Burglaries Down, Vehicle Theft Up in May in Manhattan Beach
Jun 18, 2023 11:02AM ● By Mb News Staff
The Manhattan Beach Police Department's crime report for May 2023 showed a decrease in residential and vehicle burglaries, but auto thefts were up. Police are urging residents and visitors to exercise extra caution in the busy summer months.
For the month of May 2023 there were decreases compared to April 2023 in arson (-1),
residential burglaries (-4), sexual offenses (-1) and vehicle burglaries (-6). (There were zero arsons or homicides in May.)
residential burglaries (-4), sexual offenses (-1) and vehicle burglaries (-6). (There were zero arsons or homicides in May.)
However compared to April, there was an increase in auto thefts (+6), larcenies (+5), and robberies (+3) (All three robberies that took place in the city did not include handguns.)
All told, there were 3,082 calls for service (1,383 dispatched calls for service and 1,699 officer-initiated contacts). That compares with 2,942 calls in April. Police made a total of 66 arrests, up from 57 arrests in April.
The priority emergency response time was one minute and 22 seconds.
Organized Retail Theft Most Common Crime
Organized retail theft remains the most common crime in Manhattan Beach. According to MBPD, retail
chain stores are typically targeted by suspects who steal large
quantities of high-end cosmetics and alcohol. These crimes takes a few
minutes to complete and involve multiple suspects. Retail chains suffer a
loss in stolen retail products as well as sales. Since stolen products
are often resold on the black market at lower prices, retail stores
cannot compete. MBPD advises the public to only purchase goods at
reputable retail chains.
During the busy summer months, MBPD urges visitors and residents to be vigilant with their personal belongings while shopping or spending the day at the beach. Make sure all vehicles and personal belongings are secured. If possible, leave all valuables at home (which should also be secured). If you see something suspicious, call 911.
In the month of May, the MBPD Community Affairs Office has been working to increase increase its trained and vetted volunteer base. The community affairs team has been working to reinstate the Victim Assistance Team, which helps victims during times of crisis, as well as the youth Explorer program.
For more information, see the MBPD's Community Affairs page.
Questions for the police? MBPD will be hosting Cones with a Cop at Handel's Ice Cream in Manhattan Village on Wednesday, July 5 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Come and have a conversation with police officers; complimentary ice cream will be served.
