Cerritos Crime Stats Looking Good But Prevention Still Key

The Cerritos Community Safety Committee gathered on July 19, where the usual update on crime, crime prevention and emergency/safety makes its way into discussion amongst its members.

Crime Statistics

There were no reports of homicide in June, but one account of rape and three accounts of strong arm robbery were reported.  

Twenty-seven accounts of residential burglaries have been reported, making it 10 more than in May. Community and Safety Services Director, Greg Berg, said that the numbers have gone down if you go back five to 10 years in the city's crime statistics.

“The only way to prevent it is for people to be alert,” Berg said. “These crimes are probably going to inch up.”

Despite this, Berg said the numbers, so far, have been very good.

Incidents of vehicle theft have also declined since May, with seven reports total, down from 11.

“We're getting more people and less theft,” Captain Joe Gonzales said during the meeting.

Finally, there has been one report of arson in June, making it a total of three in 2012 thus far. The recent report involved a lit dumpster with no determinable motive.

Emergency

Community Services Supervisor, Emily Merina, reported that the is participating in The Great California Shakeout, a way for California schools and communities to increase earthquake preparedness and awareness.

Merina also mentioned a Sept. 7 safety seminar on Household Hazardous Materials where residents can learn what can happen when you mix certain chemicals at home.

Safety Budget

Berg reported that the city has increased the Sheriff's contract budget to a little over $12,000,000. One detention officer has been eliminated from the budget.

The next Community Safety Committee Meeting will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 19 at the .