Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department increases security at Altadena construction sites amid ongoing rebuild from Eaton Fire

ALTADENA, Calif. () — Nearly a year after the Eaton Fire tore through Altadena, the sound of rebuilding is everywhere — from homes nearing completion to construction sites still pouring foundations. With hundreds of active build sites spread across the community, local law enforcement is stepping in to protect the progress.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has launched a new Construction Check Program through its Altadena Station, aimed at preventing the theft of building materials and equipment that could delay rebuilding and drive up costs for homeowners.

“We know that after crews leave, things are often left on site,” said Capt. Ethan Marquez with LASD’s Altadena station. “We work with contractors so they know what steps they can take to reduce theft and protect homeowners.”

Construction sites can be attractive targets, particularly during evenings and weekends when materials may be unattended. Deputies assigned to the program conduct targeted patrols and investigate suspicious activity.

“If we see someone with a truck who looks like they might be doing work — especially at night or on the weekend — we’re going to check it out and make sure they’re supposed to be there,” Marquez said.

For families like the Markarians, who are close to moving back into their rebuilt home, the added patrols have brought peace of mind.

“We’ve noticed the sheriff patrol constantly here,” said Minas Markarian, an Altadena resident. “That makes a big difference.”

Neighbors have also taken steps to protect one another, installing construction fencing, cameras and lighting in areas that can be especially dark at night.

“Some of our neighbors added cameras and lights because the street gets extremely dark in the evening,” Markarian said.

Sheriff’s officials say the effort comes as Altadena’s crime rate is at its lowest level on record — a trend they hope to maintain as more families return.

Community members say that sense of vigilance is already paying off.

“We’ve had family friends checking on the house, and neighbors have questioned them,” Markarian said. “We appreciate that. We want to know that everyone here is here for a good reason.”

Officials say the program is expected to remain in place as long as construction activity continues, reinforcing both safety and the sense of shared responsibility in a community working to rebuild together.