Concerned Father Arrested for Installing Unauthorized Stop Signs in El Segundo

Joseph Brandlin, a 44-year-old single father from El Segundo, California, was arrested on March 14, 2026, after he installed unauthorized stop signs at the intersection of Loma Vista Street and Acacia Avenue. This intersection, currently a two-way stop, is located near a park frequented by children. Brandlin's actions were motivated by a series of near-collisions he witnessed, including a close call involving his son while riding his bike. Frustrated by the city's inaction regarding safety concerns, Brandlin took it upon himself to advocate for a four-way stop, spending approximately $1,000 on commercial-grade materials.

The IndependentCalifornia Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

Brandlin's initiative involved placing 30-inch-high stop signs and painting the word "STOP" on the ground. He had previously petitioned the city for a four-way stop, gathering around 50 signatures from concerned residents. However, the city officials claimed that the intersection did not meet the necessary traffic volume for additional stop signs and opted instead to paint crosswalks. Brandlin expressed disbelief at this decision, noting that 75% of Los Angeles already has four-way stops at similar intersections.

The Independent

Brandlin was arrested while installing the signs early in the morning, facing multiple felony charges, including grand theft for allegedly taking cones from a nearby construction site and vandalism of city property. He described the arrest as excessive, particularly given the severity of the charges. Following his arrest, local officials removed the signs and covered the painted "STOP" on the ground.

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

Despite the legal consequences, Brandlin has garnered significant community support. After his arrest, he collected 74 letters from neighbors expressing their concerns about traffic safety and presented them to the El Segundo City Council. During a council meeting on March 17, he requested either the installation of stop signs or a transparent evaluation of the intersection's safety. Local resident Amanda Pruett emphasized the importance of children's safety, stating that additional stop signs could mitigate unsafe driving in the area.

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

While Brandlin's actions have received community backing, there are differing opinions on the appropriateness of his methods. Critics may argue that unauthorized installations could lead to confusion among drivers and potentially exacerbate safety issues rather than resolve them. City officials have not publicly responded to Brandlin's concerns or the community's support for his initiative.

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

Brandlin is scheduled to appear in court in June 2026. He remains resolute in his commitment to advocating for traffic safety, stating, "I’ll do it again if that’s what it takes. Because I’m not gonna wait for somebody to die." His case highlights the ongoing tension between citizen activism and municipal governance regarding public safety issues.

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

• “I decided to take it into my own hands,” — Joseph Brandlin, Father

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area

• “I’m asking the council for a straightforward action to install stop signs on intersection of Loma Vista Street and Acacia Avenue, or complete and transparent evaluation with the community,” — Joseph Brandlin, at City Council Meeting

The Independent

• “our kids’ safety is very important.” — Amanda Pruett, Local Resident

California Dad Arrested for Replacing Stop Signs in His Area