Woodland Hills : Merchants View Carjacking Tape

The premiere of a low-budget Los Angeles Police Department videotape on how to prevent carjackings and other auto-related crimes went off without a hitch Monday, unmarred by the chilly reception West Valley officers received when they were asked to leave two properties while filming.

“We had a good deal of help from a number of volunteers, and there were plenty of alternate locations,” said Officer Russell Long, who produced the 22-minute video.

The amateur crew of officers and civilians was kicked off the parking lots of Gelson’s market in Encino and a nearby Sav-On Drugs, where they had planned to shoot a mock follow-home robbery scene and a staged purse-snatching.

Long said he believed the managers didn’t want their companies associated with robberies.

About 50 West Valley merchants viewed the tape at the “Business Watch” session at the Warner Center Marriott Hotel as part of a dialogue between the LAPD and merchants that has included seminars on shoplifting and spotting counterfeit money.

“Policing has changed,” Councilwoman Joy Picus told the assembled merchants. “You become the eyes and ears of the LAPD--telling them what’s happening out there and reinforcing their presence.”

The videotape included scenes of typical car-related crimes and advice on how to avoid them, such as keeping doors locked while driving, parking in well-lit areas and paying attention to one’s surroundings.

“The big thing is awareness, taking the opportunity away from the thief,” said Officer Steve Kegley.

“You don’t want anybody violating your space. If they get that close, sometimes you’ve lost the battle,” he said.