Photo: Councilman Dr. David Gordon at Burbank City Council meeting March 20, 2012
A lot of chatter and questions being asked about that incident at Burbank City Councilman Dr. David Gordon’s business office a little over a week ago. Burbank Police are reporting that a brick was tossed through a “4 by 6 foot window” at Dr. Gordon’s optometry office in the 800 block of Hollywood Way, March 16, at around 10 p.m. Was it a random act of vandalism or something more sinister?
A media report released last Friday by BPD Officer Joshua Kendrick says “… Officers were unable to determine whether or not the incident was politically motivated or a possible form of retaliation. The suspect was last seen fleeing the scene, southbound on Hollywood Way in a vehicle.”
The suspect is described as male, heavy set, about 5-10, wearing a baseball style hat, a blue hooded sweatshirt, and white shorts. According to the police media report, the suspect made his getaway in a silver, full-size, four door pickup truck. Sergeant Darin Ryburn, BPD media relations, told me in an email that the investigation is continuing into the incident and investigators are looking at surveillance tape from “… local members of the community.”
I emailed Councilman Gordon about the incident and here are his responses:
1.What is your reaction to this incident?
The act of violence against my office was shocking and most unfortunate.
2. Has anything like this happened before?
This month marks my 30th year at the same location since I opened my optometry practice. Nothing like this has ever happened to me or my office before.
3. How much damage would you estimate that it caused?
I do not yet have all the repair estimates or bills, but it seems to me the cost of repairs and restoration will exceed $1,000.00.
4. Reaction of your staff?
My staff has been very dedicated and supportive as we make the necessary repairs and resume normal operations at our office.
5. Do you believe it was a random act of vandalism or an attempt at harassment or intimidation?
I do not yet have enough information to accurately assess the motivation for this violent act against me/my office, but I have every reason to believe this was not an act of random vandalism.
I am sure more information will become available as the appropriate law enforcement entities continue the investigation into this crime.
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