More car thefts and burglaries in Burbank

In the latest crime report from Burbank Police Officer Joshua Kendrick, only a handful of residential and business burglaries are listed for the past couple of weeks, the bad news — a lot of vehicle thefts and break-ins.

The report, released yesterday, mentioned some 21 vehicle crimes — all happened between November 11 and 21, 2011. During that time, thieves made-off with electronics, work tools, money, 3rd row seats, tailgates, and assorted other items. We’re heading into the holiday season when criminals hit store and shopping center parking lots with gusto. What can you do to minimize your chances of becoming a victim? Keep those packages and gifts out of sight and remember to lock your vehicle!

Update on the smart meter controversy

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Action member Kiku Lani Iwata spoke out in opposition to the smart meters at the Burbank City Council meeting November 15, 2011

Some local residents opposed to the smart meters are planning to meet after Thanksgiving to discuss their victory at the Tuesday, November 15 Burbank City Council meeting and to plot their next move.

At the November 15 city council meeting, a number of residents from Burbank and Glendale spoke about what they say are hazards, illnesses, and privacy violations associated with the smart meters. These new devices are being installed at homes, apartment buildings, and businesses throughout the Media City in a smart grid project estimated at $60 million. The new meters reportedly will relay user data to a central utility site. That’s right, meter readers will become obsolete.

In the past, the city council majority has pretty much ignored the complaints of residents and accepted Burbank Water and Power officials’ assessment that the smart meters pose no health risks or privacy invasion.  However, Councilman Dr. David Gordon wasn’t so quick to reject the claims of residents and called for a first step report on an opt out program for the smart meters.

After the testimony of residents on November 15, the Burbank City Council voted unanimously to move forward with a second step report, which would research options to the new smart meters.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Water and Power General Manager Ron Davis took notes during the testimony of residents opposed to the smart meters at the Burbank City Council meeting November 15, 2011

Thanksgiving benefit at Flappers Comedy Club

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Flappers Comedy Club at the corner of Magnolia Boulevard and First Street in Burbank

The Burbank City Council has declared November “Burbank Temporary Aid Center” month. BTAC is involved in a number of food drives, services, and events to help the working poor, seniors and the homeless in B-town.

Tonight a dinner and show for BTAC is being hosted at Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank. Tickets for the fundraiser are $25 each.  The event starts at 8 p.m.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Police and Fire Headquarters in Downtown Burbank

Burbank Police are calling last Saturday’s drug-take back event “…a huge success!” The public was asked to drop off unwanted prescription drugs at the Burbank PD headquarters on October 29. This is the first time this department has joined forces with the Drug Enforcement Administration for this type of event.

The Burbank round-up collected approximately 250 pounds of drugs. The DEA took charge of the drugs, which were later destroyed.  Burbank Police officials say last Saturday’s event helps keep drugs out of the hands of children and reduces “… prescription drug abuse.”

Got some expired or unwanted prescription drugs you want to toss out? Don’t dump them in the trash. Not good for the environment. You can take them to the Burbank Police Department, 200 North Third Street, tomorrow October 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Burbank Police are partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration to conduct a drug take- back on Saturday, in the rear parking lot “… free of charge, no questions asked.” 

Officials are hoping the drug round-up will prevent the abuse and theft of dangerous prescription drugs. More details on the city of Burbank website here.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Police and Fire Headquarters in Downtown Burbank

Burbank Police sent out a community alert today about  a second reported mountain lion sighting in less than a month in the Media City. The first occurred back on August 4, near Kenneth Road and Brown Drive. The second sighting late yesterday, was once again in the hillside area — this time, residents reported seeing the wild cat in the 900 block of Country Club Drive, according to the Burbank PD.

In both cases, the mountain lion sauntered back up into the hills without causing a problem, except rattling some nerves. But what about the next time? Are these predators, who are supposed to avoid humans, getting bolder? These are the logical questions that come to mind.

The Burbank PD’s community alert on this mountain lion sighting is posted on the Burbank City website here. It includes advice and precautions for dealing with mountain lions.

The price of copper is on the rise and so apparently is copper wire theft.  Today Burbank Police announced the arrest of three suspects in what appears to be a very creative copper wire theft ring.

Last Friday, the suspects reportedly showed up at a home in Burbank claiming to be with the local cable company, Charter Communications. They were wearing “..hard hits, utility belts, and orange vests…” according to a Burbank PD press release.

The suspects told the resident they were there to “…cut old wire down from the utility pole.” The suspects completed the job and then left. However, “a concerned neighbor” wrote down the suspects’ vehicle license plate number and called police.

Investigators later tracked down the suspects through the address registered to the vehicle. In a search, authorities say they discovered “numerous hard hats, utility belts, orange reflector vests, and cutting tools.”

The male suspects reportedly admitted to stealing copper wire and selling it for profit. They have been identified as 29-year-old Jesus Arreguin-Lopez of Panorama City, 26-year-old Jose Esparza of Van Nuys, and 30-year-old Juan Lopez of Los Angeles.

This incident is part of a growing problem in the Media City. Burbank Police: “During the past few months there has been an increase in the theft of metal from power sub-stations, parks, and local businesses. The thefts are taking place at all hours of the day and night.  These thefts typically involve the theft of wiring or piping.  Thieves are using different types of tools to remove the metals.  There have been additional thefts of aluminum support bars from bleachers at our local parks.”

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

 Burbank Police announced the arrest of a suspected child predator late today. Burbank PD was alerted to the suspicious activities of the alleged predator by the Lake Havasu Police Department, according to a press release.

An investigation by the Burbank PD resulted in search warrants being served at the home and place of employment of 48-year-old Stephen Fowlow. Investigators reportedly found evidence that Fowlow had been “sexting” over the Internet with “..a 15-year-old female.” Also, they discovered Fowlow had allegedly been involved with “sexting” with other minors and that he was in possession of child pornography as well.

Fowlow was arrested at his home in the 21-hundred block of North Lincoln in Burbank today, according to Burbank Police Sergeant Darrin Ryburn.  Fowlow is now being held at the Los Angeles County jail on $160,000 bail.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

 Lately it seems, Burbank has become a favorite target of thieves and criminals — especially when it comes to cars, trucks, and bicycles. In last week’s crime report, put out by the Burbank Police Department, there were three cases involving stolen 3rd row seats.

Burbank Police Captain Mike Albanese has reacted to this ongoing crime wave by saying it’s happening all over Southern California. So what.  Burbank is a small city — stolen 3rd row seats should not be as rampant here as in say, Los Angeles. In past weeks, catalytic converters and tailgates have been ripped-off as well.

Also, last week three vehicles stolen: 200 Cadillac Escalade, 2007 Chevy Silverado, and 2003 Toyota Runner. Oh, and two very expensive bicycle valued at $1500-$2200.

At police commission meetings, Police Chief Scott LaChasse does quite a bit of pontificating about out-of- town-seminars and this program and that program. Enough already, chief.  What we need in Burbank is some good old fashion policing — meaning, more patrol units on the streets and more officers out there cracking down on these crooks. A stronger police presence will have the bad guys looking over their shoulders and thinking twice about pulling “a job” in this town.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

A history making promotion in the Burbank Police Department. Veteran  police officer, Jamal Childs, has been upped from school resources officer to detective.  This is the first time in 100 years — that’s right — that an African American cop has been promoted in the BPD.

In the past, black officers were ignored or the rules of promotion changed once they were in line to move up to the next level.  For too long, police brass  and city officials made  flimsy excuses  for the discrimination and  pretended there were no qualified  black candidates.

 I doubt this promotion has occurred because of  a sudden desire in City Hall  to do what is right and fair.  I suspect it’s fallout from  those lawsuits charging  discrimination, harassment, and misconduct in the BPD and that probe by the U.S. Justice Department into what is now known as “the police mess.”

Burbank is throwing a huge party on July 8, 2011 to celebrate the city’s centennial. Now if  discrimination and racism were  completely and totally eradicated from all aspects of  Burbank city government  –  that would be reason for some serious  partying.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

New developments in that series of residential burglaries in Burbank.  Last Friday, Burbank Police announced the arrest of a suspect, 37-year-old Ericka Valladares of Los Angeles, and the recovery of some of the stolen items.

Hillside resident Yvonne Smith’s home was burglarized last December. She went down to the BPD headquarters a few days ago and “was delighted” that some of her possessions had been recovered; among them a kitchen clock, which had been in her late husband, Chuck Smith’s, family for years.

Smith says she does not know Valladares, who’s being held on $165, 000 bail. Burbank  Police say the investigation is on-going — therefore, more arrests are possible.

Burbank Shame — Golf course over needy kids

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- DeBell Golf Course and Club at 1500 East Walnut Avenue in Burbank

 This Burbank City Council is really showing its true colors and priorities. Last week, the council-majority bailed out the city’s financially-struggling DeBell Golf Club with a package deal estimated at about two million big ones. This is the same bunch of council members who have rallied around cuts in city services and will most likely be slapping residents with higher rates in city fees very soon as well.

While this council-majority supports the fat cats who have time to putter around on the 18-hole DeBell course — it has turned its back on some underprivileged kids who desperately need a few thousand dollars to go to summer camp. I first reported on the plight of these local kids and the snub they got from the Burbank City Council in a City Buzz column earlier this month.

Here’s the update I got yesterday from Burbank Coordinating Council organizer, Janet Diel: “… we did hear from 2 lovely ladies who donated some money, enough to send one child to camp. One karate studio said they would donate a class for the kids, but one class will not fill the void. Another, Golden State Gymnastics, said she would donate spaces in her daycamp for some of the children, so I am trying to book them now. Otherwise, we are still over $2,000 overspent and more bills to come.”

I got an idea. Why not set up a summer camp for these much deserving kids at DeBell golf course? There’s not much business at the golf course right now –  so that would not be a problem. Or, the council-majority could do what it should have done weeks ago, pay for these kids to go to camp somewhere else. Whatever the choice — it needs to be made soon.

B-Town weather heats up

Finally, you can ditch the jacket and umbrella. A warming trend is underway .  We’ll  still have the  patchy morning clouds  and fog  — but the sun should break-out in the afternoons — with the high in the upper 70s — maybe even mid-80s. Summer is coming.

Bob Frutos plans to stay involved in city matters

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- A smiling Bob Frutos says thank you to his supporters for his city council campaign at Caminiti's Restaurant on West Burbank Boulevard in Burbank April 14, 2011

Bob Frutos lost on two fronts recently: a city council seat in a very tight race with Emily Gabel-Luddy and last week, the city council-majority (including Gabel-Luddy) refused to re-appoint him to the Burbank Police Commission.  Nevertheless, Frutos is still smiling and touting the need for change in Burbank.

Frutos provided some details for his sunny viewpoint  in answers to a couple of e-mail questions I sent him over the weekend:

1. Change was at the heart of your city council campaign. You still embraced change even when you were not re-appointed to the Burbank Police Commission this past week. Why do you feel change is so important for Burbank?

I proudly campaigned on positive change for Burbank in the recent election. I continue to believe that such change is a must for our community. Even though I now find myself officially off the Burbank Police Commission, I will continue to be interested and involved in public-safety matters, and always available to help the City Council or Commission in any way I can. In the final analysis, change is always important for people, for a city, for any society. It is through change and growth that we better ourselves and our community, and make a lasting positive difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors. I will continue to be a agent of change in Burbank.

2. What are your future plans? Will you get involved in Burbank city government/politics anytime soon?

I plan to be actively involved in the future and improvement of Burbank. I am thinking about trying again for the city council race in the March 2013, election. I feel I have much to contribute to the City I love and the people who make it such a fine place to live in, work, and raise families. I am always prepared to lend my expertise and experience to resolve any municipal problems, if called upon before that election. I am staying involved because this is my home, and I want to make a positive difference.

I’m hearing there are at least two other potential city council candidates waiting in the wings. More on that later.

More drama on the police commission

The city council replaced Frutos on the police commission with new arrival to the city, Richard Warmack, who has a lengthy law enforcement and military resume — but what does he know about Burbank, its problems, especially the police mess?

Police commissioners Hagop Hergelian and Nathan Rubinfeld were re-appointed. Also, the city council decided to delay the matter of whether to remove Police Commissioner, Jim Etter, until new member, Gabel-Luddy, could look at city council meeting videotapes from last fall.

Etter’s removal is being pushed by Vice-Mayor Dave Golonski and his friend, tenant or whatever, Brett Loutensock, who shows up at City Hall only to trash Etter.  Last Tuesday, the council gave the impression that Etter’s removal was being considered for a remark he made that was clearly in jest at a city council meeting last fall. The council members at the time did not get outraged by it.

 Oh, Council member Gary Bric made a similar type remark in jest at the same meeting – to make a point– during the discussion of the sidewalk controversy. No one is trying to boot him from the council because of it.

I’ll say it again, there’s a long running nasty feud between Golonski and the Etter family. Last Tuesday, Golonski claimed he saw Jim Etter in court. If that’s the case, I doubt it was because both had been called to serve on jury duty at the same time. I’m told it started with Etter’s brother Bob, who is deceased — but the feud lives on.

Since the council majority seems to be in the dark about the feud, which is well-known by long-time Burbankers, why not have their attorney investigative unit do a probe?  In a short time that unit  most likely would track down a ton of evidence of this feud.

Bottom line, Golonski has a conflict. He should not be allowed to vote on the Jim Etter matter. The city council-majority should have the courage to tell him so.

Police cases and lawsuits  

Ex-Burbank Police officer Omar Rodriguez’s state case of discrimination and retaliation was dismissed last Friday. Meanwhile, the powerful law firm, Brown, White, and Newhouse reportedly has taken on Rodriguez as a client and has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in Federal court. Members of the firm include former AUSAs (Assistant U.S. Attorneys) and a retired Federal judge.

Memorial Day events at Valhalla Memorial Park

The long Memorial Day weekend is coming. On Friday, May 27, the Boy Scouts and Ventura Crew 201, along with the American Legion Post  150, plan to place 25 hundred flags on the graves of veterans, to kick-off the Memorial Day weekend events.

The flag laying will be at the Valhalla Memorial Park in the veterans section, 10621 Victory Boulevard, on the border of Burbank and North Hollywood, at 5 p.m.  There will be a ceremony as well. The public is invited.

On May 30, Memorial Day, there will be another ceremony to honor the nation’s war dead at Valhalla Memorial Park. Time: 10 a.m. This event is open to the public as well.

BPD cases and lawsuits

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Tim Stehr at City Hall when he was Burbank Police Chief back in the spring of 2008

Where is ex-Burbank Police Chief, Tim Stehr? Some reports say he’s planning to continue on a loooong European vacation for at least three months, perhaps more. On the other hand, a reliable source tells me Stehr is due back in the Southland next weekend.

Stehr’s vacation has resulted in an expensive delay in the discrimination and retaliation case of Burbank Police Officer Cindy Guillen-Gomez. The City Attorney’s Office got a stay order one day before Guillen-Gomez’s trial was to start. I’m hearing Stehr’s getaway cost thousands of dollars –maybe as much as $30,000 in legal and court fees.

Also, get this,  the City Attorney considers Stehr such a valuable witness — he gets paid! Stehr has admitted it. Guillen-Gomez’s case was filed two years ago and the City Attorney’s Office is still using delay tactics to avoid going to trial. And taxpayers are picking up the bill.

About a year and a half ago, former LAPD guy, Scott LaChasse, was brought in to clean-up the department after Stehr resigned. Now LaChasse has been named in some recent lawsuits filed by Chris Canales, Jose Duran, and Omar Rodriguez. All three were among officers fired by LaChasse last year. More lawsuits, more drama.

New Internal Investigation of the BPD

At last week’s city council meeting, City Manager, Mike Flad, announced a new internal investigation of the police department. This was in response to earlier comments that evening from Burbank producer/director, Jerry Day, who said he had observed some BPD officers walking out of a store with items they did not pay for.  Also, Day pointed out he had seen other officers go to the cashier and pay for stuff. Day expressed concerns about the impression this might be giving of some BPD officers getting “freebies.”  

City council hires own investigative unit  

Speaking of investigations, months ago, the Burbank City Council hired a couple of high profile attorneys of its own.They report directly to the council — not the city attorney nor the city manager. Yeah, more lawyers being paid for with taxpayer dollars. So far, very little information has been provided to the public about the law firms getting this money and for what services.

Appointments & Police Commission Controversy

On the city council agenda tonight, the filling of vacancies on various commissions, boards, and committees. Also, the city council is set to discuss a worn-out, but apparently still kicking controversy from last year about Police Commissioner Jim Etter.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- (l-r) Police Commissioner Jim Etter, Chair Bob Frutos, at the Police Commission Community Forum at the Buena Vista Library in Burbank April 20, 2011

The fire that keeps this melodrama going and taking up council time is apparently a long standing feud between Vice-Mayor Dave Golonski and the Etter family. When the matter comes up tonight, Golonski should recuse himself, thereby allowing the rest of the council to finally settle it.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- (l-r) Newly elected Vice-Mayor and Mayor Dave Golonski and Jess Talamantes, joined fellow Council members Dr. David Gordon, Emily Gabel-Luddy, and Gary Bric for photos at the end of the council reorganization meeting at Burbank City Hall May 2, 2011

After a week, some folks are still finding the audacious snub, oh wait, let’s call it what it is, discriminatory selection process of the vice-mayor by four members of the Burbank City Council – a stomach turner. Those that had hoped for an independent female voice on the council got blindsided by Emily Gabel-Luddy who came out publicly as the new member of this “good-old-boys-club” at the council reorganization meeting on May 2, 2011.

When new Mayor Jess Talamantes asked for nominations for vice-mayor, Emily Gabel-Luddy could barely contain herself. With enough enthusiasm to earn a spot on the City Hall cheerleader squad, Gabel-Luddy declared: “I nominate Dave Golonski!” One shocked Gabel-Luddy supporter described the reaction in the city council chamber as “stunned silence.”

Her detractors insist Gabel-Luddy’s payback to Golonski should not have been a surprise. As far back as last December, it was probably a done deal. During the holiday party season, Gabel-Luddy hooked up with Golonski to do the meet and greet. She was his city council candidate from the beginning of the campaign. Nonetheless, in her zeal to reward Golonski, who in 18 years on the council has been mayor three times and vice-mayor three times, she joined in on the discrimination of Dr. David Gordon– who has been on the council five years. Not an admirable way for Gabel-Luddy to begin her tenure.

The position of mayor and vice-mayor are supposed to rotate among the council members. To exclude Gordon because he is AN INDEPENDENT VOICE on the council, is an ugly blatant insult to the voters who support him. Also, it sends a message to the entire world that in Burbank the big “D” is allowed.

 There has been public criticism about this unfair city council practice – but still the discrimination continues. Last year, an editorial in the Leader condemned this mean spirited treatment of Councilman Gordon. What, no editorial in the Leader about it this time around?  Maybe it’s because of the newspaper’s fervent support of Gabel-Luddy.

Remember, the Friday before the Tuesday April 12 General Municipal Election the Leader launched a major assault against Gabel-Luddy’s opponent, Bob Frutos. The Leader attempted to smear Frutos, in three separate pieces, by hammering one of his union supporters, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 18. The IBEW reportedly sent around $42,000 for mailers backing Frutos and questioning Gabel-Luddy’s support from special interests in Los Angeles. The flyers included this disclaimer: “Not authorized by a candidate or a committee controlled by a candidate.”

In the April 8 Leader article titled, “Union spends big to aid candidate,” Gabel-Luddy said: “I am very disappointed to see IBEW bring Los Angeles-style dirty politics into Burbank.”  Hmm, after Gabel-Luddy’s gift to Golonski, you gotta wonder what kind of “thank you” she’s going to be handing out to those special interest folks she has described as “friends and associates.” Dirty politics is skipping over Gordon to elect Golonski vice-mayor.

Also, this attack on Frutos really ticked off some of the Leader’s readers.  It struck some as hypocritical. On April 3, 2011, in the Burbank Mailbag section of the Leader this announcement ran.

Editor’s Note: Per the paper’s policy, the Burbank Leader will be holding all letters supporting or opposing particular candidates one week prior to the election. Letters addressing more general election issues will be considered.

###

To place restrictions like this on the public and then turn around and attack Frutos less than a week before the election, well, it has the appearance of being a double standard. Whatever you want to call it, the attack by the Leader may have had a significant impact in a city council race where Gabel-Luddy won by less than  100 votes.

The newly reorganized Burbank City Council holds it first Tuesday meeting this evening at 6 p.m.

Those Burbank Police lawsuits

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Woman on the Chandler Bike Path in Burbank

Late today, Burbank Police issued a warning about a predator who’s stalking women on the Chandler Bike Path. The suspect targets women — walking or jogging — during the morning hours on that path, which is a popular place for exercise enthuses. 

There have been three separate incidents of women being accosted by the suspect in the past month, according to the community alert/public service message put out by the Burbank PD. The suspect reportedly f0llows his victims, attempts to strike up a conversation, makes sexual comments, and in one case, groped a woman. The incidents occurred between Clybourn Avenue and Keystone Street on the two-mile stretch of the bikeway in Burbank.

The suspect is described as male Hispanic, mid-20s, 5-7, thin build, shaved head, and has been seen wearing a white T-shirt, blue sweatpants, or baggy/blousy “workout” pants.

Women are urged to take precautions like jogging or walking with a dog or a partner and to carry a cell phone with the Burbank Police number listed. The direct number of the BPD (818) 238-3000.  For more information on this crime series and additional safety tips go here on the Burbank city website.

Photo: Megan's Law/Media City Groove -- New photo of Amy Victoria Beck March 2011

The California Megan’s Law website profile of ex- Burbank teacher/convicted sex offender, Amy Victoria Beck, has been updated. The story broke here first on this blog that Beck was released from state prison last month, on March 20.

Beck served about 8 months in state prison. In a strange twist, the former David Starr Jordan Middle School teacher turned herself into the Burbank Police back in March of 2010 and reportedly confessed to having a sexual affair with a 14-year-old  male student. Beck was convicted and sentenced to two years in state prison on May 7, 2010. Beck’s fall from popular school teacher to convicted sex offender was covered in the media nationwide.

Burbank Police have refused to release to the media Beck’s booking photo. As part of her sentence, Beck is required to register as a sex offender. By law, Beck was given five days after her release to register in the city where she lives. Beck did so in Sunland, California. Beck’s photo was added to her profile on the Megan’s Law website and appeared here, on this blog, March 30.

Despite being updated with a recent picture, Beck’s Megan’s Law profile still had “Incarcerated” stamped on it last week. I e-mailed the State Department of Justice and asked about the discrepancy. Today when I checked Beck’s profile, I saw the “Incarcerated” stamp had been removed. Beck’s complete Sunland address is on this profile.

California Megan’s Law website  has information on  ”… more than 63,000 persons required to register in California as sex offenders.” Also according to the website: “California’s Megan’s Law provides the public with certain information on the whereabouts of sex offenders so that members of our local communities may protect themselves and their children.”

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

 Leaving child alone in a vehicle “dangerous and illegal”

Late today, Burbank Police issued a community bulletin on the hazardous of leaving a child unattended in a vehicle: “…it’s against the law and is considered a form of child abuse. Running into the store to get milk, dropping off a letter, returning a video rental, grabbing the dry cleaning, or not wanting to disturb a sleeping child are never valid reasons to leave children unattended. Each year, hundreds of children are involved in potentially fatal accidents when left unattended.”

The father of a 14-month-old toddler was arrested yesterday, after the child was found unattended in a hot car. Burbank Police say the temperature inside that vehicle reached 115 degrees!

Police officers removed the baby girl from the locked vehicle in the parking lot of the Costco on West Burbank Boulevard at around 11:45 a.m. Paramedics were called and determined the baby was okay. The father, 38-year-old Edik Magardomyan of Glendale, returned to the vehicle a short time later and was arrested for allegedly endangering a child.

The public is asked to contact the Burbank Police at (818) 238-3000, if they see any activity that puts a child in jeopardy.

ATM Warning

Also, Burbank Police are asking “… citizens and business owners…” to be on the alert for suspicious individuals and vehicles loitering near ATMs. Last Sunday, March 27, at 6:16 a.m., Burbank Police officers answered an alarm at the Chase Bank, 1030 West Alameda Avenue.Officers found a suspect in the lobby who claimed to be getting money from the ATM.

Later, the suspect, 33-year-old Hagop Soukiassian of Glendale, reportedly was found to have in his possession a credit card reader/skimmer device and a pinhole camera. Police say”…criminal elements (use this type of equipment) to obtain account access without knowledge of the individual owner.”

Police are encouraging everyone who uses automated teller machines to conceal their PIN “as best as possible.”

For more information and crime prevention tips contact Burbank PD Property Detail at (818) 238-3272

Photo: Megan's Law/Media City Groove -- New photo of Amy Victoria Beck March 2011

As first reported on this blog, convicted sex offender and former Burbank sixth grade teacher, Amy Victoria Beck, is no longer behind bars. Beck was released from state prison on March 20, 2011 after serving “…approximately 8 months…”according to California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation official, James W. Symington, III.

Back in March of 2010, the former David Starr Jordan Middle School teacher turned herself in to Burbank Police and admitted to having a sexual affair with a 14-year-old male student. Some sort of “special hold” was placed on Beck’s booking photo. I have made numerous requests to the Burbank Police for that photo — all were turned down. Even CDCR official, Symington, could not get the authorization to release a photo of Beck to me last Friday.

This week, this new photo of Beck appeared in her sex offender profile on the California Megan’s Law website. As part of her two year prison sentence, Beck has to register as a sex offender in the city where she lives. Symington says she now resides in Sunland, California. The 34-year-old Beck is the mother of three and reportedly married to a Los Angeles Police Officer.

 Nomination period extended until Wednesday

Today at 5 p.m. was supposed to be the deadline for all nomination documents  for the 2011 Municipal Elections to be turned into the Burbank City Clerk’s Office. However, that deadline has been extended.

A notice of the deadline change to Wednesday, December 1, 2010, appears on the city website. Interestingly, it includes Mayor/City Council member Anja Reinke’s decision not to seek a second term. Reinke reportedly announced her intentions not to run back on November 19. 

Here’s the statement from the Burbank City website.

EXTENDED NOMINATION PERIOD FOR
BURBANK’S 2011 MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS!

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Council Member Anja Reinke has announced that she will not seek re-election to the office of City Council Member in the 2011 Municipal Elections. Pursuant to the California Elections Code, voters have until Wednesday, December 1, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. to nominate candidates for this elective office.

# # #

No surprise, Bric running for re-election, Reinke is not

Photo: Burbank city website -- Councilman Gary Bric

 As expected, Councilman Gary Bric has gone public with his desire to keep his job.  On Friday 19, Bric picked up the official nomination papers for the city elections on February 22, and April 12, 2011.

Mayor Anja Reinke made a public announcement on that same day that she would not be running for re-election, according to the Leader. This is no surprise. Reinke and Bric’s intentions have been circulating around town for months and were reported on this blog several weeks ago.

Also, as part of the local election coverage, I’ve been reporting on the nomination period. On November first, Vice-Chair of the Burbank Planning Board, Emily Gabel-Luddy, and Burbank Police Commission Chair, Bob Frutos, pulled nomination papers to run for the two council seats up for grabs in next year’s city elections.

Police make an arrest at Councilman’s home

Photo:Burbank city website -- Councilman Dr. David Gordon

 A lot of chatter on the Internet and in B-town about that alleged domestic violence disturbance and arrest of a female suspect at the home of Councilman David Gordon, Monday, November 15.

Police arrested 58-year-old Barbara Chin for alleged battery against a cohabitant. Chin was later released on $20,000 bail, according to a police report. A recent story about the incident on The Burbank Leader website, claims Chin is scheduled to be arraigned on December 9, in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Gordon  acknowledged in the article that Chin is the mother of his son, but ”… declined to elaborate on their relationship.”  

As is the case in all suspected  domestic violence incidents where there is a minor child in the residence, the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services was alerted and will be visiting Gordon’s home to check on his son’s welfare.

I spoke with Dr.Gordon briefly after last Tuesday’s city council meeting. The councilman admitted this is “a difficult time,” but added, ”we’ll get through it.”

 Police Chief Scott LaChasse’s relative arrested

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

Police Chief Scott LaChasse has a relative headed for a court appearance.  On Monday, November 22, police were called over to Fry’s Electronics, on North Hollywood Way in Burbank, to take custody of a suspect who reportedly palmed a digital voice recorder and stereo plug and then walked out of the store. He was apprehended in the parking lot by security officers.

The suspect is identified as 58-year-old, Albert W. LaChasse of Canyon Country. LaChasse, who is apparently the chief’s brother, was taken to the Burbank jail where he was booked for petty theft.

LaChasse reportedly received a citation and was released early the next day. He’s due to appear in a Burbank court on December 14.

Sewer pipe drama over

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Site of that sewer pipe rupture in the 500 block of South Beachwood Drive, Burbank November 7, 2010

Traffic and parking are back to normal in the 500 block of South Beachwood Drive in Burbank. I visited the site yesterday afternoon. The repair equipment was gone and the excavation site had been paved over. A very different scene from earlier this month, a few days after a pipe burst on Tuesday, November 2—spilling thousands of gallons of sewage into the street.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- A sign restricting traffic in the 500 block of South Beachwood Drive, Burbank November 7, 2010

The results of an investigation are in. Public Works Director, Bonnie Teaford, explained in an e-mail why age of the pipe is not the suspected culprit: “We believe that the pipe may have been damaged slightly in this area when it was installed some 30 years ago. Over time, the damaged area corroded until it eventually failed.”

As a precaution, the rest of that sewer line and a couple of others in the area were videotaped and Teaford says, “they all look fine.”  Teaford considers the pipe break, “an isolated problem.”

Bike Angel wish list

A special holiday toy collection is underway and it’s in need of a little help from some Earth angels. Last year, Burbank employee, Elaine Pease, started a program called Bike Angel, to provide refurbished bicycles to needy children during the holiday season. Ten lucky youngsters got their own set of wheels last year, thanks to this program and its volunteers.

So the collection is in full swing  for used bicycles that can be fixed up and made spiffy for boys or girls, ages 10-to-17.  They need accessories like helmets, bike chains, and locks, too. If you don’t have any spare children’s bikes — they could use some cash to buy new tires, seats, and other bicycle parts. And they need more volunteers!!

Burbank city employees have really stepped up for this program. This year, the Burbank Police Officers Association is throwing its support behind Bike Angel. Also, Lieutenant Eric Rosoff, Detective Brent Dyrness, and Officer Jeff Goenner have volunteered to be bike-fixer-upper guys.

There isn’t much time to donate. The deadline for the bicycles is Wednesday, November 24.  If you can help, give Elaine Pease a call (818) 238-5286 or phone the Burbank Recycle Center at (818) 238-3900. 

 Week Two: Nomination period for Burbank’s 2011 Elections

Last Friday, I checked the list of the names of candidates who have pulled nomination papers for the two up-for-election seats on the Burbank City Council. No change. Planning Board Vice-Chair, Emily Gabel-Luddy and Police Commission Chair, Bob Frutos. The Primary Nominating Election is Tuesday, February 22, 2011 and the General Municipal Election  is Tuesday, April 12, 2011.

The candidates have until Monday, November 29, 2010 at 5 p.m. to return the required documents to the Burbank City Clerk’s Office.

In light of the Bell salaries scandal, a lot of talk about what Burbank City Council members really pocket for doing their civic duty. More than you think, according to this recent post over on the blog Semichorus.

We’re heading into the big fright weekend when ghosts, monsters, and other creatures of the night will be walking among us. Halloween is great fun for  kids and adults, but you need to play safe.

The Burbank Police Department today issued some Halloween safety tips, which are from the American Academy of Pediatrics.  

• CARVING A PUMPKIN: Small children should never carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting. Consider using a glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin. Your carved pumpkin should be placed on a sturdy table, and should never be left unattended.

•  COSTUMES: Check your child’s costume. Is it flame retardant? Is it too long that they may trip? Does their mask restrict their vision? Will they be warm enough? Can they been seen by drivers? Consider wearing reflective tape, and carrying a flashlight.
• WALKING: If your child is under twelve years of age, escort them. Encourage them to stay on the sidewalk. Cross all streets at intersections. Only go to houses that are well lit and appear to be participating in the festivities.
• DRIVING: If attending a party on Friday or Saturday night, please use a designated driver. On Sunday, avoid driving in residential neighborhoods from 6 PM to 9 PM. If you must, drive slowly and be alert for children darting out into traffic.
• VERY IMPORTANT: Do not let your child eat any treats that you have not inspected. If you are suspicious of any item, dispose of it.

A chance to make a change in Burbank

Burbank city officials are out to appease voters now that the Primary Nomination Election is coming up soon.  Last week, the Burbank City Council gave final approval to that election set for February 22, 2011 and the General Muncipal Election on April 12, 2011. There is a countdown running on this blog, in the far right column, that gives the exact number of  days, hours, minutes, and seconds until the Burbank Primary Nomination Election. Yes, I think it’s that important.

Burbank city insiders see the 2011 elections as significant as well, and with good reason. Some of those crooks, flakes, and opportunists in Bell would have gotten the boot long ago, if residents had voted them out of office. There is power in the vote. That’s why City Hall officials are taking steps to schmooze the voters, to lull them into thinking things aren’t so bad in Burbank and that they have a real voice in city government.

 Did you get your copy of the new city hall publication, “Burbank USA?”  In his welcome message on the front of the newsletter, Burbank City Manager, Mike Flad, stated: “We strive to be open, accessible and transparent in all aspects of City government and look forward to sharing valuable information through this newsletter.”  Hmm, all of a sudden city officials want to share and be transparent.

I suggest you take a close look at the newsletter, which Flad says will be sent out monthly along with our utility bills. All of it’s fluff: items like free green home house call, city approves regional transit center at the Bob Hope Airport, and the upcoming  “Holiday in the Park.”  Nothing in the newsletter  about the Burbank Police Department scandal/investigation/lawsuits and the millions of dollars being spent for lawyers that city officials are refusing to give the public details on.

There’s a community calendar, but no mention of the November filing date  and deadline for candidates interested in running in the city’s February primary. Three seats on the Burbank Unified School District Board of Education and two on the Burbank City Council will be on the ballot. A major note, up for re-election, Mayor/Council member Anja Reinke and Former Mayor/Council member Gary Bric.

The bottom line, changing the make-up of the city council, would be a giant step toward changing what’s wrong in Burbank. Mayor Reinke and Councilman Bric rubber stamped the recent hike in utility fees for residents and then voted hefty raises for the Burbank Water and Power executives. Despite their claims of being fiscally responsible, Reinke and Bric repeatedly voted outrageous raises for selected Burbank staff in recent weeks. It’s time for a change.

The Burbank City Council needs TWO new members who will actively put the interests of residents first.  It’s up to the voters. If the same decision makers remain on the city council, there is little doubt, the city will continue its bumpy  journey on a path very similar to the one taken by the city of Bell under the guidance of those self-serving officials.

The Leader’s “cozy” and questionable relationship with the BPD

For a long time, The Burbank Leader has been criticized, no slammed, for allegedly being what many consider a cheerleader or mouthpiece  for city government. So you’d think the Leader staff would make an extra effort to deflect this criticism and try to build a reputation of journalistic integrity. Well, maybe not.

Over the weekend in the newspaper and on its website, Editor Dan Evans boasted of a new arrangement with the Burbank Police. Apparently the BPD is going to be feeding certain stories to the Leader. Here’s the link to Evan’s comments (in the middle section of his ”Start the Presses” column). 

The Leader deal got plenty of negative reaction from some Burbank news sites, including this stinging response from BurbankNBeyond Editor, Craig Sherwood, in an opinion piece called, “Outsourcing Burbank Journalism.”

I think this kind of arrangement with one newspaper sends a bad message to ALL media. I guess you can’t fault the Leader editor for asking for special privileges, but Police Chief Scott LaChasse  should have had the smarts to say “no.’

Bees buzzing the flowers in October

During the warm three-day Columbus Day weekend, I noticed quite a few bees fluttering from flower to flower in my Burbank garden.  The bees paid special attention to the colorful geraniums.  Another nice reminder of how lovely fall can be in SoCal.