Manhattan Beach Police Adds Extra Officers During Election Cycle

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — Beginning tomorrow [Friday, Oct. 30], the Manhattan Beach Police Department is adding extra officers during day shift and graveyard as a “Deployment Plan,” according to Community Affairs Sergeant Tim Zins.

The increase in officers on duty will last through Friday, Nov. 6 in a plan put together by the patrol lieutenant and approved by MBPD Chief Derrick Abell. MBPD Public Information Officer Chris Inguez called the measure "a proactive approach rather than being reactive."

Residents in nearby Santa Monica, which suffered rioting and looting during recent civil unrest, will also see an elevated police presence throughout their city for the same timeframe. Santa Monica city officials said, in a news release, "Our visibility should not cause alarm and is dedicated to swiftly intercede with any type of criminal activity."

In Beverly Hills, police and city officials will close a portion of Rodeo Drive from Monday, Nov. 2, at 11:59 p.m. to Wednesday, Nov. 4, again at 11:59 p.m. Rodeo Drive will be closed to cars and pedestrians from South Santa Monica Boulevard to Wilshire Boulevard, officials said. There also will be no access to Rodeo from Brighton or Dayton ways.

As part of a "proactive approach to ensure a safe community for residents, businesses and visitors," the Beverly Hills Police Department "will be on full alert throughout the residential and business districts," the city said, adding that private security companies also are coordinating with BHPD.

Nicole Charky and Susan C. Schena contributed to this article.