all the hiding places.

Security Alarms
If you desire additional security, you might consider a burglar alarm system. Be sure you deal with a reputable firm that provides approved systems. Check with the Better Business Bureau. Burglar alarms in Fullerton require a permit and annual renewal. For further information, contact the Police Community Services Bureau and speak to the Alarm Coordinator at 738-3103.  (Greg's comment: The Better Business Bureau is not a good source for alarm company credentials.  Alarm companies and their employees are regulated by the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (http://www.bsis.ca.gov/) (800) 952-5210.  There are also several professional associations which may be helpful.) 

Controller Reaches Settlement with Prudential Insurance

Press Release from California State Controller John Chiang

SACRAMENTO – State Controller John Chiang today announced a major multi-state settlement with Prudential Insurance Company of America, which, depending on the completion of the audit, may return up to $20 million to the families of deceased life insurance policyholders in California.

"For decades, the surviving families of policyholders have been cheated by life insurance companies who either knew or should have known that payout was due," said Chiang. "I will continue to work with the industry to improve their practices, but I reserve the right to use the full force of my office – including litigation – to compel insurance companies to follow the law and take care of life insurance beneficiaries."

The Controller took the lead in negotiating the settlement, which 18 other states subsequently joined.  Chiang reached a similar agreement with insurer John Hancock in April 2011.

Both settlements stem from a 21-company audit Controller Chiang initiated in 2008 to determine the insurance industry's compliance with state unclaimed property laws.  Administered by the Controller, the California unclaimed property program generally provides that businesses must send lost or abandoned financial accounts to the State after three years of inactivity in order to safeguard private property from being lost during mergers or bankruptcies, drawn down by service or storage fees, or simply used by private interests.

The audit revealed an industry-wide practice of companies failing to pay death benefits to the beneficiaries of life insurance policies.  Instead, companies would draw-down the policies' cash reserves in order to continue collecting premium payments from the deceased.  Once the cash reserves were depleted, the company would cancel the policy.  The audits also found that insurers did not routinely cross-check the owners of dormant accounts with the Social Security Administration's Death Master File and other government databases listing deceased individuals.  In other cases, the company had direct knowledge of the death of a policy owner, but still did not notify the beneficiaries.

So far, more than 1,000 Prudential policies have been identified as being held for individuals in California who have been dead for more than 15 years.  The average cash value of the policies is about $2,000.

Today’s settlement requires Prudential Financial Inc., and its predecessors and subsidiaries (Prudential Insurance Company of America, Pruco Life Insurance Company, Pruco Life Insurance Company of New Jersey, Prudential Retirement Insurance and Annuity Company, and Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation, formerly known as America Skandia Life Assurance Corporation) to do the following:

·       Restore the full value of impacted accounts;

·       Fully comply with California’s unclaimed property laws and cooperate with the Controller's efforts to reunite millions of dollars in death benefits and matured annuities with their owners or, in many cases, the owners' heirs;

·       Pay the beneficiaries three percent compounded interest on the value of the held amounts from the date of the owner’s death or January 1, 1995, whichever is later.

Other states signing the settlement are: Colorado, District of Columbia, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont and Wisconsin.

Justice American Style

What would you do if a man who had been arguing with you just hours before came to your door with a gun?

Probably the same thing an un-named Fullerton resident allegedly did on Saterday when the resident allegedly shot the alleged gunman with a shotgun allegedly loaded with birdshot.

According to the Orange County Register, the birdshot bad guy, Isaac Chavez, checked into Lakewood Regional Medical Center where he was promptly arrested.

Chavez, 25, was booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, making criminal threats, and violating parole. 

The unidentified shooter has not been charged.

If you have any information on the shooting, contact the Fullerton Police at (714) 738-6800 and then email me at GregSebourn@yahoo.com.

Fullerton PD Shares Recent Police Activities

In what I think is a concerted effort by the Fullerton Police Department to share information, here are three recent FPD stories you may not have heard.  The first two are from FPD Press Releases while the third is an update from Acting Chief Dan Hughes.

On a side note, I have been criticized for my support of the Fullerton Police Department's efforts to rid the City of graffiti.  It seems some believe that tagging and vandalism are minor crimes not worthy of policing.  What many are forgetting is that this effort to to gain the upper hand on taggers is was initiated by the residents of West Fullerton.  They insisted that the FPD take these costly crimes seriously which they have.  I appreciate city leaders who listen to and respond to the residents.  Acting Chief Dan Hughes is doing everything he can to put uniforms on Fullerton's streets including placing himself on patrol in an effort to give residents the level of service they are demanding.  Until someone can prove otherwise, I believe the effort is genuine and commendable, especially considering the current state of the Police Department left in the wake of the invisible Chief Sellers and a culture of corruption reminiscent of LAPD's Rampart scandal courtesy of retired FPD chief turned council member, Pat McKinley.

_____________________

Subject: Police find marijuana plants in home where put bull attacked 2-year-old

Contact: Sgt. Andrew Goodrich, Fullerton Police Department    (714) 738-6838

Police and paramedics responded to a residence in the 2500 block of Larkwood last night (Dec 26) regarding a pit bull who had bitten a 2-year-old child at a home.

Fullerton Police Sgt. Andrew Goodrich said that the mother ran to a nearby neighbor with her 2 year old son and asked the neighbor to call the paramedics. Fullerton Fire responded, treated the toddler, and transported him to an area trauma center. While at the hospital, the victim was treated for a 7” laceration on his head.

The mother was house sitting for a friend, and does not live at the residence. She stepped outside the room for a moment, and then heard growling and a scream from her child. When she ran back into the room, she saw the dog standing over her child, and the child bleeding from the head.

Animal Control responded and took custody of the dog, a pit bull terrier. While searching the house for the dog, officers found a significant quantity of marijuana growing and being processed inside. The homeowner was contacted, and no arrests have been made.

Detectives are investigating both the marijuana cultivation and the possible child endangerment.

________________________

Subject: Police arrest man in interrupted burglary case after pursuit
Contact: Sgt. Andrew Goodrich, Fullerton Police Department    (714) 738-6838

Police arrested a man for residential burglary today (Dec 27) after a vehicle pursuit that started in Fullerton and ended in La Mirada. Two suspects are still outstanding.

Fullerton Police Sgt. Andrew Goodrich said that at about 12:30pm, a 12-year-old home alone called the police after three suspects entered his house, thinking no one was home. The suspects first knocked on the door, and the 12-year-old didn’t respond because he didn’t know the people. When it appeared no one was home, the suspects went into the back yard, and entered from the rear.

With the 12-year-old still on the line with dispatchers, officers responded with lights and sirens to the residence. The suspects fled in their car just as officers arrived.

Officers began chasing the suspects, who collided with a car at the intersection of Gilbert and Malvern. The suspects continued westbound on Malvern, eventually crashing into a fire hydrant in La Mirada, near

La Mirada Blvd.

and Imperial Hwy. Officers’ set-up a perimeter to search for the suspects, and eventually located Deon William Oden, 23, from Los Angeles. Oden was booked at the Fullerton Jail for burglary, felony evading, felony hit & run, and other charges.

“This method of residential burglary, sometimes referred to as “knock-knock bandits”, is becoming more common. We want to remind residents that depending upon the situation, advising someone who is at your door that you are home without opening the door is something people should consider”, said Fullerton Police Captain Dan Hughes.

The two other suspects are still outstanding. They are described as a black female in her 30s, and the other is a black male.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Detective Michael Hines at (714) 773-5765, or the front desk of the Fullerton Police Department at (714) 738-6716.

___________________

Last week FPD arrested Eric Avina, 19 yr old from Fullerton, for possession of vandalism implements. Avina is on probation and has been identified as “REKS” of the LFL tagging crew.  “REKS” has been very active on the west side of town and FPD is working with his probation officer in an effort to obtain a significant jail sentence for a violation of his probation.  A juvenile with the moniker of “RATE” or “RATER” was also arrested last week for vandalism, possession of vandalism tools, and possession of stolen property. Detective Bolden observed the juvenile placing “slappies” on several signs and the suspect was in possession of more than 20 U.S. Postal mail stickers that were going to be placed on various properties.

"I believe we are making some significant progress with this tagging crew," said Acting Chief Dan Hughes. "We are committed to relentlessly pursuing these individuals until their behavior stops."

UPDATE - Fullerton Police Bust More Taggers

UPDATE FROM CAPT. HUGHES:

"This is an update in regards to the information that was sent out earlier on the arrest of Anthony Aparicio for tagging on Sunday morning.  Mr. Aparicio went to court this morning and pled guilty to the vandalism.  He was sentenced to 4 days in jail, 200 hours of graffiti removal, suspension of his driver’s license for 1 year, restitution, and 3 years formal probation with specific terms that prohibit any association with tagging crews and possession of any tagging implements."

____________________________________________________

The following is an email I received from Fullerton Police Captain Dan Hughes:

During a probation search of two suspected Lost For Life Krew (LFLK) associates, a juvenile was arrested for possession of paint markers and probation violations.  This suspect recently moved to Fullerton from Anaheim and uses the monikers “Kromer” and “Krome”.

Detectives arrested Abel Martinez, 19 yr old who recently moved from Fullerton to Anaheim, for being in possession of graffiti instruments.  He was contacted near 904 W. Orangethorpe where recent graffiti was located.

Detectives arrested Ernie Pereyra, 19 yr old Fullerton resident while investigating a graffiti case at 1042 W. Porter.  Pereyra is being charged for vandalism to three garage doors, the side of a garage, the rear of the Sunset Lounge, and the rear of Kragen Auto Parts at 904 W. Orangethorpe.  Pereyra uses the moniker of “Spider”.  We are continuing with the investigation of these cases after identifying another adult suspect that was with Pereyra during the graffiti incidents.

Yesterday, patrol officers responded to a report of two suspects tagging the freeway light pole behind the 700 block of West Houston .  After a short foot pursuit of one of the suspects, officers arrested Anthony Aparicio, 18 yr old Fullerton resident for vandalism and possession of graffiti instruments (spray paint and etching tools).  Aparicio is believed to be associated with the “Unlimited Thoughts Krew” and uses the moniker of “Cartoon”.

We have additionally identified the persons responsible for using the following monikers:  Sake/Saker, Mose, Forse/Foryr, Slobe, Rums, Recks/Reks, Kers, Lexr, Cartoon, Spider, and Kromer/Krome.

We have additional leads on several other members of this tagging crew and additional arrests are forthcoming.  I will continue to provide you with additional updates as warranted.

Thank you again for your continued support of our department and the efforts our officers are making in helping improve the quality of life in your neighborhood.

Dan Hughes

Captain, Patrol Division

Fullerton Police Bust More Taggers

The following is an email I received from Fullerton Police Captain Dan Hughes:

During a probation search of two suspected Lost For Life Krew (LFLK) associates, a juvenile was arrested for possession of paint markers and probation violations.  This suspect recently moved to Fullerton from Anaheim and uses the monikers “Kromer” and “Krome”.

Detectives arrested Abel Martinez, 19 yr old who recently moved from Fullerton to Anaheim, for being in possession of graffiti instruments.  He was contacted near 904 W. Orangethorpe where recent graffiti was located.

Detectives arrested Ernie Pereyra, 19 yr old Fullerton resident while investigating a graffiti case at 1042 W. Porter.  Pereyra is being charged for vandalism to three garage doors, the side of a garage, the rear of the Sunset Lounge, and the rear of Kragen Auto Parts at 904 W. Orangethorpe.  Pereyra uses the moniker of “Spider”.  We are continuing with the investigation of these cases after identifying another adult suspect that was with Pereyra during the graffiti incidents.

Yesterday, patrol officers responded to a report of two suspects tagging the freeway light pole behind the 700 block of West Houston .  After a short foot pursuit of one of the suspects, officers arrested Anthony Aparicio, 18 yr old Fullerton resident for vandalism and possession of graffiti instruments (spray paint and etching tools).  Aparicio is believed to be associated with the “Unlimited Thoughts Krew” and uses the moniker of “Cartoon”.

We have additionally identified the persons responsible for using the following monikers:  Sake/Saker, Mose, Forse/Foryr, Slobe, Rums, Recks/Reks, Kers, Lexr, Cartoon, Spider, and Kromer/Krome.

We have additional leads on several other members of this tagging crew and additional arrests are forthcoming.  I will continue to provide you with additional updates as warranted.

Thank you again for your continued support of our department and the efforts our officers are making in helping improve the quality of life in your neighborhood.

Dan Hughes

Captain, Patrol Division

UPDATE - FPD Takes Down West Fullerton Tagger

FULLERTON - "On Friday evening our detectives arrested a subject who goes by the tag name of 'Saker'," said Capt. Dan Hughes. "[FPD] rolled back to his house and discovered the items in the attached photo." (see photo at left)

Hughes says he believes "Saker" is responsible for a large amount of graffiti in West Fullerton.

"He is associated with a tagging crew called Lost For Life Krew (LFLK). We have gathered additional suspect information."

This is the third arrest in as many weeks by FPD of suspected taggers who have caused thousands of dollars in damage to public and private property. 

FPD asks that if you see any crime being committed, including tagging, to call 911 immediately.  You can also report graffiti to the City's 24-hour Graffiti Hotline at (714) 738-3108.    You can also email GraffitiH@ci.fullerton.ca.us or enter a graffiti removal request here.

***UPDATE***

In an email from Captain Dan Hughes late Monday, he said the initiating officers are Detective James Bolden and Sergeant Jeff Stuart.  Bolden and Stuart are assigned to Fullerton's gang unit with Bolden also assigned to investigate tagging crimes in West Fullerton. 

The suspect whose moniker is "Saker" is a juvenile.  That means their name is not going to be released unless they are tried as an adult.

According to Hughes, Detective Bolden was patrolling in the area of Gilbert Park with Sergeant Jeff Stuart.

 

"They saw the 16 yr old juvenile," says Hughes "at Gilbert Park and were aware of him due to previous graffiti investigations."

Detectives located a graffiti instrument on him and arrested him.  

Hughes also said that, since the juvenile was on probation and subject to search and seizure, a search of his residence was conducted and the additional items in the photograph were located.  

Detectives believe that LFLK is a Fullerton based tagging crew with about 8 members.

The investigation is ongoing and Captain Hughes declined to comment further saying he didn't want to jeopardize the case. 

FPD Takes Down West Fullerton Tagger

FULLERTON - "On Friday evening our detectives arrested a subject who goes by the tag name of 'Saker'," said Capt. Dan Hughes. "[FPD] rolled back to his house and discovered the items in the attached photo." (see photo at left)

Hughes says he believes "Saker" is responsible for a large amount of graffiti in West Fullerton.

"He is associated with a tagging crew called Lost For Life Krew (LFLK). We have gathered additional suspect information."

This is the third arrest in as many weeks by FPD of suspected taggers who have caused thousands of dollars in damage to public and private property. 

FPD asks that if you see any crime being committed, including tagging, to call 911 immediately.  You can also report graffiti to the City's 24-hour Graffiti Hotline at (714) 738-3108.    You can also email GraffitiH@ci.fullerton.ca.us or enter a graffiti removal request here.

Taggers Hit Nicolas Junior High School, Nicolas Park, and Neighboring Business

FULLERTON - Sometime Sunday night or Monday morning, taggers redecorated some walls around Nicolas Park and a neighboring business. 

In what can only be characterized as amazing, two suspects were apprehended by Fullerton Police Captain Dan Hughes who, while in charge of the Patrol Division, was conducting surveillance of the area.

Yesterday, Captain Hughes responded to an email I sent him regarding the mess and if any suspects had been identified. 

"I was conducting a surveillance of Nicolas and contacted two adults near the bathroom area.  One had a warrant for being a parolee at large and was arrested.  The other was identified but there were no violations.  The parolee arrested had been found guilty on 7/15/11 of vandalism to the school property.  The female that was with the parolee also has a history of committing vandalism and both live in the area.  While at the bathroom area, the school principal contacted me and told me both of these individuals have been seen writing graffiti in the area and he has also video taped both.  The previous graffiti they have been connected to is similar to the recent graffiti committed over the weekend."

Detective Bolden has already made progress on several cases and is moving very quickly towards several arrests in coming days.  I will be following up on this next week to see if there is anything new.

After I commended Captain Hughes for his efforts to clean up our city, he modestly wrote, "Every once in awhile I get lucky and escape the paperwork to go look for bad guys. I'm glad this worked out." 

So am I.In a follow up email today, Captain Hughes said that Gang Detective James Bolden has been assigned to actively investigate these incidents.  This will allow all of the tagging incidents in the area to be investigated and prosecuted with the same vigor as any other gang-related crime.

Private Outsourcing of Police Services

I'm not sold on the idea of outsourcing Fullerton's police services to a private company but we do need to look at all of our options. 

Fullerton Fire Department warns business about bogus safety inspections

The Fullerton Fire Department is cautioning business owners to be on the alert for a group of individuals who conduct unsolicited “inspections” of a business’ fire safety systems.

           

At the conclusion of the “inspection,” the individuals will present the business owner with a document that resembles an inspection report, but is actually a bill.

           

Fullerton Fire Marshal Julie Kunze said approximately six local businesses have been targeted by the individuals over the past month, adding the group’s activities seem to be picking up pace. She also noted they are hitting surrounding cities, and have targeted businesses in Los Angeles County, as well.

           

Kunze said while the individuals do not specifically say they are from the Fire Department, they wear dark blue shirts and pants resembling a firefighter’s uniform. They then inform the owner or manager of the business that they are there to conduct an inspection of their business or the fire safety system.

           

“They walk around the business while marking off items on a clipboard,” Kunze said. “At the conclusion of the ‘inspection,’ they ask the business owner to sign the ‘inspection’ form. By signing, the business owner has agreed to pay a fee for the work, and if they don’t pay immediately, they are turned over to an aggressive collection agency.”

           

Kunze said fees charged for the alleged ‘inspections’ have ranged from $100-$300.

           

The Fullerton Fire Department does conduct annual inspections of businesses and fire safety systems; however, “the Fire Department does not charge for the service,” Kunze said. “The department never contracts with a private business to conduct the inspections.”

           

Kunze added when fire personnel conduct an inspection, “They will always be in a Fire Department uniform, wearing a Fullerton Fire Department badge, as well as a department patch on one sleeve, and driving a department vehicle, such as a fire engine or clearly marked fire car.” 

           

Kunze said businesses approached by the phony inspectors should immediately call the Fire Prevention Division of the Fullerton Fire Department at (714) 738-6500. “It would be very helpful if the business owners could provide us with descriptions of the individuals, as well as their vehicle, including the license plate number,” she said.

           

However, she added business owners should never attempt to challenge these people or in any way or put their personal safety in jeopardy. “Business owners do not have to allow these people on their premises,” Kunze said. “They can politely decline the inspection and then call the Fire Department.”

           

Further information about the Fire Department’s business fire safety inspections may also be obtained by calling the Fire Prevention Division.

Two Men Charged in Alleged Plot to Assassinate Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the United States

U.S. Dept. of Justice Press Release:

WASHINGTON – Two individuals have been charged in New York for their alleged participation in a plot directed by elements of the Iranian government to murder the Saudi Ambassador to the United States with explosives while the Ambassador was in the United States.

The charges were announced by Attorney General Eric Holder; FBI Director Robert S. Mueller; Lisa Monaco, Assistant Attorney General for National Security; and Preet Bharara, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

A criminal complaint filed today in the Southern District of New York charges Manssor Arbabsiar, a 56-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen holding both Iranian and U.S. passports, and Gholam Shakuri, an Iran-based member of Iran’s Qods Force, which is a special operations unit of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that is said to sponsor and promote terrorist activities abroad.    

Both defendants are charged with conspiracy to murder a foreign official; conspiracy to engage in foreign travel and use of interstate and foreign commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire; conspiracy to use a weapon of mass destruction (explosives); and conspiracy to commit an act of international terrorism transcending national boundaries.   Arbabsiar is further charged with an additional count of foreign travel and use of interstate and foreign commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire.

Shakuri remains at large. Arbabsiar was arrested on Sept. 29, 2011, at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and will make his initial appearance today before in federal court in Manhattan.   He faces a maximum potential sentence of life in prison if convicted of all the charges.

“ The criminal complaint unsealed today exposes a deadly plot directed by factions of the Iranian government to assassinate a foreign Ambassador on U.S. soil with explosives,” said Attorney General Holder. “Through the diligent and coordinated efforts of our law enforcement and intelligence agencies, we were able to disrupt this plot before anyone was harmed.  We will continue to investigate this matter vigorously and bring those who have violated any laws to justice.”

“The investigation leading to today’s charges illustrates both the challenges and complexities of the international threat environment, and our increased ability today to bring together the intelligence and law enforcement resources necessary to better identify and disrupt those threats, regardless of their origin,” said FBI Director Mueller.

 “The disruption of this plot is a significant milestone that stems from months of hard work by our law enforcement and intelligence professionals,” said Assistant Attorney General Monaco.   “I applaud the many agents, analysts and prosecutors who helped bring about today’s case.”

“As alleged, these defendants were part of a well-funded and pernicious plot that had, as its first priority, the assassination of the Saudi Ambassador to the United States, without care or concern for the mass casualties that would result from their planned attack,” said U.S. Attorney Bharara.   “Today’s charges should make crystal clear that we will not let other countries use our soil as their battleground.”  

The Alleged Plot

The criminal complaint alleges that, from the spring of 2011 to October 2011, Arbabsiar and his Iran-based co-conspirators, including Shakuri of the Qods Force, have been plotting the murder of the Saudi Ambassador to the United States.   In furtherance of this conspiracy, Arbabsiar allegedly met on a number of occasions in Mexico with a DEA confidential source (CS-1) who has posed as an associate of a violent international drug trafficking cartel.   According to the complaint, Arbabsiar arranged to hire CS-1 and CS-1’s purported accomplices to murder the Ambassador, and Shakuri and other Iran-based co-conspirators were aware of and approved the plan.   With Shakuri’s approval, Arbabsiar has allegedly caused approximately $100,000 to be wired into a bank account in the United States as a down payment to CS-1 for the anticipated killing of the Ambassador, which was to take place in the United States.

According to the criminal complaint, the IRCG is an arm of the Iranian military that is composed of a number of branches, one of which is the Qods Force.  The Qods Force conducts sensitive covert operations abroad, including terrorist attacks, assassinations and kidnappings, and is believed to sponsor attacks against Coalition Forces in Iraq.   In October 2007, the U.S. Treasury Department designated the Qods Force for providing material support to the Taliban and other terrorist organizations.

The complaint alleges that Arbabsiar met with CS-1 in Mexico on May 24, 2011, where Arbabsiar inquired as to CS-1’s knowledge with respect to explosives and explained that he was interested in, among other things, attacking an embassy of Saudi Arabia.   In response, CS-1 allegedly indicated that he was knowledgeable with respect to C-4 explosives.   In June and July 2011, the complaint alleges, Arbabsiar returned to Mexico and held additional meetings with CS-1, where Arbabsiar explained that his associates in Iran had discussed a number of violent missions for CS-1 and his associates to perform, including the murder of the Ambassador.  

$1.5 Million Fee for Alleged Assassination

In a July 14, 2011, meeting in Mexico, CS-1 allegedly told Arbabsiar that he would need to use four men to carry out the Ambassador’s murder and that his price for carrying out the murder was $1.5 million. Arbabsiar allegedly agreed and stated that the murder of the Ambassador should be handled first, before the execution of other attacks.   Arbabsiar also allegedly indicated he and his associates had $100,000 in Iran to pay CS-1 as a first payment toward the assassination and discussed the manner in which that payment would be made.  

During the same meeting, Arbabsiar allegedly described to CS-1 his cousin in Iran, who he said had requested that Arbabsiar find someone to carry out the Ambassador’s assassination.   According to the complaint, Arbabsiar indicated that his cousin was a “big general” in the Iranian military; that he focuses on matters outside Iran and that he had taken certain unspecified actions related to a bombing in Iraq.

In a July 17, 2011, meeting in Mexico, CS-1 noted to Arbabsiar that one of his workers had already traveled to Washington, D.C., to surveill the Ambassador.   CS-1 also raised the possibility of innocent bystander casualties. The complaint alleges that Arbabsiar made it clear that the assassination needed to go forward, despite mass casualties, telling CS-1, “They want that guy [the Ambassador] done [killed], if the hundred go with him f**k ‘em.”  CS-1 and Arbabsiar allegedly discussed bombing a restaurant in the United States that the Ambassador frequented.   When CS-1 noted that others could be killed in the attack, including U.S. senators who dine at the restaurant, Arbabsiar allegedly dismissed these concerns as “no big deal.”

On Aug. 1, and Aug. 9, 2011, with Shakuri’s approval, Arbabsiar allegedly caused two overseas wire transfers totaling approximately $100,000 to be sent to an FBI undercover account as a down payment for CS-1 to carry out the assassination.   Later, Arbabsiar allegedly explained to CS-1 that he would provide the remainder of the $1.5 million after the assassination. On Sept. 20, 2011, CS-1 allegedly told Arbabsiar that the operation was ready and requested that Arbabsiar either pay one half of the agreed upon price ($1.5 million) for the murder or that Arbabsiar personally travel to Mexico as collateral for the final payment of the fee.   According to the complaint, Arbabsiar agreed to travel to Mexico to guarantee final payment for the murder.  

Arrest and Alleged Confession

On or about Sept. 28, 2011, Arbabsiar flew to Mexico.   Arbabsiar was refused entry into Mexico by Mexican authorities and, according to Mexican law and international agreements; he was placed on a return flight destined for his last point of departure.    On Sept. 29, 2011, Arbabsiar was arrested by federal agents during a flight layover at JFK International Airport in New York.   Several hours after his arrest, Arbabsiar was advised of his Miranda rights and he agreed to waive those rights and speak with law enforcement agents.   During a series of Mirandized interviews, Arbabsiar allegedly confessed to his participation in the murder plot.

          

According to the complaint, Arbabsiar also admitted to agents that, in connection with this plot, he was recruited, funded and directed by men he understood to be senior officials in Iran’s Qods Force.   He allegedly said these Iranian officials were aware of and approved of the use of CS-1 in connection with the plot; as well as payments to CS-1; the means by which the Ambassador would be killed in the United States and the casualties that would likely result.

Arbabsiar allegedly told agents that his cousin, who he had long understood to be a senior member of the Qods Force, had approached him in the early spring of 2011 about recruiting narco-traffickers to kidnap the Ambassador.   Arbabsiar told agents that he then met with the CS-1 in Mexico and discussed assassinating the Ambassador.   According to the complaint, Arbabsiar said that, afterwards, he met several times in Iran with Shakuri and another senior Qods Force official, where he explained that the plan was to blow up a restaurant in the United States frequented by the Ambassador and that numerous bystanders could be killed, according to the complaint.   The plan was allegedly approved by these officials.  

In October 2011, according to the complaint, Arbabsiar made phone calls at the direction of law enforcement to Shakuri in Iran that were monitored.  During these phone calls, Shakuri allegedly confirmed that Arbabsiar should move forward with the plot to murder the Ambassador and that he should accomplish the task as quickly as possible, stating on Oct. 5, 2011, “[j]ust do it quickly, it’s late . . .”  The complaint alleges that Shakuri also told Arbabsiar that he would consult with his superiors about whether they would be willing to pay CS-1 additional money.

This investigation is being conducted by the FBI Houston Division and DEA Houston Division, with assistance from the FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force.   The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Glen Kopp and Edward Kim, of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, with assistance from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. The Office of International Affairs of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and the U.S. State Department provided substantial assistance.  We thank the government of Mexico for its close coordination and collaboration in this matter, and for its role in ensuring that the defendant was safely apprehended.

The charges contained in a criminal complaint are mere allegations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Mayor Throws City Manager & Interim Police Chief Under Bus and Apologizes

After FPD interim chief Kevin Hamilton apologized to the Nordell family and after Mrs. Nordell accepted the apology, Fullerton's Mayor Dick Jones said that it wasn't until the apology was placed on the council's meeting agenda did the council begin to get information.

Mayor Jones went on to blame the lines of communication between the council and police chief are poor. 

"Its not real easy to get information out of departments.  We don't have direct access to them," said Mayor Jones who added "Usually the information chain goes through the City Manager to us."

Mayor Jones apologized as both the Mayor of Fullerton as well as an individual.

The Mayor uses the excuse of poor communication as a way to not apologize for the council's clear lack of concern until a month ago after a year-long bureaucratic ordeal.  The Mayor's admission of poor communication tells us a few other things as well:

1. The Mayor is aware that his department heads and managers are not openly communicating very important information to the council;
2. Our fears of a dysfunctional City Hall are justified;
3. The severity and depth of corruption within the walls of the FPD is being kept from the Fullerton City Council;
4. The Fullerton City Council is ill-informed and, therefore, unable to adequately govern;
5. The Mayor and perhaps other council members do not seek out information on their own from department heads, choosing instead to rely solely on the City staff and the Council's meeting agenda;
6. If the Council is being kept in the dark, how much is being kept from Fullerton residents? 

The City Council should be given progress reports from each department regarding allegations of misconduct.  The Council should know that their were several reports against former Fullerton cop Albert Rincon alleging sexual assault, kidnapping, battery, false imprisonment, etc. all under the color of authority.  And when Federal Judge Andrew Guilford slammed the City saying, "the City’s failure to investigate or punish sexual harassment allegations suggests tacit authorization."

But the Judge didn't stop there. "As stated above, Plaintiffs raise a triable issue of fact as to exactly when the City first learned about allegations against Rincon. The sheer volume of incidents in 2008 alone relative to Rincon’s arrests is sufficient to call into question what exactly the City knew or should have known before November 2008."

It would appear that the command staff of FPD chose not to do anything. 

The sergeants, lieutenants, captains, and chief (McKinley at the time Rincon was implicated) ALL CHOSE TO DO NOTHING.

Last night I suggested the council publicly share what a contract with the Orange County Sheriff's Department might look like.  How much money would we save, not just from law suits but from the actual contract services? $5-million?  $10-million?  More??? 

And if you wondered why the FPD should be scrapped, please read this conclusion from U.S. Judge Andrew Guilford:

You can read the entire Motion for Summary Judgement at FullertonsFuture.org.

seven women certainly raises questions about the City’s custom and practice around sexual assault. Requiring Rincon to attend “pat-down” training is weak sauce that does nothing to hide the unpleasant taste of complicity. At the end of the day, the City put Rincon back onto the streets to continue arresting women despite a pattern of sexual harassment allegations. A reasonable juror could conclude, based on these facts, that the City imply did not care about what its officers did to women during arrest.

Most shocking is the City’s weak “Reprimand” of Rincon. If one woman had brought an allegation of sexual assault, then the Court could understand how the City might have concluded that the allegations were not believable, and find no misconduct on Rincon’s part. But to dismiss the accounts of

Clearly the Fullerton City Council has relinquished their elected authority and are no longer able to effectively communicate or lead.

How long will Fullerton residents allow this to continue before they have had enough?