Residents of the affluent Encino neighborhood in Los Angeles are pressing Democratic Mayor Karen Bass to take meaningful action amid a spike in crime. The sudden increase—and sensational violence—has left many in the community feeling unsafe and anxious.
A harrowing double homicide shook the neighborhood in July when longtime American Idol producer Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found murdered inside their home. Police suspect the deaths occurred around July 10 after prior burglary calls were made by the couple. A 22-year-old local man, Raymond Boodarian, has been arrested on double homicide charges. Officials say the killings were likely random.
Rob Glushon, president of the Encino Property Owners Association, said the murders are only the latest in a troubling trend of break-ins, home invasions, and ephemeral threats. One neighbor recounted seeing the suspect flash knives at Ring cameras and attempt to contact residents using social media. “People are on edge,” Glushon said.
On July 31, Encino homeowners marched to Van Nuys City Hall with a clear demand: strengthened law enforcement presence and resources in their neighborhood. That same day, two additional break-ins were reported, one involving Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Teddi Mellencamp. Residents decried the lack of adequate police staffing and warned, “It’s scary… We are being targeted.”
