THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS RESIDENTS' COMMITTEE

WHAT EMERGENCY NUMBER?

2008-10-09T02:27:00.000-07:00

WHAT EMERGENCY NUMBER?

On October 9, 2008, the Maintenance Emergency Number a member of The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents’ Committee was told to call on October 3, 2008 by the Building Manager, Octavio Sanchez of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. was still not functioning.

"The number you have dialed is temporarily not in service."

Mr. Sanchez was asked days ago if this was the same "Emergency Number" that was given upon the day of move-in one year ago. The same number, which didn't work at that time. His response was that it is a different number.

When our friend and neighbor was incapacitated last week and not able to move, and demanded assistance, what would have been the response time? When a full elevator was stuck months ago with several residents, and their pets, and the call button was pressed, only to be told, "They were in Orange County, and may take an hour to get there," whom can they call, and how long would it have taken? In this instance, LAFD was called afterwards and were rescued 15 minutes later.

What is the proper contact information in the event of an emergency? Who is being called with the Emergency Number? What is the expected response time? What is the proper protocol that is expected from the residents?

Please send all correspondence
for The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee
via this link.
http://s438.photobucket.com/albums/qq106/loftsatnohocommons/

VANSIHING KEYS

2008-10-07T23:55:00.001-07:00

A resident was working out in the gym tonight, when the resident’s keys disappeared. There were a total of six other individuals that were in the gym at one point or another while the resident was working out, two of which the resident never saw before.

We are hoping that the keys were picked up accidentally.

Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division and Group Investigative Services, (Courtesy Patrol) were informed of the situation.

The Emergency Number for The Lofts at Noho Commons was dialed tonight several times, as per instructions given to a representative of The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents’ Committee by the Building Manager, Octavio Sanchez of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. on October 3, 2008. That number is 818-415-2062. When that number was dialed several times tonight, the number had a recording stating, “the number you have dialed was temporarily not in service.”

Members of The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents’ Committee and the resident knocked on the Building Manager’s apartment door. The obvious concerns were for the resident and the resident’s family’s safety. The Building Manager was able to have a staff member replace the lock to the domicile by 11:30 (23:30 hours) tonight.

The resident and I spoke to the four other residents at the gym. One of the four residents has had house keys stolen at the pool at an earlier date.

A police report will be filed, and videotape will be reviewed.

Please send all correspondence
for The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee
via this link.
http://s438.photobucket.com/albums/qq106/loftsatnohocommons/

GRAFFITI

2008-10-05T23:35:00.000-07:00

A resident left a message on my voicemail at 8:16PM (20:16 hours) tonight regarding graffiti in the parking structure near the Chandler Boulevard elevators. Her concern was that it may be of a gang marking it's territory. - Cell Phone Photo -October 5, 2008

Click on the photo to see entire image.

Please send all correspondence
for The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee
via this link.
http://s438.photobucket.com/albums/qq106/loftsatnohocommons/

SAFETY AND MANNERS

2008-10-05T02:39:00.000-07:00

SAFETY AND MANNERS

This morning I walked around the common areas starting at about 12:45AM. I started on the fourth floor and was able to record using the camera on my iPhone, light fixtures with lamps not functioning, areas not well lit, two locks in a stairwell, which felt flimsy, bags of trash near the elevators on Chandler Boulevard which could have been discarded yards away in the trash room, bags of trash outside multiple residents’ apartment doors, (one of which I know has been there for at least three days), several residents’ allowing their pets to “go” in the grass areas, (two of which had bags with them to clean up after their pets, and did walk them outside after my approaching them), and a resident on the third floor smoking a cigarette near the Chandler Boulevard elevators, discarding it by throwing it down to the second floor.

Management is making an effort to keep our home safe and clean, but it takes a little effort from all of us as well. There is dog urine and feces throughout the common areas, which if all of the pet owners were mindful and cared enough about where they lived, would pick up after their pets. Of the few that I have witnessed and approached personally, most seemed surprised and dismissed the significance of their actions, or lack there of. There are cigarette butts throughout the common areas as well. I understand not smoking in his or her own apartments, but the rest of the property is everyone’s home as well. Please be mindful of our home. This is a beautiful property, and it is all of our responsibility to do our part.

I would also like to remind everyone to remain vigilant of his or her surroundings. This afternoon I scared two young teenagers running down the ramp. Moments later I saw the same two with another young boy running towards the Metro parking lot. Regardless of their intentions, it was clear they do not live here. It is no different than seeing a car drive down, circle the parking lot slowly once, and then leave. Obviously, the occupants of the vehicle are not residents, and the individuals may have unclear motives to anyone within their line of sight. This is something I have seen more than a dozen times since I have lived here, and every time has left me feeling uneasy. Please be aware of your surroundings.

Thank you.

Please send all correspondence
for The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee
via this link.

EMERGENCY NUMBER

2008-10-04T15:20:00.000-07:00

EMERGENCY NUMBER

Please note The Lofts at Noho Commons has an Emergency Number.
That number is 818-415-2062.

Last night a resident was physically down and needed assistance. The resident was incapacitated and not able to move. We were able to communicate via cell phone. The resident was fully cognitive, and showed no signs of physical distress.

The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee Chairman, John Garofalo was contacted via phone then proceeded to contact in person the Building Manager for the property, Octavio Sanchez of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. Mr. Sanchez retrieved a key, which allowed entry into the domicile. At that time, the resident was assisted and raised from the ground. The resident showed no signs of physical injury from the fall.

We were given permission to disclose this information by the resident involved.

Mr. Sanchez informed us of an Emergency Number to call, in the event of such an incident occurring again.

That number again is 818-415-2062.

I would like to personally thank all involved for the assistance and caring for our friend. Thank you.

Apartment Security Tips, be safe and secure

2008-10-03T18:30:00.001-07:00

Apartment Security Tips, be safe and secure.

http://www.surveillanceforsecurity.com/apartment-security-tips.html

Before reading, and hopefully absorbing, these apartment security tips - please read this article on security for apartment living first.
http://www.surveillanceforsecurity.com/apartment-security.html

Apartment Security Tips

Do not have your apartment number on your parking space; it gives burglars a big clue as to whether there is somebody at home or not. If it is the system for your building to mark parking spaces with apartment numbers, agitate to get the system changed.

Always report any common area lighting that is not working (burnt out bulbs etc.) Don't leave it to others, they likely won't report it. Make sure that your building management gets the lighting working as soon as possible.

This applies to outside as well as inside lighting. You do not want dark pathways or parking areas.

A strategically positioned mirror will enable you to see around corridor corners or other places that a villain could be lurking. These mirrors are a positive security measure, will not cost your building's management much and should be easy for them to install.

If your apartment building has a laundry room don't use it alone, team up with a neighbor. Not only is it safer but more sociable as well.

apartment security tips
Apartment living can be safe and secure if you apply a little common sense and these apartment security tips

How are the bushes and shrubs around your apartment complex? Are they a little overgrown? Burglars love cover. Make sure that maintenance does its job and keeps plant-life under control and trimmed back. The more exposed any open areas are the less chance there will be of prowlers.

Although fencing around the building is a good idea it should not provide cover for an intruder. Slated fencing or other fencing that enables anyone on the grounds to be seen is a better security measure than a solid barrier.

Does your apartment door have a mail slot? Make sure that a prowler or burglar cannot look through it into your apartment to check who, if anyone, is at home. Fit a cover, or a box, on the inside so you can get your bills and junk mail but nobody can see into your home.

Do not have an address tag on your keys. If you lose your keys, or they get stolen, have your locks or the cylinder changed pronto. You will most likely have to bare the cost but that is far preferable than having keys that open up your apartment ending up in the hands of a thief.

It almost goes without saying that you should never leave your keys with anyone that you do not absolutely trust. Ask yourself would you trust them with your money? No? Then don't trust them with your keys.

If you are renting your apartment don't just assume that you are covered by the building management's insurance, find out if you are or not. If not, get covered, it is not over costly and worth it for the peace of mind. Don't let insurance cover make you lax in apartment security though.

Never give details to anyone about the times that you are likely to be out of your apartment. If someone phones pretending to be a telemarketer or conducting a survey and you tell them you are out at work from dawn to dusk, then that information could be an early Christmas present for a thief.

Apartment Security Tips - The Elevator.

Check to see who is inside before stepping into the elevator. If there is someone that you don't recognize, and you don't like the look of them, simply wait for the next one.

If someone suspicious looking, or acting, gets in - you get out before the door closes.

If you can, always stand by the control panel. Familiarize yourself as to exactly where the alarm button is, so you can hit it promptly if the need arises.

Never get in an elevator that has no lighting. If the lighting is not working then maintenance needs to fix it straight away.

Apartment living can be safe and secure if you apply a little common sense and these apartment security tips along with the advice on this page.

Apartment Security

2008-10-03T18:29:00.001-07:00

Apartment Security

http://www.surveillanceforsecurity.com/apartment-security.html

Improve your apartment security and live safely.

When it comes to burglary and other in-the-home crime, those of us that live in apartments are perhaps slightly more at risk than those that live in houses. This is, to an extent, because your apartment security is not completely under your own control. Security for the building itself is mainly in the control of the management.

Some multi-occupancy building managers, or owners, treat protecting their tenants very seriously, others do not. If you feel that the security of your apartment building could be improved in some way you should not hesitate in pointing this out to the management.

If, in spite of your repeated efforts to get security improved, the management does not act you could look for another apartment complex where apartment security and the well being of occupants is given a higher priority.

Another reason why apartment owners, or renters, are at greater risk than house owners is because of the possibility of intruders wandering around casing the building. Even if you know every occupant, you would not know who was a visitor and who wasn't.

Entry-phone systems or manned security desks go a long way to reduce this problem, but some criminals are very inventive and find a way around such measures.

Neighbors - very effective for apartment security.

Probably the single most effective thing that you can do to improve your apartment's security is to join, and participate in, neighborhood watch.

Apartment buildings often have their own neighborhood watch groups; they are not just for streets or blocks. If your building does not have a watch - start one! Really, it's easy, it’s fun and it works. The first step is to inquire at your local police station; you will find them a tremendous help.

Neighbor looking out for neighbor is vital for security in an apartment complex. If all the occupants know each other then it is far easier to spot someone who should not be in the building.

If your neighbors know what times of the day you are out, or know when you are away on business or vacation, and they hear someone moving about inside your apartment they would know that something is likely amiss. If they don't know you or your habits and they heard noise from your apartment they probably would assume that it is you.

There are many other ways in which a neighborhood group can improve apartment security. Patrols can be organized to make regular tours of the building and parking lot. Report any suspicious persons to the police or to the management. Do not place yourselves in personal danger.

Apartment watch groups can publish a news bulletin that highlights local crime and scams that are being carried out in the area. The bulletin can also pass on tips for improving security.

Also, complaints to the management about shortfalls in apartment security carry more weight when made by a group of organized tenants, you can count on it. Suggestions made by the group for improving protection will also stand a greater chance of being listened to . . . and implemented.

Doors . . .

Before you move into your new apartment have the locks on all your doors re-keyed. If you have to shell out for this, so be it, it is not very costly and worth the added apartment security.

You should have a deadbolt lock on your front door. If you can organize it have an arrangement with the building management that they hold a copy of the key sealed in an envelope. This key is strictly for emergency use only, not for deliveries or the like. This is a more secure arrangement than a master key system.

Knock, knock! Do you know who is at your apartment door before you open it? Don’t rely on a door chain, which can be very easily forced. Install a through the door viewer, these little telescope devices let you see who is there and if you don’t like the look of whoever is outside – don’t open up.

Make sure that the door viewer that you fit has a cover on the inside. This stops a burglar peeping in to check out if there is anyone at home.

Other things you can do to increase your apartment security.

Always, but always, lock your door when you go out of your apartment. Do this even if you are just going to the convenience store, to the laundry room or even just going along the hall.

You only need to slip out of your apartment for a 'moment' and an opportunistic thief can slip in, steal what he takes a fancy to and slip out again. Get into the good security habit of always locking your door.
apartment security
Apartment Security Apartment or condominium life can be enjoyable and rewarding, and safe too if you take some common sense measures for your security.

If your apartment is on the ground floor, or your windows are in any way accessible to a thief, close them and lock them whenever you go out.

Avoid writing your full name on the entry-phone nameplate, it gives criminals more information than you want them to know. Just give your last name or your last name and initial. If you live on your own, and feel particularly vulnerable, you may want to be a little deceptive. Instead of J. Smith write Mr. and Mrs. Smith or J. and P. Smith.

If you are going away remember to cancel your newspaper delivery. Ask a neighbor to pick up and hold your mail for you (those useful neighbors again.) Never let it be obvious that nobody is at home in your apartment, security is often a matter of old fashioned common sense.

If you are out of your apartment for long periods, at work, out on the town for the evening, or on a trip - use timers for your lights, radio and television. These can be set to give a wonderful impression of someone being at home. Timers are not at all expensive and are quite simple to set up and use.

Never, never, never buzz anyone that you are not expecting into the building. This is a very old trick in a very old book. Criminals will invent some very plausible reasons to try and persuade you to let them in.

"The Browns at apartment 36 have ordered a Hawaiian Special and they are not answering, could you do me the favor of letting me in?" Don't. "I'm from Acme repair and there was an urgent call from 25 would you please let me in?" Don't.

Advise them to buzz the superintendent. Call the police if you suspect that the person is buzzing each apartment in turn.

Do not hold the door open for a stranger when you are entering or leaving the building. That innocent looking stranger could be a master burglar, or worse.

The security of your apartment, and your personal safety and security as an apartment owner or renter is a joint responsibility. Yes, the building management should do everything possible to ensure your apartment security but you must play your part too.

Apartment or condominium life can be enjoyable and rewarding, and safe too if you take some common sense measures for your security. Here are a few more apartment security tips.
http://www.surveillanceforsecurity.com/apartment-security-tips.html

Apartment, Condo and Other Multi-Tenant Housing Security

2008-10-03T05:12:00.000-07:00

Apartment, Condo and Other Multi-Tenant Housing Security

by Ralph Witherspoon, CPP, CSC

http://www.security-expert.org/apartmentcondo.htm

The second most common crime threat to the average American (after auto theft) is to have his or her home burglarized and possessions stolen. Apartments, condominiums and other multi-tenant housing are frequently at greater risk than the single-family house, in part because renters must rely on their apartment/condo owners or managers to provide for much of their security. Also, in large complexes, the likelihood is greater that intruding criminals will blend in with the larger population and not be noticed while they scout properties or commit crimes.

Regardless of where the multi-tenant/family rental housing is located — city, suburb, small town, or county, there is always some degree of risk for break-ins or theft, and in many cases robbery or assault. Risks tend to be higher in urban and suburban areas than they are in rural or small town areas. With today's expressways, inner-city criminals often "commute" 10-20 miles to the suburbs to look for their victims.

Unfortunately, many apartment and condo builders have little or no knowledge about security. Since state or local codes usually do not require security, many builders ignore it, or provide only minimal measures. At the same time, the building owners and managers who do want to provide good security for their properties frequently have little training, and often only a minimal understanding of good security practices and procedures. The result is that many tenants become crime victims and many owners and managers are sued for having "negligent security."

Most burglars are young males who are seeking easy entry when no one is at home, and most are looking for a dwelling that contains, or is perceived to contain, easily portable valuables, such as cash, credit cards, jewelry, guns, computers and electronic devices. They are also looking for concealment and quick escape routes. In an estimated 25 percent of burglaries, entry is gained through an unlocked front, back, patio or garage door, or unlocked window. In the other 75 percent of home burglaries where doors and windows are locked, in half of those only minimal force is applied for less than 10 seconds to a locked door or window to gain entry. In other words, in two-thirds of all burglaries, entry is relatively quick and easy!

While most people fear break-ins at night, the vast majority of residential burglaries occur during the day when homes are usually unoccupied. Sometimes, however, both the burglar and resident are present at the same time. That can lead to assault, rape and even murder. So while residential burglaries are frequently considered to be only "property crimes," they have the potential to lead to injury and death. Any successful burglary or non-domestic assault in a rental or condo complex should alert management to immediately and comprehensively review its security measures. Also, auto break-ins or thefts on the property demonstrate the presence of criminals and criminal activity, and should be taken seriously in considering overall security.

Providing Physical Security

The first step in protecting multi-tenant property is to "harden" both the buildings and grounds as a whole, plus the individual housing units (apartments). If a criminal passing by or already on your property believes it to be too difficult or time-consuming to gain entry or too well lighted, or has too few concealment places or escape routes, he may well go to another property. That robber or burglar is probably going to victimize someone that day … the challenge is to not let the victim be you, your property, or your tenants!

Since most entries are made through doors, it only makes sense to have solid-core wood or metal entry doors, plus strong doorframes and locking devices. A door, however, is only as strong as its weakest component. I recommend a spring-lock latch, plus a dead-bolt lock with a 1-inch throw. Use a heavy-duty, four-screw strike plate secured into the doorframe stud with 3-inch screws. Owners and managers should be aware of local fire codes (and the safety of tenants) when considering installation of locks, gates and bars.

Locked lobby entrance doors actually provide little physical protection, because some residents will grant entry to almost anyone. However, locked lobby doors do provide at least a minimal physical and psychological barrier to intruders, plus some delay, and thus are deterrents to numberous criminals. Accordingly, they should be used where possible — just don't rely completely on them.

Ground-level housing units are especially at risk because of the ease of access to multiple points of attack. Bushes are often used by criminals to provide concealment while they are waiting for a victim, or trying to gain entry to a building or apartment. I recommend cutting bushes on the interior of the property to 18 inches above the ground or lower, and completely eliminating bushes and hedges close to basement or ground-level windows, or close to entry doors, including ground-level sliding patio doors. Sliding patio doors should be equipped with a "charley bar" plus a "through-the-door pin" to prevent lifting the door out of its track to gain entry (horizontal sliding windows can be equipped with a dowel to prevent opening, and vertical sliding windows should be equipped with a through-the-frame pin). Trees within 25 feet of any building should have their branches trimmed so that none hangs lower than eight feet above ground level, or closer than 10 feet to the building or its balconies. Eliminating potential hiding spots or obstructed lines of sight not only deters some criminals, but it also permits residents and legitimate visitors to observe and report suspicious persons or behavior, and to avoid danger themselves.

Implementing these basic physical security measures should significantly reduce (but won't necessarily eliminate) the risk of burglary for most multi-tenant buildings and units. However, individual properties or configurations may require different measures. Security is not a "cookie-cutter" process, and, if any questions arise, you should consult with a professional security consultant or expert.

Lighting

Since most criminals don't want to be seen committing their crime, or to be identified, many prefer to commit the crimes under the cover of darkness. As a result, appropriate lighting can be a relatively inexpensive security measure that, experience shows, will deter some criminals.

Apartment or condo surface parking lots and garages are locations where tenants and visitors are more easily accessible to robbers, rapists, carjackers, and thieves who often enter, srike, and then quickly flee. Such criminals are drawn to parking facilities and areas because of the presence of automobiles to steal or break into, and persons who can be attacked. Because of the crime potential at almost all parking lots; or especially if your parking lot/garage or facility has a history of crime, or there has been recent serious crime in the neighborhood, or your facility is perceived as an "upscale" property for the area, in other words — attractive to criminals, prudent security dictates that you review and possibly enhance security.

For surface parking lots, security and national lighting guidelines dictate that the lot be illuminated to a minimum of three foot-candles. Lighting should be turned on and off by timer, or preferably by photoelectric sensor to ensure that it is operating when needed. I recommend metal-halide lighting fixtures in these parking lots.

While local or state building codes may require a lower level of lighting, it is far better to design and install "safety and security" levels of lighting at the beginning, rather than wait until a resident or guest is injured or otherwise victimized.

In covered/enclosed parking garages, the threat to persons and property can be very high. Such locations are a frequent favored "hunting-ground" for robbers and rapists, who often find plenty of places to hide, and victims to attack. This is especially true if access to the garage is not strictly controlled. Isolated floors and locations can make effective surveillance or monitoring difficult at best. I recommend that the interior of covered/enclosed-parking garages be illuminated to a minimum uniform level of six foot-candles. Pedestrian entry and exit points, and any stairwells and elevator lobbies should have lighting levels at least double that. These levels of illumination should be maintained around the clock since sufficient daylight seldom penetrates deeply into a garage. The use of glossy white paint on the walls and ceilings can enhance reflected lighting and thus the ability to spot individuals or movements against the white background. Note: If the roof of a garage is used for parking and is open to the sky, the lighting recommended for the roof parking area is that shown above for open parking lots (three foot-candles minimum).

Exterior lighting around the property should enable residents to detect the presence of persons at 75-100 feet, and to identify individuals (facial features) and other dangers at a distance of 30 feet. Those distances will usually allow them to take defensive action or avoidance if necessary, while still at a safe distance. I recommend that sidewalks and footpaths around and between buildings, parking lots and garages (routes where pedestrians are funneled, and where security is almost always a consideration because of their open accessibility to non-residents and intruders) be illuminated to a minimum level of three foot-candles. Where senior citizens who are often sight-impaired are residents or frequent visitors, that lighting level should be increased for safety purposes.

Inside multi-tenant buildings, security lighting is often a problem. This is especially true in the "common areas" such as building entrances, corridors, hallways and stairs, which require sufficient lighting to enable recognition of faces to determine who belongs in those spaces and who does not, and who is perceived as safe and who may be perceived as posing a danger. For security purposes I recommend a minimum maintained illumination level of three foot-candles in those common areas. Mailrooms and other high-use gathering spaces such as laundry rooms, exercise rooms, and the like should be uniformly illuminated with a minimum of 10 foot-candles. Again, painting walls and ceilings in those common areas with a glossy white paint increases actual and perceived visibility.

Where the entry door to an individual family unit in a multi-tenant building opens directly to the outside of the building, identification of persons at that door becomes increasingly important, since that is the first line of defense against intruders. Illumination from both exterior sides of the entry door aids in facial recognition. If the lights are mounted in the ceiling or overhead, they should not be directly above or behind where an individual will be standing, as that may shadow the individual's face or features. I recommend that lighting for residential entry-doors be not less than 1-2 foot-candles measured both horizontally at ground level, and vertically five feet above the doorway threshold.

Residents can also use timers to turn lights on inside their home to give the appearance that someone is present. If drapes and blinds are pulled, especially in the living room and other ground floor rooms, and interior lights are on, many burglars won't take the risk, especially if a radio is also left playing to create the impression that someone is at home.

Gated Communities

Special care should be taken with walled or gated communities. Gates and fences provide a perception of privacy and security to the residents, and a deterrent to some criminals. But walls and gates can be climbed, and without a security officer screening individuals and vehicles seeking access, security is not significantly improved. Basic security measures such as described in the sections above still need to be implemented, especially those relating to outdoor and common areas.

When an electronic keypad rather than a trained security officer is used to control access, it will be only a few weeks before every pizza delivery person in town has the access code. And if they have it, burglars and other criminals won't be far behind in obtaining it.

Walls and gates do provide some security, but only if they control access to the property.

Security Officers

Many apartments and other multi-tenant properties utilize security officers, either their own employees or contract guard company officers. In recent years some property managers, believing they were reducing their potential legal liability, have started using what they call "courtesy officers." These are usually off-duty police to whom management provides free housing on the property in return for "assistance." Courts, however, tend to view these individuals for who they are — people performing security duties but called "courtesy officers" … and liability to the owners or management isn't reduced.

While many courtesy officers provide excellent service for their properties, others may actually increase liability. Law enforcement officers often have little control over their schedules and may be working days this month, and nights next month. Their presence on the property at any given time, or even on any given day, is not ensured. As a result, security coverage and any deterrence are reduced, and residents who think they are being protected are misled. If it is worth spending the money on security, in whatever form, it is worth doing it right!

Whether you use in–house or contract security officers:

* Be sure to run a comprehensive background check, including a criminal conviction check, on each officer, and retain the backup documentation. These individuals will, in many cases, literally "have the keys" to the property and in many cases access to tenants' units. Poor screening here can lead to potential legal damages for injuries or losses, as well as embarrassment and bad publicity for the property.
* Ensure that your guards receive not only basic security officer training (documented), but also training specific to your property and the functions they are to perform for you (this includes off-duty police who need to know your property and what duties you expect and require of them).
* Draw up specific "Post Orders" and make them part of any contract "by reference." They should specify exactly what duties the officer(s) should perform, and when, and how management wants the officers to handle any exceptions. They should also specify what reports are to be prepared, and when. At a minimum, the officers should prepare a detailed written activity report each shift, and separate written incident reports of any unusual occurrences. Reports should be kept for a minimum of three years.
* Don't accept sub-standard performance. Complain immediately to the contract guard provider if assigned guards are not doing what they should, when they should. Request a replacement if necessary. Remember, however, that most guard companies draw their employees from the same general labor pool, and if you insist on paying low rates (pay rates to the guards are generally about 60% of the billing rate to you) you will usually get what you pay for, regardless of which company you use.
* I recommend that you don't sign any contract that requires you to indemnify the guard company for their errors or mistakes. They should be responsible for any mistakes their employees make. If the company you are considering won't remove such a clause in their contract, try others.
* Keep records (at least three years) on security measures so that you can later show what you did, when, and why. If you do things right, records can only help you.

Conclusion

This overview is not intended to provide the reader with a complete security program for multi-tenant properties. Rather, it provides some basic security considerations derived from well-accepted security principles, which are a starting point for those interested in protecting themselves, their families, and their properties. For those owners and property managers "doing it themselves," be sure to check your local building and other codes for regulations, which may impact what you may or may not do in this area, and, as necessary, consult with your attorney. Another good idea — contact a professional security consultant for assistance.

Readers desiring additional information on these or related subjects should contact a qualified professional security consultant and/or their attorney.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on generally accepted security principles, and on data gathered from what are believed to be reliable sources. This article is written for general information purposes only and is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a primary source for making security decisions. Each situation is or can be unique. The author is not an attorney, is not engaged in the practice of law, and is not rendering legal advice. Readers requiring advice about specific security problems or concerns should consult directly with a security professional. The author of this article shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss, liability, or damage alleged to have been caused by the use or application of any information in this article, nor information contained on this or any linked or related web site.

Apartment Crime Safety Quiz How Safe Is Your Apartment From Criminals?

2008-10-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Apartment Crime Safety Quiz
How Safe Is Your Apartment From Criminals?

By Charles Montaldo, About.com

http://crime.about.com/od/quiz/a/aptquiz.htm

Even in the most desirable apartment buildings, security is a concern. Often crimes are committed in apartment buildings by those who have access to it such as other tenants, maintenance people, and friends of tenants. Criminals look for vulnerability like an opened window or someone who leaves their door unlocked on a regular basis.

Taking this short quiz can help you determine if you are doing all that you can to make your apartment safe or if there are other prevention measures that you may not have considered.

Click on the link below to begin the test. At the end of the quiz you will be given a score, which is completely confidential and can only be seen by you.

Start the Quiz
http://crime.about.com/library/blaptsafety.htm

Apartment Security Premises Liability Nightmare

2008-10-03T04:41:00.001-07:00

Apartment Security
Premises Liability Nightmare
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartmen2.htm

Premises Security Liability

Landlords and property managers have become the target of what appears to be a legal trend called premises security liability. Premises liability is a civil action where a plaintiff will attempt to hold a landlord or property manager liable for money damages for injuries inflicted during a violent criminal attack committed on their rental property. The damages sought can be for both physical and psychological injuries suffered following an attack. The allegation is usually that the landlord contributed to the plaintiff’s injury because of a failure to provide adequate security on the property. In recent years, insurance industry statistics have shown that the highest premises liability jury awards have been for sexual assaults and deaths on apartment properties.
High Profile

The word of multi-million dollar jury verdicts against landlords has been spread by the media and in legal trade journals. This negative coverage has created a rush of new lawsuits around the country against landlords and property managers. The litigation rush has become so widespread that both plaintiff and defense bars now hold regular seminars for this area of law practice. The Association of Trial Lawyers of America meets annually to offer training programs on how to successfully sue an apartment landlord for premises liability.

To prevail on an inadequate security claim, the plaintiff must prove that the landlord breached their duty of care by failing to provide reasonable security measures, under the circumstances. Typically this is done, for example, by demonstrating that door or window locks were defective and not repaired or lights were not functioning for weeks prior to plaintiff’s assault. The focus could also involve an employee of the landlord. The negligence allegation may focus on the methods used for hiring, training, and supervising the apartment manager, the leasing consultants, the maintenance personnel, or the security officers.

Until you have been sued for over a million dollars in a protracted litigation, you may wonder what all the concern is about. More than one, litigation-free, landlord has told me, that’s why I have insurance when describing their indifference to being sued. They just don’t believe that taking proactive steps will make any difference in their tolerance to be sued or ability to defend should they be sued. They just don’t understand the problem.
Punitive Damages

One big problem, not often considered, is the possibility of being sued for punitive damages. Punitive damage awards are designed to punish a landlord or property manager, not merely compensate the plaintiff for their injuries. Punitive damages are awarded when the jury believes a landlord or property manager acted with malice or with a conscious disregard for the safety of the plaintiff, prior to being injured. An extreme example might be when a landlord knowingly hired a maintenance man, just paroled from prison for child molestation, and provided him with a uniform, free apartment, and access to a property filled with children. Punitive damages are not usually covered by liability insurance and therefore are expected to be paid out of the personal assets of the person being sued.
Business Records Exposed

A frustrating litigation problem arises when your property is viewed under a judicial microscope, in a very public forum such as a trial. A landlord or property manager must answer detailed questions about their private financial statements, business holdings, and methods of operation. Even your most confidential business records and damaging in-house reports must be produced, if so ordered by the court. I know landlords who have spent hundreds of hours researching records in preparation for trial. I’ve seen management offices literally turned upside down looking for documents and attempting to organize five-years of files that had never been organized before. Worst of all, after the trial is over, these records may be passed on to other plaintiff lawyer during the course of a subsequent lawsuit.
Manager Under Fire

In high exposure litigation, it in not unusual for management employees and staff to become involved as percipient witnesses. I’ve also heard many resident managers say that they felt like a gun was to their head during their testimony. They feared repercussion, if they didn’t respond correctly or in a manner consistent with others. Careers have been ended or altered because of the outcome of an intense litigation. The process has a way of bringing out the worst flaws in property management because of the focus on the negative issues and imperfect decision making. These newly discovered flaws have been the basis for job demotions and terminations. Sometimes, when the focus is on the qualifications or credibility of a resident manager, the plaintiff hires a private investigator to examine the background of that employee. Too often, these investigations have turned up fraudulent backgrounds, criminal convictions, and even current arrest warrants.

Obviously, the best way to avoid the whole process is to operate your property as if you could be sued at any moment. My 10-Step Apartment Security Plan addresses this issue and is designed to make any multifamily housing property better prepared for that moment.

Crime Free Multi-Housing Apartment Crime Prevention Program

2008-10-03T04:40:00.002-07:00

Crime Free Multi-Housing
Apartment Crime Prevention Program
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/crimefree1.htm

The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program is a state-of-the-art crime prevention program designed to reduce crime, drugs, and gang activity on apartment properties. This program was first successfully developed at the Mesa, Arizona Police Department in 1992. The International Crime Free Programs have since spread to nearly 2,000 cities in 44 US states, 5 Canadian Provinces, Mexico, england, Finland, Japan, Russia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Afganistan, and Puerto Rico. Australia has also expressed interest in adopting the Crime Free Programs in the future. The association holds an annual training conference.
Three Certification Phases

The program consists of three phases that must be completed under the supervision of the local law enforcement agency. Property managers become individually certified after completing phase-one training. The property itself becomes certified upon successful completion of all three phases. The anticipated benefits are reduced police calls for service, a more stable resident base, and reduced exposure to civil liability.

The program begins with the training of police agency coordinators who will administer the program in their jurisdiction. Each Crime Free Multi-Housing Coordinator receives 24-hours of intensive training and becomes certified as an instructor of the program. The Crime Free Program Coordinators return to their cities and begin the provide training and certify apartment managers and properties in their community. Fully certified properties have reported reductions in police calls for service up to 70% over previous years. The heart and soul of the program is in the correct implementation and use of the Crime Free Lease Addendum.

Here is a brief outline of the program contents:
Phase I - Management Training (8-Hours) Taught by the Police

* Crime Prevention Theory
* CPTED Theory
* New Resident Screening
* Lease Agreement Issues
* Crime Free Lease Addendum
* Key Control and Master Key Use
* On-Going Security Management
* Monitoring Criminal Activity
* Gangs, Drugs, and Crime Prevention
* Legal Warnings & Evictions
* Working With the Police
* Community Awareness

Phase II - CPTED - Survey by the Police

* Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Survey (CPTED)
* Minimum door, window, and lock standards compliance
* Minimum exterior lighting standards evaluation
* Key Control procedures evaluation
* Landscape maintenance standards compliance

Phase III - Community Awareness Training

* Annual crime prevention social taught by property management and police
* Community awareness and continuous participation is encouraged

Full certification permits the right to post the Crime Free program sign and advertise membership in the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program in the print media using the official logo.
Crime Free Program Annual Conferences

* 2005 Riverside, California
* 2006 Albuquerque, New Mexico
* 2007 Mesa, Arizona
* 2008 Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

Home Invasion Robbery Protect Your Family with a Security Plan

2008-10-03T04:40:00.001-07:00

Home Invasion Robbery
Protect Your Family with a Security Plan
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM
http://www.crimedoctor.com/homeinvasion.htm

Home Invasion

One of the more frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can occur to a family is a home invasion robbery. A home invasion is when robbers force their way into an occupied home, apartment or hotel room to commit a robbery or other crimes. It is particularly frightening because it violates our private space and the one place that we think of as our sanctuary.

Home invasion is like the residential form of an automobile carjacking and it's on the rise. Like the crime of carjacking, most police agencies don’t track home invasions as a separate crime. Most police agencies and the FBI will statistically record the crime as a residential burglary or a robbery. Without the ability to track the specific crime of home invasion, little can be done to alert the public as to the frequency of occurrence in their community or devise a law enforcement plan of action to control it.
Criminal Profile

Residential burglars work mostly during the day and when a residence is more likely to be unoccupied. Most burglars work alone and tend to probe a neighborhood looking for the right residence and the right opportunity. Alarm signs and decals, bars on windows, strong locks and doors, big dogs, and alert neighbors can sometimes deter burglars. Also, burglars will avoid a confrontation and will usually flee when approached. Most burglaries do not result in violence unless the criminal is cornered and uses force to escape.

Home invasion robbers, in contrast, work more often at night and on weekends when homes are more likely to be occupied. The home invader will sometimes target the resident as well as the dwelling. The selection process may include a woman living alone, a wealthy senior citizen or a known drug dealer, for example. It is not unheard of for a robber to follow you home based on the value of the car you are driving or the jewelry you are wearing. Some home invaders might have been in your home before as a delivery person, installer or repair vendor. Home robbers rarely work alone and rely on an overwhelming physical confrontation to gain initial control and instill fear in you. The greatest violence usually occurs during the initial sixty seconds of the confrontation and home invaders often come prepared with handcuffs, rope, duct tape, and firearms. Some in-home robbers appear to enjoy the intimidation, domination, and violence and some even claim it’s a "rush."
Dangerous Trends

The act of committing a home invasion is escalating much like carjacking. The reason for the increase seems to follow a similar pattern. Much like automobiles, the traditional commercial targets for robbers like convenience stores and fast-food restaurants have hardened themselves against criminal attack and have reduced available cash. Technology has allowed commercial establishments to install affordable video surveillance systems, silent alarms, and other anti-crime deterrent devices. A residence, by comparison, is now a more attractive choice.

Home invaders know that they won't have to overcome alarm systems when the home is occupied or be worried about video cameras and silent alarms. Unlike robbing a retail store, home invaders expect privacy once inside your home and won’t have to deal with the police suddenly driving up or customers walking in. Once the offenders take control of a residence they can force the occupants to open safes, locate hidden valuables, supply keys to the family car, and PIN numbers to their ATM cards. Home invaders will try to increase their escape time by disabling the phones and sometimes will leave their victims bound or incapacitated. It is not unheard of for robbers to load up the victim’s car with valuables and drive away without anyone in the neighborhood taking notice.
Method of Operation

The most common point of attack is through the front door or garage. Sometimes the home invader will simply kick open the door and confront everyone inside. More common is when the home invaders knock on the door first or ring the bell. The home invader hopes that the occupant will simply open the door, without question, in response to their knock. Unfortunately, many people do just that.

Home invaders will sometimes use a ruse or impersonation to get you to open the door. They have been known to pretend to be delivering a package, flowers or lie about an accident like hitting your parked car. Once the door is opened for them, the home invaders will use an explosive amount of force and threats to gain control of the home and produce fear in the victims. Once the occupants are under control the robbers will begin to collect your valuables.

Some home robbers have been known to spend hours ransacking a residence while the homeowners are bound nearby watching in terror. Some robbers have been known to eat meals, watch TV, or even take a nap. A major fear is that the robbers might commit more violence like sexual assault or even murder. Some robbers have kidnapped and forced a victim to withdraw cash from their ATM machine or take them to their small business to rob it as well.
Prevention Steps

The same tactics used to prevent daytime burglaries will go a long way to preventing forced entry home robberies. If you can delay a home invader at the point of entry then you have a chance of deterring them or have time to call the police. A solid core door, strong locks with reinforced strike plates, and reinforced window devices will stop most forced entries. See my web page on Home Security Tips for more information. Some homeowners build safe rooms inside their home to allow them to retreat or escape the violence while giving them valuable time to call the police.

The weakest home security link is the home occupant who fails to lock doors or windows or who will open the door without question at the sound of a knock. The best defense against home invasion is education and planning. Parents should hold a family meeting to discuss how to answer the door when someone knocks. Another important topic is how to act should your home or family be invaded. Once you know how home robbers work, you can effectively prevent most occurrences. See also Home Invasion Family Survival Tips for more information.

Remember these important security steps:

* Install solid core doors, heavy duty locks, and window security devices
* Lock all doors, windows, and garages at all times
* Use four three-inch screws to secure heavy duty lock strike plates in the door frame
* Use the door peephole BEFORE opening the door
* Use your porch light to help you to see clearly outside
* Never rely on a chain-latch as a barrier to partially open the door
* Never open the door to strangers or solicitors
* Call the police if the stranger acts suspicious
* Alert your neighbors to suspicious solicitors
* Hold a family meeting to discuss home security plans
* Set the home perimeter alarm at night, if you have one

Apartment Security Unauthorized Occupants

2008-10-03T04:39:00.002-07:00

Apartment Security
Unauthorized Occupants
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartmen9.htm

Rental housing crime studies have repeatedly shown that moderate to high-crime problems can usually be traced back to a small percentage of residents. Those causing the crime problems are often the acquaintances, ex-spouses, or boyfriends of a legal resident who decided to move in without your permission.
Resident Screening

The best way to head off this problem is to practice resident screening and enforce clearly defined and articulated community rules that are emphasized during the lease application process. The resident needs to know that their tenancy may be in jeopardy if they bring in an unauthorized (and unscreened) occupant. Proof of this method is well documented in apartment properties all over the country, as police calls for service seem to fluctuate proportionally as resident screening standards and rule enforcement vary following management changes.

Good resident screening involves checking credit, employment, rental history, and criminal background, if available. A good screening plan should call for all non-dependent occupants to be included on the lease and subject to the same resident qualifications. All children should be identified on the lease along with maximum occupancy limits. In this day and age, resident screening is more than just establishing the ability to pay rent. In my experience, properties that tend to have a higher percentage of unauthorized occupants have lowered their screening standards on credit, rental and employment history, and don’t do available criminal background checks. A policy of collecting double deposits or getting co-signers for an otherwise unqualified applicant is asking for trouble down the road and is unfair to the other residents.
Criminal Infiltration

When career criminals (usually males) cannot qualify to rent, they will try to infiltrate your property by secretly moving in with a legal resident. As you might expect, these undesirable occupants tend to attract other unsavory characters. The character of your property can change drastically, if left unchecked. The problem becomes acute when these unauthorized occupants are unemployed criminal types who hang out all day and all night and begin to ply their trade within your community. A symptom of this condition is people hanging out in the parking lot and high foot traffic in and out of a unit or group of units.

To fix serious illegal occupancy problems, sometimes you have to clean house and evict residents for non-compliance with your residency requirements. You need to re-emphasize your occupancy standards and then fairly but firmly enforce the rules. The Crime Free Multi-housing Program lease addendum is a good example of community rules that can be legally enforced. Eviction rates as high as sixty-percent have been necessary to regain control over seriously troubled properties. Although financially painful in the short term, landlords soon get paid back in increased net operating income. It is common to see a property return to profitability after a few months with 98% occupancy rates and a waiting list.
How to Spot Unauthorized Occupants

A fair question often asked is how do you identify an unauthorized occupant versus a short-term social guest? The answer is to know your residents. This may seem like an impossible task, especially when your community exceeds one hundred units. Your community rules should have a written procedure for notifying management when a social guest has an extended stay and to arrange for a parking space. To solve this identity crisis, property managers around the country have found creative ways to get to know their residents.

What follows are some ideas to help you identify and deal with unauthorized occupants:

* Establish written community rules for visiting social guests
* Add new occupants/roommates to the lease only if they pass screening
* Regularly audit units for unauthorized occupants (formally and informally)
* Photograph each resident for the lease file for ID purposes (helpful for unit lockouts)
* Assign coded parking spaces and record vehicle information (easy to spot new cars)
* Require parking permit decals on cars and motorcycles
* Require overnight guests to park in designated guest spaces only (get vehicle info)
* Train staff to be alert for illegal occupants, new vehicles, and new children
* Periodically, inspect units (smoke detectors, A/C filters, furnace ventilators, lock checks)
* Always follow up all verbal occupancy warnings with a letter
* Serve non-compliance notices for every rule violation. Be consistent
* Evict residents who violate community rules and house illegal occupants
* Be fair, firm, consistent, and document, document, document

Apartment Security Criminals Want Housing Too

2008-10-03T04:39:00.001-07:00

Apartment Security
Criminals Want Housing Too
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartmen7.htm

Rental housing crime studies have repeatedly shown that moderate to high-crime problems can usually be traced back to a small percentage of residents. Those causing the crime problems are often the acquaintances, ex-spouses, or boyfriends of a legal resident who decided to move in without your permission.
Resident Screening

The best way to head off this problem is to practice resident screening and enforce clearly defined and articulated community rules that are emphasized during the lease application process. The resident needs to know that their tenancy may be in jeopardy if they bring in an unauthorized (and unscreened) occupant. Proof of this method is well documented in apartment properties all over the country, as police calls for service seem to fluctuate proportionally as resident screening standards and rule enforcement vary following management changes.

Good resident screening involves proof of identity, proof of employment, credit check, rental history, and criminal background, if available. A good screening plan should call for all non-dependent occupants to be included on the lease and subject to the same resident qualifications. All children should be identified on the lease along with maximum occupancy limits.

In this day and age, resident screening is more than just establishing the ability to pay rent. In my experience, properties that tend to have a higher percentage of unauthorized occupants don't enfoce occupany rules and have lowered their screening standards on credit, rental and employment history, and don’t do available criminal background checks. A policy of collecting higher security deposits or getting co-signers for an otherwise unqualified applicant is asking for trouble down the road and is unfair to the other good residents.
Criminal Infiltration

When career criminals (usually males) cannot qualify to rent, they will try to infiltrate your property by secretly moving in with a legal resident. As you might expect, these undesirable occupants tend to attract other unsavory friends. The character of your property can change dramatically, if left unchecked. The problem becomes acute when these unauthorized occupants are unemployed criminal types who hang out all day and all night and begin to ply their trade within your community. A symptom of this condition is people hanging out drinking in the parking lot and creating high foot traffic in and out of a unit or group of units.

To fix serious illegal occupancy problems, sometimes you have to clean house and evict residents for non-compliance with your residency requirements or local rules. You need to re-emphasize your occupancy standards and then fairly, but firmly, enforce the rules. The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program lease addendum is a good example of community rules that can be legally enforced. Eviction rates as high as 60-percent have been necessary to regain control over seriously troubled properties. Although financially painful in the short term, landlords soon get paid back in increased net operating income. It is common to see a property return to profitability after a few months with 98-percent occupancy rates and a waiting list.
How to Spot Unauthorized Occupants

A fair question often asked is how do you identify an unauthorized occupant versus a short-term social guest? The answer is to "know your residents". This may seem like an impossible task, especially when your community exceeds one hundred units. Your community rules should have a written procedure for notifying management when a social guest has an extended stay and to arrange for a parking space. To solve this identity crisis, property managers around the country have found creative ways to get to know their residents.

What follows are some ideas to help you identify and deal with unauthorized occupants:

* Establish written community rules for visiting social guests
* Add new occupants/roommates to the lease only if they pass screening
* Regularly audit units for unauthorized occupants (formally and informally)
* Photograph each resident for the lease file for ID purposes (helpful for unit lockouts)
* Assign coded parking spaces and record vehicle information (easy to spot new cars)
* Require parking permit decals on cars and motorcycles
* Require overnight guests to park in designated guest spaces only (get vehicle info)
* Train staff to be alert for illegal occupants, new vehicles, and new children
* Periodically, inspect units (smoke detectors, A/C filters, furnace ventilators, lock checks)
* Always follow up all verbal occupancy warnings with a letter
* Serve non-compliance notices for every rule violation. Be consistent
* Evict residents who violate community rules and house illegal occupants
* Be fair, firm, consistent, and document, document, document

Crime Foreseeability Security Adequate...or Not?

2008-10-03T04:28:00.001-07:00

Crime Foreseeability
Security Adequate...or Not?
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/crime-foreseeability.htm

Contents

* Crime Foreseeability is a Statistical Concept
* Quantitative Analysis
* Qualitative Analysis
* Components of a Crime Foreseeability Evaluation
* Conditions
* Nature of Premises
* Crime Demographics
* Location
* Conditions
* Determining Levels of Crime Foreseeability
* Levels of Crime Foreseeability
* Low Crime Foreseeability
* Moderate Crime Foreseeability
* High Crime Foreseeability
* Variables in Crime Foreseeability
* Conclusion
* Endnotes

The concept of crime foreseeability has been the subject of great confusion for business operators around the country. For years they have been barraged with information of how businesses have been sued for millions of dollars because they failed to provide adequate security for their invitees. Because of this, most large companies who are open to the public, now incorporate a security plan into their operations manual. However, many companies have become frustrated in this regard because of the courts that have an ever-changing interpretation of the definition of crime foreseeability and legal duty.

How is a business to know what security measures will be deemed adequate should a violent crime occur? How is a business to know how to determine if assaultive crime is reasonably foreseeable? These questions, and others, will be discussed in this paper in an effort to relieve the frustration and reduce confusion in this complex area.

Part of the confusion lies in a lack of understanding of the criteria required to develop the data necessary to determine crime foreseeability. These criteria, when applied, will give the business operator the tools necessary to develop a security plan that has a fighting chance of being deemed reasonable and adequate later on in a court of law.
Crime Foreseeability is a Statistical Concept

For the purposes of this type of litigation, crime foreseeability can be described as a statistical concept. A statistical concept, in the broad sense used here, is an evaluation of potential, which relies on experience and interprets it using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Such an evaluation need not be based solely on numerical data and calculations, but it must employ a balancing process that weighs all relevant data in a prescribed manner. The purpose of this model is to present a framework in which relevant data can be recognized and assigned weight in a final evaluation. The emphasis is not on presenting a complete discussion of foreseeability in every situation but on developing a cohesive methodology, which, intelligently applied, will result in a sound assessment of whether crime in a particular situation is reasonably foreseeable.

First, a brief discussion of what is meant by quantitative and qualitative methods of evaluation in this context is in order. Quantitative evaluation involves the analysis of numerical data describing the crime history of a site and often the surrounding area. While extremely valuable in assessing high rates of foreseeability, this type of analysis can comment only on incidents that have been reported in the past. The weakness is that it can be insensitive to considerations such as changes in the use of a facility, new management, new construction, and rapid changes in the character of neighborhoods; it thus may not provide a completely reliable picture of the foreseeability of crime.
Quantitative Analysis

Quantitative analysis involves a decision making process for processing crime statistics. Criteria are established that limit the type of crimes to be evaluated, as well as the geographic area, class of assailants, and periods of time. A widely read paper, which has been put forth as a standard, states flatly that the proper method for assessing foreseeability is to research all stranger-to-stranger crimes, within a one mile radius of the crime site, within the last two years.

As attractive as such a method is for its simplicity, crime foreseeability cannot always be evaluated by uniform time and distance criteria. In an urban area, a one-mile radius would generally be too broad, losing the relevant data among useless statistics. One mile could extend past the boundaries of a city, county, or police-reporting zone, resulting in invalid data comparisons. Crimes committed eight blocks away from a site are of little use in relation to many premises, especially if major physical or psychological barriers exist, such as a freeway or railroad track between the two areas. Time periods suffer from the same decay factors. Neighborhoods and conditions can change drastically in less than a year. By the same token, static neighborhoods may reflect little change for five years or more. There is a danger inherent in the arbitrary determination of flexible parameters, and this is a problem to which quantitative analysis is especially vulnerable.
Qualitative Analysis

Qualitative evaluation essentially includes lifelong experience of land occupants, instinct, intuition, and physical observations of similar environments, which provide the basis for the ordinary estimates of a location's safety, that we routinely make. Among the considerations here are the physical attributes of a property and the reputation of the property and its surrounding area. Cold statistics cannot provide this information. Qualitative analysis is best conducted in person by a skilled security practitioner, who will survey the site and neighborhood and interview area inhabitants. This type of survey often provides clues to the type and amount of unreported crime and the level of fear regarding crime, as well as noting physical conditions at a site and surrounding areas. This type of evaluation best lends itself to the examination of a site from a criminal's point of view and enables one to realistically analyze the potential effects of various attributes of the site on the future behavior of criminals in the absence of a history of crime.
Components of a Crime Foreseeability Evaluation

There are three easily distinguishable components of a premises, called factors here, to consider when assessing crime foreseeability. Certain elements exist within these factors that may or may not contribute to foreseeable crime.

The three factors are (1) nature of the premises, (2) crime demographics, and (3) location.

If investigation of any one of these factors points to foreseeable crime, then it is impossible to escape the issue of foreseeability. However, to determine the level and type of crime foreseeability, all three factors must be considered. For example, assume that a popular nightclub catering to young people has a rear parking lot, where prior assaults have occurred. The elements associated with these three factors in this case serve to enhance rather than to diminish assaultive crime potential. In this example, it is probable that assaultive crime is foreseeable, and further investigation is thus warranted.
Conditions

Affecting the three factors are various conditions. Examples of conditions are lighting, frequency of security patrols, an unlocked door, and a large hole in a fence. A condition may only aggravate or mitigate the tendency of an factor element to increase or decrease crime foreseeability. These conditions cannot in themselves prove or preclude crime foreseeability, but only serve to affect the overall impact of a given element on the level of foreseeability. For example, overgrown shrubbery on the ground level is a condition that would not normally affect the foreseeability of a sexual assault inside of a third floor apartment unit. Litigants on both sides of a dispute frequently overestimate the potential persuasive force of their crime foreseeability arguments by allowing the entire case to hinge on one or more of these conditions without pursuing the complete analysis presented here.

The most effective approach to assessing foreseeability is to first consider the nature of the premises, then crime demographics, and lastly location.

What follows is a brief discussion regarding each of the three component factors in the order in which they should be considered and an examination of a few of the main elements associated with them. A more complete discussion of each component factor and its associated elements will follow in subsequent chapters.
Nature of Premises

It is essential to the evaluation of crime demographics to first have a complete understanding of the elements associated with the nature of the premises. The premises type and usage will impact the probative value of different crime classifications to be considered during the analysis. For example, property crimes inside a shopping mall are often excluded when evaluating the foreseeability of an abduction and rape in the parking structure.

The major elements involved in the nature of the premises factor are whether the premises is a business or a residence, the hours of operation, the extent that the premises is open to public, type of clientele, and type of service or product available. A business that remains open to the public twenty-four hours a day will have foreseeable crime types different from a limited hour operation that is semiprivate. For example, an apartment complex in a retirement community should usually anticipate fewer assaults than a apartment complex near a college campus simply due to the nature of its tenants and guests. Bars and nightclubs that provide alcoholic beverages and live entertainment and that cater to younger crowds can be expected to have more crime problems than a subdued establishment and older age group.

A judge went on the record to flatly state that in his opinion convenience stores and urban parking lots, by their nature, provide a special temptation to crime.(1) Following that logic, it seems reasonable to predict that certain types of crimes are foreseeable simply by the mere nature of a premises. For example, shopping malls and parking lots should expect auto-related crimes (e.g., auto burglary, vandalism, auto theft). Whether this criminal activity on site escalates to personal assaults is another issue. A twenty-four hour convenience store with a single clerk on duty should anticipate that robbery is foreseeable. Various conditions, discussed later, will help determine what level of foreseeability exists for robbery and other violent crimes.
Crime Demographics

Elements involved in evaluating previous crime are a determination of which crime classifications are relevant, the relevant radius around the incident, the proper time frame, the type and precision of data available, and an estimate of the proportion of crimes that are officially documented. The consideration of above criteria into an analysis is called crime demographics. It is a complete breakdown of statistics that is more precise and informative than raw, whole numbers. In certain cases where the other two factors, nature and location of premises, do not produce strong and compelling indicators, the absence of significant and relevant crime demographics can eliminate the possibility of a finding of crime foreseeability.
Location

The location of the premises is the factor that in of itself would give rise to the least substantial determination of crime foreseeability of the three. Also, its relative importance is generally subject to what has been found through investigation of the other two factors, and it is the most likely to be influenced by conditions.

The major elements within this factor are general location in the city, relationship to other businesses and residences, population density, economic demographics of the relevant area, and proximity to major traffic arteries. More specific elements include whether the incident location is on the ground floor or an upper floor, in a public common area or semiprivate area.

The concept of location as a major factor causes us to focus on the "where" issue in crime foreseeability. All crime types are not foreseeable everywhere. A rapist who gained access through a fourth floor exterior window of a high-rise apartment by using mountain climbing gear and superior skill would not be reasonably anticipated and therefore not normally foreseeable. However, a recently constructed 24-hour convenience store in the center of the highest crime zone in the city should anticipate a variety of property and personal crimes because of its location alone. Its level of crime foreseeability should be considered as potentially moderate to high from opening day. Its actual level and type of crime foreseeability will be modified later and affected by the actual nature of the business and its ability to control criminal activity though use of security techniques.
Conditions

Conditions can be broken down into two main categories, physical conditions and procedures. Physical conditions would include lighting, noise, hardware (e.g., fences, locks, alarms, video cameras), foliage, signage, visibility, and pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow. Procedural conditions would include cash handling policies, a schedule for locking certain doors and turning on lights, a key control system, and security guard patrol methods, as well as procedures for reporting incidents and repairing any problems.

Mere conditions, even if present in great numbers, cannot be used to determine crime foreseeability alone. Even though certain conditions may seem to have had much to do with the actual commission of a crime, this in itself does not address the issue of crime foreseeability. To avoid this problem, conditions should be considered not merely for their role in a particular crime, but for those attributes that affect crime foreseeability. For example, lighting may be on or off, brightly illuminated or dim, located effectively or not; door locking hardware may be locked or unlocked; and guard patrols may be scheduled only for six hour shifts on weekends.

Frequently in premises liability cases, a plaintiff will allege that the proximate cause of a client's assault and injuries was poor lighting or a lack of uniformed security patrol in a parking lot. Both lighting and frequency of security patrol issues are mere conditions, yet cases have been won and lost based solely on these issues. Surely there are thousands of parking lots, with similar lighting and no security patrols, which have operated safely for many years. Therefore, the effect of poor lighting and guard patrols alone cannot indicate that assaultive crime was foreseeable just because a single incident occurred. However, when one applies the above issues to a parking lot in a high crime location, whose adjacent business nature attracts young people to a site where crime demographics show a history of personal assaults involving young people, then conditions of inadequate lighting and infrequent security patrols aggravate the above factors and become relevant in supporting an allegation of inadequate security.
Determining Levels of Crime Foreseeability

Merely to say that crime is foreseeable on a particular premises is not enough. For property owners and business operators to function within the scope of their legal duty to protect their land entrants, they must know what crimes types are reasonably foreseeable, at what expected frequency, and what steps can be taken that will later be deemed adequate should a criminal incident occur.

Actual crime demographics can be expected to differ in frequency and crime type for each premises and location within a premises; it is therefore necessary to analyze the statistics to distinguish between them. The results of this analysis should enable a security expert to determine a relative level of crime foreseeability for each premises surveyed. The analysis should further identify what crime types are more foreseeable than others and in what specific locations within the premises is crime likely to occur.
Levels of Crime Foreseeability

The analysis of the three crime foreseeability factors should generate an opinion that will assign the potential for crime into one of four levels.

Crime potential will be (1) not foreseeable, (2) low, (3) moderate, or (4) high.

These levels of foreseeability must have elastic values to allow the business community and/or trier of fact (jury) to have a range in which to categorize their understanding of the information at hand. It is conceivable that a particular crime type could fall on the borderline between low and moderate or moderate and high.

The level of "not foreseeable," however, is not as flexible, by design. If a particular crime on a premises is believed to be not foreseeable by the court, to the extent that it finds that no reasonable jury could find otherwise, then the issue becomes a matter of law, not fact, and can be dismissed by the court in response to a motion for summary judgment.

The three remaining levels of foreseeability are designed to identify that amount of security that is required for the premises owner or operator to meet and discharge their legal duty of care. Precise values for each level are not used because of variables such as accuracy of data, uniqueness of the premises, and the fact that criminals cannot be counted on to act in a consistent manner. However, the assessment of risk and vulnerability has always been validated by human experience. Security experts trained in the litigation avoidance field have an advantage of having a basis of comparison from performing thousands of previous security surveys and crime demographic studies. Some experts will have libraries of previous studies and local crime statistics to aid in their analysis.

A respected author on risk analysis wrote:

"Several well-known authorities have concluded that order of magnitude expressions such as low, moderate and high to indicate relative degrees of risk are more than adequate for most risk control surveys. The use of the terms low, moderate and high equate roughly with probability ranges (on a scale of 1 to 10) of 1-3, 4-6, and 7-10, respectively."(2)

Another well-known national security consulting firm utilizes a super computer to analyze U.S. crime/census data and other public records and scores a site survey questionnaire completed by the premises operator. The information is developed into a crime index that is claimed to predict the crimes against persons (CAP) vulnerability at a given site relative to the predicted average criminal vulnerability of its environment. This crime index number is then plotted on a graph and compared against a three level range labeled as "L", "M", and "H", respectively. The authors of this program define the middle graph point as "M," denoting a predicted vulnerability equal to that of its environment. The upper graph point "H" indicates a predicted vulnerability five times greater than the local average, and the lower graph point "L" denotes a predicted vulnerability five times less than the environment average.(3)

These consultants and others realize that three separate levels of crime foreseeability are necessary to allow premises operators to gauge their security effectiveness relative to that of the outside environment and against commonly used security practices or industry guidelines. What has been missing historically from these evaluations is the impact of existing security measures on the external crime demographics. For example, a crime demographics survey of an apartment complex may indicate a moderate to high assaultive crime rate in the surrounding area. However, due to superior security measures in place, the actual crime history of the premises may be quite low by comparison.

What level of crime foreseeability does one assign? What level of security is required to meet the legal duty imposed by each level of foreseeability? These questions and more will be answered in the discussion that follows.
Low Crime Foreseeability

Low crime foreseeability is defined as a level such that after considering the nature, location, and crime demographics, a reasonable and thoughtful person would not anticipate assaultive crime while on the premises. This opinion would be supported by the absence of any previous assaultive crimes during the past several years; any crimes preceding that period would be too statistically remote in time.

Whole regions in a city can be considered low crime areas due primarily to their socioeconomic makeup and zoning. Moderate and high crime regions can have pockets of low crime areas, and even individual businesses can obtain a low crime foreseeability level by operating with effective security controls in place. As discussed earlier, certain premises could be assigned the level of low foreseeability prior to being open just by the nature and sometimes the location of the property.

A low crime foreseeability level has an upward limit that will be tested as assaultive crime occurs. If the quantitative and qualitative data still support a low probability of crime reoccurring, then current levels of security could still be deemed adequate. This data should be supported by an absence of fear of crime by the premises inhabitants and the presence of feelings of control over their environment. Most premises in the United States fall into the low crime foreseeability level, with the possible exception of certain sections
Moderate Crime Foreseeability

Moderate crime foreseeability is defined as a level such that after considering the nature, location, and crime demographics, a reasonable and thoughtful person would anticipate the possibility of assaultive crime while on the premises. This opinion should be supported by crime demographics on the site and surrounding area that indicate some previous assaultive crimes over the past several years but that do not fit any identifiable pattern or trend. The number of assaultive crimes is still too statistically uninformative to warrant any single radical response to prevent future occurrence. However, a moderate level of crime foreseeability should have originally generated a combination of security precautions to prevent future crimes of a similar nature or location from reoccurring. A moderate level of crime foreseeability should be evidenced by an average amount of awareness and fear of crime while on the premises. The reasonable person will take advantage of available security measures and will use common sense to limit exposure to potential danger.

It is possible for a premises to implement effective security precautions that will reduce exposure to the level of low crime foreseeability. Many urban premises are at this moderate level, and operators attempt to maintain security precautions to reduce crime to its lowest possible level. Unfortunately, the success of a sound security plan can backfire if one decides to cut back on security expense or fails to maintain the existing level of security precautions believing the problem to be solved. When this occurs, patrons and tenants sometimes become angered by the cutback in security and apparent disregard for their personal safety. In my experience, these victims make up the largest class of premises liability litigants.
High Crime Foreseeability

High crime foreseeability is defined as a level such that after considering the nature, location, and crime demographics, a reasonable person would actually anticipate that an assaultive crime might occur at any time. This opinion would be supported by crime demographics that showed a pattern of assaultive and other crimes on the premises and in the surrounding area continuously for several years. The prior number of assaultive crimes would statistically suggest a high probability of continued assaults if radical security precautions are not implemented, or if the nature of the premises remains unmodified. The physical premises usually show signs of vandalism, burglary attempts, and general disrepair. The neighborhood exhibits physical security precautions such as bars on the windows, alarm boxes, and perimeter fences. Inhabitants experience an elevated fear of crime, together with a feeling of losing control over their environment. The premises will typically have a bad reputation in the eyes of the surrounding neighbors and law enforcement personnel. The premises operator may feel that the costs of security precautions are not affordable and would have little effect on crime anyway.

A continuing level of high crime foreseeability is unacceptable in our society because it is against public policy to allow a dangerous condition to exist in premises accessed by the public for the benefit of the premises owner and operator. A business or residence in a high crime area can implement radical security precautions to control their incidence of assaultive crime. If successful, it is possible to reduce exposure to a moderate crime foreseeability level. However, the outside threat will continue, waiting for a break down in security. A premises owner may have no choice but to consider changing the nature of the business or relocating.
Variables in Crime Foreseeability

Often, premises liability litigation will focus on a specific location within a property and alleged inadequate security based on a design or mechanical defect in a security device. When this occurs, it becomes necessary to evaluate the crime foreseeability level for a specific factor such as a particular location, type of crime, or time of day. It is possible to have two or more different levels of crime foreseeability on the same property. For example, a convenience store in a moderate crime location during the day can increase its crime foreseeability level to high between the hours 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM when all surrounding businesses are closed and traffic counts are reduced; ground floor apartments in a building can have a high burglary history compared to a very low crime experience on upper floors, due primarily to accessibility.

Additionally, it would be difficult to reasonably foresee, for example: a rape inside a third floor apartment of a security building when adequate door and window locks were provided but not used; the possibility of a person firing an automatic weapon inside a convenience store at midday with several customers inside; or the accidental shooting of customer in the parking lot of a shopping mall by rival gangs who do not frequent the area.

Any premises liability evaluation must be prepared to specify a level of crime foreseeability for the site, the surrounding area, and in particular locations within the property. In addition, the evaluation should draw attention to the crime types to be anticipated. Once this is achieved, an analysis of existing security measures can be made. The question is not whether the crime at issue could have been prevented or not, but rather if the security precautions in place were adequate to prevent the type of crime that should have been reasonably anticipated.
Conclusion

Established criteria for determining a level of crime foreseeability must be utilized in order to provide a sound basis for your security plan. Otherwise, your security plan may be based on guesswork, uncertain predictions, and whim.

The criteria outlined here will allow for a complete analysis, which can be presented to a jury in an understandable fashion, and which should be viewed with a high degree of credibility. The results of your analysis will demonstrate that your security plan is based on a sound assessment, which can then be used to show that your security measures were designed to reasonable and adequate, under normal foreseeable circumstances.
Endnotes

1. Isaacs v. Huntington Memorial Hospital, 211 Cal.Rptr. 356 ( Cal. 1985), 364-5.

2. James F. Broder, Risk Analysis and the Security Survey (Boston: Butterworth Publishers, 1984), 32-33.

3. CAP Index Vulnerability Analysis. King of Prussia, Pa.: CAP Index, Inc.

Reprinted, with permission from, Security: Adequate...or Not? The Complete Guide to Premises Liability Litigation, Aegis Books, Inc., Copyright © 1990

Apartment Security Use of Security Guards

2008-10-03T04:25:00.001-07:00

Apartment Security
Use of Security Guards
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM
Courtesy Officer vs. Security Guard

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartmen5.htm

Is there a difference between a uniformed security guard and a courtesy officer on an apartment property? The name obviously...but their function is often identical. It seems that some apartment managers believe that calling a uniformed security guard a "courtesy officer" somehow reduces their exposure to civil liability. This belief can’t be farther from the truth. The old saying applies here, If it looks like a duck, quacks like at duck, and walks like a duck...it’s probably a duck. Call them what you will, but know that it's the security guard uniform and conduct that will define their true job function.

In practical terms, the primary difference between the two is that the contract security guard is employed by the contractor and not by you. The in-house courtesy officer is an employee of the property management company and usually lives on the premises. The courtesy officer may not be in traditional uniform and may only wear a logo shirt. There are advantages and disadvantages of both types. The biggest advantage of a courtesy officer over the contract worker is the ability to have them live on-site and get to know the property and residents better. Most carry a pager and can respond quickly. Many courtesy officers offer superior service and become very loyal to the property they protect.

Many courtesy officers are off-duty police officers, and with them come superior training and experience. However, don't assume that off-duty police officers know how to provide adequate security to an apartment property. Apartment security isn’t taught at the police academy. Also, remember that off-duty police officers may be tired and may not want to wear another uniform or do a lot of foot patrol. However, many courtesy officers are mere civilians and can have the disadvantage of a lack of professional security or police training. Obviously, the training problem can be overcome with a little effort.
Background Checks

Another issue is one of background screening. Most uniformed contract security officers should have been screened at some level. Off-duty police officers, presumably, should have already been screened before being hired by their municipality. At minimum, job references and a basic criminal background should be checked on contract officers and non-police courtesy officers. You must inquire about this and require it of the guard company, in writing, as part of your contract to afford yourself greater liability protection.

If courtesy officers live on site, they should be qualified like any other resident including having verifiable job references and no felony criminal convictions. Yes, ex-felons need jobs too, but not working a security job at a residential property...too much liability. Most good applicants will have solid identifiable references, most bad applicants will not. Don't hire bad security applicants. The bottom line is: if you going to issue unit keys or master keys to a security guard or courtesy officer you better feel comfortable with them.

How to accurately check job references and criminal backgrounds is a constant source of complaint from property managers. It's not difficult, but access varies depending on where you live. The solution is to try, and to make a good faith effort. There are dozens of background screening services available and private investigators that perform this service at a reasonable rate. Look in the telephone directory or check with your local apartment association for referrals.
Contract Security Guard Service

The question that I’m most often asked is, "How do I find a quality contract security guard service for a reasonable price that will perform the patrols responsibly?" To answer this question you must first accept certain facts as being true.

Accept the fact that the words "quality and reasonable price" are often contradictory terms. Accept the fact that paying the highest or lowest price for a contract security patrol officer doesn't always equate to the quality of service, although there are exceptions. Accept the fact that all contract security agencies are drawn from the same labor pool for potential employees. If your market area has high employment the security guard labor pool may be substandard. In fact, many poor quality security officers will drift between contract agencies until they exhaust the supply of employers. Security guards are often transient and this is the first job they find after hitting town. Because of this fact, it can become a kind of a crapshoot sometimes as the contract agency sends a different security officer to patrol your property each night.
So what’s the Solution?

As a rule of thumb, you can increase your options and success if you select a larger, established contract agency over a smaller one. A larger agency can usually replace no-shows or unacceptable officers, even at the last minute, because they have a larger pool of employees. Also, larger agencies tend to retain officers longer because they can offer better training and supervision, more benefits, and can provide a defined career path. This doesn't guarantee success however, you still need to accept or reject poor quality security guards when it becomes apparent that they are not meeting the challenge.

You can drastically improve your success potential by setting up strict patrol compliance standards as part of the written contract. These are usually called "post-orders." Post orders should be detailed and always in writing. They are given to each officer as the basis for how they are to service your property. Any breach of the post-orders could be grounds for not paying for the defective service, for replacing the officers, or for replacing the contract security agency. Long-term courtesy officers usually don't require post-orders but more of a detailed job description.

Specific post-orders might include, for example, a set time requirement for patrol such as one-hour of foot patrol, three times per night, and between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM. You should require that the security officers patrol all areas of the property and to document their patrol pattern in detail. This can be done either with written activity logs or with the use of a watchman’s clock or similar device. Don’t accept activity logs that merely state, "10:00 PM or 11:00 PM – all quiet." A proper activity log might state, "10:06 PM – Completed patrol of the south parking lot, one light burned out over parking space #256 or "10:14 PM – Checked the mail room, pool gate, laundry room, and bathroom door locks. All were secure."

Drive-through security patrols can be a waste of money if the security officer never stops or gets out of the car. Drive-through accounts rely on high visibility and therefore must spend time on a property to be really effective. Some contract security agencies will overbook drive-through accounts and thereby create a schedule that is impossible for the patrol officer to maintain. Because of this, some properties might get skipped altogether or receive only a high-speed pass through their property.
Here are some basic rules to follow to maximize contract security guard productivity:

* Always read the fine print on the contract. You may be signing an indemnity clause in favor of the contract guard agency.
* Always ask for a copy of their guard company license, and evidence of insurance coverage.
* Request to be named as an "additionally insured" on their policy and indemnity from their negligent acts.
* Always attach the detailed post-orders and patrol instructions as a contract addendum.
* Always require that detailed written activity logs be submitted following the last patrol. Read them, act upon them, and file them for at least two years. Do not accept or pay for incomplete service.
* Always require, in writing, that the security guard agency properly equip their officers with a full uniform, a hand-held radio or cell phone, a notebook and pen, a flashlight, and a vehicle if necessary.
* Always require, in writing, that the contract agency will provide necessary background screening, and all training that is suitable for the site to be patrolled.
* Always supply the security guards with an emergency call list and telephone access.
* Always notify the residents how to the contact security guards when needed.
* Communicate often with the security guard supervisors to get higher quality and service.
* Do not settle or pay for poor performance or inappropriate behavior.

Apartment Security Technology Promotes Safety

2008-10-03T04:19:00.000-07:00

Apartment Security
Technology Promotes Safety
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartment1.htm

Multifamily rental housing studies have told us for years that security is an important consideration for apartment and condominium dwellers, especially in urban areas. It is hardly surprising to now see "security" being sold as an amenity in many progressive apartment communities.

The secret to selling security, like any amenity, is to promote it and then maintain it. Promoting security and safety is in everyone’s best interest and helps keep the level of awareness high. New technology requires interaction with the residents, which tends to reinforce the original security purpose. Contrary to popular belief, promoting security does not create any additional liability risks, as long as the information provided is accurate and the security feature is maintained.
Security Technology

Advances in security technology have allowed us to provide an enhanced the level of protection while at the same time reducing the cost of operation. Security technology doesn’t always mean high-tech or new-tech. Sometimes old-tech works just fine. A classic example is having a high-tech, state-of-the-art alarm system versus having a big dog in the yard. Both are likely to deter the same burglar if fear of being detected (or bitten) is a concern.
Access Control

The most visible form of security technology is in the hardware area called access control. This includes fences, gates, windows, doors, locks, and common area lighting. Aside from the presence of a uniformed courtesy officer, access control barriers are what residents think of when they look for security features on a property.
Security Gates

Automatic gates and formidable wrought-iron fencing are the most common high-profile access control system added during new construction of garden apartments. Gated communities are desirable to most prospective residents and most properties change a premium rent for it. The main benefit of an automatic gate system on a low-crime property is the perception of security and exclusivity. Let’s face it, everyone wants to feel good about where they live and a gated community is like a private club where access privileges are required. Any real benefits of crime prevention are a plus.

Still, other apartment communities add gate systems as a barrier to keep criminals off the property and away from rent paying residents. In this setting, the intention is to reduce crime and retain residents by erecting a significant barrier to unauthorized vehicle and foot traffic. Because it is a capital expense, gates are often considered as a cheaper alternative to hiring and managing courtesy officers.

The best gate type depends on the property type. Swinging gates installed on a high-traffic college property or a high crime property will be a maintenance nightmare. Swinging gates look better than the horizontal sliders but are more expensive to maintain. Two mechanical gate operators are required to open each wing of the swinging gate, which doubles the expense and requires twice the maintenance. Swinging gates also get damaged more severely then sliding gates as anxious drivers hit them as they enter the property with their automobiles.
Card Access Systems

Electronic card access technology is still the best system for opening locked common area doors and gates. For newly constructed large properties, card access technology is a better choice than using a radio transmitter for the gates and metal keys for the doors because it offers greater management benefits. Plastic access cards are inexpensive compared to the costs of maintaining metal keys.

Card-key software can be programmed to limit residents to certain buildings and record the time, date, and location of each entryway used. For example, access cards can be programmed to authorize and monitor which residents access the gym, spa, pool, or weight room, which can be a great liability benefit. Card programming can be used in conjunction with video surveillance systems to determine who last entered a room, a building, or drove through the main gate.

Access cards can also be integrated as photo-ID cards for employees on a large property. Programmable cards are great for monitoring employee time and attendance, security patrols of the property, and can limit access to sensitive areas like the manager’s office, the maintenance shack, or the key control room.
Key Control

With a card access system, key control of common area doors is easier and cheaper to manage. If an access card is lost or a resident moves out, the card can be deleted from the system with a few keystrokes. Gone are the days of pulling common area door locks and changing lock cores or re-keying metal keys.
Metal Keys

For large properties, technology has provided a solution for controlling metal apartment unit keys. Several vendors now make a computer-based key control system that safely stores and codes each key and can be password protected at multiple levels. When the backup unit key is retrieved for example, the time, date, unit number, and person taking and returning the key is recorded. The computer will know at all times what keys are in inventory and can print a key inventory history upon request.
Doors, Windows, Locks

Entry doors and sliding windows are not as solid as they used to be, but technology has provided solutions to make them secure once again. The weakest part of a door lock assembly has always been at the doorjamb and lock strike-plate area. New heavy-duty strike-plates using 3-inch screws and doorjamb reinforcement plates are on the market and have received high ratings in preventing forced entry. Even though low quality door locks still flood the market, new high-security Grade-1 and Grade-2 door locks are readily available at most supply sources.

Sliding windows and doors, once vulnerable to forced-entry have been improved with special anti-lift and anti-slide features built into the framing. Architects are starting to include these specifications into their drawings and builders are starting to recognize the importance and salability of these improved security features.
Common Area Lighting

Lighting is obviously the most visible form of security after dark. Good lighting is what makes us feel safe. Lighting should allow you to read building numbers, safely navigate the walkways from your car to your door, and identify a potential threat at 100 feet. Lighting technology has improved and so has the cost efficiency of providing adequate illumination. For a bright white light, I recommend the use of metal-halide fixtures especially for large parking lot areas and thoroughfares.

In moderate climates, I recommend fluorescent lamps for covered parking and common area walkways and stairwells because they are very energy efficient. For example, it's possible to replace every incandescent lamp fixture with fluorescent fixtures on a property and enjoy a return on your investment with one-year’s energy savings.
Security Trends

As the century turns, expect to see increased demand for security amenities, especially on upscale properties. More and more workers will begin telecommuting from home. The advent of the Internet and e-mail has opened up vast opportunities for work-at-home occupations such as software development, web site graphic design, stock day-trading, advertising, and technical writing. Alarms systems, electronic access control, adequate lighting, and a visible security presence will be desirable amenities that apartment dwellers will seek out.

Crime Free Multi-Housing Lease Addendum

2008-10-03T04:17:00.001-07:00

Crime Free Multi-Housing
Lease Addendum
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

http://www.crimedoctor.com/crimefree2.htm

The Crime Free Lease Addendum is used as part of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program in an effort to reduce crime on rental housing properties. It is the heart and soul of this successful, police sponsored, crime prevention program. This lease addendum can be downloaded and modified to meet the legal requirements of your state.

All residents of Crime Free Multi-Housing properties are required to sign the Crime Free Lease Addendum. Please take time to read and adhere to these requirements.

The Arizona Version of the Lease Addendum reads as follows:

In consideration of the execution or renewal of a lease of the dwelling unit identified in the lease, Owner and Resident agree as follows:

Resident, any members of the resident's household or a guest or other persons affiliated with the resident:

1. Shall not engage in criminal activity, including drug-related criminal activity, on or near the said premises. "Drug related criminal activity" means the illegal manufacture, sale, distribution, use, or possession with intent to manufacture, sell, distribute, or use an illegal or controlled substance (as defined in Section 102 of the Controlled Substance Act [21 U.S.C.802].
2. Shall not engage in any act intended to facilitate criminal activity.
3. Shall not permit the dwelling unit to be used for, or to facilitate criminal activity, regardless or whether the individual engaging in such activity is a member of the household, or a guest.
4. Shall not engage in the unlawful manufacturing, selling, using, storing, keeping, or giving of an illegal or controlled substance as defined in A.R.S. 13-3451, at any locations, whether on or near the dwelling unit premises.
5. Shall not engage in any illegal activity, including prostitution as defined in A.R.S. 13-3211, criminal street gang activity as defined in A.R.S. 13-105 and A.R.S. 13-2308, threatening or intimidating as prohibited in A.R.S.13-1202, assault as prohibited in A.R.S. 13-1203, including but not limited to the unlawful discharge of a weapon, on or near the dwelling unit premises, or any breach of the lease agreement that otherwise jeopardizes the health, safety, and welfare of the landlord, his agent, or other tenant, or involving imminent or actual serious property damage, as defined in A.R.S. 33-1368.

VIOLATION OF THE ABOVE PROVISIONS SHALL BE A MATERIAL AND IRREPARABLE VIOLATION OF THE LEASE AND GOOD CAUSE FOR IMMEDIATE TERMINATION OF TENANCY. A single violation of any of the provisions of this added addendum shall be deemed a serious violation, and a material and irreparable non- compliance. It is understood that a single violation shall be good cause for immediate termination of the lease under A.R.S. 33-1377, as provided in A.R.S. 33-1368. Unless otherwise provided by law, proof of violation shall not require a criminal conviction, but shall be by a preponderance of the evidence.

In case of conflict between the provisions of this addendum and any other provisions of the lease, the provisions of this addendum shall govern.

This LEASE ADDENDUM is incorporated into the lease executed or renewed this day between Owner and Resident.

______________________________ Date:_____________
Resident Signature

______________________________ Date:_____________
Property Manager/Owner's Signature

______________________________
Property Name/Location

Video Surveillance for Apartment Complexes

2008-10-03T04:12:00.001-07:00

Video Surveillance for Apartment Complexes

http://www.videosurveillance.com/apartments.asp

Apartment buildings and complexes can benefit from video surveillance systems due to their large groups of residents (who are often strangers) and high rates of theft and vandalism.

View blog posts relating to apartment video surveillance.

Benefits of Apartment Complex CCTV

* Easy to install – IP cameras are easy to install yourself, and unlike analog CCTV cameras, you can choose where to put your cameras and reconfigure them according to your needs – no appointments, ladders, or power tools necessary.
* Secure public places – Video surveillance makes it easy to keep your residents safe. A camera mounted at the entrance can prevent intruders from slipping in behind your tenants at locked entrances and can discourage violence and other crimes from occurring on your premises.
* Prevent theft and vandalism -
* High resolution images – Digital security cameras provide much higher resolution than their analog counterparts, providing high quality footage and no static.
* Check footage anytime – A network of IP cameras managed by a NVR (network video recorder) allows you to broadcast your security camera footage over the internet. You can view your footage from anywhere in the world, and check up on any of your complexes at any time.

Perils of Flat Security Cameras

Apartment and condominium complexes range widely in type and size, and require different types of security for the best protection. Consider these factors when you are setting up your video security system:

* Tenant privacy – Cameras should only be installed in public places like entrances, parking lots, and laundry rooms to protect tenant privacy. Be careful to keep tenant doors out of your camera’s view.
* Vandalism – Since so many people enter and exit apartment complexes each day, it’s possible that vandals can slip in undetected and damage your property or camera system
* Outages – Power outages, disturbances and surges can cause disruptions or damage to your security camera system. Although these problems are rare, they still happen on occasion.
* Outdoor damages – security cameras in outdoor areas like parking lots, pools and courtyards can be damaged by inclement weather.

Configuration Considerations for Apartment Building IP Video Systems

Apartments are a part of every housing landscape - urban, suburban, small town, even rural. Neighborhoods, tenants and simple architectural features all make a big difference when it comes to security, and can make the security needs of two different apartment complexes completely different. Take the following into account when shopping for and installing a system of security cameras for an apartment building:

* What security systems are currently in place?
* What is the biggest security issue for the building or complex?
* What are the tenants like? Is there a high rate of turnover?
* What kind of problems have their been in the public areas of the complex?
* How are the apartments laid out? Are they grouped together in a single building or spread out in many buildings over a larger complex?
* Is there a parking garage or do tenants park on the street?

Setup Advice for Complex Security Camera Systems

* Place cameras in public areas like parking garages, building entrances, mail rooms, and laundry areas.
* Consider using IP cameras to allow for easy expansion or re-arrangement of the system should your needs change
* Protective housings should be placed around any cameras exposed to the elements
* Place cameras in administrative areas, especially if rents are paid on-site.

Apartment Security Advice for Families in Rental Housing

2008-10-03T04:11:00.000-07:00

CRIME DOCTOR
Your Prescription for Security & Safety
2003 FBI Uniform Crime Report Statistics.

http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartment0.htm

Apartment Security Advice for Families in Rental Housing
by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM

Your home is your castle

...or is it? Are you really safe once your get apartment and lock your door? In an open society your apartment should be the sanctuary for you and your family. Your apartment is the only environment where you have control over who can get close to you or your family. Protecting your apartment and family from criminal intrusion should be high on your list of priorities. See my web page on Family Security Tips for more information on protecting your family from harm. See Apartment Security Advice for more original articles on Apartment Security. See also Home Invasion Survival Tips.
Burglary

By far, the most common threat to an apartment unit is burglary. Burglary, by definition, is a non-confrontational crime, but being victimized can leave a family feeling vulnerable and violated. To prevent a burglary, it is important to first gain an understanding of who commits them and why. The majority of apartment burglaries occur during the daytime when most people are away at work or at school. Burglaries also occur at night when there are obvious signs that no one is home. Most apartment burglars are young males looking for things that are small, expensive, and can easily be converted to cash. Items like cash, jewelry, guns, watches, laptop computers, and other small electronic devices are high on the list. Quick cash is needed for living expenses and drugs.

Statistics tell us that more than 30% of all apartment burglars gained access through an open door or window. Ordinary household tools like screwdrivers, channel-lock pliers, small pry bars, and small hammers are most often used by burglars. Although apartment burglaries may seem random in occurrence, they actually involve a selection process.

The burglar's selection process is simple. Choose an unoccupied apartment with the easiest access, the greatest amount of cover, and with the best escape routes. What follows is a list of suggestions to minimize your risk by making your home unattractive to potential burglars.
Doors and Locks

The first step is to "harden the target" or make your apartment more difficult to enter. Remember the burglar will simply bypass your apartment if it requires too much effort or requires more skill and tools than they possess. Most burglars enter via the front, back, or garage doors. Experienced burglars know that the garage door is usually the weakest followed by the back door. The garage and back doors also provide the most cover. Burglars also know to look inside your car for keys and other valuables so keep it locked, even inside your garage. Apartment managers should use solid core doors and high quality locks on exterior doors that will resist twisting, prying, and lock-picking attempts. A quality Grade-1 or Grade-2 deadbolt lock will have a beveled casing to inhibit the use of channel-lock pliers used for forced entry. A quality door knob-in-lock set will have a 'dead latch' mechanism to prevent slipping the lock with a shim or credit card.

* Use a solid core wood or metal door for all entrance points
* Doors should fit tightly into the door jamb
* Use a quality, heavy-duty, deadbolt lock with a one-inch bolt
* Use a quality, heavy-duty, door knob-in-lock set with a dead-latch mechanism
* Use a heavy-duty four-screw strike plate installed with 3-inch screws to penetrate into a wooden door frame
* Use a wide-angle 160° peephole mounted no higher than 58 inches

Forced Entry

The most common way used to force entry through a door with a wooden frame is simply to kick it open. The weakest point is almost always the strike plate that holds the latch or lock bolt in place followed by glass panels in doors. The average door strike plate is secured with only 1/2-inch screws set into the soft doorjamb molding. These lightweight moldings are often tacked on to the door frame and can be torn away with a firm kick. Because of this construction flaw, it makes sense to upgrade to a heavy-duty four-screw strike plate. They are available in most quality hardware stores and home improvement centers and are definitely worth the extra expense. Install this strike plate using 3-inch screws to cut deep into the door frame stud. This one step alone will deter or prevent most through-the-door forced entries. You and your family will sleep safer in the future.
Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors are usually installed at the rear of an apartment making them good candidates for entry by a burglar. In warm climates, an experienced burglar knows that sliding glass doors are often left standing open for ventilation or for pet access. Since they slide horizontally, it is important to have a secondary blocking device in place to prevent sliding the door fully open from the outside. This can be easily accomplished by inserting a wooden dowel or stick into the track thus preventing or limiting movement. Other blocking devices available are metal fold-down blocking devices called "charley bars" and various track-blockers that can be screwed down.

Sliding glass doors are notorious for failing to prevent a forced entry attempt especially in apartment buildings. This is because of the wear and tear and lack of maintenance they receive and due to the inadequate nature of many of the latching mechanisms. Sliding glass doors don’t have locks on them, only latches. The latches are made of aluminum and can become worn or out of adjustment. The most common methods used to force entry, aside from breaking the glass, is by prying the door near the latch or lifting the door off the track. The blocking devices described above solve half the equation. To prevent lifting, you need to keep the sliding door rollers in good condition and properly adjusted.

You can also install anti-lift devices such as a pin that extends through both the sliding and fixed portion of the door. There are also numerous locking and blocking devices available in any good quality hardware store that will prevent a sliding door from being lifted or forced horizontally. Place highly visible decals on the glass door near the latch mechanism that indicates that an alarm system, a dog, or block watch/operation identification is in place, if applicable. Apartment managers should be careful not to misrepresent that these devices are in place if they are not. Burglars dislike alarm systems and definitely big barking dogs.

* Use a secondary blocking device on all sliding glass doors
* Keep the latch mechanism in good condition and properly adjusted
* Keep sliding door rollers in good condition and properly adjusted
* Use anti-lift devices such as through-the-door pins
* Use highly visible alarm decals, beware of dog decals, or block watch decal, if applicable

Sliding Windows

Windows are left unlocked and open at a much higher rate than doors. An open window, visible from the street or alley, may be the sole reason for an apartment to be selected by a burglar. Ground floor windows are more susceptible to break-ins for obvious reasons. Upper floor windows become attractive if they can be accessed easily from a stairway, tree, fence, or by climbing on balconies. Windows have latches, not locks, and therefore should have secondary blocking devices to prevent sliding them open from the outside. Inexpensive wooden dowels and sticks work well for horizontal sliding windows and through-the-frame pins work well for vertical sliding windows.

For ventilation, block the window open no more than six inches and make sure you can't reach in from the outside and remove the blocking device. In sleeping rooms, these window blocking devices should be capable of being removed easily from the inside to comply with fire codes. Like sliding glass doors, anti-lift devices are necessary for ground level and accessible aluminum windows that slide horizontally. The least expensive and easiest method is to install screws half-way into the upper track of the movable glass panel to prevent it from being lifted out in the closed position. Place highly visible decals on the glass door near the latch mechanism that indicates that an alarm system, a dog, or block watch/operation identification system is in place, if applicable. Apartment managers should be careful not to misrepresent that these devices are in place if they are not.

* Secure all accessible windows with secondary blocking devices
* Block accessible windows open no more than 6 inches for ventilation
* Use anti-lift devises to prevent window from being lifted out
* Use crime prevention or alarm decals on accessible windows, if applicable

Be a Good Neighbor

Good neighbors should look out for each other. Get to know your neighbors on each side of your apartment and the three directly across from you. Invite them into your apartment, communicate often, and establish trust. Good neighbors will watch out for your apartment and vehicle when you are away, if you ask them. They can report suspicious activity to management, to the police, or to you while you are away. Between them, good neighbors can see to it that normal services continue in your absence by allowing authorized vendors to enter your apartment.

Good neighbors can pick up your mail, newspapers, handbills, and can inspect the inside of your apartment periodically to see that all is well. Allowing a neighbor or management to have a key solves the problem of hiding a key outside the door. Experienced burglars know to look for hidden keys in planter boxes, under doormats, and above the ledge. Requiring a service vendor to contact your neighbor to gain access will send the message that someone is watching. This neighborhood watch technique sets up what is called 'territoriality.' This means that your neighbors will take ownership and responsibility for what occurs in your mini-neighborhood. This concept works great in apartment communities. This practice helps deter burglaries and other crimes in a big way. Of course for this to work, you must reciprocate and offer the same services.

The biggest difficulty getting to this level of oversight is taking the first step. You can take it by calling your local crime prevention unit at the police department. Most police departments in large cities have neighborhood watch coordinators to help you set this up. You should invite your adjacent neighbors over to your home for coffee and begin the information exchange. You'll be amazed how the process runs on automatic from there.

* Get to know your adjacent apartment neighbors
* Invite them into your home and establish trust
* Agree to watch out for each other
* Do small tasks for each other to improve territoriality
* Return the favor and communicate often

Lighting

Interior lighting is necessary to show signs of occupancy inside a residence at night. Seeing a dark apartment night-after-night sends a message to burglars that you are away. Light-timers are inexpensive and can be found almost everywhere. They should be used on a daily basis, not just when you’re away. In this way you set up a routine that your neighbors can observe and will allow them to become suspicious when your normally lighted apartment becomes dark.

Typically, you want to use light-timers near the front and back windows with the curtains drawn. The pattern of them clicking on and off simulates actual occupancy. It is also comforting not to have to enter a dark residence. Timers can also be used to turn on the television or radio to simulate occupancy during the daytime. After dark, a bright television can be seen flickering through the curtains and gives the feeling that someone is home. Similarly, the radio or television can be heard through the door if turned on loud enough.

Exterior lighting is also very important. It becomes critical if you must park in a common area parking lot or underground garage and need to walk to your front door. The purpose of good lighting is to allow you to see if a threat or suspicious person is lurking in your path. If you can see a potential threat in advance then you at least have the choice and chance to avoid it. Exterior lighting needs to bright enough for you to see 100 feet and it helps if you can identify colors. Good lighting is definitely a deterrent to criminals because they don't want to be seen or identified. Apartment management needs to have a system in place to periodically inspect and replace lighting outages.

Another important area to be well-lighted is the perimeter of your apartment building especially at the entryway. Common area lighting on apartment properties should also be on a timer or photo-cell to turn on at dusk and turn off at dawn. Exterior lighting at the rear of an apartment are usually do not turn on automatically. They require you to turn on the light inside switch. The resident can choose to turn these lights on or off. A better idea is to install security lights that activate by infra-red motion sensor. They are relatively inexpensive ($25) and can easily replace an exterior porch light or side door light on townhouse style apartments with rear doors. The heat-motion sensor can be adjusted to detect body heat and can be programmed to reset after one minute. These infra-red security lights are suggested for apartments with patios and back doors.

* Use interior light timers to establish a pattern of occupancy
* Use timers to activate the radio or television while away
* Exterior lighting should allow 100 foot visibility
* Use good lighting along the pathway and at your door
* Use light timers or photo-cells to turn on/off lights automatically
* Use infra-red motion sensor lights for the back door of townhouse apartments

Alarm Systems

Alarm systems definitely have a place in an apartment security plan and are effective, if used properly. The reason why alarms systems deter burglaries is because they increase the potential and fear of being captured and arrested by the police. The deterrent value comes from the alarm company lawn sign and from the alarm decals on the windows. Apartment burglars will usually bypass a unit with visible alarm decals and will look for another property without such a decal. Some people, with alarm systems, feel that these signs and decals are unsightly and will not display them. The risk here is that an uninformed burglar might break a window or door and grab a few quick items before the police can respond. Also, don't write your alarm passcode on or near the alarm keypad.

Alarm systems need to be properly installed and maintained. Alarms systems can monitor for fire as well as burglary for the same price. All systems should have an audible horn or bell to be effective in case someone does break in. However, these audible alarms should be programmed to reset automatically after one minute. The criminal will get the message and will be long gone without your neighbors having to listen to your alarm siren for hours, until it is switched off. If you use a central station to monitor your alarm, make sure your response call list is up to date. Burglar alarms, like car alarms, are generally ignored except for a brief glance. However, if you have established and nurtured your neighborhood watch buddy system, you will experience a genuine concern by your neighbor. It is not unusual to have a neighbor wait for the police, allow them inside for an inspection, and secure the residence. A good neighbor can also call friends or relatives for you, if pre-authorized by you.

* Alarm systems are effective deterrents with visible signage
* Alarm systems to be properly installed, programmed, and maintained
* Alarm systems need to have an audible horn or bell to be effective
* Alarm systems should automatically reset in one minute or less
* Make sure your alarm response call-list is up to date
* Instruct your neighbor how to respond to an alarm bell

Operation Identification

This is a program supported by most police agencies. They recommend that you engrave your drivers’ license number (not social security number) on televisions, stereos, computers, and small electronic appliances. They suggest this so they can identify and locate you if your stolen items are recovered. I suggest that you go way beyond this step.

I recommend that you photograph or videotape your home furnishings, electronic devices, and small appliances and make a list of the make, model, and serial numbers. You should keep this list in a safety deposit box or with a relative or neighbor for safe keeping. Beyond that I recommend that you photocopy important documents and the contents of your wallet annually. You will be thankful that you took these steps in case your home is ever destroyed by fire or flood, is ransacked, or if your wallet is lost or stolen.

* Identify your valuables by engraving your drivers’ license number (not your SSN)
* Photograph, video, or record the description and serial numbers of all valuables
* Photocopy the contents of your wallet annually and other important documents
* Store the copies off-site in a safe deposit box or with a relative or neighbor

More Apartment Security Articles
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Home Security: Apartment and Condominium Safety

2008-10-03T03:46:00.000-07:00

Home Security: Apartment and Condominium Safety
Living Safely in Shared Living

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/18183/home_security_apartment_and_condominium.html

Check smoke detectors, twice a year.

Observe, anyone attempts to enter, when garage door is closing.

Security cameras strategically located, provide surveillance, and help prevent crime.

Living in apartment building, has perils, often over looked or considered. Prevention's against: fire, injury, and crime. Have you seen: Movie 'Towering Inferno,' and imagined, how to survive and escape, if your building, was on fire? Does you family, have an escape route or exit strategy, in case of an emergency or fire? Everyone living an apartment building or condominium: Consider the safety of property and lives of others. Have your local fire and police department, advise your apartment or condominium association residence: How to live safe and secure.

Unfortunately, if you have, only one way to get out of your apartment, clear the pathway, of any obstruction. Available, more than one doorway or exit, which ever is near a stairway, first accessed leaving, during emergency or fire. If an alternative stairway is available, should be second, way to escape, when first choice is obstructed or unattainable. Never place any obstacle near or on a stairway. Emergency lighting, should be near all stairways, and exist signs illuminated. Never, use the elevator, during a fire. The elevator becomes a death trap, stops operating during a fire or electricity is turned off. Common procedure, extinguishing clothes on fire: Stop, drop, and roll, recommended teaching children. Occupants of an apartment, designate an exit plan, and place to meet outside, during an emergency. Once you have reached, a designated safety area, outside your apartment building: Count all members of your family, residences of your apartment, residences of your building and pets. If anyone is missing, notify the police or fire department. This evacuation process practiced, few times a year.

At least twice a year, check your smoke detectors. Replace any batteries, if necessary. Good time, checking smoke detectors, before daylight savings time. Smokes detectors installed, one outside each bedroom, and hallway. Some smoke detectors, connected to alarm system companies. Connection, alarm company should be tested, at least, twice a year. Never smoke in bed or leave candle lights, unattended. In 2001, common cause of apartment fires, careless disposal of smoking material. If the electricity is turned off, don't use, candle lights. Use only flashlights.

Portable barbecues should be placed, far away, from any combustible material Often, fire codes in many states, prohibit using portable barbecues, in an apartment or condominiums. Always, have a fire extinguisher and first Aid kit nearby. Know, how to use a fire extinguisher and administer first aid, any emergency. Keep children away, from any type of barbecue. Never store gasoline in an apartment or condominium, besides fire code prevention.

Avoid, using any extension cords, permanently under carpets, from one apartment to another or connected to outside electrical appliance. This type of wiring is likely fray. Especially, extension cords not UL (Underwriter Laboratory) approved, over heat and cause a fire. Always, unplug irons, curling irons or similar appliances, not in use.

Install sturdy and secure locks on doors and windows. Preferable, entrance doors have a dead-bolt lock and peephole viewer. A door viewer or peephole, observe anyone, not less than 190 degrees. Some, home alarm systems, include a chime device, actives whenever, a door (including slide glass doors) or window is open. Sliding glass doors to balconies, secured by pins, locks or rod in the frame track, preventing any burglary or unwanted visitors. Otherwise, simple alarm systems installed, on each door and window. When a door or window is opened, alarm will sound, unless device was deactivated. Alarm systems installed in apartments or condominiums, have back-up battery. Activated, whenever electricity is not available. Should be familiar, how to unlock and lock: Security devices, in the dark. Home security alarm systems, have a security code. When entered, turn on or off the system. The security code known, only to residence, in the apartment or condo, and any trusted, friend or relative. Always, lock your door or turn on your alarm system: Taking out the garbage, getting the mail, visiting a neighbor or talking to someone, outside your door. Secure any gates with padlocks, and heavy shackles, provide additional security.

Park your car or vehicle, away from fire hydrant, entrance way or handicap parking spot.
In case of emergency, parking spot available for emergency vehicles. Preferable, park your car under or near a light pole. Secure, your car with any ant-theft device, remove all valuables especially from eyesight, place tire locks on each tire (or more then one), and remove any documents or papers, disclosing your apartment number or condo.

Next to each telephone, written your apartment or condo number, address, and telephone number. Also, list telephone numbers to call, for any emergency, including relatives, neighbors and friends. Provides helpful information for baby-sitters, and visitors. Always, recharge any portable telephone.

Get to know your neighbors. If possible, exchange keys, alarm codes, and telephone numbers, for emergencies. Know the vehicles, your neighbors are driving. Observe, any unfamiliar person, near any vehicle, call police, and owner of the car.

Portable heaters should be placed, at least, three feet away: Curtain, bedding, furniture or combustible materials. Especially, kept away, from Christmas trees or flammable liquid. Children and elderly taught: How to prevent, getting burned. Turn off any portable heaters, before going to sleep.

Garage doors should be locked with a key, by remote control or some other, security devise. The garage door should have a sensor, preventing the door from closing, onto any obstruction. When closing a garage door, wait until the door, has completely locked, before leaving. Observe, anyone attempts to enter, before the garage door closes, and ensuring the mechanism locked. Also, never open the garage door, when unidentified occupants are outside.

States accustomed, tropical storms or hurricanes, residents have hurricane shutters, on windows and porch. Most of the time, shutters prevent any damage, from wind, flying debris or falling trees. Some windows are manufactured, preventing damage by high windows or flying debris. Living above first floor, more wind damage occurs, during a hurricane. Precaution, don't stand near windows and balcony.

Bending mirrors should be placed, in hallways, prevention against crime, waiting to see guests arrive or leave. Also, placing bending mirrors, in corner of elevators, to see anyone, before entering. Hallways should be well lit, lights bulbs missing or burned out, should be replaced. Bending mirrors serve no benefit, when hallways are dark.

Your standing in the elevator, and a suspicious person enters, then walk out. Otherwise, press as many floor buttons or if you are accosted. Always, look to see, who's in the elevator, before entering. Elevators should have an emergency button to press, calling authorities or notifying residents, of an emergency.

Many apartment buildings have laundry facility, in the basement. Avoid, going to the basement alone. Do your laundry with an accompanying neighbor. Preferable carry a cell phone.

Apartment building, often have a buzz system, allowing visitors to enter, by a tenant. Never, buzz anyone into the building you don't know or cannot identify. Don't assume, someone needs to enter, claiming an emergency. Then call the police or fire department.

Many apartment management companies and condominium associations, screen potential new tenant or owner, before approval. Criminal background checks are conducted by various agencies or Internet websites. Certain convictions, not allow approval.
Living with children or babies, provide additional safety measures, including gates, child safety locks, and electrical protection devices. Also, cleaning chemicals, and medicines, safely secured.
Sharp objects should be locked away.

Trees and bushes should be trimmed, preventing a secure hiding place, for criminals. Also,
Obstructing a chance, for lightening. During major storms, trimmed bushes or trees, cause less damage, for personal property.

Security cameras strategically located, provide surveillance, and help prevent crime. The cost maybe prohibited, many apartment or condominium developments, but individual surveillance cameras, provide some security. State or local jurisdictions, maybe limit the use of surveillance cameras. Many surveillance cameras are unnoticeable, survey parking areas, entrances and hallways. Some, security cameras are fake or dummy, deterrent against, criminal activity.

Many insurance companies, offer coverage for apartment and condominium, theft, injury, and damage. An umbrella policy provides, additional coverage. Some, homeowner insurance policies, include assessment coverage. When associations incur unexpected expenses, charged to condominium owners.
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Start An Apartment Watch Program

2008-10-03T03:38:00.001-07:00

Start An Apartment Watch Program
Make Your Home More Secure

By Charles Montaldo, About.com
http://crime.about.com/od/prevent/qt/apartment_watch.htm

Filed In:

1. Crime Prevention

"Crime Watch Neighborhood"

Crime Watch Neighborhood
BigStockPhotos.com
Just like Neighborhood Watch, members of an Apartment Watch learn how to make their homes more secure, watch out for each other and their community, and report crime and suspicious activities to the police.

Here are some ways to get an Apartment Watch going and growing.

# Help arrange with local police for apartment security surveys and Operation Identification.

# Organize citizen patrols to walk around the apartment complex and alert police to crime and suspicious activities. Don't forget to patrol parking lots, stairways, laundry rooms, and playgrounds.

# Publish a newsletter that gives local crime news, recognizes Apartment Watch captains, and highlights community activities.

# Organize a reception in the lobby of your building or a cookout on common property so neighbors can get to know one another.

# Keep pressure on management to make sure it provides adequate security.

# Start a Safe Haven Program for children -- places where they can go in emergency or scary situations.

# Check the complex on a regular basis for problems such as burned-out light bulbs, dark corridors, uncollected trash, or broken locks on mailboxes and doors. Report problems to the building manager.

# Organize meetings to brainstorm how you can help each other, such as starting an escort service for the elderly or after-school care for children.

Source: Los Angeles Police Department

How to secure apartment building common areas

2008-10-03T03:37:00.003-07:00

How to secure apartment building common areas

http://www.homeenvy.com/db/2/552.html

What is it about apartment common areas that imply they are "No Man's Land"?

Whenever I hold a security seminar, concerns about unidentified people walking through the building are raised. Common areas, collectively, belong to all owners and should be monitored as carefully as they would their own apartments. Apartment owners surely would not allow wanderers to stroll through their personal units whenever they felt like it. The same rules should apply to apartment common areas. Nobody should be in these areas unless invited into the building by an owner or property manager.

A building is only as secure as its weakest person, so it is important to inform all owners of the importance of monitoring who has access. This leads me to the next question, "How are these intruders getting into the building"?

There are a number of ways they can enter, most of which could be addressed with a proper "Target Harding Program". Such a program utilizes physical locks and lock hardware to help prevent unwanted visitors.

However, my greatest concern is the "obliging" apartment owner. This person does not hesitate in pushing the front door release to allow a stranger into the building without first coming to the main door to check their credentials.

The obliging owner may inadvertently breach all security measures, possibly costing the building and its owners thousands of dollars in stolen vehicles and merchandise, damaged private property and worse yet, jeopardizing personal safety.

The seriousness of this problem is forcing some apartment buildings to install timers to restrict front door release times. These timers will not allow an owner to release the front door from their apartment after a certain time. For example, if the cut-off time is 8 p.m. An apartment owner must go to the main door to admit a guest after hours.

Another area of access is the parking garage. Ensure no one sneaks in behind you when you are entering through the overhead garage door. It's a good idea to install lots of light in this "Stop and Watch" area so visibility is enhanced.

Common areas need additional scrutiny too. If someone is about to enter the building as you enter, inform them that apartment security does not allow any visitor entry without first contacting an apartment owner on the enterphone panel.

Remember, the easiest way to prevent the sneaky thief is to be aware and not let him or her in.

How to secure an apartment block

2008-10-03T03:37:00.001-07:00

How to secure an apartment block

http://www.homeenvy.com/db/5/485.html

It's time to toughen up apartment building parkades. Residents need to feel safe and secure when entering and exiting these areas, but they are attracting burglars in epidemic proportions.

The residents of apartment complexes do have choices. Choices that begin with a proper security evaluation. Your security professional will set sights on these targeted areas and incorporate methods to help eradicate vehicle damage and theft.

A good security plan must contain two main elements: safety and security. Also, buildings must be in compliance with the fire codes. So, before incorporating any security changes make sure that you contact the fire department to review your proposed changes.

I constantly have customers say to me that there is nothing they can do to secure the parkade area because the fire codes won't allow locks on certain doors. In fact, there are several areas within most buildings that can be secured, restricting intruders, while still abiding by the fire code.

Stairwell doors leading to each floor, in some cases can be secured, preventing floor access without a key.

Doors leading to parkade areas which normally allow free walk-through can sometimes be secured.

Locks can be installed in elevators, restricting access to downstairs parking areas.

Door knobs can be eliminated on the outside of parkade doors. Door knobs in these vulnerable areas only become a challenge to burglars. Install full-length astragals on your outside parkade doors making sure to cover over the lock area. This door now becomes an exit only, with a knob on the inside only.

Don't think you can't install deadbolts on parkade outside doors. This is a costly misconception. The fact is that the fire department, in most cases, will allow a deadbolt on these doors as long as it doesn't take more than a 90-degree turn to open it.

Parkades are quite often dark, creating several hiding spots for intruders. Install lots of lighting throughout the area to assure that burglars are not lingering in darkness.

Remove all air hoses that run along the parkade floor. These hoses allow the overhead garage door to be opened when driven over or stepped on.

Check that your overhead garage door has a beam that prevents it from descending on your vehicle. If it does, make sure that when in the open position the door does not stay up for more than six seconds. This will help to prevent the sneak thief from following behind a vehicle. Always wait for the overhead garage door to descend completely before entering and exiting. Everybody must be aware of this "stop and watch" area.

And make sure that your overhead garage door opener has a code encryptor. This device hops to billions of different codes stored in its memory, foiling thieves with code grabbers.

CALIFORNIA CRIME PREVENTION OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION

2008-10-03T03:23:00.000-07:00

CALIFORNIA CRIME PREVENTION OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION

http://www.ccpoa.us/

Mission

The Mission of The California Crime Prevention Officers' Association (CCPOA) is to provide an environment where law enforcement personnel, public officials, community planners, service providers, educators, and business professionals can come together sharing a common goal of crime prevention through training, networking, and legislation.

Training

CCPOA is committed to providing its members with the latest crime prevention information, resources, tools and techniques in the prevention industry to assist professionals in the performance of their duties and to establish a consistency in the dissemination of information to the public by crime prevention and other professionals.

CCPOA Provides this training through annual and semi-annual training conferences and through regular regional monthly meetings.

Networking

* Annual Training Conference - a four-day training event each September
* Semi-Annual Northern and Southern Chapter Training Conferences
* Monthly Regional Meetings

LAW ENFORCEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA

2008-10-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

LAW ENFORCEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA
http://www.leepac.org/

What is LEEPAC?

Local building permit and zoning processes can be effective crime prevention tools. Concerned about the impact of unchecked growth in their communities, crime prevention officers in Northern California formed the Law Enforcement Environmental Planning Association of California (LEEPAC). In contrast to fire departments, law enforcement agencies rarely have had an opportunity to review plans for new development and recommend design changes to make the projects less vulnerable to crime.

LEEPAC evolved from a 1989 meeting of crime prevention officers who gathered to examine this problem and share ideas about a solution. First addressed was the proliferation of convenience stores and mini-marts and their inherent risks. LEEPAC developed a set of standards for these businesses covering such issues as minimum lighting, positioning of check-out stands, security of alcohol, and posting on the property against open alcohol containers. Many member agencies are now using these standards as conditions for approval for new convenience stores and mini-marts within their jurisdictions. LEEPAC has since developed a standards manual to address all types of land use. This collection of concepts and alternatives directly addresses many urban security problems. Developers, design professionals, and the public now have the ability to reduce criminal opportunity at the initial planning stages of a development.
Why Join LEEPAC?

As a crime prevention decision maker ask yourself this:

* Are you getting the most from your city and police planning processes?
* Are you participating fully in city and county procedures to help reduce the likelihood of negative-impact land uses?
* Are you working to condition land uses so that they do not reduce the quality of community life in your city, or negatively impact police services?
* Are you aware that you can take existing land uses that are causing a negative impact on the community back before the Planning Commission to amend operational conditions to lessen these impacts?
* re you aware that you can accomplish all of this at no cost to your department by having the applicant/developer pay as they go through the planning process?

Through involvement in LEEPAC and the process, you can:

* Enhance the quality of life in your city, and make police staff hours available for proactive police work.
* Work with the public to prevent problems, as opposed to correcting problems retroactively.
* Get more positive “bang for the limited bucks” received by police and city services as annual funding.
* Encourage your Crime Prevention Bureau to participate through involvement in LEEPAC, by sharing problems, information and experiences with the membership, and in formalized training programs. LEEPAC active membership also includes private consultants that can assist you with the process or specific problem areas.

If you want to learn more about LEEPAC, or would like to attend a future meeting or training seminar, please contact:

Jeff Rodrigues
Sacramento County Sheriff's Department
711 G Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 874-2736
jrodrigues@leepac.org

Deterrence

2008-10-03T03:15:00.001-07:00

Deterrence
http://www.duhaime.org/LegalDictionary/D/Deterrence.aspx

A principle or objective of sentencing a person guilty of a crime which ensures that the punishment is sufficient to deter the guilty person, and others, from committing the same crime.

Perhaps as most succintly put by Justice Gerein in R v Melnyk:

"The theory of deterrence is that fear of punishment will cause potential wrongdoers to act within the parameters of the law."

Or in Re H:

"... to protect the public from the commission of such crimes by making it clear to the offender and to other persons with similar impulses that if they yield to them, they will meet with severe punishment."

Most justice systems either impose sentencing guidelines which reduce judicial discretion, or use general principles, or a combination of both.

The United Kingdom's Criminal Justice Act 2003 states, at §142 (emphasis added):

"Any court dealing with an offender in respect of his offence must have regard to the following purposes of sentencing (a) the punishment of offenders, (b) the reduction of crime (including its reduction by deterrence), (c) the reform and rehabilitation of offenders, (d) the protection of the public, and (e) the making of reparation by offenders to persons affected by their offences."

Canada's Criminal Code provides, at §718 (emphasis added):

"The fundamental purpose of sentencing is to contribute, along with crime prevention initiatives, to respect for the law and the maintenance of a just, peaceful and safe society by imposing just sanctions that have one or more of the following objectives: (a) to denounce unlawful conduct; (b) to deter the offender and other persons from committing offences; (c) to separate offenders from society, where necessary; (d) to assist in rehabilitating offenders; (e) to provide reparations for harm done to victims or to the community; and (f) to promote a sense of responsibility in offenders, and acknowledgment of the harm done to victims and to the community."

In R v Morrissette, Justice Culliton wrote, in the context of a discussion on the factors to take into account when sentencing:

"Deterrence is also an important factor. The problem is different if the purpose of sentence is to deter the offender from repeating the offence from that if the purpose is to deter others who may be inclined to commit the same offence. In neither case does it necessarily follow that a long sentence is required to achieve the purpose. Deterrence should be considered from an objective view if the purpose is to deter others who may be inclined to commit the same offence. In such case, the gravity of the offence, the incidence of the crime in the community, the harm caused by it either to the individual or to the community and the public attitude toward it are some of the matters to be considered. If the purpose is to deter the offender from repeating the offence, then greater consideration must be given to the individual, his record and attitude, his motivation and his reformation and rehabilitation. If both purposes are to be achieved, then there must be a weighing of all of the factors and a sentence determined that gives a proper balance to each of them."

Deterrence can be distinguished as specific deterrence (aimed at the person being sentenced) and general deterrence (aimed at the population at large).

REFERENCES:

*
Re H, 3 Australian Criminal Reports 53 (1980)
*
Criminal Code of Canada, Revised Statutes of Canada, 1985, Chapter C-4published online at canlii.org/ca/sta/c-46/
*
R v Morrissette 1 CCC 2d 307 (1970, SKCA)
*
R v Melnyk 156 Sask. R. 179 (1997, SKQB); online at canlii.org/en/sk/skqb/doc/1997/1997canlii11324/1997canlii11324.html

SECURITY: By Design And Decree

2008-10-03T03:13:00.000-07:00

SECURITY: By Design And Decree
By Robert A. Gardner, CPP

http://www.crimewise.com/library/lr&a.html

Summary

Establishing liability in crime victimization cases can be a challenge. Often the issues involved center on questions of "duty to protect" and "adequacy of security measures." Obtaining a favorable settlement in these cases requires a demonstration that the crime risk was foreseeable and the negligent party did not act appropriately to mitigate the risk.

Research by security and crime prevention experts has demonstrated that crime can be reduced or prevented when crime deterrence features are designed into building projects. Studies have shown that by applying the concept of "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" to the planning of building projects, crime victimization rates can be significantly lowered.

As a result of these studies, many municipalities have adopted Building Security Ordinances. These ordinances require the incorporation of basic physical security features into all new building projects and most renovations. The existence of these ordinances and of the "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" concept provides considerable ammunition for attorneys litigating security negligence matters.

Security negligence cases can be a fertile field for the attorney who understands security and crime prevention theory and is familiar with any applicable security regulations.

Crime Prevention - A Brief History

Since the mid 1970's, experts in Security and Crime Prevention have been attempting to stem the growing crime rate through a variety of pro-active programs. Collectively identified under the umbrella title of "Crime Prevention", these programs take a two pronged approach. First, they identify the circumstances and conditions most likely to create an opportunity for crime to occur. Then, they try to remove that opportunity.

Crime Prevention programs are usually education oriented. Potential victims are taught to recognize and avoid environments and situations where crime is likely to happen. Teaching potential crime victims to avoid dangerous situations can be effective. But, it requires considerable effort on the part of the educators - typically the police - and active interest and participation on the part of the student. A major shortcoming of these programs is the fact that they rely on special training and knowledge to avoid criminal attack. Those not having the knowledge are still at risk.

There is growing acknowledgment by Security and Crime Prevention experts that requiring potential victims to recognize and avoid high crime risk situations is not entirely effective. A more productive and less labor intensive approach is to eliminate, as much as possible, crime prone environments. By designing crime resistance into an environment, a degree of passive protection is provided to everyone, not just those who happen to have the special knowledge needed for self protection.

"Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" is a concept which blends psychology, architectural design, landscape and open space planning, physical security systems, lighting design, visual surveillance opportunities, access control, crime history, and general crime prevention theory to create an inherently crime free environment. Projects built - or remodeled - under this concept have security and crime resistance measures incorporated into their basic design. This approach is substantially more effective from both a performance and cost standpoint than addressing security concerns after project completion. The Environmental Design approach to crime prevention is applicable in virtually any residential, commercial or special use setting.

Security Ordinances

To ensure that security and crime prevention considerations are included in new construction and remodeling projects, a growing number of city and county governments have adopted minimum security standards as part of their local building codes. Generally where these standards exist, they are subjected to the same inspection and review process as any other building code requirement. Compliance must be shown before building permits can be obtained or certificates of occupancy issued. Although these codes are primarily applicable during the design and construction process, many also place requirements and restrictions on the continuing use of buildings and property after construction. Building Security Codes can apply to all building types and most land uses.

While specific wording may vary somewhat among jurisdictions, the requirements of these codes are generally similar. One reason for this similarity is the fact that many jurisdictions have adopted security ordinances based on Model Building Security Codes such as the one developed by the California Crime Prevention Officers Association (CCPOA). This organization was an early proponent of "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" and Building Security Codes. It is a pioneer in the crime prevention field and has, through its members, been instrumental in the development of many of the crime prevention programs in use today.

The Uniform Building Security Code, published by the International Conference of Building Officials, is another source of security standards for residential dwellings. This code, like the CCPOA Model Building Security Code, sets minimum standards for physical security and provides tests to ensure that the standards have been met.

Regardless of a security code's exact origin and form, if based on accepted security standards, it can be useful in supporting - or defending against - claims of negligence. Even where security codes are not in force, the basic theories of "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" and the existence of Building Security Codes in neighboring jurisdictions can often be used to demonstrate the need for, and reasonableness of, security measures.

Establishing liability depends in large part on the foreseeability of a specific kind of criminal attack and the amount of control the negligent party exercised over the circumstances and conditions under which the crime occurred. By citing the standards prescribed in Building Security Codes, it may be possible to demonstrate that a minimum level of security is always necessary. This is true even when no specific crime threat has been identified. The pervasive nature of crime in America presents an undeniable threat to virtually everyone. While the exact time and circumstances of criminal attacks cannot usually be predicted, it may be reasonable to forecast that a particular type of crime will occur at a given location within a definable time period.

Security Codes and Environmental Design Standards impose a duty on property developers, owners and managers to provide at least a minimum level of protection for those who enter and occupy their properties. The protective measures required will vary with the type and use of the property. But, in every instance, there will be basic preventative measures identified to address the kinds of crime that can be reasonably expected to occur. If adequate consideration has not been given to security, and/or applicable security codes have not been followed, then the stage is set for a claim of negligence should a criminal attack take place.

Settings for Negligence

Thousands of crimes occur every day, but only a very few ever result in legal action for negligence. Certainly, high profile crimes like the robbery, rape or murder of a hotel guest, for example, will always find their way into litigation. However, many other less sensational crimes will simply be written off by the victims - even when there is a clear duty to protect on the part of another party.

Possibly most overlooked are crimes which occur in residential settings. The typical home burglary, for instance, could conceivably be the basis for a claim of negligence on the part of the designer or builder. Minimum standards for security in residential dwellings are well established. Even in jurisdictions where security standards are not imposed by code, it is reasonable for the builder to provide at least a basic level of protection.

Multi-family housing, particularly rental housing, is another area where crime occurs frequently. In this setting there are often multiple levels of potential negligence. Not only can the designer and builder be expected to provide basic security measures; the owner and/or management company must also assume responsibility for the protection of tenants and guests.

Crime in public, semi-public and private business environments is extensive and varied. However, in virtually every case there is a clear responsibility for ensuring that employees customers, visitors and guests are protected. When someone is victimized in one of these settings, there is almost certainly a potential for a claim of negligence.

Where to Begin

When injury or damage occurs as a result of a crime, there are several levels of potential liability. Look first to the owner or manager of the property. They have the primary responsibility for providing a crime free environment. Then look to the designer and builder. The type of environment they create has a definite impact on the future crime rate within the property. In every instance where a negligence claim is being considered, there should be a careful study of the property design. Was the property designed and built in compliance with Building Security Codes? If no codes apply, should the designer have anticipated that certain types of crime often occur in similar properties? Did the designer take steps to mitigate the threat of these crimes? Have security codes been enacted since the project was built? Would retrofitting the project to comply with those codes have been reasonable? Had the project been retrofitted, could the crime have been prevented? These are just a few of the questions that should be explored.

If security services such as guard or alarm companies are involved, their actions should also be carefully scrutinized. The degree of competence and professionalism varies greatly among these services. It can often be found that security personnel are inadequately screened, insufficiently trained and ineffectively supervised. As a result, they may contribute to the security risk rather than eliminate it. Frequently, the actions, or in-actions, of security personnel are significant factors in security negligence claims. In many jurisdictions, security and alarm companies and security personnel such as guards are required to be licensed. Unlicensed practices and failure to comply with licensing requirements may be a litigation issue.

Conclusion

Crime is arguably this nation's greatest problem. Incidents of criminal attack on people and property are numerous. In many instances these crime may be the basis for a security negligence claim. Building Security Codes, the "Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design" concept and the advice of qualified security experts can be extremely useful tools in successfully pursuing those claims.

This is a September 1996 revision of an article first published in the December 1991 edition of the Lawyer's Resource & Almanack.
Copyright © 1991 & 1996 by Robert A. Gardner, CPP

A NON-RESIDENT KEPT RINGING MY DOORBELL

2008-10-03T02:25:00.000-07:00

A NON-RESIDENT KEPT RINGING MY DOORBELL

I Just read this posting, which was left as a comment under the LAHD, LADOT INSPECTORS, AND MOLD posting:

Anonymous said...

A non-resident kept ringing my doorbell at 12:09pm today. He looked very shady - I called the security. They saw him outside minutes after, but then he went into Panera and then took off. This also happened 3 weeks ago at 11:30pm at night with a different guy. We do not answer the door and this freaks me out.
October 1, 2008 1:04 PM

I have heard similar accounts from different residents since before I moved in. I knew some of the first residents, which voiced the same occurrences and fears.

Without hesitation, please call the Courtesy Patrol Officer on duty at 818-939-7082. If this a reoccurring occurrence, or feel this may be a life threatening situation, please call the Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division at 818-623-4016, or 911 if it is an emergency.

URINATING DRUNK

2008-10-03T02:13:00.001-07:00

URINATING DRUNK

I'm walking a friend's dog just before 2am this morning, and find some college-aged individuals driving off in their cars. They were a bit noticeable, due to the yelling and loud music. As I'm approaching the Chandler Boulevard entrance on my way back, I see one of them urinating not far from the entryway.

LAHD AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-10-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

LAHD AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

http://lavoice.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=3141

NEIGHBORHOODS

The Los Angeles Housing Department showed up unannounced to The Lofts at Noho Commons today. This is the first of two days they will be conducting unit by unit inspections. Some of the residents have voiced anger because there was no prior notice given to the residents. They felt unauthorized entry is not except-able, unless there was an emergency.

Although there has been some significant improvements in the day to day upkeep of the common areas, the problem with dog feces and urine has not subsided.

Photos can be found at http://s438.photobucket.com/albums/qq106/loftsatnohocommons/ There is also a blog posted at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ with more additional information.

LAHD, LADOT INSPECTORS, AND MOLD

2008-10-01T07:39:00.001-07:00

LAHD, LADOT INSPECTORS, AND MOLD

The building has had multiple inspectors come within the past week. The Los Angeles Housing Department were in and out of my unit very quickly. At least in my case, one of them asked me if I had any problems with the unit. He walked into the bathroom, took a quick look, and was out. He didn't notice the ants that are in my bathroom. An inspector was onsite from The Los Angeles Department of Traffic as well.

I haven't had any major issues with this unit. However, I was asked 2 days ago to photograph a water damaged bathroom cabinet of one of our neighbors. He has been having serious issues with mold. The particle board was expanded obviously due to water. He believes a wall has to be removed in the bathroom and the cabinet removed. He also has been complaining of respiratory issues for several months. Currently he is running 2 air purifiers in his unit. I run my HEPA filter when I am home, and have been since I moved into this unit months ago. I used to live in another unit on my floor, and became very ill one day. I was able to move into another unit immediately without any problems. I suggested to management an environmental hygienist come and check the air quality of that unit. Three days after my moving, I saw someone being shown my old apartment.

Photo taken after he discarded mold covered contents and cleaned off what was visible. - Photos Taken September 29, 2008

CHANDLER BOULEVARD ELEVATORS NOT WORKING 2nd DAY

2008-10-01T07:12:00.000-07:00

CHANDLER BOULEVARD ELEVATORS NOT WORKING 2nd DAY

I rode down one of the Chandler Boulevard elevators yesterday afternoon to walk a friend's dog. Upon returning, the elevators were not working. I just went for a morning walk and found the elevators still not working. I've been stuck 3 times in either one of them in the past 2 weeks, due to the doors not closing properly. Today I went up in one of the elevators on Weddington Street, and saw a plate removed. The plate has been removed for at least 2 weeks that I know about.

A reminder to please remain vigilant of your surroundings

2008-09-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

A reminder to please remain vigilant of your surroundings. At 8:30 this morning I was walking a friend's dog. I approached the Chandler Boulevard entrance, when a white male around 35-40 years old walked up to the entrance. I didn't see him reach for keys, or press the intercom. He stopped there for a moment, then proceeded quickly down the ramp. I just called our Courtesy Patrol's cell phone and left a message. There is no one on duty now, but I want there to be a record. I've never seen him in the building before, so not sure if he's a new resident or a guest.

This is just a reminder to keep a careful watch of possible dangers.

SECURITY PETITION STATUS UPDATE

2008-09-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

SECURITY PETITION STATUS UPDATE

September 16, 2008

TO:
Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc.
Scott Morrison, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Mary O'Rourke, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Octavio Sanchez, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.

FROM:
Families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons

Upon arrival of 45 days of the posting of the residents’ petition to establish a permanent 24-hour security presence at The Lofts at Noho Commons, at 11136 Chandler Boulevard, North Hollywood, California 91601, the residents would like to give an extension of 90 days of this letter.

Many of the residents are concerned about the effectiveness of one officer on duty. They are also concerned about another violent crime occurring, such as the armed robbery months earlier, or a reintroduction of a drug dealer, or prostitution ring alongside the families and children that reside here. This is in addition to further vandalism and theft of the vehicles parked in the parking structure.

Due to the history of criminal activity at The Lofts of Noho Commons, and the immediate surrounding areas, the residents believe an extended period of time is needed to evaluate if the presence of one roaming Courtesy Patrol Officer, 20 hours per day, 7 days a week, would be enough to deter additional criminal activity.

The residents are grateful for the efforts made by Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc., and the management staff at Legacy Partners Residential, Inc., and applaud the exceptional service by Group Investigative Services. We also are grateful for the service the officers of The Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division have been giving.

We are hopeful there will be no further criminal incidents occurring at our home. We look forward to seeing further improvements in the overall security, including the introduction of stronger locks, cameras, mirrors, signs, functioning lights, and any other safety means discussed.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee

WEDDINGTON STREET ENTRYWAY UPDATE

2008-09-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

WEDDINGTON STREET ENTRYWAY UPDATE

Yesterday morning, a new resident collided with the gates on the Weddington Street entrance to the parking structure around 9:30AM. One of the gates has been placed on the West side wall.

I was told by one of two Security Officers on duty that Mr. McCarter hired a second guard to remain posted there overnight to ensure no one has unauthorized entry thru that entryway, while the second remains roaming. He also told me a company was called today to repair the gate, but was not available until tomorrow.

Mr. McCarter, thank you.

LAHD Code Enforcement Division

2008-09-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Housing Department
Code Enforcement Division
Mission Statement

http://cris.lacity.org/cris/informationcenter/code/index.htm

It is the mission of the Los Angeles Housing Department Code Enforcement Division to identify and facilitate the abatement of physical conditions and characteristics of substandard and unsanitary residential buildings and dwelling units which render them unfit or unsafe for human occupancy and habitation, and which conditions and characteristics are such as to be detrimental to or jeopardize the health, safety and welfare of their occupants and of the public.

The existence of such substandard buildings and dwelling units threatens the physical, social and economic stability of sound residential buildings and areas, and of their supporting neighborhood facilities and institutions; necessitates disproportionate expenditures of public funds for remedial action; impairs the efficient and economical exercise of governmental powers and functions; and destroys the amenity of residential areas and neighborhoods and of the community as a whole.

For these reasons it is the policy of the Code Enforcement Division to protect and promote the existence of sound and wholesome residential buildings, dwelling units and neighborhoods by enforcement of such standards, regulations and procedures as will remedy the existence or prevent the development or creation of dangerous, substandard, or unsanitary and deficient residential buildings and dwelling units.

Info for TENANTS / RENTERS from LAHD

2008-09-25T19:11:00.001-07:00

Information for TENANTS / RENTERS off of the Los Angeles Housing Department's website regarding building inspectors.

http://cris.lacity.org/cris/informationcenter/code/tenants.htm

SCEP (pronounced "skep"), requires that multi-family rental properties with two or more units be inspected on a scheduled basis (current schedule is once every five years). Inspections are done to ensure that the units are safe and habitable.

Inspectors from the Los Angeles Housing Department schedule each property for a thorough inspection. A notice is mailed to the owner approximately 30 days before the scheduled inspection. A notice is posted 5-7 days before the inspection to inform the tenants of the date and time to expect the inspector. Properties that do not meet City and State codes regarding issues of maintenance, use, or habitability are cited with a "Notice to Comply". Property owners are generally given 30 days to have the required repairs completed. A re-inspection is performed to verify that the corrective work was done.

If repairs are not completed within the time period specified on the Notice to Comply, the owner will be summoned to an administrative hearing at the Housing Department to determine the reason for non-compliance and when the required repairs will be completed. If further enforcement steps become necessary, the file may be forwarded to the Office of the City Attorney as a criminal complaint.

Property owners are charged $35.52 per unit, per year, whether or not the units are inspected during that year. The fee is paid to the Los Angeles Housing Department once every year.

It is not necessary to wait for the regularly scheduled inspection if your unit (or surrounding common areas) need repairs that the landlord is aware of but has failed to make.

If you believe that there are Housing Code violations in your unit or the surrounding common areas, you can file a complaint with the Los Angeles Housing Department using one of the following methods:

Call the Code Enforcement Complaint Line weekdays between 9:00 am-4:00 pm at (866) 557-RENT;

Visit one of the Los Angeles Housing Department's Public Counters. ( http://cris.lacity.org/cris/informationcenter/code/offices.htm )

Submit a complaint via the Internet. ( http://cris.lacity.org/cris/informationcenter/code/propprofile.htm )

You will be contacted by LAHD Code Enforcement personnel--usually within 72 hours of filing the complaint.

There is no fee for filing a complaint. You cannot be evicted for filing a complaint. Complaints by phone can be left anonymously but must include the property address, unit number (if the violation exists inside the unit), nature of the complaint and a contact phone number for the inspector to arrange to meet you for an inspection.

You can designate another person, such as a friend or family member to be available at your unit at the time of inspection if it is inconvenient for you to meet the inspector as scheduled.

If you reside in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, call (877) 966-CODE to file a code complaint, as the County, like incorporated cities such as Burbank, Inglewood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Santa Monica, and the City of West Hollywood, have their own code enforcement agencies. Please see the White Pages in your local phone book under City or County Government Offices for your Department of Building & Safety or Public Works.

For more information about the Code Enforcement program, call the LAHD Information and Complaint Line at (866) 557-RENT or send an email to ceuemail@lahd.ci.la.ca.us, our Code Enforcement Unit.

Housing Inspectors

2008-09-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

There was a notice left on my door this afternoon, that read:

IMPORTANT NOTICE

TO: ALL RESIDENTS
FROM: THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS MANAGEMENT

The Lost Angeles Housing Department will be conductiong a unit by unit inspection on the following dates:

Thursday, September 25, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008

We will start at 10:00AM up tp 6:00PM

The residents do not need to be present.

We thank you in advance for your coorperation and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Thank you,
Octavio Sanchez
Business Manager

200 Cops Raid Valley, Target 'Vineland Boys' Gang

2008-09-25T00:49:00.000-07:00

200 Cops Raid Valley, Target 'Vineland Boys' Gang
FEBRUARY 26, 2008

http://laist.com/2008/02/26/200_cops_raid_v.php

(This is accross the street)

 This apartment complex next to the NoHo Metro Red Line was rumored to have many gang-related police calls when it opened | Photo by lavocado@sbcglobal.net via Flickr

So that's why cops were all over the Valley this morning. The Daily News is reporting that around 200 cops raided 15 homes, arresting 16, in an early morning operation called "Wild Card" which is "the police department's effort to challenge a particularly active and violent clique of Vineland known as the Jokers."

Part of today's raid was to get stolen guns off the street, especially ones police knew the gang had stolen in a Palmdale burglary. "We don't want them running around with a bunch of guns," Los Angeles Police Detective Dan Fournier told the Daily News. The Jokers clique is also a suspect into the 2003 death of a Burbank police officer and a shootout with two California Highway Patrol men.

Last year in August, the LAPD and other agencies performed "Operation Heatwave," to help decrease Valley gang crime that was on a rise when the rest of the city's related crime was flat.

All Day, All Arts "NoHo Scene" on Sunday, October 5

2008-09-25T00:41:00.000-07:00

All Day, All Arts "NoHo Scene" on Sunday, October 5

Visual artists will take over Lankershim Boulevard at the All Day, All Arts "NoHo Scene" on Sunday, October 5. For more info call 818.980.6646 or go to www.nohoartsdistrict.com

http://www.nohoartsdistrict.com/nohoscene/

LAPD Update - September Newsletter - Noho Arts District

2008-09-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

LAPD Update - September Newsletter - Noho Arts District

http://www.nohoartsdistrict.com/community1/Articles/0908_LAPD_UPdate.html

by LAPD Officer Catalano

Over the last few weeks, we have experienced some crime trends new to our area. Numerous community members discovered their vehicle sitting on cement blocks with the tires and rims missing as they approached it. All the vehicles involved were high-end models, mostly consisting of BMW’s and Mercedes Benz. Surprisingly, the majority of vehicles were parked in secured underground parking structures.

It was quickly determined that the problem was not just limited to North Hollywood, but was citywide. At some locations, we were able to obtain incredible video from various security cameras. The surveillance video provided crystal clear images of the suspects as well as the vehicles involved in this elaborate theft ring. Some of the same suspects and vehicles were discovered on surveillance video in crimes spanning from the San Fernando Valley to the
Venice Beach area.

As a result of the number of incidents and the knowledge we now have of the vehicles used, officers everywhere were looking for these suspects. As I was addressing this very issue to a Neighborhood Watch Group, who days prior had four residents victimized, LAPD Officers observed one of the vehicles and conducted a traffic stop. Numerous cement blocks were discovered inside the vehicle, and the occupants were detained. Since most people don’t regularly drive while carrying cement blocks loaded in their vehicle, we, the police, consider this a CLUE.

The suspects admitted to the crimes, and the detectives were able to make multiple arrests. The follow-up investigation resulted in the recovery of over 200 sets of tires and rims from various locations. The suspects worked for someone who paid them $200.00 for each set they delivered. The stolen property was then sold on various internet sites for thousands more.

We are currently working on identifying the property and returning it to the numerous victims. The court case is still pending.

Any questions, comments or concerns should be forwarded to Officer Catalano at 32740@lapd.lacity.org If you would like to receive crime statistics, crime updates and newsletters via e-mail, sign up at www.lapdepolicing.org

WEDDINGTON GATE BROKEN

2008-09-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

WEDDINGTON GATE BROKEN

A new resident drove into the Weddington Street garage entrance’s gates this morning around 9:30. One of the gates is sitting along the West wall, leaving the parking structure fully accessible. I ask that everyone remain vigilant of his or her surroundings while entering and leaving the parking garage.

MANNERS

2008-09-24T23:36:00.000-07:00

MANNERS

I have a simple question for everyone, “Do you consider The Lofts at Noho Commons your home?”

I walk my friend’s dog this evening. He urinates on the street level outside away from the building. I pour water from the bottle I am carrying to dilute it. I drop him off. A half hour later, I meet my friend in the parking garage. We walk back to the apartment, to find “fresh” dog urine and feces in the walkway. There are cigarette butts along the walkway as well. None of these were there 30 minutes earlier. This was after riding up in the elevator where someone smoked and then walked the same way towards my friend’s place.

This kind of thing happens here daily. There is no excuse for some of the residents’ lack of manners. The management has made some very real improvements in the overall quality of this residency in the past several weeks. But there are residents that let their dogs run out unattended. Dog feces are still being seen daily throughout the building. As well as dog urine. People spit in the elevators. Others break parts in the same elevators. People doing their laundry in the middle of the night, can be heard down the hall. Although much better then it has been in the past, there is still trash left in the trash room, instead of being discarded in the trash chutes. Trash is discarded from cars and thrown about in the parking structure. It doesn’t look at all classy seeing someone young toss trash from a $120,000 car in the place they consider there home. And what’s the deal with the cat that is seen on the third floor roaming around this past month?

Come on guys, there are others that reside here. We share a lot of the same space. Why is it difficult for some individuals to be the least bit considerate of their neighbors?

Please be considerate. Management is making a good effort. Lets help them keep The Lofts at Noho Commons a beautiful place. Remember, this is our home as well.

SOMEONE ON THE ROOF TONIGHT

2008-09-24T00:17:00.000-07:00

SOMEONE ON THE ROOF TONIGHT

I arrived home from a meeting just before 11pm (2300 Hours). My neighbor comes out of the elevator in the parking structure and asks me if I was coming or going, because he heard someone on the roof, and it sounded as if someone was "punching the ceiling" repeatedly. I called the Courtesy Officer to report it.

Not even a week before, I was told by another resident of two consecutive days he heard someone walking around above his family's unit at night.

I am posting this to ask any of the residents that may be hanging around up there to please refrain from doing so. Aside from disturbing the families residing below, it is also an insurance liability.

Thank you.

Donation Accounts Opened To Assist Family of Spree Desha

2008-09-15T00:08:00.000-07:00

Donation Accounts Opened To Assist Family of Spree Desha
September 15, 2008

http://lapdblog.typepad.com/lapd_blog/2008/09/donation-accoun.html

In response to the tragic death of LAPD Officer Spree Desha who was killed in last week’s Metrolink accident, Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union (LAPFCU) has opened a Donation Account to assist her family.

“This was an awful tragedy which has affected us all,” stated G. Michael Padgett, LAPFCU President and CEO. “The funds collected for the donation account will go to address the needs of the Desha family.” There are a few ways in which interested parties may contribute:
The public may mail in donations. Please make checks payable to “Blue Ribbon Trust FBO Spree Desha” and send to:

Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union
Attn: Blue Ribbon Trust FBO Spree Desha
P.O. Box 10188
Van Nuys, CA 91410

LAPFCU members may donate to these accounts through PATROL online banking at www.lapfcu.org, or by telephone 877-MY-LAPFCU (877-695-2732) press 2. Please enter account #2030077 S4.19 followed by BLU (first three letters of the account name).
You may also visit www.lapfcu.org and information is included in our Community Corner.
Those who wish to make contributions may also contact the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation at 213-847-4239 which has been established to pay for funeral costs.
For additional information, please contact LAPFCU Vice President of Marketing Manny Padilla Jr., at 818-779-3311.

About LAPFCU
 The Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union (LAPFCU) is a member-owned cooperative established in 1936 to serve the financial needs of the sworn and civilian employees of the Los Angeles Police Department and their families. Headquartered in Van Nuys, California, with branches located throughout Los Angeles, LAPFCU has over $696 million in assets and more than 41,300 members. Membership is open exclusively to active and retired, sworn and civilian employees of the LAPD and their immediate families.

LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS RESIDENTS' COMMITTEE CONTACT

2008-09-10T19:30:00.001-07:00

LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS RESIDENTS' COMMITTEE CONTACT

The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee can be reached via email at loftsresidentscommittee@yahoo.com

We have been having regular meetings with Octavio Sanchez and Carlina Baldonado of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. regarding issues relevant to the families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons. If you have any concerns, please send us an email.

Thank you.

The Lofts at Noho Commons Residents' Committee

NORTH HOLLYWOOD CRIME STATISTICS

2008-09-10T18:50:00.001-07:00

NORTH HOLLYWOOD CRIME STATISTICS

This is a downloadable .PDF file from The Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division with the area's crime statistics

http://www.lapdonline.org/assets/pdf/nhdprof.pdf

SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS IS A GREAT SUCCESS

2008-09-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS IS A GREAT SUCCESS
September 10, 2008

Click here for podcast

http://lapdblog.typepad.com/lapd_blog/files/snl_close_cop.MP3

Los Angeles: At a press conference this morning in Baldwin Village’s Jim Gilliam Park, Mayor Antonio R. Snl_close_2_3Villaraigosa and Chief William J. Bratton announced significant reductions in violent crimes in the areas surrounding the City’s eight Summer Night Lights’ parks. Developed in partnership with USC Football Coach Pete Carroll’s “A Better LA” program, Department of Recreation and Parks, Los Angeles Police Department, Department of Cultural Affairs and the Los Angeles Unified School District, the Summer Night Lights program targeted eight park facilities in the City’s Gang Reduction and Youth Development zones by expanding programming, after-school activities, athletic leagues, art initiatives and family programs.

The eight targeted parks were: Southwest Area’s Jim Gilliam Park, Hollenbeck Area’s Ramon Garcia Park and the Ramona Gardens Recreation Center, Northeast Area’s Cypress and Glassell Parks, 77th Area’s Mount Carmel Park, Newton Area’s Ross Snyder Park and Foothill Area’s Hubert Humphrey Park. Communities surrounding the Summer Night Lights parks experienced a 17% drop in violent crimes, an 86% decline in homicides and a 23% reduction in aggravated assault after the program’s eight-week run.

Grateful for the support of the Mayor’s office, Department of Recreation and Parks’ staff and community members, Chief Bratton stated, “This summer, thousands upon thousands of people came out into their parks and enjoyed them in ways they never did before. . . . a lot happened this summer. A lot happened in a positive way and it prevented a lot of negatives from happening.”

Speakers also included Councilmember Herb Wesson, Councilmember Wendy Greuel, Police Commission Vice President John Mack and the Mayor’s Director of Gang Reduction and Youth Development Reverend Jeff Carr. The Summer Night Lights program is funded entirely through philanthropic donations. Reverend Carr raised nearly $1 million for the summer program.

http://lapdblog.typepad.com/lapd_blog/2008/09/summer-night-li.html

Help sought to find culprit in weekend homicide

2008-09-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

Help sought to find culprit in weekend homicide
By Jason Kandel on September 8, 2008 12:39 PM

Police today were asking for the public's help to find the person responsible for a weekend stabbing death of a 42-year-old man in the West Valley area.

The man was stabbed Saturday at 11:55 p.m. in the 21900 block of Ventura Boulevard. Cop sfound the victim on the ground in the rear parking lot, suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Cops don't know why the man was stabbed, but they described the culprit as heavy-set and white, wearing light-color clothing.

The victim's identification is being withheld until officials can notify family.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Valley homicide detectives at (818) 374-7725. After hours and on weekends calls may be directed to the 24-hour toll free number, 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/2008/09/help-sought-to-find-culprit-in.html

North Hollywood Division Goals

2008-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

LAPD-North Hollywood Division Goals

Policing Philosophy and Goals for North Hollywood Community

North Hollywood Community Police Station is committed to serving the community while protecting the rights of all persons. Consistent with this commitment, the Vision, Motto, and Core Values are actively embraced and utilized for decision making.

The North Hollywood Area of the Los Angeles Police Department is committed to bringing the Department’s Vision to life. It is the Vision of the Los Angeles Police Department to, as closely as possible, achieve a City free from crime and public disorder. To accomplish this, North Hollywood embraces the motto of "To Protect and To Serve."

The motto, "To Protect and To Serve," states the essential purpose of the Los Angeles Police Department. North Hollywood protects the right of all persons within its jurisdiction to be free from criminal attack, to be secure in their possessions, and to live in peace. The Department serves the people by performing the law enforcement function in a professional manner, and it is to these people that the Department and each employee working out of North Hollywood is ultimately responsible.

The Core Values are the quintessential components of our Philosophy. They are: Service to our Communities, Reverence for the Law, Commitment to Leadership, Integrity in all We Say and Do, Respect for People, and Quality Through Continuous Improvement.

It is expected that faithful adherence to these ideals and the Department Core Values will result in a distinct amelioration of crime and blight; and will reduce the incidence and fear of violent crime.

http://lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_community_police_station/content_basic_view/1819

Crime Problems at Lofts at NoHo Commons Continue

2008-09-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 2, 2008

Crime Problems at Lofts at NoHo Commons Continue

At least one disgruntled resident is not happy with the continued reported lack of security at the Lofts at NoHo Commons, which is next to the North Hollywood Metro Red Line station. The anonymously written blog (so take that for what it's worth) reports of stolen car parts, an armed robbery, a drug dealer and a prostitution ring. It also paints a not so cheery picture for the general experience there: "lights are off throughout the residence. The hallways are pitch-black for at least an hour and a half daily. Locks in the stairwells seem to be broken with some regularity." Who knew transit oriented mixed-use living starting at $1565 a month was so grand.

http://laist.com/2008/09/02/crime_problems_at_lofts_at_noho_com.php#comments

THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS IS A TICKING TIME BOMB

2008-09-02T02:15:00.001-07:00

THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS IS A TICKING TIME BOMB

I write this as an anonymous resident for fear of any kind retaliatory attack from either the property owner, Scott McCarter of Redwood Partners, Inc. and his counsel, the management staff from Legacy Partners, Inc., or from any of the residents who left threats on the petition.

I for one agree with the petition of a twenty-four hour, four man security presence 100%. It is simply irresponsible for any kind of a property this size to not have at least that. I am a television producer working the assignment desk at one of the news bureaus. I see everyday what the potential of a neglected security presence can do. I know the history of gang violence on this neighborhood and this very block just a few years ago. Between the one security guard roaming around at his set hours, and nothing else present, it is a matter of time before something else happens here. It disgusts me to still see that white BMW sitting on the cinder blocks after all of these weeks.

I applaud LAPD for catching the individuals responsible. I’m grateful for the removal of the drug dealer and those involved in the prostitution ring. And the thought of seeing the used condom in the stairwell is simply uncalled for. But I ask, what about the woman who had her motorcycle stolen? What about the individuals who had their cars broken into? Let us not forget the poor woman who was held up at gunpoint a few months ago. What about her?

I work late hours and missed the meeting called by Mr. McCarter, but wished I were able to attend. I was told what transpired from some of the residents, and have seen some general improvements on the property. But my number one concern remains security. I am afraid. Lights are off throughout the residence. The hallways are pitch-black for at least an hour and a half daily. Locks in the stairwells seem to be broken with some regularity. I can break my lease, but that defeats the purpose of moving in to begin with. Many of the other families have members also in media. I don’t know how this level of neglect can occur, with the knowledge that more than two-thirds of the residents can make this very public very quickly. There are several celebrities that are our neighbors that moved in, in part because of the level of discretion we all have with one another. Imaging if one of their children or family members are hurt or killed. Every news agency will be on site. A class-action suit very much under public scrutiny will be front-page news over night. I personally will assign the one from this network without any kind of hesitation. I will then contact Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and Councilman Tom LaBonge personally.

So, the question that needs to be asked to the powers that be; “Will there be an appropriate 24-hour security presence soon enough, or will The Lofts at Noho Commons become another victim of a very much avoidable ticking time bomb?” I ask the question, as well as most of the families that reside here. Please don’t let a political intervention, or loss of life be the impetus to what ONE may perceive a Judge may consider “adequate.”

Anonymous.

Serial Sexual Assault Suspect Arrested

2008-08-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

News Release
Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Serial Sexual Assault Suspect Arrested

Los Angeles: North Hollywood Detectives have arrested a serial sexual assault suspect and asking any additional victims and witnesses to come forward.

On August 14, 2008, Miguel Angel Barrera, 44, a resident of Chino Hills, was arrested for multiple sexual assaults which occurred in the North Hollywood Area. To date, Barrera is known to have committed sexual offenses against three victims over the past two years.

The female victims are 14 through 23 years old. Barrera met his victims as they walked along the street in both the North Hollywood and Hollywood areas. He offered them high dollar employment as models for magazines and commercials. Barrera often spoke of his connection with movie studios while displaying business cards and photography equipment. After the victims agreed, they were taken to motels in Studio City where they were initially photographed before Barrera sexually assaulted them.

Barrera is an Argentinean with black hair and light colored eyes, 5-10, 190 lbs. He speaks with an Argentinean accent, dark complexion, and wears his hair slightly long.

Barrera has been associated with two different vehicles, a white 4-door sedan and a red 4-door, 2005 Dodge truck, license number 7P17947.

Barrera had applied to become a US citizen in the past. That request had been denied by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and an ICE hold has been placed on him in addition to his one million dollar bail.

The Los Angeles Police Department is interested in speaking with anyone who may have information on Barrera. All inquiries may be made to North Hollywood Detective Karen Crawford at 818-623-4090. On weekends or after hours, call the toll free 24-hour anonymous number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

http://lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_community_police_station/news_view/39120

Sexual assault suspect arrested

2008-08-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

Sexual assault suspect arrested
By Jason Kandel on August 19, 2008 6:15 AM
Police tonight are going to hold a press conference about the arrest of a sexual assault suspect.

On August 14, 2008, Miguel Angel Barrera, 44, a resident of Chino Hills, was arrested for multiple sexual assaults which occurred in the North Hollywood Area. To date, Barrera is known to have committed sexual offenses against three victims over the past two years.
The female victims are 14 through 23 years old. Barrera met his victims as they walked along the street in both the North Hollywood and Hollywood areas. He offered them high dollar employment as models for magazines and commercials. Barrera often spoke of his connection with movie studios while displaying business cards and photography equipment. After the victims agreed, they were taken to motels in Studio City where they were initially photographed before Barrera sexually assaulted them. Barrera is an Argentinean with black hair and light colored eyes, 5-10, 190 lbs. He speaks with an Argentinean accent, dark complexion, and wears his hair slightly long.

Barrera has been associated with two different vehicles. A white 4-door sedan and a red 4-door, 2005 Dodge truck, license number 7P17947.

Barrera's mug photo along with a photograph of his truck will be made available during the news conference.

The Los Angeles Police Department is interested in speaking with anyone who may have information on Barrera. All inquiries may be made to North Hollywood Detective Karen Crawford at (818) 623-4090.

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/2008/08/sexual-assault-suspect-arreste.html

Two Arrested for Theft of High Value Tires and Rims

2008-08-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

News Release
Friday, August 15, 2008

Two Arrested for Theft of High Value Tires and Rims

WHAT:
News Conference

WHEN:
Monday, August 18, 2008 10:00 a.m.

WHERE:
Archers Tow
12565 Strathern Street
North Hollywood, CA

WHO:
Councilmember Wendy Gruel
Commander Harlan Ward
Captain Kelly Muldorfer

WHY:
Beginning in May 2008, four geographical LAPD divisions experienced a high volume of thefts of tires and rims from newer model Mercedes Benz and BMWs.

A collaborated investigation by involved divisional auto detectives resulted in the arrest of two suspects who have been under surveillance in the Van Nuys Area.

The suspects are 18-year-old Vasiliy Polyak and 20-year-old Arsen Ovsepyan of North Hollywood. The video surveillance photographs were an integral part of identifying the suspects.

The arrest resulted in several search warrants being served and over 100 tires and rims being recovered. The tires and rims were being sold on Craig’s List and after being purchased from Craig’s List were being sold again on eBay. It is imperative to know that when purchasing items on-line, if the price seems too good to be true, then it probably is too good and is possibly a stolen item.

Further investigation revealed that Polyak and Ovsepyan were also randomly targeting the cities of Marina Del Rey and Santa Monica.

On Monday, August 11, 2008, the District Attorney’s office filed 18 counts of burglary and grand theft on Polyak and Ovsepyan.

http://www.lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_news/news_view/39097

WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER

2008-08-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

I’m speaking to one of our neighbors on the third floor yesterday, and a couple in there twenties arrives home. The woman goes inside, while the man finishes his cigarette. He puts it out on the wall just around the corner from his front door. I ask him, “Why did you do that?” He tells us he’s going to throw it away inside. He assures us he won’t do that anymore. My friend and I throw out her trash, and the trash room on the same floor is packed with empty boxes. Later, I arrive home and see the trash room door on the 4th floor on the Weddington Street side so full, the door doesn’t close. (I run into another resident, and he showed me photos of the same trash room he took with his cell phone minutes before). Then I walk around to the one on the Chandler Boulevard side, and it has one bag that could have been discarded down the trash shoot. This afternoon, there was a small cabinet left under one of the “guest parking” signs near the Chandler Boulevard elevators in the parking structure.

I ask the residents to please discard your trash appropriately. I was told by two residents last night they have seen rats. The management is making an effort, and so must we. I’ve seen some of the signs with the pressure cleaning schedules ripped apart in the elevators. I don’t understand disruptive behavior in one’s home. WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER. Let’s all work with one another to ensure our home stays safe and clean.

Speaking of which, I told tonight’s Courtesy Patrol Officer of a man sleeping not even twenty yards from the Chandler Boulevard entrance this afternoon. My fob didn’t work yesterday or today at that same entrance. This can be a potential opportunity for someone to take advantage of the situation. I mention this, only to ask everyone to remain vigilant of one’s surroundings.

COURTESY PATROL

2008-08-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

The number for the Courtesy Patrol
is 818-939-7082.

If you need an escort to your car, or to your home, please do not hesitate to call. At the moment there is one on duty overnight. He will also be available if there are noise complaints, or any other issues that pertain to security.

He is a representative of Group Investigative Services. Please give them a warm welcome.

We are grateful for their introduction. Thank you. Octavio Sanchez, some residents and I are meeting this week to discuss a possible timeline for improvements for The Lofts at Noho Commons. The addition of at least one more Security Officer will be suggested. The petition asking for a 24-hour security presence is still in effect. On good faith, the petition has been taken down from the Internet website after the meeting on August 6, 2008. We have collected over 130 unique signatures in less than two weeks. I have faith the management company will continue moving forward. Thank you.

MAN WALKS INTO A RESTROOM…

2008-08-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

The owner of Group Investigative Services told me yesterday afternoon, one of the Courtesy Patrol Officers found a homeless man asleep snoring loudly in the large stall in the men’s room next to the gym, the night before. When awoken, he was asked how did he get in. His reply, “I just walked in.”

CRA/LA

2008-08-08T23:13:00.000-07:00

Project Area Overview
The 743-acre North Hollywood Redevelopment Project area is bounded generally by Hatteras Street on the north, Cahuenga Boulevard on the east, 101 Freeway on the south and Tujunga Avenue on the west. The project is included in the CRA/LA East Valley Region.

http://www.crala.net/internet-site/Projects/North_Hollywood/index.cfm

THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS ARE THE WORST

2008-08-08T19:52:00.001-07:00

THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS ARE THE WORST - rottenneighbor.com
Posted by neighbor1981 203 days ago

Rodney in apartment 272 at THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS IS THE WORST **** NEIGHBOR!!! He is a film editor who works from his apartment and BLASTS HIS **** MUSIC AT ALL HOURS OF THE NIGHT. I have never wished ill will on any person in my life, but I truly abhor this person and the management group for doing NOTHING!!!!!! If you want to pay 2500 and up a month and live in a complex where it takes an act of god(congress to nonbelievers) to get a light bulb changed then The Lofts at NOHO Commons at 11136 chandler blvd is the place for you.

http://www.rottenneighbor.com/story.php?id=65126

E-POLICING

2008-08-08T19:45:00.001-07:00

E-POLICING

E-policing is our way of bringing community policing to the Internet.

Through E-Policing we aim to provide important law enforcement information to you. We hope that you will partner with the LAPD by providing law and crime information to us that is relevant to your neighborhood.

FOLLOW THE LINK BELOW TO SIGN UP.

http://www.lapdepolicing.org/

PETITION FOR A 24-HOUR SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-08-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

PETITION FOR A 24-HOUR SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS.

We have collected over 130 unique signatures in favor of the petition for a 24-hour security presence at The Lofts at Noho Commons. After our meeting with Scott McCarter of Redwood Partners, Inc., the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc., their legal council and many of the residents, in good faith I chose to take down the petition. I am meeting with Officer John Catalano Saturday October 9, 2008 to discuss the state of our situation. I am also meeting with Octavio Sanchez of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. to discuss a possible timeline Monday or Tuesday of next week.

As per the petition, “If there is no satisfactory resolution found by the residents by the property owners within 45 days of this posting, a copy of the signed petition, as well as a letter explaining the ever increasing irresponsibility by the owners, for the safety of the children, their families, and the other residents will be sent to Councilman Tom LaBonge, for Los Angeles Council District 4, Captain Sharyn I. Buck, Area Commanding Officer, North Hollywood Community Police Station, the Executive Board and the Board of Directors of the North Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Russ Stanton, Editor, and John Arthur, Executive Editor of the Los Angeles Times, and Laurie Ochoa, Editor in Chief of the LA Weekly.”

I intend to honor the petition to the letter, and hope the management and owner will honor their responsibility to the families that reside at The Lofts at Noho Commons.

Thank you for everyone who was at the meeting last night, I especially would like to thank Rory Fitzpatrick from Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge's office, Captain Jon F. Peters and Senior Lead Officer John Catalano from the Los Angeles Police Department, North Hollywood Division, the representative from the Police Advisory Board, Scott McCarter of Redwood Partners, Inc., the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. and the residents of The Lofts at Noho Commons.

I ask for everyone to remain vigilant of their surroundings, and please keep one another updated on our online blog at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ Thank you.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/index.html

LOS ANGELES GANGS

2008-08-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES GANGS

This is a small listing of links to information regarding gang activity and history in Los Angeles.

Gangs
http://www.lapdonline.org/get_informed/content_basic_view/1396

Gangs are not a new phenomenon. During the last five years, there were over 23,000 verified violent gang crimes in the City of Los Angeles. These include 784 homicides, nearly 12,000 felony assaults, approximately 10,000 robberies and just under 500 rapes. In the last few years the City of Los Angeles has experienced an epidemic of youth violence that has been rapidly spreading from the inner cities to the suburbs. Gangs are no longer just the problem of those who live in the crime ridden neighborhoods where the gangs thrive, they are now everyone’s problem.

There are more than 250 active gangs in the City of Los Angeles. Many of these gangs have been in existence for over 50 years. Sadly, these gangs have a combined membership of over 26,000 individuals.

More information can be found at
http://www.lapdonline.org/get_informed/content_basic_view/1396

Gang Injunctions
http://www.lapdonline.org/gang_injunctions

WHAT IS A GANG INJUNCTION?

There are currently 37 active injunctions in the city involving 57 gangs.

A gang injunction is a restraining order against a group. It is a civil suit that seeks a court order declaring the gang’s public behavior a nuisance and asking for special rules directed toward it’s activity. Injunctions can address the neighborhood’s gang problem before it reaches the level of felony crime activity.

Gang injunctions have a clearly demonstrable positive affect on the neighborhood area covered. Some have had a remarkable effect. In smaller areas, gang nuisance activity can be permanently removed. In larger areas, with gangs entrenched for years, the gang’s hold on the area can be reduced and maintained with a small team of law enforcement officers. Anecdotal evidence is fully supportive; residents continue to ask for the period of peace a gang injunction can provide.

Some press releases from The Federal Bureau of Investigation Los Angeles for 2008
http://losangeles.fbi.gov/press.htm

This a Fact Sheet from Violence Prevention Coalition of Greater Los Angeles.
http://www.vpcla.org/factGang.htm

Information from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.
http://da.co.la.ca.us/gangs.htm

Gang-Related Crime in Los Angeles County
http://www.laalmanac.com/crime/cr03x.htm
Information compiled from the L.A. County Sheriff's Department and the California Department of Justice.

A special report on gang violence in Southern California
Terror in our streets: L.A. Daily News Special
http://lang.dailynews.com/gangs/

In the event you would like to know about some of the gang activity in North Hollywood, here is a listing of articles from The Daily News (Los Angeles).

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/_/search/Search.aspx?SearchBy=0&Word=north+hollywood+gang&Search=Search&By=0

Statement from Edward Satterstrom's family

2008-08-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Statement from Edward Satterstrom's family
By Rachel Uranga on August 6, 2008 11:42 AM

Edward Satterstrom was the 16-year-old boy who was shot to death Saturday night in Sun Valley in an apparent random shooting by a gang member. Police are still looking for the suspect, David Aranda Hernandez, 18. Here's a statement from Edward's family:

Our family is truly shocked and saddened by the shooting death of 16-year-old
Edward Satterstrom on Saturday night in North Hollywood. Eddie, as he is affectionately known by those who knew him, was a genuinely good-hearted young man who was loved and adored by everyone.

Eddie was the oldest of seven children and is survived also by his single mom. He was a very loving son, brother and friend to everyone he came into contact with. His sudden,
unnecessary death has been devastating to our family and we heavily grieve his loss. Eddie adored his brothers and sisters and the support and attention he provided to them will truly be missed.

Eddie was looking forward to his first year of varsity football at Francis Polytechnic High School this fall. He told everyone how excited he was to become part of the team and how he looked forward to his first game of the season in just a few short weeks.
When he wasn't at school, Eddie spent a considerable amount of time caring for
his grandmother - who suffers from an acute stage of Parkinson's disease.

It is shocking to realize how many parents and families are touched by the tragic loss of a loved one many years before they are expected to leave us. Even fewer can understand the hollow, wrenching, and enduring agony parents silently suffer when a child
predeceases them - especially in the case of Eddie's mother. Although Eddie has
left this earth, his beautiful spirit and enduring memory will remain forever in our hearts. We are a very large and close-knit family and we're doing our best to stay strong.

The family continues to mourn Eddie's loss with family and friends at a
remote location from Eddie's home, in respect of his grandmother. We hope
that the media will respect the family's wishes and not contact or visit the family home for this reason. Additional family statements will be made on an ongoing basis, when appropriate.

We treasure and celebrate the beautiful life of our Eddie and are
humbled by the incredible outpouring of support from friends and family across the
country. These contributions have deeply and profoundly touched our hearts and lives and for them we are eternally grateful.

A fund to assist with funeral and legal costs related to Eddie's death has
been established. Donations may be made to the following:

Bank of America
c/o Edward Satterstrom

Details for further fundraising efforts, including a community car wash, will
be announced within the week.

We truly hope that members of the local community will continue to come
forward and provide any further information possible on the details of Eddie's
death to local law enforcement, so that our family can come to peace with the
reasons behind this tragic and heartbreaking incident.

If you have any information on this horrible tragedy, we hope you will
please contact the Los Angeles Police Department's North Hollywood homicide
detectives at 818-623-4075.

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/2008/08/statement-from-edward-satterst.html

PHOTOGRAPHS OF INADEQUATE SECURITY AND HYGIENE CONDITIONS AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-08-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

PHOTOGRAPHS OF INADEQUATE SECURITY AND HYGIENE CONDITIONS AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

http://hub.metblogs.com/profile/loftsatnohocommons

August 4, 2008

TO:
Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc.
Scott Morrison, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Mary O'Rourke, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Octavio Sanchez, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.

FROM:
Families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons

I have taken over 1500 photos with visual proof of dates and times Thursday July 31, 2008 through Friday August 1, 2008 to document the state of The Lofts at Noho Commons. They can be found online at http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f282/loftsatnohocommons/ I was specifically looking for cameras, and lack thereof, and found very limited camera coverage, broken locks on the street level and stairwells, electronic devices not working properly to gain entry into the building, lights not working in some common areas, trash, and dog feces and urine, (not to mention I was stuck in the elevator to the left in the Chandler Boulevard elevator bank once again). I will post more as time is allotted, including those of a used condom and tampon in a stairwell a resident showed me on his cell phone, as well as a photo I found posted online at http://www.flickr.com/photos/messick/2120996758/ of blood inside one of the elevators by another resident. Her caption reads, “We saw this moving into our new apartment at the Lofts at the NoHo Commons. I had just left the elevator 5 minutes before, so someone must have just left with a bloody nose or something.” The photo was uploaded on December 18, 2007.

Regardless of what is seen in these photos, I ask Scott McCarter, of Redwood Partners, Inc., Scott Morrison, Mary O'Rourke, and Octavio Sanchez, of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. to please take some time to review what is seen here. This is meant to provide information regarding the state of this residency. Please view this as a tool, and use it as such to help identify the security and the hygiene issues we are living with.

I am happy to say that some of these issues have been addressed since the photos were taken. Thank you, but feel they still need to be available for scrutiny, because all of the problems illustrated on these pages are either reoccurring on almost a daily basis, or have never been addressed. One security guard is very much welcome, but not enough. There are no mirrors anywhere, which could help families be aware of possible predators standing just out of the line of sight around a corner. The locks in the stairwells are a constant issue. The one for the fourth floor Northwest doorway has not locked for several weeks. It is a matter of time before the residents begin submitting written complaints to the health department, and soliciting environmental hygienists.

Please go to http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f282/loftsatnohocommons/http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f282/loftsatnohocommons/

I look forward to meeting with Mr. McCarter, and the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. on August 6, 2008. Thank you once again.

VALLEY CAR THIEVES DOING WELL FOR THEMSELVES

2008-08-04T20:09:00.000-07:00

Valley Car Thieves Doing Well For Themselves
Monday, August 4, 2008, by Dakota

Historically, some businesses thrive during recessions and it seems that Valley car thieves will post a very strong quarter. Following last week's mention of the car break-ins and security issues at the Lofts at NoHo Commons in North Hollywood comes news of more car break-ins in the Valley. Sending in the following photos, a reader writes: "My [condo] building, Addison Place, on Woodman and Addison in Sherman Oaks, was recently vandalized (at some point [Thursday] night) by burglars who stole wheels and rims, and left 4 vehicles on blocks. In total, they hit 2 BMW's and 2 Mercedes, but left a few more BMW's and all other vehicles untouched...I found out after waking up to 2 LAPD squad cars in my parking garage around 8 this morning."
· Lofts At NoHo Commons Has Some Security Problems [Curbed LA]

MEAN STREETS

2008-08-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

The daily news blog on police, perps and victims.

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/

SERIOUS SECURITY PROBLEMS AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-08-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

SERIOUS SECURITY PROBLEMS AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS - nsidela.com — The Lofts at Noho Commons. There is a hidden story developing here. Under the facade of the modern design and amenities, there is a story of dangers developing. The general consensus is focused on the well being of the children and families that reside here, as well as to deter the inevitability of more violence, further property loss and death.

http://digg.com/health/SERIOUS_SECURITY_PROBLEMS_AT_THE_LOFTS_AT_NOHO_COMMONS

RESPONSE TO INADEQUATE SECURITY AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-08-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

RESPONSE TO INADEQUATE SECURITY AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

August 1, 2008

TO: Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc.
Scott Morrison, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Mary O'Rourke, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Octavio Sanchez, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.

FROM: Families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons

As per testimony by the residents of numerous complaints to the leasing staff, at The Lofts of Noho Commons, at 11136 Chandler Boulevard, North Hollywood, California 91601, currently under the supervision of Octavio Sanchez, regarding security, maintenance, and health and cleanliness issues, you and your staff have had knowledge of resident dissatisfaction since the introduction of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. There has been a steady decline in all areas. In all fairness to your staff, we understand there has been some level of dissatisfaction regarding these same issues under Jodie Piccinino, while she was the community manager representing Alliance Residential Company.

Upon review of your letter posted on August 1, 2008, the obvious question one may ask, "why weren't the facts collected of the criminal activity at The Lofts of Noho Commons asked the day of the armed robbery in the parking structure months ago?" With that said, your staff has leased apartments to known drug dealers and prostitutes prior to that incident, which is common knowledge of the families residing here. In addition, numerous vehicles have been vandalized or stolen prior to the robbery, which due to the two cameras in the parking structure, provide limited coverage and to my understanding have not been useful to LAPD to provide any significant evidence of the crime occurring. The single camera in each of the stairwells only provides coverage of the street level doorways. Locks of the street level doors are often broken, propped open with rocks, or tape, as well as on different levels for weeks at a time. Lights in the common areas within the property are often dark, as well as insufficient lighting is available in the common areas outside 11135 Weddington Street, making it easy for predators to wait upon their next victims. The video feeds from the "working" cameras all go to Octavio Sanchez's office, not to a 24-HOUR ONSITE SECURITY OFFICER. The alarms on both doorways to the roof do not sound when opened, which is a fire violation, as well as the pile of boxes in the parking structure that have only recently been discarded. The electronic entry system at each entry point does not work with any consistency, as well has a "backdoor" access code one can use to gain entry the office staff denies exists. In addition, there will be more photos posted on the blog found online at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ of all of the common areas of The Lofts at Noho Commons in the next day or two, along with visual proof of when the photographs were taken. These photos will illustrate the size and scope of the property, as well as the lack of coverage of cameras, as well as to illustrate the problems with the lights in the common areas, and some of the other security issues described above.

The introduction of one patrolling officer between the hours of 9 PM and 6 AM is very much welcome, is far from inadequate to provide protection to the families and children residing in the 292 rental units, as well as the businesses of the 14 live/work units located on 11135 Weddington Street. With the sheer size of this property, and the number of families residing here, it is literally a city, and needs to have a law enforcement presence of one.

In addition, with the park due for construction across the street, next to The Gallery at Noho Commons, at 5416 Fair Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91601, as well as Phase 3, which includes the seven-screen Laemmle Theaters scheduled for construction on Weddington Street, The Lofts at Noho Commons literally will be in the center of an area which by design will help with the illusion of gentrification, while the neighborhood still deals with the issues of gang activity.

At a news conference on November 21st, 2006, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Councilman Tom LaBonge and County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky hailed the opening of J.H. Snyder Co.’s The Lofts at NoHo Commons for spurring the revitalization of North Hollywood.

“The NoHo Arts District is a unique and special place in Los Angeles,” said Mayor Villaraigosa. “The NoHo Commons not only embraces the unique character of the neighborhood, but it's a smart, transit-friendly development where an artist, a teacher or a firefighter can live and enjoy all that the community has to offer.”

I agree with Mayor Villaraigosa's sentiment, as well as many of our residents do as well. If this weren’t the case, all of the families would have relocated, or would never have chosen to make this their domicile. I find it hard to believe that Mr. McCarter and his investors, were ignorant of the history of this neighborhood, and yet never provided information to prospective residents, and families already residing here. You will find the review of the bidding security company will find the basic security measures offered inadequate, and not comply with local and state laws, especially due to the history of the neighborhood, as well as the history of the property. Landlords have a general common law duty to act reasonably under the circumstances or "act with due care" to keep you safe from noncriminal and criminal harm. California Judges have ruled that landlords must take reasonable precautions to protect tenants from foreseeable criminal assaults and property crimes.

The meaning of "reasonable precautions" depends on the situation. In general, if there have been prior incidents of crime on the landlord's property, and particularly if the landlord's lapse in security could have been remedied easily, the chances that the landlord will be responsible go way up. In this case, the thefts and vandalism have been happening for some time, and should have been addressed. Now with the introduction to violent crime, the landlord should have had a full security presence months ago.

We welcome the roaming officer while things are being worked out. But just has it always been illustrated by the lack of action by management, no contact information for the officer, nor the protocol for the residents on how to contact that officer has been provided. In addition, the single officer is also at risk because of not having any kind of immediate support in case of direct or indirect cause of action by any potential criminal activity.

Scott, please act quickly and appropriately. We have the lives of families and children at stake. We will be open to any positive dialogue that may offer a positive solution for everyone involved. However, there cannot be a compromise on the strength of the security presence. This is unacceptable.

With that said, please take the time to look at the petition that can be found online at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/ and the signatures found at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/signatures.html . There is also a blog posted offering additional information and photographs online at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ . These are not meant to be slanderous, but offered as tools to provide information for the residents to remain vigilant, as well as to help you locate some of the real problems the management team has been incompetent to rectify.

At this time, I will strongly suggest to fellow residents the solidification of a tenant association or committee. This committee will have the power to act as a unified entity to oversee the living conditions of this residency. We would work together with the management company to raise and maintain the general quality of our living experience at The Lofts at Noho Commons. This will cover all facets of The Lofts at Noho Commons. I also suggest to the residents to prepare, collect and have readily available, all relevant information, including documentation of any criminal activity known to you, including police reports if available, photographs, and any other documentation needed to solidify our position. If possible, please post relevant information onto our blog so that there is a public record of it. I ask the residents and I meet prior to your proposed meeting. Please give suggestions on time and place on the blog at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ .

I look forward to meeting with Mr. McCarter, and the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. on August 6, 2008. Let us hope that we can find an amicable solution to the ever-increasing criminal activities, and THE CONSEQUENCES EVERYONE WILL BE EFFECTED BY.

JULY 30, 2008 DOMESTIC DISPUTE AND…

2008-07-31T02:00:00.000-07:00

JULY 30, 2008 DOMESTIC DISPUTE AND…

Tonight a friend and I decided we were going for a ride on the bicycle path. As we are leaving the Chandler Boulevard entrance, a woman comes down to let in someone waiting outside near the door. Immediately he is the doorway, and we had to work our way around him to get out. Yelling begins as we are riding away. We turn around and park both bikes. My friend is in the door. Water was thrown onto the woman, as well as a new resident and her son as they were exiting the elevator. Some words were said and he left with minimal contact. The police were called, as he was walking down the block. I assume the woman went back upstairs. Minutes later I receive two phone calls from officers on the scene.

As my friend and I are returning, we see a police helicopter in the distance circling around. Since we were miles away we weren’t 100% sure if they were circling the building again.

We return and he is outside. He had a different colored shirt on. They were called again. And by the way, where is our security officer I ask? That’s right, we only had one patrolling the night before on loan.

All I want to do is have a nice home to come home to. Is that too much to ask for? This was clearly a domestic dispute between a resident and her boyfriend. It is not my business, nor do I want to even want to know about it. Something needs to be said, if I am seeing so much stuff on a daily basis just living my life. Imagine if I or someone else took the time to go through this place deliberately looking for problems.

We run into another resident. We all enter through the Weddington entrance. We begin discussing problems we have seen here, and he tells us of two guys trying to steal a car from the parking structure this past Monday. He will be signing the petition with all of the details about that incident. Then he tells us of two kids checking to see if the U-Haul truck that has been parked outside Chandler Boulevard for a couple of days was unlocked. He yelled from the balcony to get them away from the truck. This was today. Then he tells us of riding up in the elevator with four others, while two of them began jumping around. Of course, that is when the elevator broke that was out for a week.

This place is a time bomb waiting to go off. Scott, what is it going to take? Why have you been so resistant? Is it going to take someone hurt seriously or killed for the appropriate line of action to transpire? In that event, there will be lawsuits and negative press to tank this property. Can you really afford to take a nearly $100 million dollar hit? I’m sure your investors won’t want that. I pray there will be no further issues, but of course that is not realistic. With the history of gang activity in this immediate area, this property is a beacon for attention. There are people here daily checking out cars. I would like to ask, how many times have any of the residents seen people hanging out in cars just parked in the parking structure? How many times have you seen a really crappy car just drive in, circle around the guest area and drive out? I’ve seen both scenarios several times. Do you think the parking structure is the next cool place for adolescents to hang out? No, they are scoping things out. Please Scott, what is it going to take?

MARCH 31st 2008 to JULY 27th 2008

2008-07-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

MARCH 31st 2008 to JULY 27th 2008

This is a document that was given to me July 27th 2008 by a resident in executive protection.

One of our concerns in moving to a much bigger building than our prior residence was, safety! We also considered the area of North Hollywood because of the criminal element here in the surrounding neighborhoods. We were assured by the staff here that it was absolutely safe and that no real problems had ever occurred. The following is a list of our encounters here since we have moved in, just 4 months ago.
1. Armed robbery at gun point down the stairs near the elevators in the parking garage. Suspect put a gun to one of our residents head and stole her money.
2. Many times now there has been a group of gang style looking men down in the garage off in the corners and hanging around the garage, These same men have been seen in the stairways and hallways. They do not live here! Obviously!!!
3. I was informed by a complete stranger and again a man dressed in gang style close of the secret code to gain entrance into our building. A code the according to the staff here, not even they have the privilage of knowing, The code by the way is (Note: I removed it from this petition for safety reasons) Door opens right up.
4. Reports by other tenants of drug sells all hours of the day. I myself have witnessed marijuana being smoked and sold in the open. In the hallways, garage, and by the pool.
5. On 6-10-08 I called the Police and spoke to dispatch regarding strange people in the garage. When I asked them to leave I got told to go F--- myself and who the F--- was I!
6. 6-12-08 Police were called to a neighboring apartment and had to kick down the door for a domestic violence problem late at night.
7. A continuous smell of Marijuana coming into our apartment. This is everyday, 24/7.
8. Loud, thumping music at 2, 3, 4 o’clock in the morning.
9. Reports of vandalism and car theft on more than one occasion down in the parking garage.
10. Last week there was a used condom and an obviously used tampon in the stair way that leads to How’s Market.
11. 6-20-08 I took a picture today of yet ANOTHER bloody napkin and used condom wrapper in the stairway.
12. Spoke with Mary O’Rourke (Legacy Part.) in regards to all these issues today 6-20-08
13. 6-25-08 came home and found dead and rotting chicken parts in shopping cart in my hallway.
14. Met with Officer Cantalano on 6-23-08 in all regards, AS DID many neighbors.
15. 6-24-08 saw an Attorney taking photos of the garage, cars, trash, and other stuff down in P1 parking
16. –30-08 Weddington side stairway door that leads outside disabled by tape. Fixed open. I called building emergency number. Doors continue to be fixed not to lock…
17. 7-26-08 (Sat) suspicious person running down the hall on the 4th floor with a ski mask on holding a crow bar.
18. 7-27-08 returned home from vac. To find out that 5 cars down in our resident parking area had all 4 tires and rims stolen. These were BMW’s and Mercedes.
19. A used condom and wrapper found in the parking garage AGAIN, Photo taken… 7-27-08

My girl comes home late at night and carries large sums of cash at times. She is afraid to come home. She is afraid to walk from the garage to our apartment. Afraid to come home!!! I work in Executive Protection at times and have had to go down to escort her to our apartment because of this situation. This is no way for us or any of us to live. Had we known all this before moving in here, we would have definitely not made the move. Had we not have invested so much in our apartment with adding the second floor, we would move! We pay to much money to live here to have to deal with this crap! You need to hire security for the building! The NoHo bike patrol works outside our building and they are not armed. We rent from you and it is your job to keep us safe. This is a huge problem that you need to fix! Sooner or later someone here is going to be seriously hurt or God forbid worse even killed. I have contacted Officer Cantalano with these issues and will continue to go higher in the ranks through the city, police, and your company until something is done. This area used to be huge gang activity, especially the Weddington side. We need your help to make our home a safe one! Please take care of this! UNEXCEPTABLE!

JULY 30, 2008 ELEVATOR WORKS BUT…

2008-07-30T18:33:00.000-07:00

JULY 30, 2008 ELEVATOR WORKS BUT…

I walk into the chandler entrance today at roughly 1730 (5:30 PM). The gentleman repairing the elevator and I start a conversation. I ask him when he was called to come repair the elevator, because of some security issues we have been having, as well as it being down for several weeks. He proceeds to tell me what happened just a little earlier this afternoon right outside the entrance. Two uniformed policemen were chasing a man. He picks up the officers and begins pursuit. Two security officers on bicycles go a different way to cut him off. They catch him blocks away and a fistfight ensues…

Now back to the elevator. He told me that he’s suggesting to management replacing the elevator. The one’s we have are Japanese made and have overly complex moving parts. They will be problematic because of that. New elevators range from $10,000 to $12,000. He didn’t mention when the call came in, but did mention it not making sense paying him several hundred dollars and hour for several hours to replace a part that takes five minutes to swap out.

With that said, I would like to know why the elevator on the left bank on the Chandler Boulevard side was out for several weeks. Shame on you once again, Lofts at Noho Commons. See photos below.

I have some more photos of propped doors open, trash (both of which was phoned into the office hours earlier and have not yet been addressed at time of this posting), dog feces by the pool, just outside of the gym, and of course two more shopping carts.

In all fairness, I do commend everyone on making an additional effort on cleanliness for the complex. Thank you. Although there is a long plastic piece of furniture sticking out of the trash shoot on the fourth floor on its second day now… The effort is being noticed. I in no way wish to become a hall monitor. But from me walking to my car, and back, as well as stepping out to get something to eat down the block I see all of these things. The security issue still needs to be addressed. What’s going on? We as a community need to know exactly what is being proposed, and in writing. Since security is our number one concern, although welcome, the cleaning should remain at this pace, and should have always been at this pace. This is by far secondary, and to me looks like another distraction to a simple solution yet again not addressed. Again thank you, but there was a letter promised yesterday or today for the residents to review which at now 1830 (6:30 PM) has yet to have arrived.

LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS HAS SOME SECURITY ISSUES

2008-07-29T20:01:00.000-07:00

LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS HAS SOME SECURITY ISSUES - la.curbed.com

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2008/07/lofts_at_noho_commons_has_some_security_problems.php

"For $2,000 a month we expected to be treated with respect and dignity and our car was robbed and I'm afraid to be in the building at night. We're breaking our lease." That's one of many comments left on an online petition aimed at getting the Lofts at Noho Commons, that rental building in North Hollywood, to increase security. Notably, there was a recent incident in which a "masked male with a crowbar ran through the building," according to one resident. "This was less than 24 hours after four high-end vehicles were vandalized and rims were stolen. Women are afraid to leave their homes with the fears of a possible rape or home invasion." Also, there are prostitutes allegedly working in the development. Wow. Sounds like a great place to live. There's also a blog that details all the problems; that's a photo of the car vandalism.

To whom it may concern,

North Hollywood is currently going thru many changes by business owners
and developers, hoping to solidify a strong and safe community. One
property stands out, The Lofts at Noho Commons. It is a beautiful
property, centrally located in the Noho Arts District, across the
street from the Metro Station on Lankershim Boulevard. Even through the
architecture sets a tone more of a resort than that of a family based
residence. There is a hidden story developing here. Under the facade of
the modern design and amenities, there is a story of dangers
developing. Due to numerous requests by the residents for security
directly to the owner(s) at Redwood Partners, Inc. and the management
company Legacy Partners, assaults, theft and vandalism run rampant with
no resolve. The general consensus is focused on the well being of the
children and families that reside here, as well as to deter the
inevitability of more violence, further property loss and death.

I ask for you to take a moment to view a petition explaining in greater
detail, along with the comments made by residents demanding change.
There is also a blog posting photographs of conditions that the owners
refuse to acknowledge.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/index.html
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/signatures.html
http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/
http://noholiving.com/

The North Hollywood Community Police Station regularly sends officers
on calls here, most recently regarding a masked male with a crowbar,
running within the building’s interior on two of the floors. This was
less than 24 hours after four high-end vehicles were vandalized and
rims were stolen. Women are afraid to leave their homes with the fears
of a possible rape or home invasion. Stairwells are not secured with
locks that work properly, or are forced open. Elevators don’t function
for weeks at a time. Lights go off for days at a time that cover one
half or another of the whole complex. Parts of the complex are over run
by trash and filth, which must be violations of health and fire
regulations. The sight and smell of urine and feces are found
throughout the common areas. Drug dealers and prostitutes live and
“work” here, and in the stairwells. And yet nothing happens. This is a
very upscale community, which many of its residents demand discretion
from their high-visibility and high profile professional lives. All of
which have voiced and demanded action with no resolve.

We ask that you consider looking into our situation. There is
documentation of events by some of the residents, as well as some
officers from LAPD, including Captain Sharyn, I. Buck, Area Commanding
Officer, of the North Hollywood Community Police Station.

TODAY WAS AN INTERESTING DAY

2008-07-29T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today was an interesting day. I noticed the trash room closest to my apartment was clear of most debris, and I saw two of the staff in the parking garage clearing out the large area that had all of the empty boxes near the Weddington Street elevators. This was a welcome sight to see. Thank you.

Then one of the other residents and I had a walk through with representatives of a security company that may be coming on board. We showed them the whole complex including the roof. One of the hatches was open as seen in one of the photos below, and then was closed. Previously, that hatch has been open since I first moved here eight months ago. We all arrived at the office for a meeting the security company had scheduled with Octavio. The other resident and I left, and they continued on. As of now, one of the Officers is making his rounds and taking a sight survey. He told me he would be onsite until 0300 Wednesday morning, when his replacement will continue.

This is a good start. I am still adamant about us having a minimum of four onsite at all times. The owner of the security company agrees, as well as the other law enforcement officers I have spoken to.

I also found out the story of the masked man. It turns out he was one of our residents. I have heard he had a crowbar, a bow and arrow, and some other thing I’m not clear on. The reason LAPD never found him, he just walked into his home. Apparently he was not attempting a break in, or any other kind of violent act. The woman’s apartment believed to have had the attempted break in was never empty. She has been sick and bed ridden the whole weekend, very surprised of the news. Regardless of what his motivation was, in my opinion, this event was still the impetus to cause some positive action from the management.

With that said, I urge all of the residents to continue being vigilant about their safety and their awareness of their surroundings. Please encourage your neighbors to read and sign the petition, because it affects them as well. And I hope that whatever the management company offers us, we do not settle for anything less than what is proposed here. This complex is by far too large for one or two officers. Think of it this way. Whenever you watch a western film, you notice there always was a Sheriff, and five or six, if not more deputies, (sans the posse…) present. The towns of that time had roughly the same amount of residents as we do here at The Lofts at Noho Commons. It made sense to them, why shouldn’t it make sense to us? I am confident the security company will suggest what we proposed in our petition. Let’s make sure that anything less is not acceptable.

Everyone, thank you very much. I will keep you updated as I can of the events at The Lofts of Noho Commons.

Lofts At NoHo Commons Has Some Security Problems

2008-07-29T15:28:00.000-07:00

Lofts At NoHo Commons Has Some Security Problems
Tuesday, July 29, 2008, by Dakota

"For $2,000 a month we expected to be treated with respect and dignity and our car was robbed and I'm afraid to be in the building at night. We're breaking our lease." That's one of many comments left on an online petition aimed at getting the Lofts at Noho Commons, that rental building in North Hollywood, to increase security. Notably, there was a recent incident in which a "masked male with a crowbar ran through the building," according to one resident. "This was less than 24 hours after four high-end vehicles were vandalized and rims were stolen. Women are afraid to leave their homes with the fears of a possible rape or home invasion." Also, there are prostitutes allegedly working in the development. Wow. Sounds like a great place to live. There's also a blog that details all the problems; that's a photo of the car vandalism.

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2008/07/lofts_at_noho_commons_has_some_security_problems.php#comment-178230

SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-07-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS - rottenneighbor.com
Tue Jul 29, 2008 2:09 pm
http://www.rottenneighbor.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2843#2843
To whom it may concern,

North Hollywood is currently going thru many changes by business owners and developers, hoping to solidify a strong and safe community. One property stands out, The Lofts at Noho Commons. It is a beautiful property, centrally located in the Noho Arts District, across the street from the Metro Station on Lankershim Boulevard. Even through the architecture sets a tone more of a resort than that of a family based residence. There is a hidden story developing here. Under the facade of the modern design and amenities, there is a story of dangers developing. Due to numerous requests by the residents for security directly to the owner(s) at Redwood Partners, Inc. and the management company Legacy Partners, assaults, theft and vandalism run rampant with no resolve. The general consensus is focused on the well being of the children and families that reside here, as well as to deter the inevitability of more violence, further property loss and death.

I ask for you to take a moment to view a petition explaining in greater detail, along with the comments made by residents demanding change. There is also a blog posting photographs of conditions that the owners refuse to acknowledge.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/index.html
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/signatures.html
http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/
http://noholiving.com/

The North Hollywood Community Police Station regularly sends officers on calls here, most recently regarding a masked male with a crowbar, running within the building’s interior on two of the floors. This was less than 24 hours after four high-end vehicles were vandalized and rims were stolen. Women are afraid to leave their homes with the fears of a possible rape or home invasion. Stairwells are not secured with locks that work properly, or are forced open. Elevators don’t function for weeks at a time. Lights go off for days at a time that cover one half or another of the whole complex. Parts of the complex are over run by trash and filth, which must be violations of health and fire regulations. The sight and smell of urine and feces are found throughout the common areas. Drug dealers and prostitutes live and “work” here, and in the stairwells. And yet nothing happens. This is a very upscale community, which many of its residents demand discretion from their high-visibility and high profile professional lives. All of which have voiced and demanded action with no resolve.

We ask that you consider looking into our situation. There is documentation of events by some of the residents, as well as some officers from LAPD, including Captain Sharyn, I. Buck, Area Commanding Officer, of the North Hollywood Community Police Station.

At this time, I would like to withhold my name, but I would like to thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

loftsatnohocommons

Joined: 29 Jul 2008
Posts: 3

Back to top RESPONSE TO INADEQUATE SECURITY AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS
Posted: Tue Aug 05, 2008 10:05 am
RESPONSE TO INADEQUATE SECURITY AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

August 1, 2008

TO: Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc.
Scott Morrison, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Mary O'Rourke, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Octavio Sanchez, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.

FROM: Families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons

As per testimony by the residents of numerous complaints to the leasing staff, at The Lofts of Noho Commons, at 11136 Chandler Boulevard, North Hollywood, California 91601, currently under the supervision of Octavio Sanchez, regarding security, maintenance, and health and cleanliness issues, you and your staff have had knowledge of resident dissatisfaction since the introduction of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. There has been a steady decline in all areas. In all fairness to your staff, we understand there has been some level of dissatisfaction regarding these same issues under Jodie Piccinino, while she was the community manager representing Alliance Residential Company.

Upon review of your letter posted on August 1, 2008, the obvious question one may ask, "why weren't the facts collected of the criminal activity at The Lofts of Noho Commons asked the day of the armed robbery in the parking structure months ago?" With that said, your staff has leased apartments to known drug dealers and prostitutes prior to that incident, which is common knowledge of the families residing here. In addition, numerous vehicles have been vandalized or stolen prior to the robbery, which due to the two cameras in the parking structure, provide limited coverage and to my understanding have not been useful to LAPD to provide any significant evidence of the crime occurring. The single camera in each of the stairwells only provides coverage of the street level doorways. Locks of the street level doors are often broken, propped open with rocks, or tape, as well as on different levels for weeks at a time. Lights in the common areas within the property are often dark, as well as insufficient lighting is available in the common areas outside 11135 Weddington Street, making it easy for predators to wait upon their next victims. The video feeds from the "working" cameras all go to Octavio Sanchez's office, not to a 24-HOUR ONSITE SECURITY OFFICER. The alarms on both doorways to the roof do not sound when opened, which is a fire violation, as well as the pile of boxes in the parking structure that have only recently been discarded. The electronic entry system at each entry point does not work with any consistency, as well has a "backdoor" access code one can use to gain entry the office staff denies exists. In addition, there will be more photos posted on the blog found online at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ of all of the common areas of The Lofts at Noho Commons in the next day or two, along with visual proof of when the photographs were taken. These photos will illustrate the size and scope of the property, as well as the lack of coverage of cameras, as well as to illustrate the problems with the lights in the common areas, and some of the other security issues described above.

The introduction of one patrolling officer between the hours of 9 PM and 6 AM is very much welcome, is far from inadequate to provide protection to the families and children residing in the 292 rental units, as well as the businesses of the 14 live/work units located on 11135 Weddington Street. With the sheer size of this property, and the number of families residing here, it is literally a city, and needs to have a law enforcement presence of one.

In addition, with the park due for construction across the street, next to The Gallery at Noho Commons, at 5416 Fair Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91601, as well as Phase 3, which includes the seven-screen Laemmle Theaters scheduled for construction on Weddington Street, The Lofts at Noho Commons literally will be in the center of an area which by design will help with the illusion of gentrification, while the neighborhood still deals with the issues of gang activity.

At a news conference on November 21st, 2006, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Councilman Tom LaBonge and County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky hailed the opening of J.H. Snyder Co.’s The Lofts at NoHo Commons for spurring the revitalization of North Hollywood.

“The NoHo Arts District is a unique and special place in Los Angeles,” said Mayor Villaraigosa. “The NoHo Commons not only embraces the unique character of the neighborhood, but it's a smart, transit-friendly development where an artist, a teacher or a firefighter can live and enjoy all that the community has to offer.”

I agree with Mayor Villaraigosa's sentiment, as well as many of our residents do as well. If this weren’t the case, all of the families would have relocated, or would never have chosen to make this their domicile. I find it hard to believe that Mr. McCarter and his investors, were ignorant of the history of this neighborhood, and yet never provided information to prospective residents, and families already residing here. You will find the review of the bidding security company will find the basic security measures offered inadequate, and not comply with local and state laws, especially due to the history of the neighborhood, as well as the history of the property. Landlords have a general common law duty to act reasonably under the circumstances or "act with due care" to keep you safe from noncriminal and criminal harm. California Judges have ruled that landlords must take reasonable precautions to protect tenants from foreseeable criminal assaults and property crimes.

The meaning of "reasonable precautions" depends on the situation. In general, if there have been prior incidents of crime on the landlord's property, and particularly if the landlord's lapse in security could have been remedied easily, the chances that the landlord will be responsible go way up. In this case, the thefts and vandalism have been happening for some time, and should have been addressed. Now with the introduction to violent crime, the landlord should have had a full security presence months ago.

We welcome the roaming officer while things are being worked out. But just has it always been illustrated by the lack of action by management, no contact information for the officer, nor the protocol for the residents on how to contact that officer has been provided. In addition, the single officer is also at risk because of not having any kind of immediate support in case of direct or indirect cause of action by any potential criminal activity.

Scott, please act quickly and appropriately. We have the lives of families and children at stake. We will be open to any positive dialogue that may offer a positive solution for everyone involved. However, there cannot be a compromise on the strength of the security presence. This is unacceptable.

With that said, please take the time to look at the petition that can be found online at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/ and the signatures found at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/signatures.html . There is also a blog posted offering additional information and photographs online at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ . These are not meant to be slanderous, but offered as tools to provide information for the residents to remain vigilant, as well as to help you locate some of the real problems the management team has been incompetent to rectify.

At this time, I will strongly suggest to fellow residents the solidification of a tenant association or committee. This committee will have the power to act as a unified entity to oversee the living conditions of this residency. We would work together with the management company to raise and maintain the general quality of our living experience at The Lofts at Noho Commons. This will cover all facets of The Lofts at Noho Commons. I also suggest to the residents to prepare, collect and have readily available, all relevant information, including documentation of any criminal activity known to you, including police reports if available, photographs, and any other documentation needed to solidify our position. If possible, please post relevant information onto our blog so that there is a public record of it. I ask the residents and I meet prior to your proposed meeting. Please give suggestions on time and place on the blog at http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/ .

I look forward to meeting with Mr. McCarter, and the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. on August 6, 2008. Let us hope that we can find an amicable solution to the ever-increasing criminal activities, and THE CONSEQUENCES EVERYONE WILL BE EFFECTED BY.

loftsatnohocommons

Joined: 29 Jul 2008
Posts: 3

Back to top PHOTOGRAPHS OF INADEQUATE SECURITY AND HYGIENE CONDITIONS
Posted: Tue Aug 05, 2008 10:06 am
PHOTOGRAPHS OF INADEQUATE SECURITY AND HYGIENE CONDITIONS AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

August 4, 2008

TO:
Scott McCarter, Redwood Partners, Inc.
Scott Morrison, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Mary O'Rourke, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.
Octavio Sanchez, Legacy Partners Residential, Inc.

FROM:
Families residing at The Lofts at Noho Commons

I have taken over 1500 photos with visual proof of dates and times Thursday July 31, 2008 through Friday August 1, 2008 to document the state of The Lofts at Noho Commons. They can be found online at http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f282/loftsatnohocommons/ I was specifically looking for cameras, and lack thereof, and found very limited camera coverage, broken locks on the street level and stairwells, electronic devices not working properly to gain entry into the building, lights not working in some common areas, trash, and dog feces and urine, (not to mention I was stuck in the elevator to the left in the Chandler Boulevard elevator bank once again). I will post more as time is allotted, including those of a used condom and tampon in a stairwell a resident showed me on his cell phone, as well as a photo I found posted online at http://www.flickr.com/photos/messick/2120996758/ of blood inside one of the elevators by another resident. Her caption reads, “We saw this moving into our new apartment at the Lofts at the NoHo Commons. I had just left the elevator 5 minutes before, so someone must have just left with a bloody nose or something.” The photo was uploaded on December 18, 2007.

Regardless of what is seen in these photos, I ask Scott McCarter, of Redwood Partners, Inc., Scott Morrison, Mary O'Rourke, and Octavio Sanchez, of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. to please take some time to review what is seen here. This is meant to provide information regarding the state of this residency. Please view this as a tool, and use it as such to help identify the security and the hygiene issues we are living with.

I am happy to say that some of these issues have been addressed since the photos were taken. Thank you, but feel they still need to be available for scrutiny, because all of the problems illustrated on these pages are either reoccurring on almost a daily basis, or have never been addressed. One security guard is very much welcome, but not enough. There are no mirrors anywhere, which could help families be aware of possible predators standing just out of the line of sight around a corner. The locks in the stairwells are a constant issue. The one for the fourth floor Northwest doorway has not locked for several weeks. It is a matter of time before the residents begin submitting written complaints to the health department, and soliciting environmental hygienists.

Please go to http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f282/loftsatnohocommons/

I look forward to meeting with Mr. McCarter, and the representatives of Legacy Partners Residential, Inc. on August 6, 2008. Thank you once again.

SERIOUS SECURITY ISSUES AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-07-28T17:51:00.001-07:00

To whom it may concern,

North Hollywood is currently going thru many changes by business owners and developers, hoping to solidify a strong and safe community. One property stands out, The Lofts at Noho Commons. It is a beautiful property, centrally located in the Noho Arts District, across the street from the Metro Station on Lankershim Boulevard. Even through the architecture sets a tone more of a resort than that of a family based residence. There is a hidden story developing here. Under the facade of the modern design and amenities, there is a story of dangers developing. Due to numerous requests by the residents for security directly to the owner(s) at Redwood Partners, Inc. and the management company Legacy Partners, assaults, theft and vandalism run rampant with no resolve. The general consensus is focused on the well being of the children and families that reside here, as well as to deter the inevitability of more violence, further property loss and death.

I ask for you to take a moment to view a petition explaining in greater detail, along with the comments made by residents demanding change. There is also a blog posting photographs of conditions that the owners refuse to acknowledge.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/index.html
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/signatures.html
http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/
http://noholiving.com/

The North Hollywood Community Police Station regularly sends officers on calls here, most recently regarding a masked male with a crowbar, running within the building’s interior on two of the floors. This was less than 24 hours after four high-end vehicles were vandalized and rims were stolen. Women are afraid to leave their homes with the fears of a possible rape or home invasion. Stairwells are not secured with locks that work properly, or are forced open. Elevators don’t function for weeks at a time. Lights go off for days at a time that cover one half or another of the whole complex. Parts of the complex are over run by trash and filth, which must be violations of health and fire regulations. The sight and smell of urine and feces are found throughout the common areas. Drug dealers and prostitutes live and “work” here, and in the stairwells. And yet nothing happens. This is a very upscale community, which many of its residents demand discretion from their high-visibility and high profile professional lives. All of which have voiced and demanded action with no resolve.

We ask that you consider looking into our situation. There is documentation of events by some of the residents, as well as some officers from LAPD, including Captain Sharyn, I. Buck, Area Commanding Officer, of the North Hollywood Community Police Station.

PETITION FOR A 24-HOUR SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

2008-07-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS

PETITION FOR A 24-HOUR SECURITY PRESENCE AT THE LOFTS AT NOHO COMMONS.

The purpose of this petition is to establish a permanent 24-hour security presence at The Lofts at Noho Commons, in North Hollywood, California 91601.

Due to the increasing number of criminal activity, I ask for our fellow residents to consider the placement of a minimum of one Security Officer at the Chandler Boulevard entrance located at 11136 Chandler Boulevard, one Security Officer at the Weddington Street entrance located at 11135 Weddington Street, one Security Officer in the parking structure, and one roaming Security Officer 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

Due to failed attempts by resident’s requests for the above mentioned, as of July 26, 2008, there has been an armed robbery, an assault, and several cases of theft and vandalism to resident’s vehicles and property. Everything that has happened here could have been avoided. It is a matter of time before there is an altercation or loss of life, due to negligence by the property owners.

A copy of this petition will be forwarded to the owners of the property at Redrock Partners, Inc. once signatures have been collected.

If there is no satisfactory resolution found by the residents by the property owners within 45 days of this posting, a copy of the signed petition, as well as a letter explaining the ever increasing irresponsibility by the owners, for the safety of the children, their families, and the other residents will be sent to Councilman Tom LaBonge, for Los Angeles Council District 4, Captain Sharyn I. Buck, Area Commanding Officer, North Hollywood Community Police Station, the Executive Board and the Board of Directors of the North Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Russ Stanton, Editor, and John Arthur, Executive Editor of the Los Angeles Times, and Laurie Ochoa, Editor in Chief of the LA Weekly.

If you support our efforts to live as a flourishing community, please add your signature below. Our solidarity will be the only way to ensure change.

Thank you.

http://loftsatnohocommons.blogspot.com/2008/08/petition-for-24-hour-security-presence.html

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/loftsatnohocommons-safety/index.html

Serial murderers among us......

2008-07-07T17:26:00.001-07:00

Serial murderers among us......
By Rachel Uranga on July 7, 2008 5:26 PM

The FBI gathered investigators, psychologists and crime analysts from across the country to come up with profiles of serial killers.

Their study released today from the Behavorial Science wing of the bureau is supposed to help cops detect those killers. Along the way it busts some of those myths that serial killers are freaky loners like Hannibal Lecter, or that they simply want to get caught, like the Zodiac Killer.

It's an interesting read, with background on where the phenomenon of serial killers began and even a letter from Jack the Ripper.

Dear Boss I keep on hearing the police have caught me but they wont fix me just yet. I have laughed when they look so clever and talk about being on the right track. That joke about Leather Apron gave me real fits. I am down on whores and I shant quit ripping them till I do get buckled. Grand work the last job was. I gave the lady no time to squeal. How can they catch me now. I love my work and want to start again. You will soon hear of me with my funny little games. I saved some of the proper red stuff in a ginger beer bottle over the last job to write with but it went thick like glue and I cant use it. Red ink is fit enough I hope ha. ha. The next job I do I shall clip the ladys ears off and send to the police officers just for jolly wouldn't you. Keep this letter back till I do a bit more work, then give it out straight. My knife's so nice and sharp I want to get to work right away if I get a chance. Good luck. Yours truly Jack the Ripper

Here's the report.

http://www.fbi.gov/publications/serial_murder.htm

......And a few "myth busters" from the press release:

1) Serial killers are not all dysfunctional loners: some have had wives and kids and full-time jobs and have been very active in their community or church or both.
2) Serial killers are not all white males: the racial diversification of serial killers generally mirrors the overall U.S. population.
3) Serial killers do not want to get caught: over time, as they kill without being discovered, they get careless during their crimes.

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/2008/07/serial-murders-among-us.html

NORTH HOLLYWOOD C-PAB MEETING MINUTES

2008-06-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

North Hollywood C-PAB Meeting Minutes

http://www.lapdonline.org/search_results/content_basic_view/23620

NORTH HOLLYWOOD AREA
COMMUNITY POLICE ADVISORY BOARD
MEETING/MINUTES
Kaiser Laboratories
11668 Sherman Way, North Hollywood

Thursday, June 19, 2008
1900 Hours

CPAB MEMBER

1. Cary Adams*
2. Vickie Aguilar*
3. Larry Blumenstein*
4. Sandra Bryant
5. Joseph Bryant
6. Maria Burtt*
7. Chris Greene
8. Sheri Herman
9. Rafael Herrera*
10. Suzi Hokom*
11. Tony Martinez
12. John McRae
13. Andrea Neuman*
14. Levis Pasco
15. Jose A. Pasco
16. Herb Pencille*
17. Nick Pool
18. Eric Reuveni
19. Gregory Ruiz*
20. Dee Sherrod
21. Pamela Ventura
22. Ralph Ventura
23. Michael Teichman
24. Captain Sharyn Buck, Commanding Officer, North Hollywood Area
25. Captain Len Hundshamer, Commanding Officer, North Hollywood Patrol Division
* Members not in attendance

GUESTS/OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE

1. Officer Esther Vasquez (15A3) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
2. Officer Gabe Ahedo (15A13) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
3. Officer Jennifer Duvally (15A21) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
4. Officer Chris Rowland (15A33) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
5. Officer John Catalano (15A39) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
6. Officer Robert Benavidez (15A67) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
7. Officer Mike Lewis (15A85) North Hollywood Senior Lead Officer
8. Stephen Thorne Representative, Police Commission
9. Manny Figueras Representative, Councilmember Richard Alarcon
10. Deanna Berman Special Assistant, Councilmember Tom LaBonge
11. Ruben Zaragoza Representative, Councilmember Tony Cardenas
12. Tim Saito North Hollywood Area Neighborhood Prosecutor
13. Connie Elliot Weddinton Parks
14. Caroline Lammers Valley Plaza Recreation Center
15. Ruby Mendoza Fernangeles Recreation Center Asst I
16. Sofia Mendoza Fernangeles Recreation Center Asst II
17. Larry Mellon Fernangeles Park
18. Pat Davenport Stagg/Clybourn Neighborhood Watch
19. John Bwarie Toluca Vista Neighborhood Watch
20. Lucia Affentranger NoHo Community Club
21. Virginia Beck Neenach Neighborhood Watch
22. Kate Brom Blue Moon Nights
23. Madhan Johnson Blue Moon Nights
24. Jerrell Walls MTNHNC/Christ Chapel
25. Tanya Leder Community Guest

Guest Speaker – Lieutenant Loren Farrell, Financial Crimes Division

Lieutenant Farrell gave a presentation on Identity theft, stating that the San Fernando Valley was the identity theft capital of the world. He also 530 PC, Identity Theft and described the various categories of identity theft as well as provided prevention tips.

Area Update

Captain Buck announced the transfer of Captain Hundshamer to Olympic Station and that Officer Duvally would be on loan to the SLO office, working for Basic Car 15A21. Violent crime is down in North Hollywood Area. Updates were given on a recent double homicide in Officer Rowland’s area that resulted in one arrest and an Officer involved Shooting involving Vineland Boys gang members that resulted in three arrests. She announced this year’s North Hollywood Areas National Night out activities and stressed that CPAB participate. She invited the group to hear a presentation on protecting children from cell phone predators on June 25, 2008, at the North Hollywood Community Police Station. The presentation will be given by Bob Lotter. Captain Buck also talked about the importance of e-policing and asked the group for their e-mail addresses so an e-mail system between the Captain’s office and the community could be implemented. She thanked those who attended the recent C.P.A.B Summit and announced a CPAB Field Trip to be planned in the near future.

Calendar of Events

“Protecting Your Children From Cell Phone Predators”
Guest Speaker – Bob Lotter
North Hollywood Community PoliceStation Community Room
Wednesday, June 25, 9:00 – 10:00am

C.P.AB Web Calendar Update

Erik Reuveni gave the update on behalf of Andrea Neuman, who was out of town. The site is ready to be launched and Andrea will give a demonstration at the next meeting.

S.L.O Update

Officer Esther Vasquez (15A3) – Officer Vasquez stated that overall crime in her area was down, however robberies were up. She gave updates on a recent shooting, a stabbing and an upcoming vendor task force that is coming up.

Officer Gabriel Ahedo (15A13) – Officer Ahedo updated the group on an attempt murder between gang members that occurred in his area.

Officer Jenifer Duvally (15A21) – Officer Duvally stated that burglaries and robberies were down in her area. Burglaries from motor vehicles remained about the same. She gave updates on the clean-up of a homeless encampment on Saticoy, graffiti occurring in alleys along Coldwater Canyon and a recent Basic Car Meeting.

Officer Chris Rowland (15A33) – Officer Rowland stated that overall crime in his area was up. He gave updates on a double homicide and his efforts to address crime and transients along vacant areas of Valley Plaza.

Officer John Catalano (15A39) – Officer Catalano stated that overall crime in his area was down. His area newsletter will be coming out soon. He gave updates on some Clanton gang member arrests in the area of Whitnall Highway and the closing of the Red Rooster Bar.

Officer Robert Benavidez (15A67) – Officer Benavidez stated that though overall crime in his area was down this year, burglaries from motor vehicles were up. He stressed the importance of community involvement in keeping crime down. He gave an update on a couple burglaries in the Toluca Lake area and provided details on a car show there that would benefit Police Activities League Supporters (PALS)

Officer Mike Lewis (15A85) – Officer Lewis stated that overall crime in his area was down. Burglaries from motor vehicles were up however. He gave an update on a robbery that occurred on Laurelcrest Avenue and the recent arrest of the suspect.

Public Comment
• Tim Saito described the Neighborhood Prosecutor Program and gave updates on current projects he is working on. These included a day laborer program with Officer Catalano, vacant house locations, Valley Plaza homeless encampments and Fernangeles Park.
• Pastor Jerrell Walls distributed an election handout regarding the 2008 Mid Town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council.
• Ruben Zaragoza distributed a Family Summer Festival handout from Councilmember Tony Cardenas’ office.

Next C.P.A.B Meeting Thursday, July 17, 2008

Man Stabbed to Death on Street

2008-06-08T14:44:00.000-07:00

News Release
Sunday, June 8, 2008

Man Stabbed to Death on Street

Los Angeles: A man was found stabbed to death near the intersection of Saticoy Street and Morella Avenue late Saturday night.

On June 7, 2008, at around 11:40 p.m., police were called to the area of Saticoy Street and Morella Avenue to investigate a man down at the location. When officers arrived they discovered 34-year-old man lying on the sidewalk with multiple stab wounds.

Los Angeles City Fire personnel responded and provided emergency treatment for the victim before transporting him to a local hospital where he died.

Detectives believe that the victim had been walking westbound on the north side of Saticoy Street when the suspect, identified as Edwin Morales, a 20-year-old resident of North Hollywood, confronted the victim and began to argue with him. Suspect Morales struck the victim over the head with a glass bottle then stabbed him multiple times with a knife.

North Hollywood Detectives took Morales into custody without incident on Sunday, June 8, 2008, around 11:30 a.m.

The name of the victim is being withheld pending notification to members of the victim's family.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call North Hollywood Homicide Detective Richard Wheeler at 818-623-4075. After hours or on weekends, calls may directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

http://www.lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_news/news_view/38471

Teen Shot at Party

2008-05-31T14:53:00.000-07:00

News Release
Saturday, May 31, 2008

Teen Shot at Party

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the person responsible for the shooting death of a 17-year old teen.

On Saturday, May 31, 2008, just after midnight, North Hollywood patrol officers responded to a shooting call in the 12000 block of Neenach where they found the victim lying on the ground with multiple gun shot wounds to his torso. Los Angeles Fire Department responded and immediately rendered medical treatment. The victim did not respond to their efforts and as result they pronounced him dead.

The preliminary investigation revealed that both the victim and the suspect had attended a party and had been engaged in a heated argument with each other. The suspect produced an unknown caliber handgun and fired multiple shots at the victim from close range, striking the victim in his upper torso. The victim fell to the ground and the suspect fled from the location.

The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of his family.

Suspect and weapon are still outstanding.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call North Hollywood Homicide Detective Richard Wheeler at (818) 623-4075. After hours and on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).

http://www.lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_news/news_view/38369

Neighborhood Watches Do Work... If You Communicate

2008-05-23T01:15:00.000-07:00

Neighborhood Watches Do Work... If You Communicate

MAY 22, 2008

http://laist.com/2008/05/22/neighborhood_wa.php

After a rash of shootings in the San Fernando Valley that left eight injured and two dead within four hours on Tuesday night, the Daily News mentions that Councilman Richard Alarcon and Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who represent parts of the East Valley, "are doubling efforts to build Neighborhood Watch programs."

In Greuel's district, many watch programs have been forming over the last year. Last Friday night, a group of residents in East Sherman Oaks gathered at one neighbor's yard to meet with the LAPD Senior Lead Officer for the area to discuss the recent crime activity and to reactive the watch. When the officer asked how many people had their car broken into during the time they lived there, most of the 40 or so attendees raised their hands.

The questions and comments from the residents were amazing. Amazing as in numerous statements from cul-de-sac homes who say drug deals or otherwise sketchy activities are taking place outside their window. The theme of the night easily became that people need to inform the police of what was happening in their neighborhood -- to not be hesitant to pick up the phone and either call non-emergency or 911, depending on the situation. Communication is key, otherwise, you get more of what happened earlier this year when a man was stabbed, left on the street crying for help as neighbors ignored him, thinking he was just another homeless crazy.

Man on Shooting Spree in North Hollywood, Arrested

2008-05-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

News Release
Thursday, May 22, 2008

Man on Shooting Spree in North Hollywood, Arrested

Los Angeles: On Tuesday, May 20, 2008, police arrested Avetis Vartanyan, 24, the man responsible for going on a shooting spree in North Hollywood that left two people dead.

Just before 7 p.m., police received reports of a shooting in the 12000 block of Oxnard Street. When they arrived, they found the body of Artak Karamyan, 28, who suffered a fatal gunshot wound to his chest. Moments later, another patrol unit was dispatched to a second related shooting call near Vanowen Street and Coldwater Canyon Boulevard where they discovered another victim identified as Paylak Harutyunyan, 29, fatally shot.

After the shooting, Vartanyan was seen fleeing from the scene. Officers and a police dog searched the area and later took him into custody.

A dispute that involved both victims and a group of men was believed to be the motive for the shooting, a detective said.

Police searched the area for the murder weapon and recovered a pistol that Vartanyan had hidden in the yard of a home. A second handgun was also found inside a vehicle abandoned at the crime scene.

Vartanyan was charged with murder. His bail was set at $1,000,000.

On May 21, 2008, investigators served search warrants at three different locations throughout the San Fernando Valley. They confiscated three SKS assault rifles, two shotguns, one bolt-action rifle, three handguns, one bulletproof vest, and a large quantity of ammunition. The investigation is continuing and additional leads are being followed in an effort to identify and locate outstanding suspects involved in these two murders.

Anyone with additional information regarding this shooting is urged to call North Hollywood Area Homicide Detectives Martin Pinner or Jose Calzadillas at 818-623-4075. During off-hours, or on weekends, calls may be directed to the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

http://www.lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_news/news_view/38329

Valley Readies for Hot, Violent Summer

2008-05-22T01:20:00.000-07:00

Valley Readies for Hot, Violent Summer
THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2008

http://mayorsam.blogspot.com/2008/05/valley-readies-for-hot-violent-summer.html

After a particularly violent night on Tuesday, police have stepped up their patrols in North Hollywood and the Northeast Valley, where a total of six shootings took place.

And how do our council memebers react to the escalation in violence? Why, by asking the mayor for more money to fund their gang intervention programs, that's how.

From the horse's mouth - http://www.lacity.org/council/cd7/ via the DN:

"We are anticipating a hot summer, and things happen when it gets above 100 degrees," said Councilman Richard Alarcon, whose district includes Pacoima, where two shootings Tuesday left three wounded. Alarcon said he is pushing Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to speed up the funding of intervention programs in the area before summer. Both Alarcon and Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who represents North Hollywood, are doubling efforts to build Neighborhood Watch programs.

The brazen gun attacks started in Northridge about 6 p.m Tuesday, when a gray SUV with four men inside pulled alongside a 16-year-old boy walking near Wilbur Avenue and Parthenia Street. The boy told police he struggled with one of the men, who stepped out of the car and pointed a pistol at him, while another person emerged from the car and shot him with a shotgun.

An hour later, a fight broke out among nearly a dozen Armenian men outside a restaurant at Whitsett Avenue and Oxnard Street. The men appeared to have been arguing, police said, when a number of them pulled out guns and fired off more than 20 shots. An Armenian male identified as Artak Karamyan, 28, died at the scene. Police said a car-to-car gunbattle ensued, and the body of Paylak Harutyunyan, 29, was dumped at Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Vanowen Street.

The DN has a map and a timeline of the violence that errupted Tuesday night in North Hollywood, Northridge, Sylmar and Arleta.

2 Killed In North Hollywood Gun Battle

2008-05-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

2 Killed In North Hollywood Gun Battle
May 21, 2008

Police say two people were killed and several others wounded in shootings in North Hollywood on Tuesday night.

Shots rang out at Oxnard Street and Whitsett Avenue at about 7 p.m., where one body was found, Los Angeles police spokeswoman Officer Karen Smith said. A few minutes later, a second body was found at another location, at Coldwater Canyon and Vanowen Street, she said.

A suspect was taken into custody with the aid of a police dog, but police believe there are several more suspects at large.

http://www.topix.com/city/north-hollywood-ca/2008/05/2-killed-in-north-hollywood-gun-battle

Valley Shootings Leaves 2 Dead, 8 Wounded

2008-05-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

MAY 21, 2008

Valley Shootings Leaves 2 Dead, 8 Wounded

Within four hours last night, two people were shot dead and another eight were injured in a spree of gun violence that went from Northridge to North Hollywood to Sylmar, the Daily News is reporting.

It began in Northridge between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. where one 16-year-old boy was shot, but survived with non-life threatening injuries. Then one hour later, two men were shot and killed in related cases on Coldwater Canyon: one man at Whitsett and Oxnard near Los Angeles City College and another at Coldwater Canyon and Vanowen. One suspect was caught as police investigated these scenes.

At 8:30 p.m., four young men were shot and injured as they were getting into a car, three of them are reported to be fine -- the fourth's condition is still unknown. At 9:45 p.m., two black men were shot with non-life threatening injuries by Latinos in Pacoima. Then at 10:15 p.m., one Latino man was shot by four Latinos from a car in Sylmar.

Details have not been released on all these shootings, but it does not appear all ten of them are specifically related at this time. At least two are gang related, according to the Associated Press.

http://laist.com/2008/05/21/valley_shooting_1.php

Skeleton Bandit Nabbed in NoHo; Shot by US Marshal at AutoZone

2008-05-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

MARCH 5, 2008

Skeleton Bandit Nabbed in NoHo; Shot by US Marshal at AutoZone

Two North Hollywood news items melded into one last night when, as reported on LAist, a US Marshal walked in on a robbery in progress at an auto parts store in NoHo Arts, fatally shooting one suspect who is believed to be the "Skeleton Bandit."

The robber had recently unsuccessfully held up a local Jack in the Box and a mini mart dressed in an outfit initially described as a skeleton costume, but as reported today in the Daily News, his garb was "a sweatsuit with a green skeleton outline on front and back and a hood with an outline of a green skull that zipped up to conceal his face."

It is estimated that other recent heists helmed by the "Skeleton Bandit" had netted the robber just under $700; one score at the H&K Mini Market on Sherman Way garnered the thief a mere $9.

The Marshal took aim at the robber when he emerged from the AutoZone store at Vineland and Magnolia shortly before 6 last night; he "was holding a large amount of money and a butcher knife," reports cbs2.com. He died later at the hospital from his injuries.

A second suspect allegedly fled the scene, and a manhunt was initiated. It is unclear if the fleeing man was apprehended or remains at large.

http://laist.com/2008/03/05/skeleton_bandit.php

HOMICIDE IN NORTH HOLLYWOOD

2008-04-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

HOMICIDE IN NORTH HOLLYWOOD
By Jason Kandel on April 8, 2008 6:25 AM

I'm chasing down some more details on a homicide from Sunday night in North Hollywood. Here's what we have so far. A man was fatally shot as he sat in the passenger seat of a car parked outside a liquor store, authorities said Monday. The shooting occurred about 9:30 p.m. Sunday at Sherman Way and Lankershim Boulevard, said Officer Sara Faden of the Los Angeles Police Department's Media Relations Section. North Hollywood has seen more than five homicides so far this year, appears to be the the highest number in the Valley.

http://www.insidesocal.com/crime/2008/04/homicide-in-north-hollywood-ot.html

NOHO'S LIFELINE

2008-03-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

NoHo's Lifeline
Taxpayer money will help build massive project near Red Line station

By Daryl Paranada

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, local public officials, and community leaders were on hand Monday to break ground on the latest phase of a revitalization project in North Hollywood. The final phase of the NoHo Commons project costs $79.4 million and will bring a Laemmle Theater, retail, and restaurant space to nearly three acres one block from the North Hollywood Metro station.

“This project will represent another step forward in the push to invest in smart, transit-oriented growth with affordable housing and retail,” said Villaraigosa. “NoHo Commons is a bright star in the constellation of revitalization that has arrived here in North Hollywood thanks to the ascendancy of the NoHo arts district.”

A joint deal between the J.H. Synder Company and the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles, the project is the final component of a three-phase, $375 million revitalization effort that began in 2001. The first phase brought 438 mixed-income housing units to the area. The second phase, completed last year, contains nearly 300 rental units and 60,000-square feet of retail space, housing a supermarket, bank, and several restaurants. The latest phase will include a Class A office complex and parking garage.

“NoHo Commons is the place where L.A.’s past and future intersects in a grand fashion. This project has affordable housing, fine dining, shopping and entertainment, office space and it’s easily accessed by public transportation,” said Cecilia V. Estolano, CEO of the redevelopment agency. “It’s going to build on the cultural identity of the NoHo arts district and make this an even more significant entertainment center for the Valley.”

According to Estolano, $8.5 million of public funds is going towards the project, which she believes will help the area become one of the hottest office markets in the region within a decade.

“We’re getting an outstanding example of what happens when a developer works with the community, works with the CRA and creates a balance of opportunities and benefits,” said Estolano, noting that the project will also include a streetscape and arts component.

One of the cornerstones of the project will be a seven-screen Laemmle Theater, an art house chain that has remained an L.A. county institution since 1938.

“Development tends to be a negative word in this town, but people are very happy to see us come because they know that the name means something, what it stands for, and it’s a great amenity for the community to be able to see the types of films that we play here in this location without having to go over the hill or go a long distance,” said Greg Laemmle, the president of the theater chain. “In many ways this area represents the one authentic urban environment in the Valley and I think enhancing that and concentrating it with the density of housing and with the cultural, 24-hour amenities is just a great opportunity.”

City Councilman Tom LaBonge, who represents the area, recalled the days when Lankershim Boulevard was one of the commercial hubs of the city. “This was the main drag in the Valley,” said LaBonge. “As years passed it became a challenge. It became a challenge for many years where it wasn’t a place where people wanted to be. But artists came and entrepreneurs came and they created a NoHo kind of concept where people said this is a special place to be.”

Addressing concerns about the amount of growth occurring in the area, LaBonge said that there would be a balance between protecting the neighborhoods and bringing quality development to North Hollywood.

Among those who would be affected by the development was Peter Svidler, a developer building two residential complexes in the NoHo Commons area. “Having anything like this would certainly help bring buyers back to the area,” said Svidler. “I think it’s making it into a much nicer area with a great future.”

Published: 03/26/2008

NORTH HOLLYWOOD REVITALIZATION

2008-03-24T23:13:00.000-07:00

North Hollywood Revitalization
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 24, 2008
MAYOR VILLARAIGOSA, CITY LEADERS BREAK GROUND ON FINAL PHASE OF NORTH HOLLYWOOD REVITALIZATION PROJECT

http://mayor.lacity.org/villaraigosaplan/EconomicDevelopment/LACITY_004501.htm
Latest addition to NoHo Commons will bring a coveted Laemmle Theater, along with jobs and investment, to the San Fernando Valley

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Advancing his goal to attract new investment to the City in order to stimulate the economy and create jobs, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Tom LaBonge and leaders from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA/LA), JH Snyder and Laemmle Theatres broke ground on the third and final phase of the NoHo Commons project.
The new phase of the project will feature a seven-screen Laemmle Theatres complex along with 200,000 square feet of office space, 42,000 square feet of retail/restaurant space and nine residential units. Started in 2001, the three-phase, $375 million NoHo Commons project represents one of the City’s most significant efforts to revitalize North Hollywood and construct a transit-oriented development within walking distance of the North Hollywood Metro and Orange Line station.
Read more about the project at CRA/LA

Mayor Villaraigosa, Councilmember LaBonge, CRA/LA, J.H. Snyder Break Ground on $79.4M Third Phase of Noho Commons

2008-03-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

Mayor Villaraigosa, Councilmember LaBonge, CRA/LA, J.H. Snyder Break Ground on $79.4M Third Phase of Noho Commons.

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Mayor+Villaraigosa%2c+Councilmember+LaBonge%2c+CRA%2fLA%2c+J.H.+Snyder+Break...-a0176987267

Third Phase Features Office Complex, Theater and Family Diner within One Block of North Hollywood MTA Station; New Phase Brings Total Value to $375 Million

LOS ANGELES -- Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember Tom LaBonge and local public officials along with the J.H. Snyder Company and Laemmle Theatres, broke ground today on the third and final phase of the NoHo Commons project. The $79.4 million third phase, located on nearly three acres at the corner of Lankershim and Weddington, will include a new Laemmle theater, a Class A office complex and a family diner.

This latest component of North Hollywood's revitalization is part of a joint deal between the J.H. Snyder Company and the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles (CRA/LA) to redevelop and construct a transit oriented development (TOD) near the North Hollywood station.

"The NoHo Commons will bring jobs and economic vitality to the heart of the San Fernando Valley," Mayor Villaraigosa said. "This project represents the best in smart, transit-oriented growth - and it will play a leading role in North Hollywood's resurgence and the Valley's revitalization."

"What a great day for NoHo," Councilmember LaBonge said. "This project creates a crossroads for culture and commerce at the transit crossroads of this very important part of the San Fernando Valley," added LaBonge.

This phase of the project will include a seven-screen movie theater, top-class office space and restoration of a historic, San Fernando Valley diner under approvals granted Thursday, March 20 by the Board of Commissioners of the CRA/LA. It is advantageously located one block from one of the largest transportation hubs in the San Fernando Valley comprising the North Hollywood Metro station and Orange Line, and is adjacent to the Academy of Television Arts, home of the Emmys.

"We are pleased to be able to partner with the Community Redevelopment Agency on the third phase of this important project," said Jerry Snyder, Senior Partner, J.H. Snyder Company. "Not only will the project bring jobs to the community, but it will also help meet the growing demand for housing, retail and office space in the area. NoHo is one of the most exciting redevelopment areas in the city, and we know that the NoHo Commons will be a part of that exciting growth."

Community benefits include a One Stop Employment Center to be run by LA Valley College Jobs Coalition in 500 square feet of the office space. J.H. Snyder Company will also provide $1.5 million to Los Angeles Valley Community College Family Resource Center to train child care professionals and $3.25 million to Valley Community Clinic to refinance their facility and expand their clinical space for pediatric and other programs.

"Building a healthy community is more than just developing office space and housing. It's about creating economic opportunity and improving the quality of life for the people who live in the surrounding areas," said Cecilia V. Estolano, CRA/LA's Chief Executive Officer. "This project is an outstanding example of the type of well-balanced community benefits we can achieve when a developer, community groups and CRA/LA work together," Estolano added.

Pending City Council approval, CRA/LA-owned property at 5250-5280 North Lankershim Blvd and 11140 Weddington St. will be conveyed to SL NoHo, LLC, operated by JH Snyder. The firm will begin work on the third phase of NoHo Commons immediately. This is part of the three-phase $375 million project started in 2001 within the North Hollywood Redevelopment Project in the CRA/LA's East Valley Region.

"NoHo Commons has helped create several hundred new jobs, removed overcrowded and substandard housing, spurred new development, added public art and $6 million in infrastructure improvements and brought in a HOWS supermarket, plus a variety of restaurants and cafes," said CRA/LA Chairman William H. Jackson. "By adding a major movie house and restoring a unique, historic diner, the third-phase makes the area even more of an appealing destination and meets North Hollywood Redevelopment Plan goals."

Phase III, NoHo Common's final portion, will include an 182,000-square-foot office building with 10,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space; a 30,000-square-foot, seven-screen Laemmle Theater; and a 700-space parking garage.

"We are very excited about this opportunity to serve as one of the key arts anchors for the dynamic NoHo Arts District," say Jay Reisbaum, Senior Vice President of Laemmle Theatres. "We are planning a significant upgrade to the art film experience with amenities like stadium seating, high back love seats, all digital sound, wall to wall screens and high end architecture."

The 1920s era Phil's Diner designed in a railroad car style by Charles Amend and with a distinctive neon sign overhead, previously served generations in the San Fernando Valley from a spot on Chandler Boulevard. The diner will be relocated within the project and the diner's missing, original sign recreated.

As part of the financing agreement, the CRA/LA will provide the site to J.H. Snyder Company for one dollar, and then refund J.H. Snyder Company $3 million in land acquisition payments. The CRA/LA will also pay the company $4.2 million for providing public and theater parking for 45 years.

The NoHo Commons project was approved in 2001. Phase I, completed in December 2006, contains a 438-unit mixed-income residential rental project. Phase II, completed June 2007, contains 292 units of loft and live/work rentals and 60,000 square feet of retail/commercial space including the HOWS supermarket, a bank, mobile phone store and several restaurants.

About the North Hollywood Redevelopment District:

The 743-acre, North Hollywood Redevelopment District, is in the heart of the East San Fernando Valley and within the CRA/LA's East Valley Region. Since 1979, the CRA/LA has overseen the addition of new office towers, entertainment facilities, shopping centers and rehabilitated housing. Currently, the focus is on the NoHo Arts District, home to over 30 live theaters.

About CRA/LA:

CRA/LA (www.crala.org) is a public agency regulated by the State of California and operating within the City of Los Angeles. It attracts private investment into economically depressed communities to eliminate blight, revitalize older neighborhoods, build housing for all income levels and create and retain employment opportunities. CRA/LA manages 32 redevelopment projects areas and three revitalization areas in seven regions: East Valley, West Valley, Hollywood & Central, Downtown, Eastside, South Los Angeles, and the Harbor.

Argument Leads to Freeway Shooting

2008-03-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

News Release
Monday, March 3, 2008

Argument Leads to Freeway Shooting

Los Angeles: North Hollywood officers find victim of a single gunshot wound at Lankershim Boulevard and Hesby Avenue.

On March 1, 2008, around 1:50 a.m., 26-year-old Bunthan Roeung and his friends were driving on Hollywood Boulevard when they had a verbal dispute with several male suspects in a gray or black Chevrolet Monte Carlo with red pinstripes and possible “F-1 motor sports” paper plates. The suspects followed Roeung and his friends northbound onto the 101 freeway and began to tailgate them. Mr. Roeung was sitting in the rear seat when the suspect fired a single gunshot, striking the victim in his upper back. The victim and his friends exited the freeway at Lankershim Boulevard and drove to Hesby Avenue where they called 911.

The Los Angeles City Fire Department personnel responded and immediately rendered medical treatment to Mr. Roeung. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

The suspect is described as male Black, having a dark complexion and approximately 25-29 years old. He was last seen wearing a white baseball cap with a red bandana underneath. He is further described as being tall with a muscular build.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to contact Detective III Richard Wheeler, North Hollywood homicide at 818-623-4075. During off-hours or on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

http://www.lapdonline.org/north_hollywood_news/news_view/37700

Update on 101 Freeway Car-to-Car Shooting: 1 Fatality

2008-03-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

MARCH 2, 2008

Update on 101 Freeway Car-to-Car Shooting: 1 Fatality

As reported yesterday on LAist, a car-to-car shooting took place on the 101 Freeway between Hollywood and Universal City following a verbal dispute that took place between the occupants of two vehicles on Hollywood Boulevard.

26-year-old Bunthan Roeung was shot by one of the four black male occupants of a black Chevy Impala, and was taken by ambulance to Cedars-Sinai hospital. The vehicle exited the freeway at Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood, and the driver called 911. Police arrived to the scene at approximately 2 on Saturday morning.

Although initially reported as being wounded, Roeung was reported dead at the hospital after sustaining a shot to his upper back. The victim was a passenger in the vehicle, and was sitting in a rear seat, reports the Daily News. The matter that led to the argument and the ensuing violence remains unknown.

http://laist.com/2008/03/02/update_on_101_f.php

BLOOD IN THE ELEVATOR

2007-12-18T02:08:00.000-08:00

Blood in the Elevator
Uploaded on December 18, 2007

http://www.flickr.com/photos/messick/2120996758/

We saw this moving into our new apartment at the Lofts at the NoHo Commons. I had just left the elevator 5 minutes before, so someone must have just left with a bloody nose or something.

MARK VALLEN'S "ART FOR A CHANGE"

2007-10-26T01:51:00.000-07:00

MARK VALLEN'S "ART FOR A CHANGE"
A WORKING ARTIST'S WEBLOG FOR ART THEORY AND COMMENTARY.

http://www.art-for-a-change.com/blog/archive/2007_10_01_archive.html

I’m mindful of the fact that active state intervention in the arts cannot be looked upon as a universal remedy. Autonomous circles of artists and their supporters can accomplish great things if left to their own devices. But in the case of the NoHo Arts District, where a commercial development project is being imposed upon a community, city government must put aside buildings and resources so that artists may continue to explore and expand independently of mainstream corporate culture.

I feel great unease over the likelihood that the region’s relatively low rents and affordable housing costs will skyrocket due to commercial development - pushing out the majority working class and Latino populations who live and find employment in the community. For instance, a 930 sqft live-in/work studio space at the just completed, The Lofts at NoHo Commons, runs anywhere from $2,559 to $4,000, with the stipulation that residents be able to prove that their "monthly gross income must be equal 3 times the amount of the monthly rent." It is well and good that apartments and condos aplenty are being made available to people of upper income brackets, but where are the low-rent studios, workplaces and galleries being built for actual artists in this arts district?

I’m alarmed that there has been a total lack of transparency and democratic procedure in the entire process of developing NoHo - I can’t recollect a single community meeting being called by city government or private developers to access community needs and desires. A good example of the "behind your back - while you weren’t looking" nature of this development project, can be found in a Los Angeles Daily News article by staff writer Rick Orlov. His piece revealed that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board faced a conflict of interest over its vote to approve the $1.3 billion development project. It seems that 11 of the 13 MTA board members "had received campaign contributions connected to projects considered for the site." For instance, MTA board member David Fleming runs the law firm - Latham and Watkins - which represents Lowe Enterprises.