Photo: FLLewis / Media City G — Bank of America 3400 West Magnolia Blvd. Burbank August 18, 2017
The Bank of America at 3400 West Magnolia Boulevard has apparently amped up its security following a reported robbery attempt last Thursday, August 17. The next day, a security guard was lurking in the shade by the door. Another reason some merchants and residents have jittery nerves in Magnolia Park these days.
Photo: FLLewis / Media City G — Security guard standing by the door at Bank of America 3400 West Magnolia Blvd Burbank August 18, 2017
Burbank Police spokesman, Sergeant Derek Green, told Media City Groove patrol units rolled up to the bank at 5:20 p.m. last Thursday. This is where the incident gets a little strange: “The suspect handed the bank teller a note and demanded money, but the suspect left the bank without any cash. This was determined to be an attempt only. Burbank Police Detectives are working the case and have identified a person of interest. I cannot release any other information at this time. This is an active, ongoing investigation, ” according to Sgt. Green.
The bank is within a few yards of Bell Cottage and Vintage Boutique Antiques, which were burglarized less than three weeks earlier on July 30, 2017. Just across the street from the bank, LuxMary Handbags, was hit by burglars who got away with more than $50,000 in designer handbags and other merchandise on July 7. A suspect in the handbags heist has been arrested and city officials put out a press release about the investigation earlier this month on August 8. Also, last Tuesday at the city council meeting, Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse, talked about the arrest and the investigation. However, Chief LaChasse did not address growing concerns that the handbag burglary was one of several crimes in the area recently.
Also, there was an armed robbery at the Walgreens pharmacy 2501 West Magnolia Blvd, a week ago last Sunday. A security guard now stands watch at the entrance to that business.
While, Chief LaChasse is apparently mum on the crime situation in this area of Magnolia Park, merchants and residents are doing a lot of talking about it. Recently, one shop owner asked me if she needed a permit or license to get a gun. I know of at least one shop where a weapon is kept behind the counter. Things are getting kind of desperate in this section of Magnolia Park.
