Briefly In Public Safety

Police amp up patrols for holiday

The Laguna Beach Police Department is increasing its patrol staff during Memorial Day weekend, from Friday until Monday, in an effort to curb alcohol-related incidents and traffic collisions.

It’s common for the department to saturate the city with additional staff during busy holidays, according to a news release. Officials said they hope the public will take notice of the announcement and think before getting into a perilous situation, such as drunk driving. According to the release, the saturation patrols have proven effective in removing DUI offenders from the roadways.

Police ask that the public consider the following before hitting the town this weekend: plan a safe way to get home prior to drinking or leaving home, designate a sober driver and call a taxi, friend or family member to pick you up, or use public transportation.

Call 9-1-1 to report a drunk driver.

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Downtown businesses report graffiti

Three downtown businesses were reportedly tagged with the words “Wing, Slyde and Ding” on May 12.

According to Lt. Jason Kravetz, officers first received a call at 10:30 a.m. from Bushard’s Pharmacy, 244 Forest Ave., regarding graffiti on its roof.

While at the premises, officers found that another business at 218 Forest Ave. had been tagged. A third incident was found at 210 Forest Ave.

Kravetz said he doesn’t know the number of vandalism reports at this point. It’s possible that more businesses were affected, he said. The LBPD expects additional reports.

Police do not believe it is gang related.

— Joanna Clay

Twitter: @Joannaclay