The City of La Mirada has once again demonstrated its commitment to safety by maintaining one of the lowest crime rates in the region, and continues to be among the safest cities in Los Angeles County. The City’s low crime rate is attributed to a strong and collaborative partnership between the Public Safety Team and the community.
In 2023, there were 984 Part 1 crimes reported in La Mirada compared to 936 in 2022. The number of Part 1 crimes reported in other cities patrolled by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department include Paramount 1,789; Lakewood 1,999; Bellflower 2,093; Cerritos 2,111; and Norwalk 2,409. Part 1 crimes include homicide, rape, larceny, burglary, auto theft, robbery, assault, and arson. The small uptick in crimes reported in 2023 is attributable to additional property crimes including robberies, thefts, and grand theft automobiles.
Larceny crimes increased from 578 in 2022 to 585 in 2023. Larceny is defined as theft including grand theft and petty theft cases. The number of thefts from vehicles increased from 130 to 183 in 2023. Many of the thefts from vehicles were crimes of opportunity, where valuables were left in view or vehicles were unlocked.
There were some notable decreases last year. Burglaries decreased from 146 to 125 reported in 2023. There were 43 residential burglaries reported in 2023 compared to 57 in 2022. Grand thefts, which are classified as theft of property with a value of more than $950, decreased from 254 to 213 in 2023. The decrease can partly be attributed to fewer catalytic converters being taken last year. In 2022, 140 catalytic converters were taken from vehicles compared to 89 in 2023. The number of petty thefts also decreased slightly from 193 in 2022 to 189 in 2023.
“While La Mirada continues to be a safe community, residents are reminded to remain vigilant against property related crimes,” says Assistant City Manager Anne Haraksin. “Opportunity thefts are often highly preventable. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, even for short periods of time.
La Mirada’s Special Assignment Officers (SAO) Team will focus on preventing and suppressing criminal activity and nuisance issues in the community. The SAO Team serves a key role in keeping La Mirada among the safest cities. Last year, the team conducted quality investigations that led to arrests that had a significant impact on lowering the crime rate.
The Public Safety Team also emphasizes that community involvement is a valuable component of keeping La Mirada safe. The team will continue to enhance their visibility as a proactive measure to prevent property crimes and watch for criminal activity.
“The presence of Deputies and Public Safety Officers in neighborhoods and commercial centers can be an effective way to deter crime and enhance quality of life,” says Sergeant Oscar Rodriguez. “Integrating high visibility enforcement as a standard practice also sends a message that public safety is a priority.”
The City will continue to explore the use of new technology to prevent crime and apprehend offenders. As part of a pilot program last year, video cameras were installed at Creek Park. The cameras aided in the investigations that led to arrests. Ten automated license plate recognition (ALPR) systems were also installed at ten intersections. The ALPR systems captures vehicle information, alerts the Public Safety Team of stolen or wanted vehicles, and provides key information for criminal investigations. The Public Safety Team is excited to use this new technology to help fight crime and hold offenders accountable.
For more information on the annual crime report and the City’s crime prevention efforts, contact the La Mirada Community Sheriff’s Station at (562) 902-2960.
