Local businesses, security professionals, and law enforcement gathered on March 11, 2026, for the first Business Watch meeting of the year, hosted at Golf Plus in the La Mirada Theatre Center.
The meeting brought together representatives from the La Mirada Chamber of Commerce, local business owners, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department – La Mirada Station, and Lion Shield Protection, the dedicated security provider for the shopping center. The primary topic of discussion focused on concerns shared by many businesses across the area, which including individuals camping near commercial properties, loitering, and retail theft, and how businesses can work together with law enforcement to improve safety.
Sheriff’s representatives discussed surveillance technology, store design considerations, and staff training strategies that help deter crime before it happens. Lion Shield Protection representatives also explained how their security teams patrol the center and coordinate with deputies when incidents occur. The discussion emphasized that crime prevention in retail environments is most effective when property owners, employees, and law enforcement work together using both technology and practical store management strategies.
Law enforcement officials shared several practical strategies that businesses can implement to help reduce theft and improve overall safety.
Technology and Surveillance
Businesses are encouraged to install high-definition security cameras that cover all areas of the property, including entrances, sales floors, fitting rooms, and parking lots. Clear camera coverage helps deter crime and assists law enforcement when investigating incidents.
Electronic Security Systems
Retailers should also consider using RFID tags or Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems, which alert staff if merchandise leaves the store without being properly purchased.
Environmental Design
Maintaining visibility is another important factor. Storefront windows should remain clear of posters or obstructions, and exterior landscaping should be trimmed so it does not block sightlines.
Lighting
Good lighting plays a critical role in safety. Property owners should ensure that parking lots, walkways, alleys, and building entrances are well-lit, especially during evening hours.
Store Layout
Retailers are advised to keep high-value merchandise away from exits and store certain items in locked display cases when appropriate.
Cash Management
Cash registers should remain near the front of the store, locked, and clearly visible to customers, reducing opportunities for theft.
Staff Awareness and Training
Employees are often the first line of defense. Staff members should be trained to greet every person who enters the store, signaling awareness and discouraging potential shoplifting. Employees should also be taught to recognize suspicious behavior and report concerns immediately. In the event of a robbery, law enforcement advises employees to remain calm, comply with demands, and prioritize personal safety over merchandise.
Business Watch participants also discussed the importance of collaboration among neighboring businesses. Property managers and store owners are encouraged to enforce “no loitering” and “no panhandling” policies, when applicable, and work with law enforcement to establish trespassing agreements that allow for quicker removal of repeat offenders. Businesses were encouraged to share information about suspicious activity with nearby stores and participate in community watch and business safety programs.
The March meeting served as a reminder that maintaining safe and welcoming shopping environments requires ongoing communication and partnership between businesses, security teams, and law enforcement.
The La Mirada Chamber of Commerce and Public Safety Business Watch program will continue to hold meetings throughout the year to provide resources, share updates, and support local businesses.
If you would like to host a Business Watch, please contact Mary Cipres / Public Safety Supervisor at (562) 902-2986
