Police Asking for Public's Help in Rash of Tire Slashing

Three more people in Sherman Oaks have come forward to say that tires on their cars had been slashed at night during the period of March 19-22. The reports bring to 15 the number of tire slashing incidents in the North Sherman Oaks area that p0lice are investigating.

Los Angeles Police Department detectives say they have no leads in these cases and they are asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect or suspects.

Most of the tire slashing incidents have occurred either in the 1400 block of Davina Terrace, or in the 13400-13500 blocks of Margate Street and Huston Avenue.

"In some cases, all four tires have been slashed, while in others it was just one or two tires that have been destroyed, " said Detective Felicia Crockett.

Police cannot say for sure that one person has committed these acts of vandalism, but they are working on the theory that one individual or one group is responsible.

Officers are baffled as to the motive in these cases.

"The only positive development is we haven't had any tire slashing incidents since March 22," said a detective who talked about the cases but asked that her name not be used.

Investigators have not been able to locate any video surveillance, witnesses, or leads in these cases. Until a suspect can be caught,  detectives have provided a few tips that can help protect residents from becoming victims: 

1. Always park cars in a locked garage whenever possible. 

2. Park in well-lighted areas. 

3. Park in high traffic locations where suspicious activity is more likely to be seen. 

4. Park in areas covered by surveillance equipment. 

5. Be a good neighbor and keep an eye out for each other. 

6. Form neighborhood watch groups and neighborhood surveillance teams.

7. Immediately contact your area police stations to report any suspicious persons or activity.

Anyone with information is asked to call Van Nuys area police detectives at (818) 374-0017.