Residents of Pacific Palisades, a wealthy coastal enclave in Los Angeles, have established nighttime blockades in an effort to deter burglars targeting properties still under reconstruction after devastating fires. The initiative comes as many homes remain vacant lots or construction sites more than a year after the blazes.
Morgan Goldberg, a resident rebuilding her home, described the situation as a community-led effort to address security concerns while awaiting increased police presence. "This is the people and the neighbors coming together to solve the problem," Goldberg stated in a video shared on Instagram. She noted that neighbors have organized an active watch program, with some creating blockades or general presence to discourage criminal activity.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) recorded eight burglaries in the Palisades during June, with several targeting construction sites. In one instance, thieves reportedly stole approximately $13,500 worth of tools after breaking a window. Another incident involved the theft of about $10,000 in equipment from a broken-into storage container, and a separate site lost $6,450 in equipment when a gate and storage container were breached.
While police reported a decrease in weekly incidents to four or five in July, down from approximately eight several months prior, the ongoing crime adds to the burden for homeowners already navigating the financial and emotional aftermath of the fires. The neighborhood's vulnerability at night is exacerbated by the numerous vacant or under-construction properties, often secured only by chain-link fences. "It’s very dark, it’s unpopulated, and full of construction lots with nothing but a chain link fence protecting it," Goldberg told Westside Current. She added that many residents are hiring private security, an additional expense on top of rebuilding costs.
The LAPD has advised residents and contractors to implement enhanced security measures, including regular property checks, securing tools and equipment, and utilizing lighting and surveillance cameras. Alarm systems that provide immediate notifications were also recommended.
The rebuilding effort in Pacific Palisades is one of the most extensive in Los Angeles history. The Palisades Fire, which began in January 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres and destroyed more than 6,800 structures. Over a year later, an estimated 28 to 37 homes have been fully rebuilt and cleared for occupancy, though more than 1,000 properties have active construction or approved rebuilding permits.
The slow pace of recovery has led to frustration directed at city officials. In response to concerns, Councilwoman Traci Park called for increased LAPD resources in the Palisades, which resulted in the assignment of four additional officers to the area. However, residents like Goldberg are advocating for a more visible police presence, especially during nighttime hours, emphasizing the need for adequate funding and support for law enforcement in the community.