In the week spanning November 21 to November 26, the Manhattan Beach Police Department reported an uptick in vehicle-related crimes, alongside various other incidents that led to a total of 17 arrests, as detailed in their weekly crime summary. During this period, the MBPD responded to 612 calls for service, which included 201 dispatched calls and 411 officer-initiated contacts.
A notable incident on November 21 involved an officer stopping a car for vehicle code violations on Rosecrans Avenue, leading to the discovery of $700 in stolen clothing, and narcotics, and the arrest of both occupants. In a separate event on November 22, a residential burglary suspect was detained while wearing a victim's clothing items. According to the Manhattan Beach Police Department, the individual was transported for a mental health evaluation. Another incident reported on November 26 saw an officer attempt to stop a suspect vehicle linked to two vehicle burglaries, with the suspect evading law enforcement, an action that prompted an ongoing investigation.
Vehicle burglaries constituted a significant portion of last week's criminal activity, with a total of six reported cases. These included four instances of catalytic converter thefts from 2006 Lexus and Prius models from 2006 or 2008, along with theft of equipment from a truck bed and another burglary occurring in El Porto. On the 27th of November, there was a traffic stop that led to the discovery of a loaded 9mm firearm and the arrest of the vehicle's three occupants.
As the holiday season approaches, the MBPD provides the community with crime prevention tips to deter potential criminal activities. They advise residents to refrain from social media posts that may indicate they are away from home, to utilize alarm systems, and to have packages delivered securely. When shopping, they recommend not leaving packages or cash in unattended vehicles and to remain vigilant of one's surroundings, reporting any suspicious activities to the police.
