Deputies Arrest Suspicious Magazine Solicitors in La Canada Flintridge

Sheriff's Deputies from the Crescenta Valley Station arrested two people in separate incidents on suspicion of soliciting magazines without a permit, authorities said. 

Residents were suspicious of the people allegedly selling magazines door to door on Jan. 7, about 8 p.m. in the 4300 Block of Belair Drive, Sheriff's Sgt. Debra Herman told Patch.  

The individuals, whose identities were not immediately available, did not have permits to solicit any items, officials said.

The incident happened in an area that has had recent residential burglaries, Herman said.  

"During the interactions with residents, both individuals became confrontational when residents declined to make a purchase from them," said Sheriff's Sgt. Robert Galbraith of the Crescenta Valley Station. 

"Both individuals do not live in the Crescenta Valley Station area and had no legitimate business in La Canada Flintridge," he said.

On both occasions, residents called Crescenta Valley Station to report the suspicious behavior. 

"Although soliciting without a permit seems to be a low level crime, it is a tactic commonly used by individuals to ascertain if the resident is home, possibly resulting in a burglary that day or in the future," officials said. 

Authorities explained that any suspicious activity should be immediately reported and can help the continued continuing effort with Glendale, Pasadena and Los Angeles Police Departments to help reduce the larger “regional” burglary problem. 

"We appreciate the participation of the community with our efforts to catch persons coming to our community to commit crimes," Herman said. 

Residents who see any suspicious activity can call (818) 248-3464. If it is an emergency situation, call “911.” 

Anyone interested in initiating a Neighborhood Watch Program in La Canada Flintridge can call Deputy Eric Matejka at (818) 248-3464.