Tag: hate crime

WESTWOOD—On December 26, the UCLA Police Department reported that it is investigating an off campus assault and hate crime that transpired on December 24. The incident happened on the 11000 Block Weyburn Avenue and was reported at 7 p.m.

At approximately 6 p.m., the victim was walking westbound on the north sidewalk of Weyburn Avenue as a black convertible with four occupants drove up next to the victim. One of the occupants yelled a homophobic slur, and another occupant threw wads of paper at the victim. The victim was not struck.

The suspects have been described as Four White or Middle Eastern males, early 20s. The victim in the case is a UCLA student.

The UCLA Police Department would like to remind the campus community to:

• Dial 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.
• For non-emergencies, program the UCLA PD 24-hour phone number into your cell phone – 310-825-1491.
• Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Report any suspicious activity to the police.
• Do not leave doors to buildings propped open.
• Secure your residence by locking all windows and doors.
• Avoid poorly-lit or deserted areas when walking at night.
• Utilize the UCLA Safe Ride Service and UCPD CSO evening escorts.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On Saturday, October 19, the UCLA Police Department reported they are investigating a hate crime and battery that transpired off campus.

At approximately 12:45 a.m., five UCLA students were seated on a bus bench outside of Chick Fil-A. As a dark colored SUV with three occupants drove past them, the driver yelled an ethnic slur, and the front passenger threw an open water bottle which struck one of the victims.

The driver was described as a Caucasian male in his 20s with blond hair. The front passenger in the vehicle was a Caucasian or Asian male in his 20s. He had dark hair and was wearing a white t-shirt. In the rear seat, there was a Caucasian or Asian male.

The victims are UCLA students. The UCLA Police Department would like to remind the campus community to:

• Dial 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.
• For non-emergencies, program the UCLA PD 24-hour phone number into your cell phone – 310-825-1491.
• Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Report any suspicious activity to the police.
• Do not leave doors to buildings propped open.
• Secure your residence by locking all windows and doors.
• Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas when walking at night.
• Utilize the UCLA Safe Ride Service and UCPD CSO evening escorts.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Wednesday, October 25, the Los Angeles Police Department’s North Hollywood Area detectives announced they arrested Daniel Garcia for Stalking and making Criminal Threats.

The LAPD reported around 5 a.m., the victims, identified as being of Jewish descent, were at home and asleep at their home in the 3000 block of Laurel Canyon Boulevard. They were awakened by the suspect, later identified as Garcia, described as a Hispanic male, wearing only underwear attempting to kick in their rear door. He was heard yelling, “Free Palestine,” and “Kill Jews, kill Jews.”

One of the victims concerned that Garcia was about to enter the property pushed him away from the door. The suspect continued to yell and threaten to kill the victims. Patrol officers responded, and Garcia was taken into police custody.

Detectives conducted further investigation into the incident and discovered that Garcia who was possibly suffering from mental illness, acted alone and his actions appeared motivated by the victims’ religious beliefs. In addition, it appeared the suspect may have prior contacts with the victims.

He was subsequently booked at Van Nuys Jail for 646.9 PC (Stalking), and 422 PC (Criminal Threats) with a Hate Crime enhancement. His bail is currently set at $225,000. Booking Number 6700064.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact North Hollywood Detectives at 818-754-8301. During non-business hours, or on weekends, contact 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu.

By Trevor