Lynwood and LASD on 'High Alert' to Combat Vandalism

The city of Lynwood and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) have announced the implementation of a ”zero tolerance” approach to local vandalism.

“While graffiti vandals have never quite disappeared, there was a time about three years ago, when vandalism hit an all-time low,” said Marisela Santana, public information officer for the city of Lynwood, in a statement. “But slowly, the vandals have made their way back to the City and are hitting businesses and properties, particularly those with alleys in the rear, more than ever.”

Lynwood’s municipal parks, such as Lynwood Park and the Yvonne Burke/Ham Park, have been among the hardest hit.

“The vandalism isn’t secluded to park property; the suspected vandals have targeted light poles near the parks and even sidewalks,” said Santana. “A 10-year-old was recently apprehended by the Sheriff’s Department for recently defacing walls at the City’s Youth Center on Birch Street.”

The Century Sheriff’s Station, which patrols Lynwood, is sending out a message that there will be zero tolerance approach to vandals, no matter how young or old.

“Everyone is watching now,” said Lieutenant Ernie Chavez, of the LASD Century Sheriff’s Station, in a statement. “From acts of vandalism to graffiti to groups of individuals congregating at the park, there will be zero tolerance.”

The LASD is stepping up its patrols around the parks and will make sure that residents or visitors respect the times of operation for each park.

“The park is closed after [10 p.m.], so there is no reason why anyone should be at the park at that hour – you will be stopped if you’re caught,” said Lt. Chavez. “If any of you see someone at the park at these hours of the night, then we need to hear from you. Call us, report those individuals.”

Deputies and the Lynwood’s Neighborhood Block Watch are said to be on high alert.

“Let it be noted, that there have been several arrests made in the City in the last few weeks of individuals caught with spray cans in their hands,” said Lt. Chavez. “Vandalism is a crime and it’s blight to the community.”

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