Author: LAPD

04.16.10 07:03 AM
Los Angeles:  Daryl F. Gates died today at 83 years of age after a short battle with cancer.  The 49th Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department passed away at his Newport Beach home with his loved ones at his bedside.

LAPD Chief of Police Charlie Beck eulogized, “Daryl Francis Gates was a one-in-a-million human being.  He inspired others to succeed and, in doing so, changed the landscape of law enforcement around the world.”    

Born August 30, 1926, Gates grew up in Glendale and the Highland Park Area of Los Angeles.  After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Navy.  Except for his two-year tour in the Navy, Gates was a lifelong resident of Southern California.  He attended and later earned degrees from the University of Southern California.  

Gates Joined the Los Angeles Police Department on Sept. 16, 1949 and rose through the ranks to become the 49th Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.  Gates served as the Chief from March 1978 until his retirement in 1992.  

Chief Gates accomplished great things in both good and difficult economic times.  And the successes of several major programs and events in the City of Los Angeles and around the world, especially the Los Angeles 1984 Summer Games, have their roots in the leadership achievements of Daryl Gates.                  

Chief Gates is survived by his long-time companion, his brother Retired LAPD Captain Steven Gates and his two children.  A media advisory will be issued when details about a memorial service are finalized.

LAPD News and Information …

04.16.10 07:19 AM
UPDATE
Los Angeles: Earlier today, Beverly Hills Police Department officers arrested a suspect that Los Angeles Police Department detectives have been seeking in connection with a shooting that occurred last Oct. 29 when two men were shot as they arrived for morning prayer services at the Adat Yeshurun Valley Sephardic Synagogue in North Hollywood.

With a warrant for his arrest, Beverly Hills SWAT officers took Christopher Littlejohn into custody without incident in the vicinity of Nordhoff Street and Balboa Boulevard for an assault that took place in the city of Beverly Hills.  Littlejohn is described as a 37-year-old Black male who resides in Northridge. His bail has been set at $2 million and he is currently being held at the BHPD jail.  More details about the synagogue shooting are available below in the original press release that went out on Oct. 29, 2009:

Gunman Shoots Two at North Hollywood Synagogue
Motive Still under Investigation

Los Angeles:  At 6:19 this morning, at the Adat Yeshurun Valley Sephardic Synagogue in North Hollywood, two men arriving for prayer services were shot.

A number of 911 calls brought Los Angeles Police Department officers from the North Hollywood area and Los Angeles City firefighters to the Synagogue located at 12405 Sylvan Street, where they found the victims, two men, one 38 the other 53 years old, in an underground garage suffering from gunshot wounds to their legs.

One of the victims had just gotten out of his car in the underground garage of the Synagogue and was near a stairwell when he was approached by a black man wearing what has been described as a dark color sweatshirt with a hood.  Investigators believe that without warning, the gunman tried to shoot the man, and his weapon malfunctioned.  As he tried to get the weapon to work, a second victim heard and saw what was happening and approached the gunman.  At that point, the suspect shot both of the victims.  He then ran on foot from the Synagogue parking garage.

The victims were taken to area hospitals where they are being treated for their wounds, which are not life threatening.  Detectives from North Hollywood are interviewing the victims as part of their investigation.  The victims have been able to give only a brief description of the shooter, a black male in his late teens to early twenties, wearing a dark-color sweatshirt with a hood.

More than an hour after the shooting, LAPD officers detained a man in an area near the shooting who fit the brief description of the suspect.  He is being interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.  Detectives are also viewing security video of the Synagogue as part of the investigation.

At this time, a motive for the shooting has not been determined.  North Hollywood detectives will be looking into the possibility of the crime being an unsuccessful armed robbery attempt, a random act of violence or a possible hate crime. A citywide tactical alert was issued to help manage police resources, and the LAPD Department Operations Center was activated at a Level One.  Area Commanding Officers were notified to increase patrols around critical Jewish sites in their areas.  Also assisting the LAPD in its investigation is the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the LA Area Joint Regional Intelligence Center.

More information will be released as it becomes available.  Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact North Hollywood Detectives at 818-623-4045.   After-hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 877-LAPD-24-7 or by texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with the letters LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website, http://www.lapdonline.org. All tips will remain anonymous.

       

LAPD News and Information …

04.15.10 02:29 PM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Northeast detectives have provided a composite drawing of a man who shot and wounded a woman during a purse snatch incident in the Silver Lake area on April 11.

Detectives say the woman and a group of her companions were walking to their car in the 2300 block of Glendale Boulevard around 9:30 p.m. when a man approached them and asked for the time.  As the individuals looked down at their watches, the man violently attempted to snatch the woman’s purse.  The companions intervened and struggled to fight off of the suspect.  In the course of the struggle, the suspect shot the woman in the arm and ran with her purse.  Paramedics rushed the woman to a local hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

The suspect was described as a thin-build, male Hispanic between 20 to 35 years of age.  He stood 5 foot 8 inches and was last seen wearing a dark-blue, hooded sweatshirt.

A composite sketch of the suspect is available on official website of THE LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call Northeast Division robbery detectives at 213-847-4270.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “web tips” and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.15.10 01:49 PM

Around11 o’clock this morning, juvenile officers found both girls at a homein Los Angeles.  The girls were unharmed and returned their families.

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department requests the public’s assistance in locating two 12-year-old runaways.

On April 9, Iris Vanessa Rodriguez and Sonia Gonzalez were last seenjumping a fence at Carver Middle School in the 4400 block of McKinleyAvenue to meet up with friends.  They have not returned home,investigators said.

Police say Gonzalez called her mother on April 12 and told her that shewanted to come home but never showed up.  Rodriguez has yet to be heardfrom.  The missing girls are known to frequent Bethune and South Parksin Los Angeles.

Rodriguezis described as Hispanic, 5 feet 1 inches tall and weighs 98 pounds. She has black hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing a white shirtand blue jeans.

Gonzalez is also described as Hispanic, 5 feet tall and weighs 120pounds. She has black hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing awhite shirt and blue pants.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these twojuveniles is encouraged to contact Newton Division Juvenile OfficersLucas Padilla or Bill Miller at (323) 846-6576.  During off-hours,calls may be directed to Newton Division’s watch commander at323-846-6547 or a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7(527-3247).  Anonymous callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phoneor log on to official website of THE LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT and click on Web Tips. When using acell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”  Tipsters may remainanonymous.

LAPD News and Information …

04.15.10 10:42 AM
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Newton Area detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who robbed Lupita’s Cell store.

On March 18, 2010, at around 3:25 p.m., an armed male entered Lupita’sCell store near the area of Central Avenue and 41st Street in theNewton Area of Los Angeles.  The male suspect ran into the businesspointing a handgun at the employee, jumped over the front counter,grabbed the employee and forced the employee to open the cashregister.  Once the register was opened, the suspect grabbed the cashand ran from the location.  

Thesuspect is described as an African American with black hair, browneyes, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 160-180 pounds andabout 30-35 years old.  

*Images of the suspect were captured by surveillance cameras within the store and are available at http://www.lapdtv.org

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Newton Area Robbery Detectives Humphreys or Matsudaat 323-846-6572.  During non-business hours or on weekends, callsshould be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remainanonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All textmessages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go toLAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.14.10 02:00 PM
Los Angeles:  Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Olympic Station expect to return a few hundred items taken from more than 100 cars to their rightful owners.

Since January 2010, between the early morning hours, patrol officers responded to more than 20 locations where property was stolen from parked cars.  Investigators believe that two suspects targeted the vehicles in subterranean parking lots of apartment complexes in areas of Korea Town, Rampart, Wilshire and Hollywood.  

The suspects would enter the parking garages and fill empty backpacks with clothing, sports apparel, GPS devices, cameras, sunglasses, designer purses, jewelry, watches, ID cards and other items commonly found inside a car.  The suspects would then store the backpacks in local motels.  In one motel room, the investigating detectives found several backpacks filled with a variety of items.

The suspects, Alejandro Torres and Jesse Torres, both 22 years old, were arrested and booked at Olympic Station on April 10, 2010, at 4 a.m.

Anyone whose car was broken into when parked in a subterranean parking structure in one of the areas mentioned above within the last few months is asked to call Detective Ron Kim, Olympic Property Crimes Unit at 213-382-9370, or 213-382-9440.  Detectives will assist victims of these thefts in retrieving their stolen property.

During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.13.10 11:41 AM
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Southeast Area detectives areasking for the public’s help in locating Mark Tucker.  Tucker wasinvolved in the attempt murder of his ex-girlfriend in the City of LosAngeles.

On March 30, 2010, at 10:30 p.m., LAPD Southeast Area officersresponded to a radio call regarding a shooting.  When officers arrivedthey found a 36-year-old female, with a gunshot wound to the back.

According to detectives, Tucker and the victim were having an argumentwhen the he shot the victim and ran from the location.  There were twochildren present during the shooting.

Tucker is described as a male Black with date of birth of February 15, 1970.  

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Southeast MajorAssault Crime Detectives Richard Carrillo at 213-972-7861.  Duringnon-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call    Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may alsocontact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S onmost keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin withthe letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on"webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.13.10 09:37 AM
Los Angeles:On April 7, just five hours after the Los Angeles City Attorneyannounced the latest gang injunction aimed at gang-affiliated drugdealers in Skidrow, narcotics detectives arrested two men fortransporting 60 pounds of marijuana to downtown Los Angeles.

“Thismarijuana was destined for Skidrow,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commandingofficer of the Central Detective Division.  “It’s both ironic andtragic that the county’s largest recovery area is also the region’sbiggest drug bazaar.”

Narcotics detectives received an anonymous tip that a large shipment ofmarijuana was being delivered by men in a gray Ford Escort.  Detectivesset up near the parking lot of the Bunker Hill Tower apartments at 234S. Figueroa Street.  Around 4PM, the expected gray car drove up withthree men inside.  

“It didn’t take the detectives long to realize they had the right car,”Lt. Vernon explained.  “There was so much weed in the car, they couldsmell it when they approached the driver’s window.”

Detectives arrested the unlicensed driver, Hector Cabrera, 33, and thefront passenger Fernando Padilla, 38, for transporting over 50 poundsof marijuana.  Bail for that charge was $100,000.  Cabrera’s bail wasincreased by $40,000 due to an arrest warrant for drunk driving, andPadilla’s bail was increased due to a $5,000 arrest warrant formarijuana possession.  An adult passenger in the backseat wasquestioned and released.

Cabrera lives in Riverside, and Padilla lives in Big Bear, California. “This arrest is another example of commuter drug dealing downtown,” Lt.Vernon said.  “And that’s the point of the new Skidrow injunctionagainst drug dealers; it’s outsiders who are bringing the drugs intothis recovery area.”

The wholesale value of the 60 pounds of marijuana is estimated at$24,000.  “And that translates into more than 27,000 ‘nickel’ bags andmore than $100,000 in profit for the Skidrow drug dealers,”
Lt. Vernon explained.  “Think what a detriment that would be to recovering addicts.”

The marijuana was tightly wrapped in packages, each weighing a littlemore than one pound.  The packages were stacked into cardboard boxes.

Neither of the arrestees was among the 80 named drug dealers in the injunction announced the same day.  

The public is urged to report information about illicit drugactivities.  Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads)with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters“LAPD.”  Online tips may be placed at official website of THE LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT, click on“webtips” and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.13.10 06:40 AM
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department Northeast Division is taking pro-active enforcement efforts against drinking of alcoholic beverages in Dodger Stadium parking lot and the area surrounding Dodger Stadium for Opening Day, including Elysian Park.  

On Tuesday, April 13, 2010, extra officers will be patrolling areas around Dodger Stadium and officers will be cracking down on all drinking in public violations committed by game goers.

In the years past, the tailgating and picnicking has included drinking of alcoholic beverages which has led to fights and traffic problems around Dodger Stadium.  This year, Northeast Area officers and General Services Police will be citing and not warning individuals who drink in public in the park, the neighborhoods surrounding the stadium, and the stadium parking lot.

Additionally, fans will not be allowed to line up their vehicles in front of the stadium gates until 10 a.m.  LAPD urges fans not to arrive too early as there is little parking available in the area surrounding Dodger Stadium.

For more information, calls may be directed to the LAPD Media Relations Section at 213-486-5910.
 

LAPD News and Information …

04.13.10 07:09 AM
Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department Hollenbeck Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect(s) who were involved in the killing murder of Victor Infante.

On April 10, 2010, at around 11:05 p.m. 23-year-old Infante and two companions were driving northbound on Monterey Road from Huntington Drive when a suspect(s), driving a pickup truck, shot into their car.  The suspect managed to hit all three men in the car.

The victim’s immediately drove to a nearby family member’s house and flagged down officers near the area. Three Los Angeles City Fire and Rescue ambulances responded to the scene and provided emergency medical treatment.  Infante was transported to nearby hospital and was pronounced dead.  The other victims were also transported to local hospitals and are currently being treated.  

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact LAPD Hollenbeck Homicide Detectives Jose Ramirez or Ron Chavarria at 323-342-8969 or the Hollenbeck Watch Commander at 323-342-4100. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 800-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.13.10 07:14 AM
Update
Yesterday morning, at the time of the traffic accident a nurse was at a nearby gas station filling her car with gas.  She saw the traffic accident and immediately left her car at the pump to render assistance to the victim.  As she was helping the victim, she saw a female get in her car and start the engine.  She ran over to her car and yelled at the suspect to get out of the car.  

The nurse and the suspect struggled over the keys, while the nurse clenched onto the door and the suspect accelerated the gas on the car.  The nurse held on for approximately 20 yards and then fell to the ground suffering minor injuries.  A short time later, 28-year-old Deserie Guzman was arrested for carjacking.

Fatal Traffic Collision Leaves one Dead, a Suspect Arrested, and the LAPD Looking for More Information

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department West Traffic detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing more details that would help in their investigation.

Early this morning at around 3:15 a.m., 27-year-old Jasen Jack, a resident of Atlanta Georgia, was driving southbound on Western Avenue in a 2008 Dodge Caliber when his car ran off of the road way and hit a traffic signal. The impact of the crash caused the signal to fall and hit a pedestrian standing on the northwest corner of Western Avenue and Pico Boulevard. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the victim dead.  

Detectives say that the suspect appeared to display symptoms of being under the influence and was subsequently taken into custody. The identity of the victim is being withheld until his family has been notified.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact LAPD West Traffic Detective Stephanie Banks at 213-473-0234.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

 

LAPD News and Information …

04.09.10 09:54 AM
Los Angeles:  Five Los Angeles Police Department officers and a group of 10- to 15-year-old kids from a Watts housing project are headed to Cleveland, OH, to meet and have dinner with NBA player Lebron James and his teammates.  

Captain Phillip Tingirides, Sergeant James Linder, Detective Donna Wheeler and Police Officers Keith Linton and Maribel Plascencia are involved in a South Los Angeles mentoring program called Project Dream.  The program’s purpose is to give inner-city kids a chance to interact with the police in a positive way and stay out of trouble.  It also strives to inspire productivity and the achievement of educational goals…objectives officers believe are the building blocks of safer communities.

Officers Linton and Plascencia can relate to the enormous obstacles these children face on a daily basis, having been raised in poverty in similar environments yet overcoming their challenges through determination and perseverance.  And now, as living examples of life’s possibilities, they’re helping kids by sharing their experience and inspiration.

On April 9, 2010, all four LAPD personnel and 10 children from the Watts area are scheduled to travel to Cleveland with officers to meet All Star basketball players, watch an NBA basketball game, visit several places and meet with the mayor of Cleveland.

Opportunities for media coverage:

• 6 p.m. media opportunity to interview officers at Southeast Division
• 7 p.m. media availability to interview kids at Southeast Division
• 8 p.m. kids depart in limo from Southeast Station

A five minute video footage of Watts 180 is available below.

For more information, calls may be directed to the LAPD Media Relations Section at 213-486-5910.

LAPD News and Information …

04.08.10 11:10 AM
APRIL 7, 2010 – Los Angeles City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, in partnership with the Los Angeles Police Department, District Attorney’s Office and local downtown service providers, today gave public notice that his office has filed a new civil injunction action seeking to restrict the narcotics activity of gang members and career criminals in and around the Skid Row area of downtown Los Angeles.

Filed today in Los Angeles Superior Court, the complaint seeks to establish the “Central City Recovery Zone” bordered by 3rd Street on the north; 9th Street to the south: Broadway to the west and Central Street to the east.

The complaint names 80 individuals and one criminal street gang identified by law enforcement as the top narcotics dealers in the Recovery Zone area.  Of the 80 individuals named, 56 have documented evidence of association with more than 30 of the area’s most notorious gangs.  All named individuals in the complaint have also had three or more prior arrests for narcotics sales within the proposed of enforcement.

Terms of the proposed Central City Recovery Zone include provisions restricting named individuals from being present anywhere in the established geographic area of the Recovery Zone, from possessing narcotics, from possessing dangerous weapons, and from using other individuals for the purpose of soliciting narcotics sales.

The complaint includes 124 evidentiary declarations gathered over the course of several months by the City Attorney’s gang prosecutors from law enforcement experts to establish a long existing pattern of criminal conduct and unlawful business practices by the named defendants on Skid Row. According to the declarations, gang members from all over Los Angeles are known to travel to or in some cases move to downtown Los Angeles in order to sell narcotics to the less fortunate and vulnerable who are often times already addicted and seeking services, and subject to relapse.

Narcotics dealers commuting into the Central City Recovery Zone are known to engage directly in street sales of narcotics or use the addicted transient population to sell narcotics in exchange for their own drugs.  Primary sites for dealers to loiter and conduct narcotics business include service provider locations, San Julian Park and Gladys Park.

LAPD News and Information …

04.08.10 06:56 AM
•Police Commissioner Robert Saltzman attended the special Compstat session held by the Chief which focused on the recent spike in homicides. 

•Police Chief Charlie Beck informed the Board it has been a difficult week for the Department.  The body of SWAT Officer Robert James “RJ” Cottle was returned to Los Alamitos from Afghanistan where he was killed while on active duty for the United States Marines.  The Chief said there is a memorial service planned for next Tuesday at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Downtown Los Angeles.  He added a formal service would be held at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia next Friday. 

•The verbal presentation and update from the Commanding Officer and Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) representative regarding community initiated problem solving, crime strategies, and other programs and goals within the Devonshire Area, was given by Captain Sean Kane and Mr. Larry Stern.  Mr. Stern informed the Board the Devonshire Area recently opened up its state-of-the-art PALS Youth Center.  Mr. Stern added the area C-PAB has held three district meetings since 2009 and is actively involved in the National Night Out campaign.

•The Department’s report, dated March 19, 2010, relative to the Classification and Investigation of Head Strikes, as given by Lieutenant Brian Pratt, was approved.  Lt Pratt informed the Board a new classification has been created with regards to head strikes.  An intentional head strike will be classified as a Use of Force however an unintentional head strike will not be a Use of Force unless the subject is hospitalized as a result of the blow.

•The Department’s report, dated March 31, 2010, relative to the Categorical Use of Force System Inspection (IAID No. 09-023), was approved.  The Board advised the Department to report back to the Commission in with a Special Order indicating 60 day compliance.

•The Department’s report, dated March 31, 2010, relative to the Department’s response to the Office of the Inspector General’s review of Non-categorical Use of Force reports, Fiscal Year 2007/2008, dated October 1, 2008, was pulled.

•The Department’s report, dated March 31, 2010, relative to the Department’s response to arrest, booking, and charging reports (IAID #C09-002), dated September 30, 2009, was received and filed.

•The Department’s report, dated March 23, 2010, relative to the Quarterly Status Report, Third Quarter, Fiscal Year 2009/10, was continued.

•The Department’s report, dated April 5, 2010, relative to the DNA Quarterly Report, First Quarter 2010, was given by Captain Kevin McClure, was approved and transmitted to the City Council, Public Safety Committee.  City Controller Wendy Gruel attended the meeting as well and said the Department has made incredible progress in a short period of time and added she supported adding new Criminalists to the Department to deal with the remaining case load.  Ms. Gruel also said she meets with Department personnel on a monthly basis to discuss the progress made and said there is a hearing in front of the full City Council every quarter for updates.  Captain Kevin McClure informed the Board there are currently 648 cases left to test.  He added resources and funding could be an issue going forward. 

LAPD News and Information …

04.08.10 07:08 AM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Van Nuys homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying a shooting victim who was dropped off at a hospital emergency room early Tuesday morning in Panorama City.

At around 5 a.m., an unidentified male and female dropped off the woman at the Kaiser Permanente Hospital in the 13600 block of Willard Street.  The victim is described as either Hispanic or of European descent, between 20-25 years of age, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing about 140 pounds.  She was wearing a black sweatshirt and blue jeans and has “Destiney” tattooed on her chest.  Detectives said she was shot and then taken to the hospital in a private vehicle. She then died at the hospital a short time later.  

There is no suspect description, and the case is under investigation to determine the motive for the shooting.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Van Nuys Division homicide detectives at 818-374-0040.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.  

 

LAPD News and Information …

04.06.10 12:30 PM
Los Angeles:The Los Angeles Police Department Wilshire Area detectives are askingfor the public’s help in finding a suspect who robbed Pink’s Hot Dogsearly this morning.

On April 5, 2010, at around 3 a.m., Wilshire officers received a radiocall to investigate a robbery in the 700 block of North La BreaBoulevard.  Two employees were closing the business and walking out therear door when they saw a male suspect crouched behind a chair in therear patio area.  The suspect immediately stood up from behind thechair and approached them with a silver handgun, ordered them to openthe door to the business and allow him entry.  

The suspect then forced the employees to lead him to the safe.  Once atthe safe, the employees told the suspect that they did not know thecombination.  The suspect demanded money from the employees, and one ofthe employees handed the suspect a twenty dollar bill. The suspect thentold the employees not to move or he would shoot them and left thebusiness.  The employees were not able to see if the suspect left onfoot or in a car.

The suspect is described as an African American, approximately 5 feet 8inches tall, weighing 170 pounds, and about 30 years-old.  He waswearing a black jacket, black jeans, and a gray ski cap withhandkerchief over his face.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call Wilshire AreaRobbery Detectives at 213-473-0154.  During non-business hours or onweekends, calls should be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishingto remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting tophone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters mayalso go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.06.10 10:04 AM
Los Angeles: Homicide Detectives need the public’s help to identify and locate a suspect(s) wanted for killing four Armenian men at a Mediterranean Restaurant.

On April 3, 2010, at around 4:30 p.m., a suspect(s) walked into the Mediterranean Restaurant located in the 11600 block of Riverside Drive in North Hollywood and fired multiple gunshots. Several restaurant patrons were struck by the gunfire and the suspect(s) left the restaurant in an unknown direction.  

Some of the victims were transported to a local hospital where they were treated for their injuries. The following men died as a result of their gunshot wounds.

Hayk Yegnanyan,age 25, Sarkis Karadjian,age 26, Harut Baburyan,age 28, Vardan Tofalyan,age 31

The shooting does not appear to be random and it is not yet known if it’s gang related.  The motive for the crime is also unknown.  

Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call Detective Wallace Tennelle or Detective Luis Romero, Robbery Homicide Division at 213-486-6890. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "web tips" and follow the prompt.

LAPD News and Information …

04.06.10 10:43 AM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Harbor homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect(s) who involved in a shooting early this morning in Wilmington.

The shooting happened shortly after 1 a.m.  According to investigators, 38-year-old Roberto Garcia-Gudino was driving in his car southbound in the 1200 block of Frigate Avenue with a passenger in the passenger seat.  A possible burgundy colored Toyota pulled along the driver side of the victim’s car and a suspect(s) began shooting into the victim’s car.  Garcia-Gudino was shot in the upper torso and continued driving southbound until the car collided into a street light.

Paramedics responded and transported the victim to a local hospital where he died from his gunshot wounds.  The passenger was not hit by the gunfire.

Detectives have not obtained any suspect description and the motive of the shooting is undetermined.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Harbor Division homicide detectives Yoon or Burzumato at 310-726-7881.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to 877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts. 

LAPD News and Information …

04.06.10 07:29 AM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives arrested a 43-year-old career criminal in a sting at the downtown Central Library yesterday, April 1, 2010, after he swiped an Ipod, placed on a table by an undercover cop.“Thefts at the library are too common place, and we want to send a message to thieves: think twice before you take someone’s stuff.”Undercover officers cased the library over several days, talking to security officers and watching patrons, to figure out the best, or worst, place to set one’s computer, Ipod, or purse. “In this instance, it was a third-floor end table, near the bathrooms and elevators, around 5PM,” Lt. Vernon explained.An undercover officer set a laptop on the table, then an Ipod on top of the computer and walked away. In a matter of minutes, Anthony Eugene Johnson approached the table twice, intent on the items. On a third pass, he emerged from the stacks, then nonchalantly picked up the Ipod and placed it in his jacket pocket. Officers followed him through the library for several minutes then arrested him when he sat down with his own laptop. The officers discovered the Ipod among the book shelves where Johnson had stashed it.The detectives booked Johnson on a felony for committing a petty theft with a prior conviction. His bail was set at $20,000.In 2009, thefts at the Central Library jumped from 35 to 47, a 35% increase. Bike thefts more than doubled to eight for the year. The most common items taken at the library are personal electronic gadgets: laptops, Ipods, and cell phones. For the first 3 months of 2010, thefts at the library have dropped from 16 last year to 9 this year. Four patrons have discovered their bicycles stolen from the racks outside the library so far this year.“We want to scare the crooks into thinking that anytime they grab an Ipod, it might belong to a cop,” Lt. Vernon said. “And we want the patrons to be more aware. I’d love to see every reading table have a sign to warn visitors to watch their stuff.”Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Central Area Detectives at 213-972-1231. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Online tips may be placed at http://www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

04.02.10 01:29 PM
Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department Rampart Homicide Unit detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect(s) who were involved yesterday evening in a shooting in the City of Los Angeles.

At 8 a.m., 23-year-old Jose Saul Hernandez was standing on the sidewalk in front of the 200 block of South Rampart Boulevard drinking with friends.  An hour later his friends went home leaving Hernandez alone.  Shortly after that, an unknown suspect(s) walked up to Hernandez, pulled out a handgun and shot him.

The victim immediately ran to his apartment and collapsed in front of relatives.  Paramedics responded and transported him to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead during surgery.

Witnesses who heard the gunshot(s) told detectives they saw two suspects running southbound from the scene of the crime.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Rampart Homicide Unit Detectives Michael Arteaga or Julian Pere at 213-484-3650.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …