Mayor Orders LAPD Surge After San Fernando Valley Burglary Spree

Increased patrols, air support, and license plate readers deployed to deter criminals along Ventura Boulevard

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:26pm

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has directed the LAPD to launch a high-visibility patrol surge along Ventura Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley following a series of recent home burglaries that have left local residents on edge. The response includes specialized units, mobile license plate readers, and increased air support to deter criminals, specifically targeting neighborhoods like Sherman Oaks and Valley Glen.

Why it matters

While citywide burglary rates are reportedly down in 2026, the recent string of brazen home break-ins during daytime hours and repeat incidents at some properties have heightened community concerns about public safety in the San Fernando Valley. Mayor Bass is taking an aggressive approach to quell the burglary spree and restore a sense of security for local residents.

The details

Under the Mayor's directive, the LAPD's Operations-Valley Bureau is deploying a mix of patrol officers, detectives, and specialized units to high-risk areas along the Ventura Boulevard corridor. The department is also utilizing mobile license plate readers (LPRs) and has authorized increased air support for high-visibility deterrence. Specific recent incidents, such as a home in Sherman Oaks being burglarized on back-to-back nights and a Hollywood Hills resident being injured while confronting intruders, have further heightened local concerns.

  • On Friday, Mayor Bass ordered the LAPD patrol surge along Ventura Boulevard.
  • A home on Davana Terrace in Sherman Oaks was burglarized on both Friday and Saturday night.

The players

Mayor Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who has ordered the LAPD to increase patrols and deploy advanced surveillance technology in response to a recent burglary spree in the San Fernando Valley.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency that is carrying out the mayor's directive by deploying specialized units, mobile license plate readers, and increased air support to deter criminals along the Ventura Boulevard corridor.

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What they’re saying

“The safety of every Angeleno is my number-one priority. The city has zero tolerance for these recent burglaries. Residents deserve to feel safe in their communities, especially in their homes, and we will continue to deploy the resources necessary to keep people safe.”

— Mayor Karen Bass

What’s next

Residents can expect an increase in community meetings led by Senior Lead Officers to discuss home security and neighborhood watch initiatives.

The takeaway

This case highlights the city's commitment to addressing a recent spike in home burglaries in the San Fernando Valley, with Mayor Bass taking an aggressive approach by ordering a strategic LAPD surge to deter criminals and restore a sense of safety for local residents.