A three-month pilot program to increase police patrols in the Venice Beach area was underway today, a response to violent crimes and the death of an Italian newlywed who was killed when a man drove a car into a crowd on the boardwalk last August.
The patrols, which were launched on Sunday, make heavy use of officers patrolling the area on bicycles, police said.
“It makes us very approachable, and we can stop and instantly talk to people,” Los Angeles police Sgt. Brian Gura told ABC7.
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On weekends, the patrols will also include the LAPD's Metro horseback detail, according to a report on Venice311.org.
“This is a big boost for quality of life in Venice Beach neighborhoods,” City Councilman Mike Bonin told Venice311, whose 11th District includes Venice. “I applaud LAPD for its strong commitment to community policing, and for working to improve its already strong partnership with the people of Venice.”
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The LAPD has employed bike patrols in the area for more than 10 years, but under the new pilot program they will be conducted every day, according to Venice311.
--City News Service
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