Northern Downey residents push council for streetlights and patrols after series of break-ins and vandalism

Downey — Multiple residents from District 3 described an escalation of crime on Norlane Avenue and asked the City Council to prioritize lighting, surveillance, and police presence.

Valerie Esparza, a resident who identified several recent incidents on her block, said repeated vehicle break‑ins, slashed tires, graffiti and a past drive‑by shooting have left neighbors fearing for their safety. “We should be able to feel safe on our street and right now we aren’t,” Esparza said, asking the council to consider lighting, cameras and increased Downey Police patrols.

Other residents echoed those concerns. Maha Samha described ongoing patterns of vandalism and theft that have prompted neighbors to consider moving; Alexander Morales said the block is “very, very dark” and asked the city to repair or add light fixtures and increase nighttime patrols.

Resident Jose Ontiveros told the council that code enforcement had ordered him to remove privately installed cameras he uses for safety and asked staff how to retain surveillance that helps capture license plates and deter crime.

City Manager Roger Bradley told residents staff have been working on a streetlight program and will return to council with a proposal (discussion scheduled for March 24). Bradley said some areas lack adequate streetlight coverage and staff have been developing plans to add lights over the next several years.

Police and city staff pledged follow-up: the chief will contact residents directly and staff will provide further guidance about camera permitting and code enforcement options. Council members thanked residents for speaking and asked staff to bring back specifics on the streetlight proposal and any near-term enforcement steps.

The comments highlight a localized public-safety concern and prompted staff commitments to return with proposals and direct follow-up with affected residents.