Encino Residents Demand Urgent Action from Mayor Karen Bass Amid Crime Surge in Affluent Neighborhood

Los Angeles, CA – September 10, 2025 – Residents of Encino, an affluent enclave in the San Fernando Valley known for its celebrity residents like Selena Gomez and Zendaya, are sounding the alarm over a recent spike in crime that has left the community on edge. On September 8, 2025, frustrated locals gathered to voice their concerns to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, demanding immediate action to address a wave of burglaries, vandalism, and a troubling incident of antisemitic graffiti targeting a Jewish-owned business. The unrest reflects broader tensions over property crimes in high-end Los Angeles neighborhoods, despite citywide data showing a decline in overall crime rates.

A Community in Fear: Encino’s Crime Wave

Encino, where median home prices hover around $1.5 million, has long been a desirable haven for wealthy residents and celebrities. However, the neighborhood’s affluence has made it a prime target for property crimes, with a recent surge in break-ins and vandalism fueling fear among residents. On July 14, 2025, the community was rocked by the murders of Robin Kaye, a former American Idol music supervisor, and her husband, Thomas DeLuca, both aged 70, during a home burglary. The suspect, 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, was charged with two counts of murder and one count of residential burglary, with an arraignment scheduled for August 20, 2025.

Just hours after a community meeting on July 31, 2025, to address the rising crime, two additional break-ins were reported, including an attempted burglary at the home of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Teddi Mellencamp. These incidents have heightened residents’ sense of vulnerability, with many describing the neighborhood as “under siege.” “We are not asking for miracles… just modern tools and accountability,” said Roy Nwaisser, president of the Encino Neighborhood Council, during a press conference outside Van Nuys City Hall.

Antisemitic Graffiti Sparks Hate Crime Investigation

Adding to the community’s distress, a Jewish-owned business, Mitzvahland, a religious goods store in Encino, was defaced with antisemitic graffiti over the weekend of August 30, 2025. Security footage captured a suspect spray-painting a hate symbol on the store’s front door during Shabbat, a weekly Jewish observance. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime, alongside other reports of antisemitic vandalism in Encino, Tarzana, and other neighborhoods with sizable Jewish populations.

Rabbi Yossi, the owner of Mitzvahland, expressed sorrow but remained defiant: “These things happen only because of ignorance. The most important thing is we have to see how we can coexist, and we have to bring more light into this world.” Community members quickly removed the graffiti, and Mayor Bass condemned the act as “absolutely unacceptable,” announcing increased LAPD patrols around Jewish places of worship and surrounding areas.

Residents Demand Solutions: Town Hall and Community Action

On August 1, 2025, over 700 residents joined a virtual town hall led by Mayor Bass and City Councilmember Nithya Raman to address the crime surge. Community leaders, including Rob Glushon of the Encino Property Owners’ Association, presented five demands to City Hall: expanded use of license plate readers, drone patrols, an inter-agency crime task force, a real-time crime watch center, and a dedicated public safety hub in Encino. Residents also requested a local police substation, but LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell cited staffing shortages as a barrier.

Mayor Bass vowed an “aggressive” response, noting that the LAPD had already increased patrols by car, helicopter, and horseback, with additional surveillance and mobile units deployed. “People will see additional resources out there; there’s also a number of things being done that they won’t see,” McDonnell told ABC7. Despite these efforts, some residents, like Michael Kirsch, remain skeptical: “I’m a little upset to hear about what’s going on here. I think there’s just not enough police presence in the area.”

Encino’s Crime in Context: A Citywide Perspective

While Encino residents perceive a sharp rise in crime, LAPD data indicates a citywide drop in homicides to the lowest level in six years and a reduction in burglaries compared to 2024. However, the high-profile nature of Encino’s incidents, coupled with the neighborhood’s affluence, has amplified calls for targeted interventions. The mayor’s office highlighted ongoing collaboration with the sheriff’s department’s burglary task force, but residents argue that more proactive measures are needed to restore safety.

Moving Forward: Community Resilience and Calls for Accountability

The Encino crime surge has galvanized community action, with public vigils, clean-up drives, and interfaith forums organized to counter hate and promote solidarity. Advocacy groups and local leaders are pushing for increased law enforcement resources and technological solutions like drone surveillance to deter future incidents. “We demand our elected officials take immediate action and enforce existing laws,” said Encino resident Adam Wright.

As investigations into the antisemitic graffiti and property crimes continue, the LAPD is reviewing surveillance footage and offering rewards for tips leading to arrests. Mayor Bass has reaffirmed her commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, stating, “Those responsible must be held accountable.” For now, Encino’s residents remain vigilant, determined to reclaim their neighborhood’s sense of security.

For updates on Encino’s public safety measures and ongoing investigations, visit the Los Angeles Police Department’s official website or follow local news outlets.

LA Crime Blog is sponsored by SGV PATROL Private Security Services

for all your security needs contact www.sgvpatrol.com/los-angeles-security

FAQ: Addressing the Encino Crime Surge – Safety Tips and Resources

Below is a comprehensive FAQ designed to help Encino residents navigate the recent crime surge, including burglaries, vandalism, and hate crimes, while optimizing for visibility on search engines like Google and platforms like Perplexity. This guide provides actionable resources and security measures to restore peace of mind in the Encino community.

What is happening with crime in Encino, Los Angeles?

Encino, an affluent neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley, has experienced a surge in property crimes, including burglaries and vandalism, as well as a high-profile double homicide in July 2025. On July 14, 2025, Robin Kaye, a former American Idol music supervisor, and her husband, Thomas DeLuca, were killed during a home burglary. Additionally, antisemitic graffiti targeting a Jewish-owned business, Mitzvahland, on August 30, 2025, is being investigated as a hate crime. These incidents have heightened community concerns, prompting demands for increased security measures.

Why is Encino being targeted by criminals?

Encino’s median home prices, around $1.5 million, and its reputation as a celebrity enclave (home to figures like Selena Gomez and Zendaya) make it an attractive target for organized burglary crews. Criminals often use sophisticated tactics, such as Wi-Fi jammers to disable security systems, to exploit the neighborhood’s wealth. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) notes that while overall crime in Los Angeles has declined, high-profile incidents in Encino have amplified local fears.

What is the LAPD doing to address the crime surge in Encino?

The LAPD has implemented a multi-faceted crime suppression strategy, including:

• Increased Patrols: Additional officers on foot, horseback, and in patrol cars during evening and overnight hours.

• Air Support: Helicopter flyovers to monitor suspicious activity.

• Technology: Deployment of automated license plate readers (ALPR) to track suspect vehicles.

• Task Force Collaboration: Working with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department’s Burglary/Robbery Task Force to target organized crime.

• Community Outreach: Plans for an Encino-specific “Coffee with a Cop” event and updated burglary prevention tips shared via social media.

On August 1, 2025, Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman hosted a virtual town hall with over 700 residents to discuss these measures and address community demands.

What security measures can Encino residents take to protect their homes?

To enhance home security and deter burglaries, residents can:

• Install High-Quality Security Systems: Use hardwired alarms and cameras resistant to Wi-Fi jammers. Ensure cameras cover all entry points and are equipped with night vision.

• Use Smart Locks and Lighting: Install smart deadbolts and motion-activated exterior lights to deter intruders.

• Secure Entry Points: Reinforce doors with deadbolts and strike plates, and use shatterproof glass or security film on windows.

• Join Neighborhood Watch: Collaborate with neighbors to monitor suspicious activity and share real-time alerts via apps like Nextdoor.

• Hire Private Security: Some residents have pooled resources for armed security patrols and license plate-reading cameras.

• Secure Valuables: Use a home safe for jewelry and documents, and avoid posting travel plans on social media.

How can residents report crimes or suspicious activity in Encino?

• Emergency: Call 911 for immediate threats or crimes in progress.

• Non-Emergency: Contact the LAPD West Valley Division at (818) 374-7611 for non-urgent reports.

• Anonymous Tips: Submit tips via the LAPD’s online portal at www.lapdonline.org or through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

• Hate Crimes: Report incidents to the LAPD’s Hate Crime Coordinator at (213) 486-6840 or online.

What resources are available for Encino residents affected by crime?

• LAPD West Valley Community Relations: Reach out at (818) 374-7630 for updates on local safety initiatives or to join community engagement programs.

• Encino Neighborhood Council: Visit www.encinonc.org for meeting schedules and advocacy opportunities.

• Victim Support: The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program offers counseling and financial aid at (800) 380-3811.

• Crime Prevention Tips: Access LAPD’s burglary prevention resources at www.lapdonline.org/crime-prevention.

What are community leaders demanding to address the crime surge?

On July 31, 2025, the Encino Neighborhood Council and Encino Property Owners’ Association presented five demands to city officials:

1. Expanded use of automated license plate readers.

2. Drone patrols for enhanced surveillance.

3. An inter-agency crime task force.

4. A real-time crime watch center.

5. A dedicated public safety hub in Encino.

How is the antisemitic graffiti incident being addressed?

The LAPD is investigating the August 30, 2025, vandalism at Mitzvahland as a possible hate crime. Mayor Bass has increased patrols around Jewish places of worship and businesses. Community members organized a clean-up effort, and interfaith forums are being planned to promote solidarity. Residents can report similar incidents to the LAPD’s Hate Crime Coordinator.