Following a surge of violence in Los Angeles' Pico-Robertson neighborhood this past weekend, efforts have intensified to bolster security at houses of worship. Mayor Karen Bass, in league with Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, convened with local leaders to coordinate a response to these disturbing events.
"The violence that happened in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood yesterday was abhorrent, and blocking access to a place of worship is absolutely unacceptable," declared Mayor Bass, as reported by her office's release. The Mayor expressed a determined stance that these actions, aiming to incite fear, and division, will not succeed.
Immediate steps have been taken including a plan for leaders of various faiths and cultural centers to collaborate on securing their sacred spaces. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will strengthen ties with Jewish public safety groups, continually assessing tactics and threats with the intention to preclude such incidents.
In conjunction with local and state government representatives like Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, efforts are being made to secure funding aimed at protecting Los Angeles's houses of worship, Mayor Bass announced. Councilmember Yaroslavsky is set to propose a motion that seeks additional funding, while the City Attorney will deliberate on the proposed safety measures.
