Many people don’t realize that holding a pet while driving can be considered a form of distracted driving. It limits your ability to react, control your vehicle, and can put you, your furry friend, and others on the road at risk. Distractions can come in many forms, including using your phone, eating or drinking, adjusting your GPS, or anything else that takes your attention away from the road, even for a moment.
On this stop, our officer took the time to have a conversation and provide education rather than a citation. Moments like this are an important part of what we do, working to prevent crashes before they happen and helping create a safer La Mesa for everyone.
Please remember to properly secure your pets while driving. Small choices can make a big difference in keeping our community safe.
La Mesa Police Department
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The La Mesa Police Department. NOTE: This is not an emergency site. Please call 911 or our non-emergency 619-667-1400, if you need assistance.
The La Mesa Police Department works with our community to protect life and property while striving to enhance the quality of life of all our residents. The department is very responsive to the needs of our community and is devoted to providing the highest quality professional police services to everyone:
The department has 68 sworn officers and 31 civilian employees, as well as a large contingent
05/08/2026
❗️UPDATE: Helicopter has cleared from Helix High School.
Helix High School releasing secure campus. No threat has been located. LMPD will remain in the area.
Advisory Message: Helicopter assisting LMPD with Helix High School threat investigation. Please remain clear of area. La Mesa Police officers are on campus. Updates will follow.
05/08/2026
Advisory Message: Helicopter assisting LMPD with Helix High School threat investigation. Please remain clear of area. La Mesa Police officers are on campus. Updates will follow.
04/30/2026
We cordially invite our community to join us as we honor Officer Lauren Craven by adding her name to the La Mesa Police Department Peace Officer Memorial at the front of our station on Thursday, May 7th, at 4pm. This event is open to the public and all are welcome. Parking will be extremely limited and the surrounding area may be impacted by increased traffic. Please plan accordingly and arrive early or use public transportation. Officer Lauren Craven made the ultimate sacrifice on October 20, 2025, and will forever remind us all that, “In Valor There is Hope.”
04/24/2026
Youth Leadership Camp is an opportunity to grow, lead, and challenge yourself!
Hosted by La Mesa Police officers, this camp focuses on leadership development, personal growth, academic enrichment, teamwork, and building a strong sense of responsibility to your family and community.
Open to incoming sophomores, juniors, and seniors, participants will take part in hands-on learning through classroom discussions, real-life scenarios, team and individual challenges, and community service projects. Activities also include outdoor experiences like hiking, kayaking, and a ropes course.
This is your chance to step up, build confidence, and develop the skills to become a strong and successful leader.
Apply at https://bit.ly/4vOjquV by May 29 to be considered.
04/20/2026
This week, during National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we proudly recognize the incredible volunteers who serve alongside the La Mesa Police Department—our Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol and Chaplains.
Over the past year, these dedicated individuals have donated more than 4,000 hours of service to our community. That’s the equivalent of nearly 3.7 full-time employees—a remarkable contribution that directly enhances public safety, supports our officers, and strengthens our connection with the community.
From providing compassionate support in times of need to assisting with patrol and outreach, their impact is felt every single day. Their selfless commitment reflects the very best of service and community spirit.
To our volunteers: thank you for your time, your heart, and your unwavering dedication. We are truly grateful for all that you do!
04/13/2026
During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we recognize our police dispatchers for the critical role they play in every call for service. From the first ring to the final update, they manage the unseen details, coordinate the response, and stay one step ahead so both our officers and community are supported every second of the way.
They are the calm in the background, the steady line of communication for officers in the field, and the reassurance for those calling in their most vulnerable moments.
Thank you for your focus, your resilience, and the way you show up every single shift. Our officers rely on you, our community depends on you, and we are proud to have you as part of our team.
04/10/2026
April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to recognize and support individuals and families within the autism community. It’s an opportunity to celebrate neurodiversity, honor the unique strengths and perspectives of those on the spectrum, and stand alongside the families who advocate, support, and show up every day.
This month also encourages us to listen, learn, and foster greater understanding in our everyday interactions.
Throughout the month of April, we wear a special autism awareness patch as a symbol of our commitment to being more understanding and inclusive. It reflects our belief that everyone in our community deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
04/03/2026
Filing a non-emergency police report just got easier!
La Mesa Police Department is now offering online reporting for select non-emergency crimes. This new system makes it quicker and more convenient to file a report—anytime, from anywhere.
If you prefer to speak with an officer, you can still report incidents in person or by calling our non-emergency line at (619) 667-1400.
Visit www.cityoflamesa.gov/onlinereporting to learn more.
02/16/2026
👮🏻♂️ KidzWatch Safety Academy 2026 🧑🏽🚒
Help your child learn real-life safety skills from police, fire, and safety professionals!
🚨 For ages 6-9
🚔 A parent or guardian must attend ALL six classes with their child!
🚒 FREE!
Spots fill quickly! Register today and give your child the tools to stay safe and confident!
Visit: https://bit.ly/4aYj77l
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.