Councilmember Tom LaBonge talks with Silver Lake Residents concerned about the rise in crime near the Landa Steps.
SILVER LAKE—Local residents living near the Landa Steps are asking the Los Angeles Police to put a stop to years of drug use, vandalism, auto break–ins and sex in parked cars.
Over 50 residents gathered in February at the top of the public staircase that connects Landa St. to Redesdale Ave. to meet with representatives from the Los Angeles Police Dept. and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tom LaBonge.
“The lack of response from our calls is really irritating,” said resident Mike Falcon. “I come home late at night after teaching classes and I’ve seen people on the steps smoking dope or crack in crowds 12-15 deep.”
The view from the top of the steps, police said, attracts both the good and bad.
“People are looking for those spots to come and sit with a view of something,” Senior Lead Officer Al Polehonki told the crowd. “But along with that some of the bad guys are looking for an area a little darker, a little quieter, where it’s hard with our limited resources to cover them all of the time.”
Polehonki told the crowd there were 833 crimes in the Silver Lake area last year, mostly non-violent “crimes of opportunity.”
“We really are afraid we’re on the cusp,” of attracting more types of crime, said resident Diana Hamann underscoring the fears felt by some that the Landa Steps has become a known spot where police do not bother kids.
Residents recalled an incident in January where teenagers had to be dispersed from the area, with the help of patrol officers and police helicopters.
More reporting of crimes and an increased police presence in the area were discussed as possible solutions. Additionally, LaBonge promised to look into additional street lighting, parking restrictions, and the quicker removal of graffiti.
Decoy cars were also discussed as a tactic that has worked in other neighborhoods such as the Hollywood Hills.
“Small things lead to big things and there’s a beautiful vista but it has become a place for people out here drinking and smoking and vandalizing,” said LaBonge.
