By: Donna Duperron
Members of the Torrance business community participated in a roundtable with Assistant Chief Bob Dunn and Police Services Administrator Melissa King.
“It was truly an honor to sit alongside fellow local business leaders and collaborate with the Torrance Police Department. The discussion was both thoughtful and productive-particularly with the presence of Assistant Chief Bob Dunn and Melissa King. Assistant Chief Dunn’s leadership and commitment to public safety, along with Melissa’s welcoming approach and openness to addressing concerns, were genuinely appreciated,” said Luis Trujillo, General Manager, Roadium Open Air Market.
During the meeting, business owners and leaders brought forward issues that were important to them.
Tania Rios, owner of Fantastic Sam’s on 190th, spoke of the homeless presence in the area of her business. Since the meeting, Community Lead Officers have met with Tania to discuss strategies and to provide information on the City of Torrance Homeless Services. Additionally, she learned that business owners are encouraged to contact the police department in the case of theft, in any amount.
Arun Bhumitra, President, Arjay Plaza/Lifewireless, discussed vandalism, theft, homelessness, crime against senior citizens and scams against the elderly and vulnerable, including white collar crime and use of technology to mitigate crime and business can run without fear. Chief Dunn had a good answer for prevention and how TPD will be proactive.
During the meeting, the question was posed as to the revitalization of the Business Watch Program. Christina Szczypkowski with the Torrance Police Department has provided the following update: Our Community Lead Officer (CLO) Detail are providing resources, safety presentations, and CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) surveys and walk-throughs for local businesses. If a business is interested in joining the program, they can sign up online, and their information will be entered into our records management system, which is accessible by both our Communications Center and patrol officers. Businesses who are interested can email CommunityAffairs@TorranceCa.gov.