Support for LAist comes from
Become a sponsor
We Explain L.A.
Donate
Stay Connected

LAist is part of Southern California Public Radio (SCPR), a member-supported public media network. Hear our news on-air at our partner site:

KPCC Logo

Live Stream Schedule In Person

Keep up with LAist

Our top stories delivered weeknights
Donate

Share This
News

LA Sheriff Resumes Stepped Up Patrols Of Asian American Churches

By Robert Garrova
Published May 28, 2020 4:25 PM
5dcdafb5c92b3500089d3813-eight.jpg
Stories like these are only possible with your help!
You have the power to keep local news strong for the coming months. Your financial support today keeps our reporters ready to meet the needs of our city. Thank you for investing in your community.

The L.A. County Sheriff's Department is once again stepping up patrols of Asian American churches during the pandemic.

The increased patrols had started earlier this year. Then the stay-at-home orders pretty much closed churches down.

Now that houses of worship are getting the go-ahead to reopen, Sheriff Alex Villanueva said deputies will resume those patrols.

He made the announcement during an online forum about coronavirus-related hate crimes against Asian Americans.

Support for LAist comes from
Become a sponsor
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about new challenges to law enforcement. Unfortunately, ignorant members of the community want to lay blame on our Asian American community after China was reported to be the epicenter of the new virus.”

Despite the concerns, so far the Sheriff’s Department has only recorded one COVID-19 related anti-Asian hate crime in L.A. County this year, according to Lt. Andrew Meyer of the Major Crimes Bureau -- although many have experienced such crimes, as LAist has reported.

READ OUR EARLIER STORIES:

Our news is free on LAist. To make sure you get our coverage: Sign up for our daily newsletters. To support our nonprofit public service journalism: Donate now.