La Center police report rise in calls, urge residents to lock vehicles after overnight auto-prowls

La Center — At the May 28 council meeting, La Center-area law enforcement reported an increase in calls for service, several recent auto-prowls and a successful prescription drug take-back event.

Commander Phil Sample reviewed April comparisons: community-initiated calls rose from 103 (April 2024) to 110 (April 2025), and deputy-initiated contacts rose from 83 to 118, producing a total increase in recorded activity, Sample said. Notable incidents included a burglary of an unoccupied home in a new development (a wall-mounted thermostat was stolen), multiple domestic-disturbance arrests and a traffic collision involving a pedestrian at Pacific Highway and Fourth Street.

Sample reported 18 traffic citations for the reporting period and described two overnight auto-prowls behind the library between approximately 2 a.m. and 4 a.m.; several unlocked vehicles were entered and substantial property taken. He encouraged residents to lock vehicles and secure valuables.

The department partnered with Lucinda United for the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day: the event collected four boxes totaling 91 pounds of medication, Sample said.

Sample and council members discussed posting surveillance images and “Can You I.D. Me?” photos on the city website and social media to assist investigations. Law enforcement described an investigative lead: a possible white male in his 30s wearing a light pullover hoodie and a mask, and a dark-colored, low-profile sedan seen in the area during the overnight incidents. The department said it is actively patrolling and will continue outreach to residents for tips; no arrests were announced at the meeting.

Council members supported posting images via the county sheriff’s site and reposting on the city’s channels to broaden community awareness.