5 Major Changes At The West Hollywood Sheriff's Station You Need To Know In 2025

The West Hollywood Sheriff's Station (WHD), a vital part of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD), is the cornerstone of public safety for the vibrant City of West Hollywood and the unincorporated area of Universal CityWalk. As of late 2025, the station has undergone significant operational and leadership changes, demonstrating a proactive approach to evolving public safety challenges in this high-profile urban center.

These crucial updates, including a new Captain and the deployment of advanced technology, directly impact the safety and quality of life for residents, businesses, and the millions of visitors who flock to WeHo's iconic streets. This report details the most current and essential developments shaping the station's strategy for the remainder of 2025 and beyond.

New Leadership: Captain Fanny Lapkin's Profile and Vision

The most significant recent change at the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station is the appointment of its new commanding officer. In August 2025, the City of West Hollywood welcomed a new leader to the helm of the station, marking a new chapter in its commitment to community safety.

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• Name: Captain Fanny Lapkin
• Date of Appointment: August 2025
• Previous Rank: Lieutenant (promoted in 2022)
• Role: Captain of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department West Hollywood Station
• Jurisdiction: Oversees law enforcement services for the City of West Hollywood and the unincorporated Universal CityWalk area.
• Significance: Her promotion follows a selection process and signifies a continued focus on experienced leadership within the LASD.

Captain Lapkin's assumption of command, which officially began on August 17, 2025, is a key development that signals the station's dedication to maintaining a strong, visible presence and fostering a collaborative relationship with the City Council and the public.

1. The "Drone as First Responder" Pilot Program Update

In a major technological leap, the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station is actively moving forward with its "Drone as First Responder" (DFR) Pilot Program. This initiative places the station at the forefront of modern policing by utilizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to rapidly assess emergency situations.

The latest update in July 2025 confirms that the program is progressing under the current LASD UAS Drone policy. The goal is to deploy drones quickly to the scene of a 9-1-1 call, providing immediate aerial situational awareness to deputies en route. This allows for better resource allocation and safer responses, particularly in a densely populated area like West Hollywood. Community members were invited to participate in a public meeting in August 2025 to discuss the program's implementation and guidelines, ensuring transparency and public input on this advanced technology.

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2. Analyzing the 2025 Crime Statistics and Trends

Recent crime data for 2025 reveals a mixed but generally stable picture for West Hollywood, demonstrating the ongoing challenges and successes of the Sheriff's Department's efforts. Understanding these statistics is vital for both residents and visitors.

Fluctuations in Calls for Service (2024 vs. 2025)

Overall, the demand for law enforcement services has seen a slight increase. From January through June 2025, the station managed 10,205 calls for service, representing a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Specifically, May 2025 saw 1,810 calls for service, a 5.5% increase from May 2024.

Part I Crimes Overview

Part I Crimes, which include serious offenses like homicide, robbery, and burglary, have shown variable trends. While overall Part I Crime figures saw a decrease of 10% in October 2025 compared to October 2024, the report highlighted ongoing concerns in specific areas. The department is actively working to address recent early morning street robberies through community notifications and prevention tips.

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The station continues to focus on combating property crime, which remains a persistent issue in urban areas. Despite the overall decrease in some months, burglaries and thefts remain high-priority targets for the WHD's patrol operations.

3. Renewed Commitment: The LASD Contract Renewal

A significant administrative update in June 2025 solidified the partnership between the City of West Hollywood and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The West Hollywood City Council voted unanimously to renew its contract with the LASD, ensuring the continuity of law enforcement services provided by the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station.

This renewal underscores the city's trust in the LASD model, which provides comprehensive police services, including patrol, investigations, and community outreach, tailored to the unique needs of West Hollywood. The decision guarantees that the station's dedicated deputies will continue to serve the community without interruption for the foreseeable future, maintaining stability in public safety management.

4. Focus on Community Engagement and Safety Programs

The West Hollywood Sheriff's Station is not solely focused on enforcement; its commitment to community-based policing remains a top priority, bolstered by several ongoing and new programs. These initiatives are crucial for building trust and preventing crime before it occurs.

The Safer WeHo Program

The "Safer WeHo" program is a key community safety initiative that brings together the City's Community Safety Department and the Sheriff's Station. This comprehensive effort involves various public safety elements, including outreach, education, and focused enforcement in high-traffic areas. The program often hosts community events and provides updates on local crime trends and prevention strategies.

West Hollywood Community Academy

For citizens interested in gaining a deeper understanding of law enforcement, the WHD Community Academy offers a unique opportunity. Participants gain a comprehensive view of patrol operations, investigative procedures, and the day-to-day efforts that form the "heart and soul" of the station's service to the city. This academy is a powerful tool for transparency and community collaboration.

5. High-Priority Safety Issues: Pedestrian and Pickpocket Concerns

Recent reports from November 2025 have highlighted specific safety issues that the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station is actively addressing: pedestrian safety and pickpocket thefts.

West Hollywood's highly walkable nature and vibrant nightlife make pedestrian safety a constant concern. The WHD regularly conducts focused operations and public awareness campaigns to ensure both drivers and pedestrians adhere to traffic laws, minimizing accidents.

Furthermore, the station is actively combatting a rise in pickpocket thefts, particularly in crowded areas and entertainment zones. The department has issued specific warnings and prevention tips to the public, urging vigilance, especially during the busy holiday season and late-night hours. This targeted focus demonstrates the station's adaptability to evolving criminal tactics.

West Hollywood Sheriff's Station: A Forward-Looking Approach

The changes and updates at the West Hollywood Sheriff's Station in 2025—from the new leadership under Captain Fanny Lapkin to the groundbreaking DFR Pilot Program and the focus on nuanced crime statistics—reflect a modern, forward-thinking approach to public safety. The station continues to adapt its strategies, combining traditional patrol operations with innovative technology and robust community engagement to ensure West Hollywood remains a safe place for everyone. For non-emergencies or general inquiries, the station can be reached directly, maintaining an open line of communication with the public.