After the east side of town experienced a rash of
crimes in recent months – including a rape and home-invasion robbery –
Veronica Ortiz began feeling unsafe for the first time.

“It’s never happened before and was never this bad,” said Ortiz,
30, whose three children attend nearby Hurley Elementary School. “I see a
lot of kids walking home from school, but I don’t let mine walk. I
don’t think they’re safe.”

To combat crime, and bring security back to residents, officials and community members are taking action.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, city of La
Puente, Rowland Unified School District and Hurley Elementary School
have partnered to develop a community policing and safety program.

Read more in Juliette Funes’ story WALL.