Artesia News

Night Out Against Crime

 

Approximately 200 Artesia residents showed up to Artesia’s Night Out Against Crime, bringing their own food, enjoying the barbecue the city provided, listening to speakers, and studying displays.

Night Out Against Crime is a national crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. In Artesia, emergency vehicles, guns, and drug paraphernalia were put on display so residents could familiarize with them.

Three members of city council were on hand to give their thanks to those who protect Artesia and surrounding cities.

Captain Dave Fender of the Lakewood Sheriff Station also had something to say, that Artesia is a safer now than it was 10 years ago.

“Artesia has been fighting crime for a few years now … and the secret to fighting crime is a solid Neighborhood Watch Program,” explained Fender.

According to Fender, in 1994, L.A. County had an average of 495 ‘incidents’ (violent crime, burglary, etc.) per 10,000 people. Artesia’s average was 643 incidents per 10,000 people. As of 2004, the county average was 308 incidents per 10,000 people, and in Artesia the average has dropped to 294 incidents per 10,000 people.

“Artesia has come a long way since 10 years ago,” Fender said.

Fender also acknowledged Artesia’s Special Assignment Officers under Sgt. Jeanette Duran-Dingillo.

Assistant Fire Chief of Cerritos Fire Station 30 Angel Montoya thanked Artesians for their help, and added that the greatest help for firefighters is when the residents are prepared. “Don’t tell my other 14 cities I chose to come to Artesia,” Montoya joked.
Afterward, the Miss Artesia pageant passed out flashlights and everyone turned on their flashlights.

“Artesia’s Night Out was a success,” said City Manager Maria Dadian.

That night, all attending were asked to leave their lights on as a show of unity against crime.
Captain David Fender of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station said Artesia is a safer place than it was 10 years ago.
Mayor and two city council members (Tony Mendoza and Sally Flowers - not pictued) gave some of their thoughts about police, firemen, and emergency medical teams
This girl experienced what it’s like to be on the good side of police car.
Hopefully parents will be able to recognize some of the items used for the intake of drugs.
Child fingerprinting service was available.
This child is given a demonstration on having his fingerprints taken.
Deputy Speaks of safety.
Children view guns used by street gangs.
Miss Artesia Teen Princess Latifa Young, passes our flashlight favors.
Two young women from American Medical Response showed up in their ambulance.
Artesia’s royalty posing with members of the city council.
Lovely Miss Artesia Royalty smiles for our camera.
Code Enforcement Officer Leonard Moreno made sure the food was excellent.
There’s a lot of burgers cooking somewhere back there.
Jose Avila and Jeff Swingle of Cerritos Fire Station 30.
Assistant Fire Chief Angel Montoya thanked Artesians for their help and being prepared.
Claire Li (right), and her intern, represented the office of Congresswoman Linda Sanchez.
Former Ms. Artesia Teen Princess Mary-Krystle Viramontes sings the National Anthem.