Author: LAPD

03.26.10 01:24 PM
Los Angeles: LosAngeles Police Department is looking for an 11-year-old habitualrunaway.  Mission detectives said April Vega was last seen at OliveVista Middle School in the 14000 block of Tyler Street at around 7 AMon March 22, 2010.

Vega is a troubled child.  She is known to frequent Sylmar Park and Sylmar Public Library.

Vega is described as being 5 feet tall and weighs about 100 pounds. She has brown hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing blue skinnyjeans and a black sweater.  

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Vega is urged to call MissionDivision at 818-838-9800.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous shouldcall Crime stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters mayalso contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637(C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messagesshould begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go toLAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips," and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

03.26.10 01:20 PM
March 25, 2010 – In a news conference held on the City of Hope campus in Monrovia, members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Los Angeles Police Department joined Sheriff Lee Baca and Chief Charlie Beck to kick off the “Fight for Life” Boxing Event scheduled to be held on Friday, March 26 at the Quiet Cannon Banquet facility in Montebello. 

The event, which pits the LAPD vs. LASD, will feature 8 boxing exhibitions in an effort  to raise money for cancer research and other life threatening diseases.  In its 17th year, the Fight for Life Boxing event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, all of which go directly to research.

To purchase tickets to the event or to make a donation please contact the Los Angeles Police Protective League at 213-251-4554, the Sheriff’s Relief Association at 562-946-7801, or the City of Hope at 213-241-7134.  

LAPD News and Information …

03.25.10 07:44 AM
Los Angeles:  Yesterday evening, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Gang and Narcotics Division officers served six search warrants and three arrest warrants related to the investigation of two local medical marijuana dispensaries. 

The investigation, which was launched in February of this year, was in response to community complaints of a medical marijuana dispensary operating in proximity to a school.

Investigators were initially directed to the “Medco Organics” dispensary at 326 North Vermont Avenue regarding the complaint.  As the investigation progressed, investigators discovered a second dispensary where the illegal sale of marijuana was taking place.  This second dispensary, known as "The Relief Co." or "TRC" was located at 5669 West Pico Boulevard. 

In addition to the two dispensaries, search warrants were also served at four residences.  The residences were identified during the investigation as being related to the dispensaries and the persons involved in their operation. 

All of the search and arrest warrants were served without incident, and searches of all the premises yielded a substantial amount of cash and marijuana.  One firearm was also recovered during the investigation.

Name of arrestees are the following:
Cruzado, Rinaldo: DOB- 9/2/73
Dolinsky, Stas: DOB- 5/27/69
Kleinman, Noah: DOB- 4/10/75

Bail was set at $20,000 for each of the arrestees.

LAPD News and Information …

03.24.10 10:58 AM

Los Angeles: Los Angeles detectives released a composite sketch of a hooded man in the hopes of identifying him as the second suspect in a Kidnap-for-robbery incident that occurred March 5, 2010, in downtown Los Angeles.

“Thanks to the victim’s thorough recollection and steady nerves, detectives were able to identify the primary suspect quickly,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, who heads up investigations for the downtown Central police station.  “Detectives got a warrant and arrested Erika Orenday last Friday in her home town of El Monte.”

Around 6 p.m., March 5, a 46-year-old jewelry store employee left her job in the Jewelry District.  Orenday waved down the victim in her car and used threats to gain access to her vehicle.  Once inside the car, Orenday beckoned a man into the back seat and ordered the woman to drive. Eventually, the victim was tied up in the backseat while the two suspects drove, apparently to one or more motels.  Orenday and the man held the woman at a motel room, threatening her children and demanding money.

Orenday and her partner wanted to hold the victim hostage and demand a ransom from her family, but when the suspects realized the family was not home, they left the victim in the motel room and her car in the parking lot.  “They also left a very ominous warning that they or their friends would be back to get the money or hurt the woman’s children,” Lt. Vernon said.

The uninjured victim reported the crime the same night.  After Orenday’s March 19 arrest, detectives were able to get a partial identity of Orenday’s accomplice: a Hispanic man in his late 20s or early 30s, who goes by the name, “Pacho.”  He sports a goatee and crew-cut hair.  He is known to cross over the Mexican border frequently.  According to the victim, the composite sketch is an accurate likeness.

“Kidnap-for-robbery does not occur that often, but it’s very serious, and potentially carries a life sentence for the kidnappers,” Lt. Vernon said.  Orenday’s bail was set at over $1 million.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Al Rasch, Central Robbery Unit, at 213-972-1245. 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 …

03.24.10 09:14 AM
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department Newton Area Burglary detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who used a stolen ATM card and pin number to withdraw a 97-year-old victim’s entire life savings which amounted to over $46,000.

Between August 16, 2009, and November 30, 2009, the suspect used the stolen ATM card at the Bank of America located on the 100 block of Rosecrans Avenue in the City of Gardena, and the Bank of America on the 300 block of E. Manchester Boulevard in the City of Inglewood.  According to bank records, the suspect withdrew $300 to $500 per day between the hours of  1 p.m. and 2 p.m., alternating between the two locations.

The suspect is described as a male Black, 25 to 30-years-old, stands about 5 feet 9 inches tall with black hair, brown eyes, and weighs about 170 to 180 pounds.  The suspect was driving a silver or grey 2000 to 2003 Mercedes Benz C230 Coupe.

*A surveillance still photo of the suspect is attached to this   release.                                   

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact LAPD Newton Area Burglary Detective David Gamero at 323-846-6579.  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 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone numbers 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a mobile telephone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompt.

LAPD News and Information …

03.24.10 07:33 AM
Investigation
Investigations of Officer-Involved Shootings (OIS) are done only by Force Investigation Division (FID), a group of investigators specially trained, equipped and assigned exclusively to investigate serious uses of force by police.  The FID is overseen by Professional Standards Bureau, which also includes Internal Affairs.  The investigation includes recorded interviews of officers involved, witnesses, the collection of all forms of evidence, the assembly of all reports, and presentation of an extensive report (usually much longer than a thousand pages) to the Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners. 

Oversight
The Office of the Inspector General (IG) answers only to the Police Commission, not to the Chief of Police.  Inspector General investigators respond to every OIS and have unrestricted access to everything being done at the scene.  The IG’s staff not only sees the investigative steps being taken from start to finish, but also reviews each final report and investigation for completeness, accuracy, and any other concerns they may wish to present to the Police Commission.  The IG is an independent civilian oversight authority.

The District Attorney (DA) sends investigators to every OIS where someone is hit.  The DA investigators examine the scene, can interview witnesses and can conduct their own investigation.  The DA determines whether the there will be criminal charges against the involved officers.

The County Coroner sends an investigator to the scene and conducts an examination of the scene, acquires reports from investigators, and later performs an autopsy. The Coroner is responsible for determining the cause of death and producing a report.  A copy of the Coroner’s report is incorporated into the FID report submitted to the Police Commission.

The Board of Police Commissioners reviews the extensive final investigation done by FID, reviews the IG’s report of the investigation, and independently determines whether an Officer-Involved Shooting is “In Policy” or “Out of Policy.” The Police Commission has the authority to require more investigation if they need more information.  The Police Commission is the final authority to declare an Officer-Involved Shooting.  The Police Commission is an independent civilian oversight authority.
Investigation and Oversight of Officer-Involved Shootings LAPD

Investigation
Investigations of Officer-Involved Shootings (OIS) are done only by Force Investigation Division (FID), a group of investigators specially trained, equipped and assigned exclusively to investigate serious uses of force by police.  The FID is overseen by Professional Standards Bureau, which also includes Internal Affairs.  The investigation includes recorded interviews of officers involved, witnesses, the collection of all forms of evidence, the assembly of all reports, and presentation of an extensive report (usually much longer than a thousand pages) to the Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners. 

Oversight
The Office of the Inspector General (IG) answers only to the Police Commission, not to the Chief of Police.  Inspector General investigators respond to every OIS and have unrestricted access to everything being done at the scene.  The IG’s staff not only sees the investigative steps being taken from start to finish, but also reviews each final report and investigation for completeness, accuracy, and any other concerns they may wish to present to the Police Commission.  The IG is an independent civilian oversight authority.

The District Attorney (DA) sends investigators to every OIS where someone is hit.  The DA investigators examine the scene, can interview witnesses and can conduct their own investigation.  The DA determines whether the there will be criminal charges against the involved officers.

The County Coroner sends an investigator to the scene and conducts an examination of the scene, acquires reports from investigators, and later performs an autopsy. The Coroner is responsible for determining the cause of death and producing a report.  A copy of the Coroner’s report is incorporated into the FID report submitted to the Police Commission.

The Board of Police Commissioners reviews the extensive final investigation done by FID, reviews the IG’s report of the investigation, and independently determines whether an Officer-Involved Shooting is “In Policy” or “Out of Policy.” The Police Commission has the authority to require more investigation if they need more information.  The Police Commission is the final authority to declare an Officer-Involved Shooting.  The Police Commission is an independent civilian oversight authority.

LAPD News and Information …

03.24.10 08:00 AM
•    Police Chief Charlie Beck said the officer involved shooting that occurred on March 20 was an extremely tragic incident.  He said the OIS was being investigated by the Use of Force review division and the Police Commission will have the final say as to whether the incident was in or out of policy.  Chief Beck added that since 2007, the Department has worked with the Autism Society of America and they have provided training to officers on dealing with Autistic people.

•    The Department’s verbal report relative to the status of the Police Cadet Program was given by Senior Management Analyst Natalie Torrez.  Ms. Torrez informed the Board the uniform switch has been completed with Cadets trading in their old uniforms and patches for new ones.  April 24, 2010, will be the graduation of the first Cadet class and the Department is currently working on developing a website.  Some of the activities planned for the summer are day trips to museums, amusement parks, hiking, a College Day and a Citywide Cadet competition. 

•    The Executive Director’s report, dated March 18, 2010, relative to the proposed amendments to police permit fees, fees for special services and establishment of a new special service fee for fiscal year 2010-11, was approved and transmitted to the City Administrative Officer and Chief Legislative Analyst.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 4, 2010, relative to the City Council Motion report on graffiti arrest statistics, was approved and transmitted to the City Council, Public Safety Committee.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 9, 2010, relative to the Traffic Collision Analysis regarding the Automated Photo Red Light Program, as given by Deputy Chief Richard Roupoli and Sergeant Matthew MacWillie, was approved.  Sergeant MacWillie informed the Board that last November CBS 2 aired a story which claimed the photo red light intersections have increased traffic collisions. He stressed the data which was provided to CBS for their report was limited and the primary collision factor was not provided.  Sergeant MacWillie added that since April of 2006 there have been no fatal car collisions at any of the 32 photo red light intersections.  Chief Roupoli added contrary to recent reports that the system does not generate revenue, according to the City’s Chief Administrative Officer the system generates $3.8 million in revenue with $2.2 million going into the City’s general fund and the remaining $1.6 million going to maintenance.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 17, 2010, relative to the Amendment to Major Crimes Division standards and procedures, was approved and transmitted to City Council, Public Safety Committee.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 17, 2010, relative to the status report regarding timeline for the motor vehicle and pedestrian stops data collection audit, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 3, 2010, relative to Department’s response to the Non-Categorical Use of Force Supplemental Audit, September 28, 2006, was received and filed.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 5, 2010, relative to Department’s response to the supply procurement and disbursement audit, IAID #08-097, December 3, 2009, was received and filed.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 12, 2010, relative to the Hunter La-Ley Consent Decree – Coveted Positions Inspection (IAID No. 09-131), was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated March 19, 2010, relative to the 2009 K-9 Platoon Annual Summary Report, was approved.

LAPD News and Information …

03.24.10 06:57 AM
The Los Angeles Police Department prides itself on being the leader in best practices as it relates to working with those who have special needs.  Specific training has been developed and is provided by our Mental Evaluation Section of Detective Support Division.

Specific to Autism training, in September of 2007 the LAPD began working with the Los Angeles Chapter of the Autism Society of America on developing specific training on Dealing with Autistic people for first responders.  As a result of these efforts a one hour training course was developed for patrol officers on dealing with an Autistic person.  And in April of 2008, we announced at a news conference, our partnership with the Los Angeles Chapter of the Autism Society of America.

One of the instructors is from the Autism Society and one is from Mental Evaluation Section of Detective Support Division.  An individual who has been diagnosed with Autism is also part of the Training Cadre.  The training focuses on raising awareness of officers to help them better understand Autism Spectrum Disorders and learn how to deal with an Autistic person in a field situation.

The training has been given on a periodic basis starting in May of 2007.  Over 2,500 members of the Department have received the stand alone one hour class.  The class is provided to those commands that have extensive dealings with the mentally ill, such as Central Area’s Safer Cities, Metro, Jail Division, Communication Division and several patrol divisions around the City.  The class is also part of police officer Academy training, the Crisis Intervention Technique Course, Watch Commanders School, Supervisors School and Senior Lead Officer School.   Officers are also required to take an E-Learning course on Autism. 

The LAPD is a leader in the Public Safety Community on this type of training.  The LAPD is the only Police Agency offering this type of training.  This one hour course has been provided to the following agencies:  General Services Police Department; Beverly Hills Police Department; Redondo Beach Police Department; Pomona Police Department; and the Hawthorne Police Department.

The Autism Community has also asked the LAPD to assist in reviewing a film entitled, "How to Get Arrested."  This will assist in making it easier for the Autism community to understand the process.   The LAPD has also been asked to speak at an upcoming Autism Conference on this subject.

LAPD News and Information …

03.23.10 11:26 AM
Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is asking for the public’s help in identifying two men who posed as police officers and tried to rob a Cambodian family in their home last night, March 22, 2010.

“No one was injured and the suspects didn’t get away with anything,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of LAPD’s Central Detective Division.  “It could have ended much worse were it not for the quick thinking of family members.”

The family lives in the 900 block of White Knoll Street below Dodger Stadium.  They had arrived home just after 10 p.m. when there was a knock at the door.  A uniformed man claimed to be a police officer with information that the family’s car had been involved in an accident.  When the woman at the door opened the screen, two men burst into the house.

“The uniformed suspect threw a clipboard on the floor then grabbed the 55-year-old woman by her throat and threw her to the floor,” said Vernon.  “Her 21-year-old son intervened and the suspect threw him to the ground as well.”

Other family members screamed and ran out of the house, yelling for someone to call police.  When police arrived, the suspects were gone, but they left behind some evidence.  A clipboard was found with information on it showing the family was targeted, but nothing indicated anyone else was in immediate danger.

The suspects were described as Hispanic men between 30 and 40 years old.  Only one wore a long-sleeve, blue security uniform.  The other wore a black sweatshirt and green pants.  The suspects drove away in a black Infinity or Highlander SUV.

Detectives surmised the family may have been targeted for cash and followed them home from the restaurant they own in South Los Angeles.

“This is a good opportunity to remind the public that if they suspect a person is not truly a police officer, they can challenge them by asking to see photo identification or calling 9-1-1,”  Vernon added.  “All legitimate police officers carry photo identification in addition to their badge.”

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call robbery detectives at 213-972-1244.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anonymous tips can also 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, by clicking on “webtips” and following the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

03.23.10 09:04 AM
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) requests the public’s assistance in locating 67-year-old Beverly Holloway.

BeverlyHolloway was last seen on March 22, 2010, at around 11:50 a.m. walkingaway from the adult day care center where she stayed at 2500 block ofWest Boulevard in LAPD’s Southwest Area. Mrs. Holloway has not beenseen since.  She has not been in contact with her family and they areconcerned for her safety.

Holloway is described as an African-American female with grey hair andbrown eyes.  She stands 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 147pounds.  She was wearing a black hat, gold framed glasses, and a powderblue jumpsuit jacket.  

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Holloway is urgedto contact LAPD Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800 or call LAPDSouthwest Division Watch Commander at 213-485-2582.  During non-businesshours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppersby texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with acell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and followthe prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

03.23.10 09:46 AM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Olympic Area detectives are searching fora group of burglars who stole 23 computers with a total value of about$34,000 from a classroom at West Adams High School in Los Angeles.

The break-in happened on March 15, 2010, at 11:10 p.m., at 1500 WestWashington Boulevard.  According to investigators, seven or eightsuspects climbed over a wrought iron gate, then scaled a 12 foot brickwall to enter onto the school grounds.  Two of the suspects then openeda side gate to let the other suspects in.  The burglars gained entry tothe classroom by prying open a window.  Once inside, they cut thesecurity locks, removed several desktop computers and fled the scene. Approximately 30 minutes later, the same group returned to the schooland stole additional computers, investigators said. 

Detectives say they have no suspect description and are asking anyonewith information regarding this crime to contact Olympic Divisionburglary detectives at 213-382-9440.  During non-business hours or onweekends, calls may be directed to 1 -877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing toremain anonymous may 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) using a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters canalso go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts

Surveillance cameras captured the incident but the footage is grainy and none of the suspects can be seen.

LAPD News and Information …

03.22.10 09:31 AM
Los Angeles:  Just after midnight this morning on-duty Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Officers became involved in a fatal shooting near Vermont Avenue and James M. Wood Boulevard.

On  March 20, 2010, at about 12:03 a.m. Olympic Area gang enforcement officers were on patrol in a marked black and white patrol vehicle southbound on Vermont Avenue passing James M. Wood Boulevard.  Both officers heard a loud noise and negotiated a turn to investigate.

While driving northbound on Vermont Avenue, the officers observed a man walking northbound on the east sidewalk of Vermont Avenue, north of James M. Wood Boulevard.  The officers noted that the man was suspiciously looking around and manipulating something in his waistband area.  When the officers attempted to conduct an investigative stop, the man advanced rapidly toward the officers while appearing to remove something from his front waistband area.  An officer involved shooting occurred.

The officers requested emergency medical assistance for the man who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.  Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced the suspect dead.

No weapon was recovered.  The deceased man has been identified as 27-year-old area resident Steven Eugene Washington.  Mr. Washington’s family was notified of his death early this morning.    

The involved officers are Police Officer Allan Corrales, 6 years,11 months with the Department and Police Officer George Diego, 7 years, 10 months with the Department.

The Los Angeles Police Department’s Force Investigation Division is conducting the investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Force Investigation Division at 213-486-5230.  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 "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

03.22.10 09:49 AM

Around 9 o’clock this morning, investigators located Juanita Moreno at a local hospital.  She was in good condition.  Her family has been notified and she will be reunited with them.

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department requests the public’s assistance in locating 44-year-old Juanita Moreno.

Moreno was last seen on March 15, 2010, at around 5 p.m., near her residence in the 300 block of North Avenue 50, in the Northeast Area of Los Angeles.  Since then, she has not been seen or has made any contact with her family and they are concerned for her safety.  Moreno only speaks Spanish and has the mental capacity of a 10 year old.  She also suffers from seizures and has a burn scar on her left arm.

Moreno is described as a Hispanic female with black hair and brown eyes.  She stands 4 feet 9 inches tall and weighs about 140 pounds.  She was wearing a pink sweater, beige shorts and black shoes.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Moreno is urged to contact LAPD Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800.  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 …

03.22.10 09:55 AM

Missing Cody Burton was found.  He called his mother and told her that he stayed at a friend’s house.  Police will respond to the friend’s house and reunite the boy with his mother.

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is searching for a boy who went missing near his home in Chatsworth.

Police are looking for 11-year-old Cody Burton.  On March 21 at around 6:30 p.m., the boy went to the dumpster near his apartment building in the 10200 block of Eaton Avenue to throw away some trash and hasn’t been seen since.  His mother heard the trash dumpster lid close and later found the box that he discarded inside the dumpster.    

Burton is described as a male Black with black hair and brown eyes.  He has thick eyebrows, stands 4 feet 11 inches tall and weighs about 85 pounds.  He was last seen wearing a red T-shirt, black and grey basketball shorts.

Burton has no history of being missing or running away, nor does he have any disciplinary problems at home or school.  His mental health is described as good.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Burton is urged to contact Devonshire Area at 818-832-0633.  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 …

03.22.10 10:17 AM
Los Angeles:  Today, Central Area detectives concluded a two-month investigation to identify and arrest Eduardo Ramirez, 20, who was known as the tagger “FIGO” and “FIGOE.”

“We have two officers assigned full time to investigate these vandals,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, command officer of Central Detective Division.  “Thanks to their efforts and innovative investigative approaches, graffiti is becoming far less common downtown.”

Police noticed FIGO’s tag along the 10 and 101 freeways, near the eastern inbound routes to downtown Los Angeles.  “He would tag the tall buildings along the freeway and the freeway walls,” Lt. Vernon explained.  “Just in downtown, we estimate the damage at over $2,600.”

Ramirez lives is Maywood, and his tag has been recorded throughout eastern Los Angeles County.

Detectives served a search warrant at Ramirez’s home this morning and seized dozens of items, including spray paint cans, tanks of nitrous oxide, illicit mushrooms, marijuana, codeine pills, and a specially made belt for holding multiple spray cans.  “It was a tagger’s holster, of sorts,” Lt. Vernon said.

Ramirez is employed as a teacher’s aide at an elementary school in South Gate.

Ramirez was booked on the various narcotics possession charges, in addition to the vandalism.  His bail was set at $20,000.

Police encourage the public to report vandalism to their local police.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (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 …

03.22.10 10:18 AM
Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is requesting that the media provide the public with the following information to assist law enforcement efforts in locating a possible abducted child.

Yesterday, March 18, 2010, at about 6:00 p.m., Maria Carmen Alicia Alfaro and her 4-month-old son Alexander Ricardo Leyva went missing from the 21000 block of Saticoy Street in Canoga Park after Ms. Alfaro told family members that she was taking the baby to a parenting class.   The family became concerned when the two did not return from their outing and have not been heard from since.  

The abducted child, 4-month-old Alexander Ricardo Leyva, is described as a male Hispanic with brown hair and brown eyes; he is 22” tall and weighs 20 pounds and was last seen wearing a brown shirt.

Suspect Alfaro is a 26-year-old female Hispanic with brown hair and brown eyes; she stands 5’5” tall and weighs 165 pounds.  She was last seen wearing a black tank top, blue jeans and black shoes.  It is believed that the suspect may have taken the baby to Mexico and may be accompanied by a man named Carlos Alvarez. Mr. Alvarez is a person of interest and is described as a male Hispanic who stands 5’8”-5’10” tall.

Alfaro and Alvarez may be traveling in a silver 1999 Volkswagon Passat License Plate 4SBE318, or a green Ford Expedition License Plate 5ROW643.

Anyone who may have information about the whereabouts of Maria Carmen Alicia Alfaro, her son, Alexander Ricardo Leyva and Carlos Alvarez are asked to call Topanga Area Detectives at (818) 756-4800.  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 (800)-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone numbers 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a mobile telephone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompt.

LAPD News and Information …

03.22.10 10:29 AM
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Rampart detectives are searching for a shooter who walked into a Los Angeles barbershop yesterday and killed a man who was getting his haircut.

The incident happened at 6:38 p.m. when a Latino man wearing a blue hoodie walked into the Alberto Barber Shop located at 730 South Alvarado Street, removed a handgun from his waistband and opened fire on 35-year-old Domingo Reyes.

Reyes was shot in the head and the chest.  Paramedics rushed him to a local hospital where he died a short time later.

Investigators described the suspect only as a male Hispanic.  The motive of the shooting appears to be gang-related.

Anyone with information regarding this murder is urged to call Rampart Homicide Detectives at 213-484-3638.  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 "webtips" and follow the prompts.

LAPD News and Information …

03.19.10 11:56 AM
Los Angeles:  Last night, two Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Mission Area officers encountered an armed suspect, resulting in an officer-involved shooting.

Yesterday evening at about 7:15 p.m. in Panorama City, officers responded to a call for service at a residence in the 14200 block of Community Street where a battery suspect was located.

Upon arrival, the officers were directed to a detached structure at the back of the house where they encountered a man armed with a semi-automatic handgun.  When the suspect reached for his weapon, an officer-involved shooting occurred.  The suspect was struck in the upper torso and then taken into custody.  No officers were injured during the incident.

Los Angeles Fire Department personnel transported the suspect to a local hospital where he died in surgery. 

The LAPD Force Investigation Division is investigating the officer-involved shooting.

LAPD News and Information …

03.18.10 09:54 AM
Los Angeles:  Los Angeles police turned over 35 miniature rabbits, 79 turtles, 1 parrot, and 6 iguanas to the Department of Animals Services after arresting Demetrio Plumamena, 46, for felony, Animal Cruelty.

Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of Central Detective Division said, “The illegal sales of animals is a perennial problem in the Fashion District, especially as certain holidays approach, like Easter.”

On Saturday, March 13, 2010, uniformed police officers, assigned to the patrol the Fashion District in downtown Los Angeles noticed Plumamena assembling animal cages on the sidewalk along the 1200 block of Wall Street.  The sale of animals on the sidewalk is illegal by city ordinance and state law.  

The officers arrested Plumamena initially based on a city ordinance of illegal street sales, but when city animal services officers evaluated the caged animals it was apparent they were malnourished, and the cramped, caged conditions constituted animal cruelty.

“The biggest concern here is for the animals’ welfare and how they are treated,” Lt. Vernon explained.  “But humans’ health and safety is also a concern because these animals can pass on disease.”  

Police warn the public not to buy animals off the street in such open air markets.  Tropical water turtles, especially, are known to be carriers of salmonella.  Most animals purchased off the street tend to be in poor health and often do not survive more than a week with their new owners.

“Patronizing these animal traffickers only encourages them to sell more animals,” Lt. Vernon added.

Police encourage the public to report illegal sales of animals to their local animal services department or the local police.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (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.

Photographs of the animals seized are available from Media Relations Section.

LAPD News and Information …

03.17.10 11:55 AM
Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Olympic Area detectives have released surveillance video of two women who stole a store clerk’s purse and are asking for the public’s help in identifying the pair.

The theft happened on March 3, 2010, at about 6:15 a.m. at the Jr. Market located at 2800 West James M. Wood Boulevard.  According to investigators, two suspects entered the store.  As one of the suspects distracted the clerk, the other one reached behind the counter and took the clerk’s handbag.  The suspects left the store with the clerk's property and got into a blue getaway van driven by a male Hispanic. There was no weapon displayed and no one was injured.

The first suspect is described as a female Hispanic about 25 years old.  She stands about 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 250 pounds.  She was last seen wearing a grey shirt, blue jeans and carrying a leopard purse.

The second suspect is also described as a female Hispanic, about 25 years of age.  She stands about 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds.  She was last seen wearing a red shirt, blue jeans, and prescription glasses.

The suspects’ vehicle is described as a blue ‘90’s van with partial CA license plate 6—–9.

Anyone with information regarding this theft is urged to contact LAPD's Olympic Property Crimes detectives at 213-382-9443.  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 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone numbers 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a mobile telephone.  All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD."  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompt.

LAPD News and Information …