Residents’ Concern Over Rising Crime in Encino, Los Angeles

In a neighborhood in Los Angeles, people are becoming increasingly frustrated with local authorities, including Democratic Mayor Karen Bass, regarding the uptick in crime. One resident expressed that the community feels “on edge” and emphasized the need for more support.

The calls for enhanced security in Encino intensified following the deaths of music producer Robin Kay and her husband, Thomas Deluca, who were found dead in their home on July 14. Authorities suspect they were killed on July 10, triggered by two phone calls reporting a potential robbery at their residence. The alleged assailant, 22-year-old Raymond Boudarian, has been charged with the couple’s murder. Officials indicated that the attack appeared to be random.

A neighbor mentioned that the suspect struggles with mental health issues and has been known to act aggressively towards people in the area.

Rob Glushon, president of the Encino Property Owners Association and a neighbor of Kay and Deluca, shared that this double homicide is just one example of the rising crime they’ve been experiencing. He highlighted another incident where a neighbor’s husband was killed during a robbery, noting the ongoing problems with theft and home invasions that have left residents feeling vulnerable.

He voiced that the situation is not normal at all, as fear permeates the community and everyone is aware of who has been victimized.

On July 31, Glushon led a group of Encino residents to Van Nuys City Hall to formally present a list of demands to the mayor. In the days leading up to this meeting, there were reports of two more break-ins in the neighborhood, exacerbating feelings of insecurity.

Residents have expressed their discomfort to local media, stating, “We’re being targeted… it’s frightening.” Glushon added that city officials, including Bass, haven’t done enough to tackle the security issues, mentioning a significant understaffing problem within the LAPD.

“It’s frustrating, it’s upsetting. People are obviously concerned and want to take action,” he conveyed.

In a push for accountability, Glushon asserted, “We are urging the mayor, who is part of the city council, to take decisive action.”