Briefly In Public Safety

Laguna Beach Police Department had two of its members recognized at the annual Crime Survivors Banquet in Garden Grove on April 27, according to a release.

Detective Julia Bowman was touted for her work with sexual assault cases linked to the downtown rug store, Sirous and Sons. The case started small but eventually expanded to 11 reported victims. Bowman was lauded for her ability to comfort and protect the reported victims.

Cpl. Jason Farris was honored for his work with Laguna Beach homeless as a Community Services Officer. Farris has become an expert on the topic and trains officers from other cities that want to mimic how Laguna Beach works with its homeless population.

The release mentions that Farris and a Seal Beach police officer have started a county consortium of Community Services Officers to meet on a quarterly basis to share information and ideas.

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‘Drug Take Back Day’ a success

The Laguna Beach Police Department held its third annual “Drug Take Back Day” on April 28, where people are able to turn in prescription drugs without question. Police said it was the most successful of all take back days.

Police collected five boxes of prescription and over-the-counter medications weighing in at more than 125 pounds.

The day encourages citizens to get rid of unwanted drugs so that they don’t get into the ecosystem or get in the hands of someone besides them.

It was held in conjunction with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Take Back Day.

The Laguna Beach High School parking lot served as the drop-off area and several high school students, representing the Laguna Beach High School Drug Prevention Council, worked with police.

— Compiled by Joanna Clay

Twitter: @joannaclay