Tag: LAPD

LOS FELIZ—The Los Angeles Police Department reported on Monday, March 1 that two suspects responsible for the theft of catalytic converters had been arrested.

On February 27, at approximately 3:40 a.m., Northeast Division patrol officers observed suspects removing a catalytic converter from underneath a parked vehicle in the area of Rodney Drive and Los Feliz Boulevard. When officers attempted to detain the suspects they fled in a vehicle, and a brief vehicle pursuit ensued.

The suspects later lost control of their vehicle, resulting in a single-vehicle traffic collision. The suspects then fled on foot. Officers took two suspects into custody. They were identified as Elvin Ferrera, 23 from Whittier, and a 17-year-old male juvenile from Huntington Park.

LAFD responded to the scene and transported both suspects to a local hospital for injuries sustained during the traffic crash. Two additional suspects remain outstanding.

During the investigation, officers recovered five additional catalytic converters from the suspect vehicle. Detectives will work to determine whether the recovered property is connected to additional thefts in the area.

The Northeast area has seen a rise in catalytic converter thefts this year and is calling for public help to prevent these crimes. Vehicle owners, especially those with Toyota sedans, are advised to park in well-lit locations or off the street when possible and to use cloud-based home security cameras.

The public is also asked to follow LAPD Northeast on social media, including Facebook and Instagram, for additional crime-prevention information, such as catalytic converter cages or guards, and upcoming VIN etching and marking events.

Anyone with details, including surveillance video related to catalytic converter thefts in the Northeast Area, is asked to contact Northeast Auto Detectives at (323) 561-3257. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wanting to remain anonymous may contact LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.lacrimestoppers.org, or use the “P3 Tips” mobile application.

 

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On February 26, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that the Commercial Crimes Division’s (CCD) Real Estate Fraud Unit, arrested Rita Ortiz, 58, of Los Angeles, for a violation of California Penal Code (PC) 115(A) – Filing a False Document.

The LAPD reported that beginning in 2025, detectives assigned to the CCD Real Estate Fraud Unit began investigating a series of recorded mechanics liens on several properties within Los Angeles that were reported to be false or fraudulent.

The mechanical liens recorded on property titles listed extraordinary amounts, some as high as $24,640,000 for services rendered by Ortiz Consulting LLC for cleaning or consulting services. The investigation identified Ortiz as the person controlling Ortiz Consulting LLC and as the one who recorded the fraudulent liens. Multiple victims’ properties have been affected in Los Angeles, with additional victims and affected properties in the city of Beverly Hills and Riverside County.

Ortiz purports to be a Real Estate Consultant and business coach who specializes in property sales, investment properties, home leasing, short sales, and loan modifications. It is believed that Ortiz offered “services” to unsuspecting victims through a non-profit organization named “Make Your Dreams Come True.” She is not licensed by the Department of Real Estate to perform any real estate services.

Rita was charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office in case 26CJCF01311 with 25 felony counts of knowingly causing a false instrument to be recorded in a public office. It is further alleged that Ortiz engaged in a pattern of fraudulent conduct resulting in losses of over $500,000.

The instruments recorded at the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s Office consist of 24 “Claim of Mechanics Lien” and one “Grant Deed” filed against 10 properties. The liens falsely claim that Ortiz is owed payments in amounts ranging from $800,000 to over $98 million.

Ortiz was arraigned on March 2 and pleaded not guilty. Her bail was set by the Court at $700,000. A preliminary hearing is set for March 12 in Department 31 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center. She faces 24 years in state prison if convicted as charged.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with details should call the Commercial Crimes Division at (213) 486-6620 between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.

 

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON—On Monday, February 9, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that the Juvenile Division, Abused Child Section, is asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims after the arrest of Christopher James Ramstead, 47, in connection with child molestation allegations.

The LAPD reported on Friday, February 6, detectives re-arrested Ramstead, a resident of Thousand Oaks, on charges related to an ongoing criminal investigation that started in Ventura County. He was re-arrested on a Felony Warrant issued for violating California Penal Code section 288(a) — Lewd Acts with a Minor Under 14 Years of Age (Booking No. 7177549).

Ramstead was previously arrested on February 4, for crimes against children that were believed to have occurred in Los Angeles County and was later released on bail. Investigators suspect there may be additional, unidentified victims.

These cases were sent to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. After reviewing the evidence, the District Attorney’s Office filed 9 counts of Penal Code section 288(a) — Lewd Acts with a Minor Under 14 Years of Age — against Ramstead. Bail has now been set at No Bail, and as of February 6, Ramstead was still in custody.

He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment, and a bail hearing is scheduled for February 13 in Department 112 of the Van Nuys Courthouse. At the prosecutors’ request, the Court ordered the defendant be held without bail.

Ramstead is a firefighter/paramedic with the Pasadena Fire Department and holds the rank of captain. The alleged abuse occurred during various time frames between March 2003 and July 2025.

If convicted as charged, he faces 135 years to life in state prison. Detectives are asking anyone who may be a victim or has additional information regarding Christopher Ramstead to contact Juvenile Division detectives at (818) 374-5415.

During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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 Danny Jones

WESTWOOD—On February 5, at approximately 2 p.m., a 911 caller reported a crash at the corner of Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue. The incident took place at 99 Market, located at 1360 Westwood Boulevard. The initial call was for an injury after a vehicle crashed into the grocery store. The first reported injury was to a bicyclist. A helicopter was circling nearby. First responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), Battalion 9, requested ambulance transport for multiple injuries. Additional backup was required for police to manage crowd control. At 2:50 p.m., reports confirmed 10 injuries, including three fatalities. At 3:15 p.m., Lindsey Lantz updated the details of the incident on the LAFD/Alert page. The three fatalities included a 55-year-old male, a 42-year-old female, and a 30-year-old male. Two 35-year-old men were transported to an area hospital in critical condition. A 37-year-old male and a 38-year-old male were transported to the hospital in fair condition. There were two bicyclists treated at the scene by LAPD paramedics who refused transport to the hospital. At approximately 4:15 p.m., a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department addressed the public. Mayor Bass was at the scene. Authorities confirmed that the driver of a truck lost control of his vehicle after striking an individual on a bicycle and crashed into the building. Road closures included N. Rochester Avenue. The Los Angeles Department of Building Safety (LADBS) yellow-tagged the building (limited entry) due to the instability of the structure following the crash. The store is closed to the public. LAFD West Bureau and multiple other units offered assistance.   By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—On Monday, February 2, detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division are seeking the public’s help to identify additional victims following a sexual assault investigation.

On January 15, a 23-year-old female reported she had been sexually assaulted while receiving medical treatment in the San Fernando Valley. The suspect in the investigation was identified as Julius Czar Francisco, 33.

On January 16, around 5:50 p.m., officers with the Los Angeles Police Department Topanga Division located and arrested Francisco near the 12300 block of Osborne Street in Pacoima. He was booked for 261(a)(2), Rape by Force, under Booking Number 716374. He is currently out on bond.

Due to the nature of the assault, detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division Sexual Assault Unit believe there are unreported victims of Francisco.

Anyone who was a victim of Julius Czar Francisco, or who has information related to this investigation, is asked to contact LAPD Topanga Division Sexual Assault Detectives at (818) 756-3264. During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous may contact L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or visit. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the “P3 Tips” mobile application.

 

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON—On February 2, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that detectives from the Major Crimes Division (MCD) are announcing the arrest of a suspect involved in multiple vandalism hate crimes.

The LAPD reports that starting in August 2025, the LAPD Major Crimes Division began investigating a series of vandalism incidents targeting Jewish businesses along the Ventura Boulevard and Winnetka Avenue corridors. The vandalism involved the defacement of properties with swastikas and other hate-related graffiti.

The investigations led to the identification of Jose Antonio Montes Gutierrez. In total, MCD detectives secured a filing of five felony counts against Montes Gutierrez. These charges include Hate Crime and felony Vandalism.

On January 29, 2026, personnel from Major Crimes Division and Topanga Division served a search warrant at Montes Gutierrez’s residence in the San Fernando Valley. Gutierrez was taken into custody without any incident. Investigators searched Montes Gutierrez’s residence and recovered items of evidence related to the crime.

Gutierrez was booked at Van Nuys Jail for the five felony counts mentioned with a $250,000 bail. Booking Number 7171805.

Investigators will continue to review the case and the evidence collected and will work with the District Attorney’s office for further follow-up.

Anyone with details is asked to contact Major Crimes Division Detective Shannon Curtis at 213-486-7220. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

 

By Danny Jones

SHERMAN OAKS—On January 27, the Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Detectives (VTD) announced that they are investigating a hit-and-run traffic collision that killed an elderly man in his 80s and his dog while out for a walk.

The LAPD reported that at around 11:35 p.m., a 2009 Gray Maserati Quattroporte was traveling northbound on Woodman Avenue passing Moorpark Street when it struck an elderly male pedestrian who was crossing Woodman Avenue with a dog. The hit-and-run vehicle continued northbound Woodman Avenue without stopping, identifying themselves, or rendering aid as required by law. The vehicle was abandoned near the area of the collision and is in police custody.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the male pedestrian in grave condition to a local hospital and he later died as a result of the injuries sustained. His name is being withheld until a notification has been made to his next of kin.

VTD Detectives are asking the public to come forward with information regarding this fatal hit-and-run. If you were driving on Woodman Avenue and Moorpark Street on Tuesday night around 11:35 p.m., and/or witnessed the collision contact VTD Detectives with any information.

Motorists are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

On April 15, 2015, the City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about this collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division, Officer Takishita at (818) 644-8116 or Officer Reyes at (818) 644-8114. During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Those wanting to remain anonymous may contact LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or visit www.lacrimestoppers.org. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through www.lapdonline.org by clicking “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved – Crime Stoppers” menu.

 

By Danny Jones

WESTWOOD—On Monday, January 12, the Los Angeles Police Department reported that a suspect who drove a box-truck through a group of demonstrators was arrested.

The LAPD reported on Sunday, January 11, around 4 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department’s Major Crimes Division (MCD) was notified of a possible assault with a deadly weapon incident involving a box truck and a group of demonstrators near the Federal Building at Veteran Avenue and Ohio Avenue.

Detectives from MCD and special agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) responded and conducted a joint investigation of the incident.

Officers from the LAPD West Los Angeles Division were monitoring a protest in support of the ongoing protests in Iran, when a box truck traveled eastbound on Ohio Avenue toward Veteran Avenue. Officers stopped the truck and directed the driver to turn around, as he was approaching a large crowd of protesters. On the side of the truck were written signs that opposed the views of the crowd.

The demonstrators tore the signs off the truck, and attacked the driver, who drove toward a group of LAPD officers. Individuals from the crowd jumped out of the truck’s path of travel to avoid being struck. Officers formed a skirmish line between the box truck and the crowd and took the driver into custody.

The box truck was searched and impounded, with nothing significant being discovered. Detectives from MCD contacted possible victims from the incident, however, none reported being struck by the truck.

MCD Detectives and an FBI Agent interviewed the driver, Calor Madanescht, 48, who was arrested and booked for 23103(a)VC- Reckless Driving, with booking number 7160635, and $0 bail.

LAPD Major Crimes Division will maintain investigative responsibility over this investigation and will present the case to the City Attorney’s office for filing consideration.

Anyone with details is asked to contact Major Crimes Division Detective Shannon Curtis at 213-486-7220. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

 

By Danny Jones

WESTWOOD—On Sunday, January 11, first responders were called to the scene after a man drove a U-Haul trailer into a crowd of pro-Iran demonstrators at 1338 Veteran Avenue. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed that two people were evaluated at the scene but denied medical treatment. There were no more reported injuries at the time. The demonstrators were protesting unrest in their home country of Iran. Citizen video footage shows the U-Haul truck driving through the crowd. Screams can be heard in the background. There were signs on the U-Haul driver’s truck that read, “NO SHAH. NO REGIME. USA: DON’T REPEAT 1953. NO MULLAH.” No Shah, is reportedly a Persian slogan meaning “No Kings.” It is a term used by protesters against Iran’s monarch. Mullah is in reference to a title of honor for a Muslim religious leader, scholar, or teacher. Geopolitics (Iran) defines the “Don’t repeat 1953,” indicating that it may refer to the last time the U.S. intervened with Iran. “USA: DON’T REPEAT 1953. In this context, it refers to the 1953 Iranian coup d’état, orchestrated by the U.S. (CIA) and the U.K. The protesters are urging the United States not to intervene in Iranian politics again in a way that would undermine their efforts to establish a new government, drawing a parallel to the event that ultimately led to the long reign of the Shah and the eventual 1979 revolution and current regime.” Another Citizen contributor shared video footage of police standing outside the taped-off area. A commenter on X posted video showing a large U-Haul Truck with the driver in the cab driving right through the protesters. There was an enormous crowd at this demonstration. Most appeared to have moved off the street out of harm’s way. The commenter said, “Please pray. This doesn’t look good.” The protest drew a crowd of several hundred people.  Reports indicate that after the U-Haul driver drove into the crowd, the crowd swarmed the truck and attacked the driver. They drove a flagpole through his window. The incident caused traffic back-ups for hours. Emergency personnel were advised to avoid 405 due to the off-ramp closure. Alternate routes were recommended.   By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 10, multiple reports indicated a disturbance occurred at Quentin Tarantino’s New Beverly Cinema, located at 7165 Beverly Boulevard. A double feature was showing of “Wild Strawberries (1957)”, directed by Ingmar Bergman, and the 1999 film, “The Straight Story,” directed by David Lynch, were interrupted by a man on his cell phone. The patron did not exit the theater becoming agitated and argumentative, forcing the manager to call the police to remove them from the premises. Dozens of moviegoers captured video of the incident on their cell phones. The manager earned rave reviews for his handling of the incident from directors Josh Safdie, filmmakers and screenwriters Ronnie Bronstein, and actor Joe Russo, who were in attendance and witnessed the manager’s quick response. Videos posted on X reached over 700,000 views in less than a day. One commenter, Scott Leger, posted, “My favorite part is always when they say, ‘don’t be like the beloved regular who pulled out his phone yesterday during the trailers, and was banned for life.” Another commenter praised the work of the policeman. “That policeman did an excellent job of not letting anything escalate. Thank God there are still some cops that understand what we really need from them.” The name of the man escorted out by police has not been released. Canyon News reached out to the Beverly Hills Police Department for more information and spoke to a Watch Commander by the name of Diamond, who referred to an LAPD Watch Commander for the Wilshire Division. No comment was provided before print.   By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—On Sunday, December 21, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division detectives are investigating a robbery and assault with a deadly weapon involving juvenile suspects that occurred at a shopping center in the West San Fernando Valley.

The LAPD reported on December 18, at approximately 4:15 p.m., two 15-year-old male victims were approached by two unidentified juvenile male suspects near the 6600 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The juvenile suspects made comments about a gold chain worn by the first victim. One juvenile suspect suddenly grabbed the chain, and a struggle ensued. The second victim attempted to assist the first victim, and additional friends of the victims attempted to intervene.

During the altercation, one of the juvenile suspects produced a knife and stabbed the second victim under his arm. The second victim was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment and was later released. The first victim sustained a minor laceration to the back of his head and was treated at the scene.

The juvenile suspects fled the location on foot northbound on Owensmouth Avenue with the victim’s gold chain.

First Suspect is described as a 16–18-year-old Black male with brown eyes. He stands approximately 5 feet and 8 inches tall, weighing about 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie, blue jeans, and black shoes.

Second Suspect is described as a 16–18-year-old Black male with brown eyes. He stands approximately 5 feet and 6 inches tall, weighing about 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored hoodie, a brown fanny pack, black pants, and black shoes.

Anyone with details regarding the incident is asked to contact Topanga Division Detective Brinkman at (818) 756-3524. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or submit tips online.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD—On December 18, the Los Angeles Police Department Force Investigation Division is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that transpired in Hollywood.

The LAPD reported at around 3:45 p.m., uniformed officers from Hollywood Patrol Division responded to a radio call regarding a male experiencing a mental health crisis at an apartment complex in the 1400 block of North Bronson Avenue.

The comments of the call indicated the Person Reporting (PR) stated he was armed with a knife, threatening to kill himself, speaking to ghosts, and expressed he would kill anyone who approached his front door.

Upon arrival, officers were supported by additional responding units. The officers entered the apartment building and approached the PR’s apartment door. As they neared the door, the officers announced their presence and heard the subject yelling from inside. The subject abruptly opened the door. The officers repositioned themselves further away from the apartment door and attempted to communicate with the subject again.

The subject suddenly exited the apartment and ran towards the officers armed with a large kitchen knife. As the subject charged at the officers, an OIS and a discharge of a 40-mm less-lethal round occurred near simultaneously.

Officers provided medical aid to the subject until Los Angeles Fire Department personnel arrived. The subject was taken by the fire department to a nearby hospital, where he later died. The name of the individual has not yet been disclosed to the public. No officers or community members were injured as a result of the incident. A kitchen knife was recovered at the scene and booked as evidence.

The LAPD reported that the following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed.

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON—On December 16, the Los Angeles Police Department Force Investigation Division reported an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that transpired in the Topanga Division. At around 2:10 a.m., Topanga Patrol Division uniformed officers responded to multiple radio calls that were generated for a ‘459 Hot Prowl Suspect There Now’ at an apartment complex in the 20300 block of Saticoy Street.

The comments of the call indicated the suspect, later identified as Edgar Ramirez, 39, was breaking windows, had entered an apartment, and was armed with a bat. Upon the officers’ arrival, they responded to the 2nd floor of the complex, where they encountered Ramirez exiting an apartment armed with a metal pole.

The officers gave Ramirez multiple commands to drop the pole, but he failed to comply. An officer deployed a TASER, which was ineffective. The suspect advanced towards them when an Officer-Involved Shooting occurred. Ramirez was struck by gunfire, but he did not immediately submit to arrest. Officers brought the suspect to the ground and shortly thereafter, he was taken into custody without further incident.

He was transported by rescue ambulance to a local hospital, where he was treated and released for his injury. Two community members were injured as a result of their contact with Ramirez during the 459 Hot Prowl. One was transported by rescue ambulance to a local hospital, where he was treated and released for a laceration to his hand. The second sustained a minor injury to his lower leg.

A metal pole was recovered at scene and booked as evidence. One of the officers sustained minor abrasions to her knees during the incident. No other officers were injured as a result of the incident.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On December 17, the Santa Monica Police Department announced that Acting Police Chief, Darrick Jacob has been named as the permanent Santa Monica Police Chief. Chief Jacob was named Acting Police Chief on August 25, after then Chief Bautista resigned without notice.

Jacob is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science and earned his master’s degree in public administration from CSU-Northridge.

His law enforcement career began in 1996 with CSU Northridge Police Department. He joined the Los Angeles Police Department and worked there from 2001-2004. He joined the SMPD in 2004 and has been there since. He moved up the ranks completing Tactical Instructor training and has worked in a multitude of positions until 2008 when promoted to Sergeant.

In 2013, Sgt. Jacob was promoted to Lieutenant where he worked as the Watch Commander for patrol, and in several other command/instructional positions. Lt. Jacob was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police in 2020.

He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), The California Police Chiefs Association, The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), and The Police Executive Research Forum (PERF).

By Sharon

BRENTWOOD—The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed on Sunday, December 14 that 2 people were found dead at the home of director Rob Reiner’s Brentwood estate.

The call was received after 3:38 p.m. on Sunday on South Chadbourne Ave. for medical assistance for a man and woman, 78 and 68. The Los Angeles Police Department arrived on the scene and have opened an investigation into the case.

The victims have not been identified publicly by authorities, but TMZ has confirmed that the bodies of the 2 individuals discovered in the home belong to Rob and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner. TMZ reported that the victims sustained lacerations from a knife.

Rob is known for his role in the 1970s sitcom, “All in the Family” where he portrayed ‘Meathead’ alongside Carroll O’Connor, Jean Stapleton and Sally Struthers. The series ran from 1971-1979, and Rob won 2 Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Rob made his directorial debut in 1984 with “This is Spinal Tap.”

His other film credits include: “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally,” “Misery,” “A Few Good Men,” “The American President,” “Ghosts of Mississippi” and most recently he director the 2025 flick, “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.” He also appeared in the Martin Scorsese film “The Wolf of Wall Street” alongside Leonardo DiCaprio.

PEOPLE magazine reported that the couple’s son, Nick is being questioned by authorities in connection to the murders. Nick is currently in police custody per inmate county records. One of Rob’s daughters discovered her parents deceased inside the home and alerted police that a family member may have been responsible.

The Los Angeles Police Department Robbery Homicide Division is investigating the case.

 

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On November 29, a man left a coffee house at the corner of Stanley Avenue and Melrose Avenue and walked to his car, where he was attacked by a man who stabbed him with a knife. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Wilshire Division are now searching for the suspect. The victim was stabbed three times. While he defending himself, he also sustained two wounds to his hand. The suspect fled the scene after the attack. The victim drove to the Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center on Cadillac Avenue, where he was treated for his wounds. He received a one-inch laceration to his shoulder. In addition, he also suffered a puncture wound under his left ear and a half-inch laceration on the lower left side of his neck. The victim was unable to provide the police with a description of his attacker. The LAPD is canvassing the area in which the victim was attacked and seeking to find security camera footage that could allow them to identify the attacker. Anyone with information should call the LAPD Wilshire Division at

• (213) 922-8205
• (213) 473-0476

  By Daniel Diquinzio

BEVERLY HILLS—On November 13, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) started an hour-long pursuit of a possible silver Ford Fusion near Wilshire Boulevard and Trenton Drive in Beverly Hills. According to reports, the driver and two passengers took the car from their mother without permission, taking police on a chase through West Lake, through multiple cities including Sherman Oaks and traveling onto the 405 Freeway in the San Fernando Valley. SkyFox obtained video footage of the teens while they were still in Korea Town. Family members driving a white Dodge Durango joined the chase. The teens were traveling the wrong way into heavy traffic and were stopped once they hit a curb at Hesperia and Vanowen Street crashing into the intersection in Reseda. The driver entered the northbound 405 Freeway in West LA, at times passing traffic on the shoulder of the road and in the emergency vehicle lane. In the San Fernando Valley, the car traveled the wrong way in heavy traffic on Vanowen Street near Sepulveda Boulevard. A white SUV appeared to follow the Ford after it exited a parking lot. Details about the SUV’s connection to the people in the pursuit car were not immediately available. The Ford jumped a curb and crashed at a Reseda intersection. At least two people ran from the car as the SUV stopped nearby. Two of the teens jumped out of the car after the crash and attempted to flee on foot. Moments later, all three were in police custody. No further information, or names of the suspects have been released to the public.   By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD—On Wednesday, November 12, detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department Juvenile Division-Stuart House indicated they are asking the public for help in identifying more victims of sexual assault.

The LAPD reported on November 6, Josue Lopes (also known as David Lopez), 37, of Los Angeles, was arrested in the Westlake area. Lopes were identified as a suspect in the kidnapping and sexual assault of a minor female in the Hollywood region. He was taken into custody and booked for sexual assault (booking #7122917).

This is an ongoing investigation involving cooperation between detectives from the LAPD’s Juvenile Division-Stuart House Unit and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Sex Crime Unit. Detectives believe there may be additional unidentified victims due to the brazen and serious nature of the assault.

Anyone with details about Lopes is asked to contact Detectives with the Juvenile Division-Stuart House at 424-259-7096. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). 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.

 

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD—On November 5, the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed that detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division are asking the public for help in identifying more victims of a suspect who used victims’ Personal Identification Information (PII) to fraudulently rent apartments.

The LAPD reported that in September 2025, the suspect applied to rent apartments at two different locations in the Hollywood and Larchmont areas. The suspect used other individuals’ personal identification information to complete rental applications and provided counterfeit cashier’s checks to property management companies as part of the process.

The suspect is described as a Black male with dreadlocks and a beard or goatee and is also known as “Igor.” Detectives are releasing the suspect’s photo because they believe there may be additional victims, including rental and property management companies that may have been targeted.

Anyone who believes they were victimized by the suspect or has information about this case is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division, Detective Juan Campos, at (213) 486-5995 or via email at 31480@LAPD.online.

During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

 

 

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS/STUDIO CITY—On Tuesday, October 28, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division and North Hollywood Division reported arrests were made in connection to the “Shade Snatcher” Commercial Burglary Investigation targeting high-end optical eyewear and sunglasses stores throughout Los Angeles County and Orange County.

The LAPD reported between February and July 2025, detectives identified a sophisticated burglary crew responsible for a large-scale series of “smash-and-grab” commercial burglaries targeting high-end optical retailers and luxury boutiques across Southern California. Each burglary followed a similar pattern.

The suspects used stolen vehicles, usually older SUVs or pickup trucks, to crash through storefronts and bypass security measures during the early morning hours. Once inside, multiple suspects carrying laundry baskets or storage bins quickly stole designer eyewear, handbags, and other merchandise before fleeing in coordinated convoys of follow-up vehicles. The total losses from these crimes amounted to roughly $2.68 million in stolen property and $499,000 in property damage.

Through investigative follow-up, including a meticulous review of surveillance footage and examination of forensic evidence, investigators linked the same vehicles and suspects to multiple crime scenes. The stolen vehicles used to ram through property doors were often taken from South Los Angeles neighborhoods hours before the burglaries, and several key secondary vehicles were consistently seen trailing or leaving the crime scenes. Video evidence confirmed multiple suspects at or near the burglary locations, further supporting their involvement.

Investigators also worked with several outside agencies, including Manhattan Beach Police Department, Newport Beach Police Department, Pasadena Police Department, Alhambra Police Department, Beverly Hills Police Department, and San Diego Police Department, to share case notes, video footage, vehicle data, and evidence.

The ongoing investigation, officially titled “The Shade Snatchers” led to the identification of at least 10 suspects, including documented gang members and repeat offenders of property crimes. LAPD North Hollywood Burglary Detectives, with assistance from the Metropolitan Division, Commercial Crimes Division, and Gangs and Narcotics Division, carried out surveillance operations and secured multiple search and arrest warrants. This investigation led to the arrest of the primary suspects, including three adults and three juveniles.

The adult suspects have been identified as:
· Phillip T. Harris, 37, of Bellflower
· Orlando D. Neal, 37, of Los Angeles
· Rasheed Reed, 25, of Compton

A total of 26 counts of Burglary and Grand Theft were filed, along with additional firearm-related charges, including possession of an assault pistol, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a silencer. Bail amounts for the suspects range from $500,000 to $1,225,000, depending on their level of involvement.

This case remains active and is being prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Organized Crime Section. Detectives are working to identify additional suspects and other crimes this group may have committed. The case is being submitted to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. Detectives are seeking further information about these burglaries and are asking the public for help. Any additional information can be given to the North Hollywood Burglary Detectives.

Released surveillance footage highlights one incident to illustrate the suspect’s actions. The video can be viewed on the LAPD Headquarters YouTube Channel.

Anyone with details related to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Colin Langsdale, Commercial Crimes Division at 213-486-6940, or Detective Brandon McConnell, North Hollywood Division at 818-754-8377. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

 

By Danny Jones

SHERMAN OAKS—On Sunday, October 19, the Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Division detectives reported that a male pedestrian was killed by a hit-and-run driver.

The LAPD reported on October 19, at 12:05 a.m., a black Tesla Model Y was travelling southbound on Van Nuys Boulevard, south of Huston Street, when it struck a pedestrian who was on the roadway.

The driver of the vehicle failed to stop, identify themselves, or attempt to render aid as required by law. The vehicle was last seen traveling southbound on Van Nuys Boulevard.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced the pedestrian deceased at scene. The pedestrian is a 62-year-old, Caucasian male, of Ventura County. His name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about this incident is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division, Investigator Takishita at 818-644-8116. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call CrimeStoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may 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.”

 

By Danny Jones

BRENTWOOD—On September 5, California Governor, Gavin Newsom, and Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass, announced that the California Highway Patrol (CHP) with assistance of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) will be providing Kamala Harris with the security detail she needs as she begins her 15-stop tour for her new book, “107 Days.”

On August 28, multiple news reports circulated that President Trump issued a memo that, “Stripped former Vice President, Kamala Harris, of her security detail just as she began her book tour.”

The truth is that sitting Vice Presidents are entitled to six-months of security detail. Prior to leaving office, former Vice President, Joe Biden, extended the time of her detail.

President Trump did revoke Harris’s security detail which reportedly goes into effect Monday, September 8th. Her six months of protection by Secret Service would have typically ended in July. Former VP Harris received an extra two months of security protection.

Reports indicate that it was a trip to South Africa taken by Hunter and Ashley Biden with an 18-person security detail paid in full by the U.S. government.

The only government employees who are entitled to lifetime security are former Presidents and first ladies, and their children until they reach the age of 16.

The rule of lifetime security protection for former sitting Presidents was signed into law during the Obama Administration in 2013 reversing the previous law that allowed for 10 years of protection by the Secret Service.

Now, as a private citizen, the state of California has taken on Harris’s security detail.

In October of 2024, The Wall Street Journal reported that Harris is entitled to federal pension of $18,800. Annually based on her accrued time as Vice President and Senator.

In addition, former Vice Presidents benefit from lucrative book tours and public speaking engagements.

The following came directly from a November 4, 2024, issue of Forbes Magazine estimating former Vice President and Doug Emhoff’s financial worth.

“Thanks to her decades in government and wealthy husband, Kamala Harris has built up quite a nest egg, and she’s only gotten richer since becoming vice president.

Forbes estimates her net worth, along with gentleman Doug Emhoff, at about $8 million, up from $7 million in 2021. That’s roughly 20 times the median worth of Americans in the same age bracket.

By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public’s help to locate 59-year-old Jorge Mejia.

The LAPD reported on August 30, around 2:30 p.m., Mejia was last seen in the 4900 block of Van Nuys Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. He is currently residing in an assisted living facility in the 13500 block of Sherman Way in Van Nuys.

Jorge Mejia is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes. He weighs approximately 145 pounds and stands 5 feet and 3 inches tall. He was last seen wearing a dark blue shirt and black sandals. He suffers from dementia.

Anyone who has seen Jorge Mejia or has information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Missing Persons Unit, at (213) 996-1800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON—On Sunday, August 24, the Los Angeles Police Department announced a suspect was arrested for an attempted murder in Canoga Park.

The LAPD reported on August 21, around 12:30 p.m., a female victim was walking with her 2-year-old child in a stroller in the parking lot near a restaurant on the 6600 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The suspect, identified as Shayne Suffern, 29, approached the victim and stated, “Give me back my baby.”

The suspect opened his backpack and armed himself with an AR-15 rifle and attempted to fire at the victim.

The rifle malfunctioned. The victim tried to flee from the suspect with her stroller but was chased after the suspect placed his rifle back in his bag.

The victim grabbed her child from the stroller, and the suspect stabbed the victim on the back of her right shoulder with a knife. The victim fled with the child into a restaurant. Suffern returned to his vehicle and fled.

Officers responded and located the suspect in a nearby parking lot. Suffern was taken into custody without incident. The victim sustained a 3-inch stab wound. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded and transported the victim to a local hospital in stable condition. The victim’s child was not injured during the incident.

Officers recovered an AR-15 rifle, knife, and a backpack containing multiple rounds from the suspect’s vehicle. The investigation is ongoing, and there is no evidence to suggest the suspect and victim know each other.

Suffern was arrested and booked for 187(a) PC – Attempt Murder (Booking #7076300). His bail was set at $5,325,000. His arraignment is set for Monday, August 25.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact Topanga Area Detective Acevedo at 818-374-4820. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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.

By Danny Jones

LOS FELIZ—On Thursday, August 7, Jaquory Arman Watson,18, and Damari Zair Charles, also 18, were arrested in connection with a robbery ring that broke into celebrity homes on Valentines Day, and Brad Pitts home on June 25. On Monday, August 11, both men were charged for first degree burglary. They both pleaded guilty as charged and are being held without bail.

The following information on the suspects charged came directly from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Inmate Locator.

Jaquory Arman Watson is described as a black male, born October 10, 2006, standing six feet tall, and weighing 180 lbs. He was previously arrested on felony charges on April 11 and booked into LAPD 77th Street Jail with no bail. He was released on April 15. The record states RLSED PER 849(B)(1) PC A DETENTION ONLY which in layman’s terms means the release of an individual from custody due to insufficient grounds for a criminal complaint.

Damari Zair Charles is described as a black male, born April 11, 2007, standing 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 181 lbs. He was previously arrested by Beverly Hills Police Department on August 3 on felony charges. Permanent housing was assigned the same day, but he was released on his own recognizance. His court date was scheduled for August 5. There is no further information listed.

These men and two others are reportedly the men who scaled a fence behind Brad Pitt’s home on June 25 broke into the home and completely ransacked it. An undetermined number of items were taken from the home in the burglary. Brad Pitt was out of the country at the time of the incident filming the new movie, Formula 1, directed by Joseph Kosinski.

Brad Pitt’s home was not the only celebrity home broken into last summer. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson’s home in Pacific Palisades was also broken into. Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman’s Beverly Hills home was ransacked and burglarized similarly to Brad Pitts.

By Sharon

BRENTWOOD—On August 8, at approximately 7:00 a.m. the Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a call of a stolen vehicle. Responding officers were led on a high-speed chase through Westside.

The suspect, whose identity has not been released to the public, was only described as being an adult female. The chase ended in a crash at the intersection of Montana and Bringham Avenues in Brentwood when the unidentified driver crashed into a police car, striking and injuring a police officer.

The officer was taken to an area hospital for treatment. His condition is unknown. There were no other reported injuries. The suspect is in custody. There is no more information at this time as this case is still under investigation.

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Police Department is warning the public about the dangers of becoming a victim of “Bank Jugging.”

Bank Jugging is a term used to describe suspects who sit in bank parking lots and watch customers go in and out of a bank. The suspects then will follow customers who they think are in possession of cash and look for an opportunity to burglarize their vehicle or rob them directly.

The public should be aware of the following while banking:

-Occupied vehicles backed into parking spaces with a clear view of the front doors of the bank, the ATM or bank drive-thru line.

-Vehicles with dark tinted windows, with little or no visibility of the occupants

-Vehicles arriving at the bank with no occupants entering the bank

-Vehicles changing parking spaces or with numerous occupants

The public is being warned to:

-Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in the bank’s parking lot, and look for suspicious individuals

-Conceal cash: Don’t flash large amounts of cash or bank envelopes

-Be vigilant: Be aware of anyone who may be following you after leaving the bank

-Secure your belongings: Lock your car doors immediately after entering and ensure valuables are out of sight. DO NOT leave money in your vehicle.

Anyone with questions can contact the LAPD Topanga Division at (818) 756-4800.

By Danny Jones

MELROSE—On Wednesday, July 2, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that detectives from the Operations West Bureau Homicide are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman who was critically injured during an altercation in Wilshire Division.

The LAPD reported on June 24, around 2:15 p.m., Wilshire Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of a felony battery at a convenience store located in the 5700 block of Melrose Avenue.

Early details in the investigation noted that two women were involved in a verbal dispute inside the business that turned into a physical confrontation.

Responding officers located an unconscious woman in her 20s on the floor of the store. She was later identified as Jessica McLaughlin. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department transported her to a local hospital, where she remained in critical condition. On July 2, she was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Operations West Bureau Homicide detectives assumed investigative responsibility and obtained video evidence of the incident but are not releasing it at the moment.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office will complete their investigation and determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Operations West Bureau Homicide detectives at (213) 473-9470. During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Those wanting to remain anonymous may submit tips through LA Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD—On July 1, the Los Angeles Police Department West Traffic Division detectives reported that a fatal hit-and-run accident transpired and are looking for the driver.

The LAPD reported on June 29, at 9:03 p.m., a vehicle, described as a dark-colored Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, was traveling eastbound on Sunset Boulevard when it struck a pedestrian walking southbound Sierra Bonita Avenue.

The suspect fled the scene and continued traveling eastbound on Sunset Boulevard and then southbound on Gardner Street. The driver failed to stop and identify themselves or render aid to the victim.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced the female victim dead at scene. The victim’s identity will not be released until next of kin has been notified. Speed may have played a factor in the collision.

Drivers are reminded if they are involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves. The public is reminded that as pedestrians, they should exercise caution when crossing streets, obey traffic lights, cross within marked crosswalks, and obey the rules of the road.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact LAPD West Traffic Detectives at 213-473-0234. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, June 24, the Los Angeles Police Department Topanga Division Burglary detectives are asking for the public’s help locating the suspects who stole movie footage during a recent burglary.

The LAPD reported on May 26, between 2 a.m. and 2:40 a.m., the suspects entered a home in the 22000 block of Wyandotte Street. The location was being used to produce a movie. The suspects took three hard drives containing unedited video footage recorded for a movie.

Anyone with details about the crime is asked to contact Topanga Burglary Detective Roel at 818-756-5844. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On June 9, Governor Gavin Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Seibel Newsom, found herself under scrutiny for going on an elaborate girl’s shopping spree that required an extensive security detail due to the violent anti-immigration protests happening in the Los Angeles area.

Governor Newsom has flooded social media with posts complaining about President Trump deploying U.S. military forces in Los Angeles County. The governor denies the need for extra security. His recent request for an immediate restraining order denying the President the authority to deploy the U.S. military to LA County was not immediately approved by Judge Charles R. Breyer. The judge scheduled a hearing for June 12.

On June 10, Governor Newsom’s wife, and First Lady of California, Jennifer Seibel Newsom posted the following remarks on her X social media page:

“Thank you @LASDup and @LASchools leaders for standing up to protect kids and families. This unnecessary militarization may be entertainment, for the President, but even the premise of armed immigration agents and soldiers near schools where children learn and grow is simply wrong. Please stay safe and calm California.”

In Gavin Newsom’s posts, he claims that, “We didn’t have a problem before Trump got involved.”

Governor Newsom, AG Bonta, Mayor Bass, and local police did nothing to stop the violent anti-ICE protests with protesters spitting, and throwing cinder rocks at Federal Agents. Molotov cocktails were being lobbed at the feds while they were attempting to execute warrants for illegal immigrants with criminal records, and those harboring fugitives which is classified as a felony.

The local police Chiefs: Santa Monica Police Department Chief, Ramon Batista, and the Los Angeles Police Department Chief, Jim McDonnell told their officers not to involve themselves with the federal government’s immigration raids. Their statements may be found on their prospective websites.

When President Trump learned that the Mayor, Governor, California Attorney General, nor the local police would properly assist agents during the protests that turned riotous, he deployed the military for security and to manage crowd control.

President Trump offered the U.S. National Guard before the January 6 riots, and his offer was denied by then Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi. This time, he took matters into his own hands.

Newsom and Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration in an attempt to get Judge Breyer to issue a restraining order against the Trump administration to prevent them from deploying the military to Los Angeles County.

Judge Breyer did not honor Newsom’s immediate request for a restraining order. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 12. According to Newsom, it was “unnecessary,” for Trump to deploy the military to LA.

First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom required a security detail to go on a shopping spree.

By Sharon

LAUREL CANYON—On Wednesday, June 4, detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Division are asking for the public’s help in locating the driver of a vehicle that was involved in a hit-and-run traffic collision that left a 52-year-old woman severely injured.

The LAPD reported on June 1 around 11:15 p.m., a dark colored SUV traveling south on Laurel Canyon Boulevard near Moorpark Street collided into two parked vehicles on the street, as well as two pedestrians who were standing beside the parked vehicles, severely injuring one of them.

The driver failed to stop and fled the scene traveling southbound on Laurel Canyon Boulevard.

The Los Angeles Fire Department arrived to the scene and transported the severely injured pedestrian to a local hospital for treatment. The other pedestrian was not transported to a hospital and refused further treatment at scene.

The suspected vehicle involved in the hit-and-run is described as a dark colored SUV (possibly blue, or dark blue) with visible traffic collision damage located to the front right area of the vehicle.

Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

Anyone with details about the incident should contact Valley Traffic Detective Ramirez at (818) 644-8025. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Those wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On May 30, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) issued a traffic alert notifying the public that the Eastbound lane of Pico Boulevard between 27th and 30th streets closed due to a traffic collision. the public was advised to use alternate routes. This was just one of many LAFD’s calls for rescue during a time of budget cuts.

On May 30, at 2:27 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) was called to a traffic collision at the southbound lane on the 110 Freeway. E1 and E4 were dispatched to the scene.

May 30, at 2:28 p.m., LAFD firefighters responded to a call for a vehicle fire at 2206 E. Barlow Street. Units E202 and T2 were dispatched.

On May 30, at 2:47 p.m., LAFD Bot reported that units E10 and RA( were dispatched to a traffic collision at 328 E. Washington Boulevard.

LAFD Bot reported an LAFD call for a traffic collision on May 30, at 3:33 p.m. to 150 91 Freeway in the Westbound lane. Units E79, E285, and T85 were dispatched to the scene.

LAFD firefighters responded to a call on May 30, at 4:20 p.m. to a traffic collision at 6500 W. Olympic Place. Units RA861 were dispatched.

According to an alert by LAFD Bot, on May 30, at 4:33 p.m. LAFD firefighters were called to the rescue at 1570 (Northbound lane) of 5 Freeway for a traffic collision. Units E77, E289, and T89 were dispatched.

On May 30, at 4:39 p.m., LAFD firefighters responded to a call for a smoke investigation at 5233 Templeton ST. Unite E212 and T12 were dispatched.

Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass have received a large quantity of backlash on social media over their lack of support of the Los Angeles Fire Department.

One such post on the X social media site reads as follows.

“DEI and Policy Under Fire

Karen Bass in Ghana

$17.6M Budget Cut to LAFD

DEI Fire Chief Promote Diversity Over Competence

$2008 Water Diverted to Ocean for Fish

Stop Clearance of deadwood

1000+ Structures Burned

People Died”

On Wednesday, May 25, another person shared a photo of the Sepulveda Basin fire. LAFD crews knocked down a blaze that reportedly ignited near a homeless encampment in Van Nuys.

On May 28, another commenter wrote about a fire that got out of control. The post can be seen on X with photographs of the fire.

“Another catastrophe was barely averted by LAFD last week when Gavin Newsom’s $37 billion homeless solution started an encampment fire on Gavin Newsom’s refusal to do any real forest management or wildfire prevention in the state.” The post got 17,500 views.

Multiple firefighters posted photos of vehicle fires, fires started on the sidewalk in town… All shared a similar message indicating that a good portion of their calls are to put out fires started by the homeless population.

By Sharon

BEL AIR—A man was detained after he crashed his vehicle through the gate of actress Jennifer Aniston’s Bel Air home on Monday, May 5. The Los Angeles Police Department received a call at 12:20 p.m. about an elderly man who collided his vehicle into the actresses’ gate gaining access to the property, TMZ first reported.

The outlet reported the actress was home when Jimmy Wayne Carwyle, 48, from New Albany, Mississippi gained access onto the property. Her private security detained him, until authorities arrived on the scene.

According to reports, the suspect was booked for felony vandalism for damage done to the property. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

Aniston, 56, is widely known for her role as Rachel Green on the popular NBC series “Friends” that ran for a total of ten seasons. She co-starred alongside David Schwimmer, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and Lisa Kudrow. Aniston won a primetime Emmy for her work on the series in 2002 for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

She has since starred on the hit Apple TV+ series “The Morning Show” where she has been nominated several times for Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She co-stars on the series alongside Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carell.

She was previously married to actor Brad Pitt in July 2000 before they divorced in 2005. She was later married to actor Justin Theroux in 2015 before separating in 2017. She has starred in the films “Leprechaun,” “Office Space,” “Rock Star,” “Marley & Me,” “He’s Just Not That Into You,” “Cake,” and “Mother’s Day.”

On Wednesday, May 7, Carwyle was charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office with one count each of felony stalking and felony vandalism in case 25ARCF00790.

He faces an aggravating circumstance of the threat of great bodily harm. His arraignment is set for May 8 in Dept. 30 of the Airport Courthouse. Prosecutors intend to request the Court set statutory bail at $150,000.

Between March 1, 2023, and May 5, 2025, Carwyle is accused of repeatedly harassing the victim, Jennifer A., sending her unwanted social media, voicemail, and email messages.

If convicted as charged, Carwyle faces three years in state prison.

By Danny Jones

SHERMAN OAKS—On Sunday, May 4, at approximately 8:55 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call of a motorcycle accident at Ventura Boulevard and Greenbush Avenue. First responders declared the driver of the motorcycle dead at the scene.

On Monday, May 5, the victim of the crash was positively identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, as 41-year-old, Timothy Marques, of Sherman Oaks.

According to LAPD, Marques was traveling westbound from Greenbush Avenue in the far-left lane when he collided with a vehicle making a left turn westbound from Greenbush Avenue.

A Legacy Tribute indicates that Marques was a motorcycle enthusiast, who will be remembered fondly for his vibrant nature and adventurous spirit.

At least one other person was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The condition of the driver of the car is unknown.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On May 3, three illegal immigrants from the eastern European country of Georgia were arrested in connection to the burglary and murder of a Woodland Hills man. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents previously had detainers placed on all three perpetrators. The suspects were protected by sanctuary laws. Authorities ignored the detainers to have the men deported.

It was almost 1:00 a.m. on April 26, when Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers responded to a call of a burglary in Woodland Hills. Responding officers found Aleksandre Modebadze, 47, lying on the floor of his home, unconscious. LAFD paramedics declared him dead at the scene.

Paata Kochyashvili, 38, Zaza Otarashvili, 46, and Besiki Khutsishvili 52, reportedly broke into Modebadze’s Woodland Hills home, held him captive, and bludgeoned him to death.

FOX11 first obtained the following information from Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons who indicated that two of the three suspects were previously caught entering the country illegally. One had a $3,000 immigration bond, the other “promised,” to check in with ICE agent. The third suspect’s tourist visa expired. He had two ICE detainers on him for drug and burglary charges.

ICE agents with the assistance of the FBI, located and arrested the suspects. Two were arrested in Glendale, the third was arrested close to Sepulveda Boulevard and Burbank, in Van Nuys. Bail is set at $2 million.

By Sharon

BEL AIR—The home of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, 58, was the victim of a swatting incident in Bel Air on April 22, TMZ first reported. The incident was reported by the Los Angeles Police Department after 8 p.m. after they received a call of an individual opening fire at the property. According to reports, Ramsey was not home at the time of the incident.

Officers arrived on the scene and found no such incident and spoke to neighbors who confirmed no shots had been fired. A swatting incident is when someone calls authorities to report a fake crime that results in a response from the police department to investigate.

In the past celebrities like, Justin Bieber, Chris Brown and Rihanna have been targeted. Singer Rihanna had her Pacific Palisades home the target of a swatting incident in 2013, after authorities received a call about two armed men shotting someone inside the Fenty Beauty’s creator’s property.

Gordon Ramsey is a prominent British chef who grew to fame in America with his reality competition series, “Hell’s Kitchen.” The series has spawned spin-offs, “Kitchen Nightmares,” “MasterChef,” “MasterChef Junior,” and “Next Level Chef.” He has earned three Michelin stars for his culinary work. He is married to Tana Hutcheson, whom he shares 6 children with.

Some of his famed restaurants include: “Hell’s Kitchen” which was launched in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bread Street Kitchen & Bar in London, England, The Fat Cow in Los Angeles, California, Savoy Gril in London, as well as Union Street Cafe.

By Danny Jones

PACIFIC PALISADES—On April 30, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the procedure to claim firearms recovered after the Palisades fires. According to the LAPD press release, they have recovered hundreds of firearms thus far.

Gun owners will be required to provide proof of address and a description along with identifying information about their firearms.

LAPD Chief of Detectives, Alan Hamilton made the following statement:

“Since January, LAPD officers have been working through the painstaking process of recovering and rendering approximately 500 firearms safe. We recognize that these firearms may hold significant sentimental value to their owners, whether as family heirlooms, historical pieces, or personal mementos, and we are doing our best to reunite them with their owners.”

During debris removal, guns found sustained substantial fire damage making them difficult to identify. Many are covered in rust.

“Despite the condition of these recovered weapons, the Department remains committed to ensuring that these items are properly processed, identified, and, when appropriate, returned to their rightful owners.”—LAPD

To report a lost/missing firearm, homeowners are encouraged to complete a lost property report at your local LAPD Community Station or go to the LAPD website and turn it in online.

“The Department remains committed to the community’s recovery efforts and to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and respect in returning personal property to those impacted by this tragedy.”—LAPD

By Sharon

STUDIO CITY—On April 25, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) posted a Silver Alert for 86-year-old Florence Coleman, who was last seen on April 24 Ventura Boulevard and Ridgemoor Drive in Studio City. Ms. Coleman is believed to be on foot.

By Sharon

SANTA MONICA—On April 12, at approximately 12:56 a.m., Cathedral City Police officers arrested Davis Solomon Darvish, 40, of Santa Monica after he reportedly told a security guard in Cathedral City in Riverside County, that if a bomb went off at the nearby Coachella Art Festival, he [Darvish] would be responsible.

The security guard called in the bomb threat. Cathedral City Police Department indicated that they were able to locate and arrest the suspect by using their automated tag recognition system, FLOCK ALPR, to track Darvish.

He was arrested at CALLE EL SEGUNDOLE IE, Saturnino, Palm Springs. No weapons or bomb-making equipment was found in the suspect’s possession. He was booked into Larry D. Smith correctional facility on a $1,000,000 bond.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Inmate Roster, Davis Solomon Darvish has a criminal history. On April 1, he was arrested on felony charges by the Angeles Police Department West LA Division and released on his own recognizance with a court date set at LAX Superior Court on April 25, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.

Darvish was arrested on September 19, 2024, on felony charges. Bail was set at $50,000. He was assigned to permanent housing with a court date set for October 10, 2024, at LAX Superior Court.

The Coachella Art Festival is April 11-13 and 18-25 and attracts thousands of attendees including campers, those who carpool to and from to enjoy food, music, and every kind of art imaginable. Musical headliners include Lady Gaga on the schedule. More details and ticket information may be found on the Coachella website.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, March 23, at approximately 7 p.m., three masked men broke into a house in the 2300 block of Irwin Street while two residents were at home. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the suspects woke up a resident who was sleeping, zip-tied, and questioned him about a coin business he once owned.

A woman who reportedly confronted the thieves was locked in the bedroom with the zip-tied victim. The home was ransacked, and a safe was stolen from the premises. The victims were not certain what they had stored inside the safe.

The victims did not call the police for four-five hours after being locked in the room indicating to police that they did not think it was safe to call. It is not clear how long it took the burglars to get the safe out of the home. Police arrived at around 10:00 p.m.

Reports indicate that on March 4, LAPD responded to a call that occurred three miles away from this burglary. Similarly, three victims were at home when the thieves broke in. They bound all of them and locked them in a closet while looting their home.

The suspects in both robberies are still at large. Residents are encouraged to stay alert, be aware of their surroundings, and if suspicious people are nearby, err on the side of caution, and call the police.

By Sharon

WESTWOOD—On Wednesday, February 5, the LADA disclosed that James Joshua Lopez, 24, was charged with murder in connection with the January 26 stabbing death of Amanda Torres, 28, in downtown Los Angeles.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman noted that Torres was a “compassionate leader’ and recently graduated from UCLA and was a community organizer.

Lopez, of Los Angeles faces one count of murder with an allegation of personal use of deadly and dangerous weapon, a knife. His bail has been set at $2.02 million. His arraignment was set for March 3, Dept. 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

It was reported that on January 26 at around 12:40 a.m., Lopez is accused of fatally stabbing Torres after the victim intervened trying to protect her brother, who had been allegedly attacked by a group of men at a party in the 1100 block of S. Los Angeles Street. Torres was stabbed in the neck by the suspect.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys Cristhian Ochoa and Monique Pahuja of the Central Trials-13 Division. The case was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Charges filed in the case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted as charged, Lopez faces up to 26 years to life in prison.

By Trevor

BRENTWOOD—On Sunday, January 12, at approximately 4:40 a.m. Vice President Kamala Harris’s U.S. Secret Service detail and Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) deputies responded to a call of a burglary at the home of VP Harris, and Second-gentleman, Doug Emhoff. No one was at home at the time of the call.

Reports indicate that the two men dressed in all black were initially detained for being out after curfew in the evacuation zone of Pacific Palisades. They were then questioned by officers and released as there was no evidence of foul play.

Harris and Emhoff have several homes. The home in Brentwood is approximately 3,500 square feet. Zillow estimates the home’s value at $5 million.

Harris acquired her loft, which is a condo. in the South of Market area of San Francisco after she became Attorney General in 2004.

While in Washington D.C. the second couple has two homes. One is the same home located at the U.S. Naval Observatory on, One Observatory Circle. This is the same home that most Vice Presidents have lived in since Walter Mondale in 1974.

The second home is a 1,700-square-foot apartment Harris secured during her first term in the U.S. Senate. This lush property includes a rooftop pool, full-time concierge, fitness center, and housekeeping.

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Wednesday, January 1, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they rescued a hiker.

The incident was reported at 8:50 a.m. at 1872 N Curson Avenue. The LAFD Air Ops prepared a hoist operation and transport for a 63 year-old female hiker with an non-life threatening lower extremity injury. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Tuesday, December 31, the Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Force Investigation Division reported it is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) in Topanga Division. The LAPD reported that on December 29, 2024, at around 10:15 p.m., Topanga Division uniformed officers responded to a radio call of a vandalism suspect in a hotel, located on the 21700 block of Ventura Boulevard.

While the officers were enroute, the person reporting advised Communications Division the suspect was now holding a gun. Upon arrival, officers encountered the suspect walking in the driveway towards the street. The suspect produced two firearms and fired at officers, resulting in an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS).

The suspect retreated towards a parked vehicle, but quickly returned with one firearm and fired again at officers, as officers continued to return fire. The suspect fled back into the hotel and officers immediately established a perimeter around the building and requested the assistance of Metropolitan Division Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). After the suspect refused to surrender, SWAT officers, along with a Tactical Emergency Medical Support Unit (TEMS) from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), entered the hotel and located the suspect at the bottom of a stairwell with sustained gunshot wounds.

Personnel from the TEMS unit assessed and determined the suspect, Benjamin Prince Bradley, 47, was dead. There were no reports of any other injuries during the incident.

An AEA Harpoon double barrel shot air pistol, loaded with an air cartridge in each barrel, was located at the scene, along with an AEA model B&WT9 air rifle, which was loaded with seven rounds. Both weapons could fire metallic rounds of ammunition. The weapons were recovered and booked as evidence. The FID responded to the scene and are investigating the incident.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On January 2, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department(LAPD) responded to a call of drive by shooting near the Mount Sinai cemetery located at 5950 Forest Lawn Drive.

According to reports, the suspect shot a gun at the window(s) of a dark-colored SUV with a single male occupant inside the vehicle. The shooter fled the scene of the crime. No physical injuries were reported in the incident.

The suspect was reportedly driving a black Nissan sedan that was described as a male, in his mid-thirties with a beard,  who may be of Hispanic or possibly Armenian descent.

This case is still under investigation. The suspect is at large.

Those who may have more information on the shooting are encouraged to call the Hollywood Hills Police Department (HPD) Main Number (954) 967-4636

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—On Thursday, December 19, the Los Angeles Police Department reported detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division Burglary announced the arrest of multiple theft suspects during a series of blitz operations aimed at stopping retail theft.

The LAPD reported that in response to rising incidents of theft affecting local retail establishments in and around the Westfield Topanga Mall area, Topanga area officers conducted a series of blitz operations on impacted retailers. A blitz operation is when law enforcement proactively saturates an area with personnel and resources to address a specific issue and enhance community safety.

On December 17, a total of three blitz operations were conducted. One retailer operating inside the Westfield Topanga Mall in the 6600 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, one retailer in the 21400 block of Victory Boulevard, and one retailer operating in the Fallbrook Mall in the 6600 block of Fallbrook Avenue. The following individuals were arrested:

-55-year-old Artemus Shydian, Booking No. 6937456, RFC No. K07634
-64-year-old Javid Gholami, RFC No. K12436
-20-year-old Jacob Beccera, Booking No. 6937445
-18-year-old Tanner Talei, RFC No. K07442
-54-year-old Diana Aragon, Booking No. 6912815 and RFC No. F51128

Under the Los Angeles County Misdemeanor Bail Schedule, several of the suspects were eligible to be cited and released, others had pending warrants.

Anyone with details about any of these types of incidents is asked to call LAPD Topanga Burglary Theft Detectives at 818-756-4800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On December 19, the Los Angeles City Fire Department announced the arrest of a serial arsonist responsible for a series of fires in the Sherman Oaks area.

On October 20 at 10:30 p.m. the LAFD responded to a series of vehicle and structure fires in the region of Ventura Boulevard and Kester Street. The Major Crimes Division identified a man in his 40s as being responsible for the fires.

On December 18, the suspect was identified as Ricardo Villanueva, 42, who was detained by Van Nuys patrol officers for unrelated traffic violations. He was arrested for the arson that transpired on October 20 and booked for 451 (c) PC: Arson of a structure and 451 (d) PC: Arson of Personal Property. His bail was set at $230,000.

There is an on-going investigation with ACTS and LAPD Major Crimes to determine if Villanueva is responsible for the spree of connected arson fires around December 17. Including the 4700 block of Kester Avenue for a carport fire that exposed the adjacent apartment complex and destroyed four parked vehicles, the 4600 block of Columbus Street for a structure fire, and the 15000 block of Ventura Boulevard for a commercial building fire, or any other incidents.

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detectives at 213-486-7260. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877 527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a garage fire on Sunday, December 15. The blaze was reported at 8:21 p.m. at 14321 W. Hartsook St. A detached garage well involved in fire, exposing another garage. By 8:50 p.m., the LAFD reported the incident transpired at 14314 W Magnolia Blvd.

The first arriving 20 firefighters extinguished the fire in 29 minutes with no injuries reported.

Firefighters contained the fire to the unit of origin, prevented extension to the exposed garage. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No additional details about the fire have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, November 25, the Los Angeles Police Department reported they are investigating a hit-and-run that left a pedestrian dead.

The Los Angeles Police Department’s West Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying a driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision that killed a 41-year-old man.

The LAPD reported on August 14 around 3:40 p.m., a pedestrian, was walking eastbound, crossing vehicle traffic lanes on Highland Avenue, south of Camrose Drive. Witnesses stated the pedestrian was struck by multiple vehicles.

The pedestrian was taken to a local hospital by the Los Angeles Fire Department where he later died from injuries sustained. The next of kin have been notified. The pedestrian was a resident of North Hollywood.

Motorists are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves. The public is also reminded that pedestrians must obey all traffic laws and cross the street when it is safe to do so.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about the collision is asked to contact West Traffic Division Detective II Holmes at (213) 473-0238. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD—On Thursday, November 21, detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood Division reported they need the public’s help to locate a shooting suspect.

The LAPD reported that a shooting occurred on October 15 at approximately 12:15 p.m. Officers responded to a report of a shooting near Hollywood Boulevard and Western Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located a woman who had been shot. She was taken to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

During the investigation, detectives learned the victim had been in the process of renting a scooter when the suspect approached her and initiated an argument. The suspect fired multiple shots at the victim with a semi-automatic handgun before fleeing southbound on Western Avenue. A passerby who witnessed the incident captured still images of the suspect as he fled the scene.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes. He stands between 5 feet and 5 inches to 5 feet and 8 inches tall and weighs between 130 and 160 pounds. He appears to be 20 to 25 years old.

Anyone with details about the shooting or suspect is asked to call Detective Greg Papik at Hollywood Division (213) 972-2971. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Friday, November 8, the LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) reported that West Traffic Division detectives are investigating a hit-and-run collision that killed a 48-year-old man.

The LAPD reported on November 7, around 9:55 p.m., the victim was walking northbound across Franklin Avenue outside of a marked crosswalk just east of Van Ness Avenue. A vehicle driven by the suspect was traveling westbound on Franklin Avenue and collided with the victim, causing the victim to also collide with the roadway. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, failing to stop and render aid as required by law.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the victim to a local hospital where the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. His name has not yet been disclosed to the public.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Motorists are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves. Motorcyclists are also reminded to obey the rules of the road and ride at a safe speed.

Anyone with details about the hit-and-run collision is asked to contact LAPD West Traffic Detectives at 213-473-0234. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 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) with a cell phone.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, October 29, the Los Angeles Police Department reported that several serial follow away robbery suspects have been arrested.

The LAPD reported on September 19, a robbery occurred in the 23000 block of Mulholland Drive in Woodland Hills. The suspects followed and confronted the victim in a parking lot.

Two suspects punched the victim which knocked him to the ground and then pinned the victim to the ground and forcibly removed his jewelry before fleeing in a black BMW sedan. On October 23, a robbery occurred in the 21000 block of Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills. The victim was followed to a local business when a black BMW sedan drove up to him. Two rear passengers exited armed with handguns. The suspects stripped the victim of his jewelry and fled in the BMW.

During the investigation, detectives from Robbery-Homicide Division identified Chazon Brown, 28, from Los Angeles, Isaiah Moore, 32, from Fresno, and Nhazel Warren, 19, from Los Angeles, as the persons responsible for the robberies.

On October 24, search and arrest warrants were served which resulted in the arrest of both Brown and Moore as well as the seizure of numerous items of evidence, including two semi-automatic pistols. Warren was arrested that evening in Long Beach.

All three suspects were arrested for 211 PC-Armed Robbery and booked into an LAPD jail facility with their bail all set at $1 million.

During these crimes, Warren was wearing a GPS ankle monitor placed on him by the Los Angeles County Probation Pre-Trial Services following his arrests in two separate unrelated felony cases that occurred in July and August 2024. On October 29, Warren posted bond for a third time and was released.

Based on evidence collected in this case, investigators believe these three individuals are prolific robbery suspects, responsible for other robberies. Investigators believe there are many other victims who have yet to be identified. Photographs of the suspects are being released to identify and speak with additional victims.

Anyone who has been a victim or has details about this investigation is asked to contact Detectives Mrakich and Delph at (213) 486-6840 or email rhdtipline@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, October 6, the Los Angeles Police Department Force Investigation Division indicated on its website that an officer-involved shooting transpired that is under investigation in the Hollywood Division.

The LAPD reported on October 3, at around 5:01 pm, multiple Hollywood Patrol Division officers responded to a radio call of a man with a gun near the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Hollywood Pool, located near the intersection of Cole Avenue and Lexington Avenue.

When the officers arrived on scene they contacted the suspect, later identified as Darrel Morgan, who was walking on the sidewalk adjacent to the pool with an item in his waistband. Officers issued verbal commands to Morgan, who ignored and fled the area on foot. Officers briefly lost visual of Morgan; but with the help of an air unit, the officers continued to track Morgan and located him in the area of Vine Street and La Mirada Avenue.

Officers attempted to make contact with Morgan as he crossed to the east side of Vine Street. Morgan was holding an object resembling a small handgun.

Morgan appeared to point the object at responding officers, resulting in an Officer Involved Shooting (OIS). Morgan was not struck by gunfire and fled north on Vine Street. He ran approximately one block north and was apprehended a short time later in the 1300 Block of North Vine Street without further incident.

No officers or community members were reported injured during the incident. A small gold and dark metallic colored lighter, in the design of a Luger Pistol, was located on the 1300 Block of North Vine Street and was collected as evidence. Force Investigation Division (FID) investigators responded to the scene and are investigating this incident.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 19, at approximately 7:15 a.m., officers from the Beverly Hills Police Department and the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call concerning a man with a torch setting fires in the vicinity of the Los Angeles Country Club Golf Course located in the 10100 block of Wilshire Boulevard.

Reports indicate that there were fires set within a couple of blocks from where the individual was found with his torch. Specific details on the type of torch and the name of the suspect have not been released to the public. This case is still under investigation.

Those with more information are encouraged to contact the Beverly Hills Police Department, located in the Beverly Hills Civic Center at 464 N. Rexford Dr. Beverly Hills, CA 90210,  or call (310)550-4951


By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Police Department reported on August 28, that three suspects connected to a Sherman Oaks home invasion have been arrested. The LAPD reported during the late evening hours of Monday, August 26, Metropolitan Division officers tracked a black vehicle with three suspects following a home invasion robbery in the 15200 block of Greenleaf.

With the help of Air Support Division, the officers followed the suspects from Greenleaf to the 1000 block of West 152nd Street in the city of Compton. Once the vehicle arrived at a particular residence on the 1000 West 152nd Street, three suspects ran from the vehicle, and a perimeter was quickly established. Metropolitan Division K-9 conducted a search, and all three suspects were apprehended.

The following suspects were taken into custody:

-Isaiah Rankins 22 years of age, booking number 6873050

-Juan Carlos Gonzalez 21 years of age, booking number 6873068

-Dion Hill 24 years of age, booking number 6873074

All three suspects are residents of Los Angeles and were transported to 77th Street Jail where they were booked for 211 P.C – Robbery (Home Invasion). Bail for each suspect was set at $175,000, which includes bail enhancements for prior burglaries and supervised probation for firearm possession. All three suspects are also on supervised release.

The same Metropolitan Division officer involved in locating the suspect’s vehicle, also alerted Commercial Crimes Division (CCD), which houses the FBI Major Theft Task Force (MTTF) detectives, who target organized property crime. During the early morning hours of August 27, 12 investigators from CCD, responded to the locations to further the investigation. Detectives from CCD authored a search warrant and assumed investigative responsibility at three locations in Compton and two additional locations in South Los Angeles related to these suspects. Property was recovered at the Compton residence in the 1000 West 152nd Street that was believed to have been stolen from the victim’s Sherman Oaks residence.

In response to these recent developments, LAPD Chief Dominic Choi states, “The collaboration of the various enforcement and investigative entities from within the Los Angeles Police Department is what brought this case together. We will continue to utilize resources to address residential burglaries in Encino, West Los Angeles and any other Los Angeles neighborhood being targeted by criminals. While arresting these individuals is a step in the right direction, our work is not done.”

The updated bail amount for each suspect:

Isaiah Rankins – No bail

Juan Carlos Gonzalez – $1,000,000

Dion Hill – $2,000,000

All three suspects were on supervised release during the commission of the crimes. All three suspects remain in custody. Hill’s updated booking no. is 6873215.

Anyone with details regarding this investigation is asked to call Commercial Crimes Division, at (213) 486-6955, between 6:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Friday, August 23, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Bureau Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the arrest of the suspect(s) involved in the murder of a 61-year-old male.

The LAPD reported around 6:12 p.m., Topanga area patrol officers responded to a radio call of an “Ambulance Shooting,” in the 5900 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. When officers arrived, they found the victim in the parking lot near his vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced the victim deceased at scene. The victim is described as a White male. His name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Detectives from Valley Bureau Homicide were notified and responded to the scene. Detectives canvassed the area for witnesses and further evidence. There is no suspect(s) information, and the motive is unknown.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact Valley Bureau Homicide detectives at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to (310) 726-7700 or 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wanting 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.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, August 14, the Los Angeles Police Department reported that suspects involved in a string of burglaries in the Woodland Hills region were arrested. The LAPD reported on August 13, around 3:30 a.m., Topanga Area patrol units responded to a burglary in progress at a shoe store in the 7200 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

After arriving on the scene, authorities found a white van parked outside of the business. The occupants in the vehicle did not comply with officers’ commands and fled the scene in the van. Officers initiated a vehicle pursuit, which lasted less than a minute before two suspects were observed running from the vehicle in an alley to the rear of 7200 Owensmouth Avenue. Officers initiated a foot pursuit and were able to take the driver of the van, Terry Sutton, 36, into custody. The other suspect continued to flee on foot, and a perimeter was established.

Upon review of surveillance video from the business, it was determined that four suspects were involved in the burglary, and all four were in the van when they fled from the scene. Air Support and patrol resources responded and assisted with the perimeter, but the additional suspects were not located.

During the on-scene investigation, it was discovered that the same suspects burglarized one additional location nearby before burglarizing the shoe store. The secondary location was in the 6400 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Preliminary video evidence depicts the same vehicle used in the burglary at the shoe store. All of the stolen items in the van have been returned to the business owners.

Sutton was booked for 459 PC, Commercial Burglary, booking number 6864575. Commercial Crimes Division has taken over investigative responsibility for this case.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Friday, August 9, the Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public’s help identifying the suspect responsible for a severe hit-and-run traffic collision.

The LAPD reported on August 3 around 1 a.m., a white Acura 4-door sedan traveling northbound on Topanga Canyon Boulevard, north of Parthenia Street, sideswiped a gray 2022 BMW sedan, causing the driver of the BMW to lose control and collide with a pole.
The white Acura fled the scene without stopping to identify themselves or to render aid to the other driver. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the driver of the gray BMW to a local hospital with severe injuries.

A reward of up to $25,000 is available to community members who provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone who may have witnessed or have details regarding this collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Investigator Reyes at (818) 644-8114 or Santos at (818) 644-8024. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Friday, August 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they had to rescue a hiker in Hollywood Hills West.

The incident was reported at 1:59 p.m. at 2000 N. Fuller Avenue. Firefighters located a 40-year-old male hiker in moderate distress with signs and symptoms of a heat related illness. The LAFD Air Ops is preparing a hoist operation with follow on air ambulance transport. The 9-1-1 call was received at 1:34 p.m., no additional details about the incident has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Thursday, August 8, at approximately 8:20 p.m., an off-duty Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) officer in the vicinity of a fight in progress close to the area of the 405 Freeway and Roscoe Boulevard fatally shot a suspect armed with a gun, and the second suspect was reportedly armed with a pipe.

The officer and one other individual who were present at the altercation reportedly shot the suspect as he pulled out his gun to defend himself against the man with the pipe.

LAPD confirmed that the suspect at the scene who was armed with a gun was pronounced dead at the scene. The second suspect and his weapon were taken into custody. The names of the suspects and the BHPD officer have not been released as this case is still under investigation.

Anyone with more information is encouraged to call the Los Angeles Police Department at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Sharon

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Tuesday, August 6, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the city of Los Angeles Fire Commission recognized the members who intervened and help to ensure his safety.

In June 2023, a group of three friends were hiking on the Temescal Canyon Trail above the Pacific Palisades coastline. It was a warm, humid day and one hiker felt weak and dizzy, unable to continue walking. His friends called 9-1-1, triggering the dispatch of a hiker rescue response.

Task Force 69 and their paramedic rescue ambulance, RA69, made their way to the canyon while LAFD Air Operations dispatched two helicopters (hoist aircraft and command aircraft).  Engine 69 and RA69 members arrived and utilized necessary equipment and supplies. The topography made radio communications difficult and the Metropolitan Fire Communications (MFC) 9-1-1 call-taker remained on the phone with the hikers and relayed information to the Incident Commander to help the crews locate the group. Engine 69 Captain was experienced in the area and used his expertise to find a better line-of-sight to the command airship to improve their radio communications.

Firefighters were able to locate their patient, a 55-year-old male complaining of dehydration, dizziness, nausea and difficulty walking. Initially reluctant to allow a full medical workup, the firefighters took note of his low blood pressure (80/46), high heart rate (116) and his hot, pale and diaphoretic skin conditions. These are all indicators of a potentially significant heat related medical emergency thus the Firefighter/Paramedics started an IV and administered fluids, along with various cooling measures.

While the patient’s condition improved, crew recommended a hoist operation.

The Incident Commander and helicopter pilots assessed the situation and concurred. After being hoisted, the patient was onboard Fire-1 and a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), that measured electrical activity of the heart, revealed the hiker was experiencing a ST elevation myocardial infarction – he was having a ‘silent heart attack’. He was swiftly transported via air ambulance to an appropriate medical facility.

A silent heart attack, known as a silent myocardial infarction (SMI), accounts for 45 percent of heart attacks.* They are described as “silent” because the symptoms lack the intensity of a classic heart attack, such as extreme chest pain and pressure; stabbing pain in the arm, neck, or jaw; sudden shortness of breath. Instead, one may just feel fatigued or discomfort and attribute it to heat or lack of sleep.

The coordinated efforts of the members from Fire Station 69, the diligent 911 call-taker and the talented Air Operations not only resulted in the successful hoist rescue of a hiker in distress but saved the life of the hiker.

The city of Los Angeles Fire Commission recognized the below members for their dedicated efforts and skillful handling of a patient whose life was in the balance:

-Pilot IV, Rickey Wheeler (retired)

-Pilot I, Scott Keelin

-Captain I/Paramedic, Michael McIndoe

-Firefighter/Paramedic, Jesse Beck

-Firefighter/Paramedic Dominic Marquis

-Firefighter Patrick Mandich

-Firefighter/Dispatcher, Anthony Zermeno

By Trevor

LAUREL CANYON—On Tuesday, August 6, the Los Angeles Police Department reported Valley Bureau Homicide detectives are seeking details from the public regarding a shooting in an apartment that left one person dead.

The LAPD reported on August 5, around 9:30 p.m., North Hollywood area patrol officers responded to a radio call of “shots fired” on the 5600 block of Laurel Canyon Boulevard. Officers found the victim inside of an apartment, suffering from a gunshot wound.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene. Victim identification has been withheld pending next of kin notification.

Valley Bureau Homicide detectives responded to the location, and their preliminary investigation revealed that a shot was fired from a firearm in an adjacent apartment, which penetrated the neighboring wall, striking the victim.

Anyone with additional details is asked to call the LAPD, Valley Bureau Homicide, at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On Wednesday, July 31, at approximately 10:00 p.m. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) deputies were in the process of pulling over a driver suspected of driving under the influence (DUI). The driver did not adhere to the officer’s commands to pull over and exit the vehicle.

The suspect then led police in a chase that ended when the DUI suspect fell out of his vehicle onto the eastbound 10 Freeway. LAPD responding officers requested an ambulance. The suspect was then taken into custody. The identity and condition of the suspect is unknown.

Canyon News reached out to the Santa Monica Police Department. Lieutenant Erika Aklufi confirmed that this was LAPD’s case. Canyon News then contacted LAPD for more information but did not hear back in time for print.

By Sharon

STUDIO CITY—On July 27, a man died after jumping off of a subway train as police officers were chasing him on foot for evading payment.

On Saturday, July 27, at approximately 2:45 p.m., Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers assigned to the Transit Services Division were in the process of checking the premises when they noticed a man jumping on a train without paying.

LAPD officers pursued the suspect, noticing the suspect’s erratic behavior right away. Officer reports indicated they thought that the man may be living with mental illness. Officers engaged use of force indicating that they feared he may attempt to jump. The suspect scrambled away. He jumped off the train running southbound toward the Metro B-Line tunnel in the direction of Universal City/Studio City.

Officers searched the tunnels and rode the train searching for the man. They found his body lying on the tracks. First responders with the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) pronounced the subject dead at the scene. The full press release is below.

This incident is currently under investigation by the LAPD Force Investigation Division (FID). No other details have been released at this time.

By Sharon

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On July 30, the Los Angeles Police Department Force Investigations Division announced that an Officer Involved Shooting (OIS) occurred with the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team in the West Los Angeles Division.

On July 29, the Los Angeles Police Department (LASD) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a call of a burglary in process in the 2600 block of South Halm Avenue.

According to the LAPD, officers responded first to a caller whose home was broken into. The suspect, later identified as Lavell Adams, broke into the caller’s home.  The caller was an elderly female, and a window was broken while the suspect was entering the home prompting the victim to flee. Her home was later set on fire.

When LAFD officers responded to the fire, they observed LAPD officers attempting to take the suspect into custody. The suspect was armed with a knife. Police initially shot off rounds from a bean bag gun.

The suspect who was still armed with a butcher knife then barricaded himself in the home. Members of the S.W.A.T. team entered the area at this time. One officer had a taser on the ready when the suspect lunged toward them with a knife. Shots were simultaneously fired along with the taser, and the suspect dropped to the floor, and the knife fell out of his hand.

LAPD officers declared Adams dead at the scene. The full text of the press release may be found here.

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Inmate locator, the suspect has a criminal history. He was arrested for a felony on July 21, 2022, and was released on bond on October 18, 2023.

On March 1, 2023, Adams was arrested for a felony. He was initially to be detained until assigned to permanent housing on April 17, 2023.  He was placed on probation at his sentencing court date on March 29, 2023.

The suspect was listed under two separate names including Lavell Diontay Adams and
Lavell Diontay Adams.

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that four suspects were arrested on a nine-count indictment charging them with committing armed robberies of several businesses – primarily 7-Eleven stores in South Los Angeles – during a nearly two-month crime spree in 2023 which they allegedly posted photographs on Instagram of themselves holding stolen cash.

The indictment, returned July 10, 2024, and unsealed on July 23, with charges for the following defendants with one count of conspiracy to interference with commerce by robbery and one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act):

-Charles Christopher, 24, of Compton;

-D’Angelo Spencer, 26, of South Los Angeles;

-Jordan Leonard, 25, of Torrance; and

-Tazjar Rouse, 22, of Hollywood.

The defendants were charged with various counts of Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Christopher and Leonard were arraigned in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles and were ordered jailed without bond. They pleaded not guilty to the charges against them and a September 17, 2024 trial was scheduled. Rouse made his initial appearance in federal court in Kansas City, Missouri on July 23. Spencer is expected to be arraigned in federal court in Los Angeles, July 24.

“Violent gun crime leaves lasting emotional and psychological scars for victims,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Anyone thinking that violent robberies are a good way to make money should take note that there will be consequences for your actions.”

According to the indictment, from November 4, 2023, to December 24, 2023, the defendants committed a series of armed robberies in South Los Angeles. One victimized store was a CVS in Hollywood. The defendants traveled to the targeted stores in a BMW, jumped over the counters, took money from the stores’ cash registers, and placed the money into a black Nike bag. One of the defendants – usually either Christopher or Leonard – allegedly pointed a firearm at a store employee or customer and demanded either their cellphone or their wallet.

On November 28, 2023, following the robbery of a 7-Eleven store in South Los Angeles earlier that day, Leonard posted a photograph on Instagram with stacks of cash, captioned his post “love my bros we go hit every time,” and tagged the Instagram accounts of Christopher and Spencer, the indictment alleges.

In total, the defendants allegedly netted approximately $7,617 in cash during the crime spree. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

If convicted, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each Hobbs Act-related count and – for each firearm brandishing count – a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Operation Safe Cities establishes strategic enforcement priorities with an emphasis on prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. It is designed to improve public safety across the region by targeting crimes involving illicit guns, prohibited persons possessing firearms, or robbery crews that cause havoc and extensive losses to retail establishments. The FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department are investigating the case.

By Trevor

BRENTWOOD—The Los Angeles Police Department announced that they arrested a suspect on July 18 connected to an attack that transpired in Brentwood.

The West Los Angeles Division detectives have announced the arrest of a felony battery suspect. On July 16, around 4:40 p.m., the victim was walking on Gretna Green Way near Mayfield Avenue, pushing her one-month-old daughter in a stroller. The suspect approached the victim from behind, grabbed her waist with both hands, and simulated sexual activity, so that his hips made physical contact with the victim.

The victim turned around and struck the suspect in the face, who then struck the victim in the face multiple times, causing her to fall to the ground and sustain serious injuries. The suspect fled on foot towards Montana Avenue.

Detectives from West Los Angeles division identified the suspect as Abraham Shily, 26, of Los Angeles. Shily was arrested and booked for 243 (D) PC: Felony Battery, booking number 6849174.

Anyone with details is asked to contact West Los Angeles Robbery Detective Yagubyan at (213) 399-0135. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Tuesday, July 16, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that a woman has been charged with murder in the deaths of her three-year-old twin sons who were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl, the highly potent synthetic opioid.

Jestice James, 22, is charged in case 24VWCF01433 with two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse/endangerment under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily harm or death. She is being held in lieu of $4 million bail. Arraignment is set for today, Dept. 10 of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Van Nuys Branch.

On July 11, shortly after 11 a.m., emergency crews responded to a home in the San Fernando Valley, where paramedics attempted life-saving measures on the twin boys, Josiah and Jestine. Both were taken to the hospital. Josiah died on July 11 and Jestine was pronounced deceased on July 13.

If convicted as charged, the defendant faces life in prison. The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Friday, July 12, the Los Angeles Police Department, Juvenile Division Abused Child Unit, Valley Bureau Team announced that they are investigating the death of a three-year-old child and the critical condition of their twin sibling that transpired in Canoga Park.

The LAPD reported on July 11, at around 11:20 a.m., LAPD Topanga patrol officers responded to a radio call regarding a child death investigation in the 20000 block of Sherman Way. The mother of twin three-year-old boys discovered them unresponsive. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene, initiated life-saving measures, and transported both children to a local hospital. One of the twins was pronounced dead at the hospital, while the other is still in critical condition.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the children ingested, or were exposed to, an unknown substance. The mother and other residents of the home were transported to the LAPD Topanga Community Police Station for questioning.

The mother of the twin boys, Jestice James, was booked for 187(A) PC – Murder, with booking number 6845401, and bail set at $2,000,000. The other residents of the home are not being investigated further. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with details about this case is asked to contact Detective Ortiz, at 818-374-5415. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY/WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Tuesday, July 9, the Los Angeles Police Department North Hollywood Division burglary detectives along with the LASD Major Crimes Bureau and Burglary-Robbery Task Force, worked together to arrest burglary suspects coined the “Reflector Vest Crew” on June 27 and July 3.

The LAPD reported that the “Reflector Vest Crew” name was coined for using reflective clothing worn by construction workers as a ruse. The suspects would send one person wearing the clothing to knock on the victim’s residence to see if they were home without raising suspicion. If the residence appeared unoccupied, other suspects would emerge and enter through the rear. The “Reflector Vest Crew” sought out residences in wealthy enclaves of Los Angeles, including Studio City, West Los Angeles, and West Hollywood. Detectives have identified over 30 homes that were targeted by the crew during this investigation.

On multiple dates from March 2024 to June 2024, three suspects, later identified as Roderick Dennis, 39, of Los Angeles, Michael Mitchell, 21, of Ontario, and Munya Jones, 21, of Los Angeles, were identified in a string of residential burglaries focused on taking high-end purses, jewelry, watches, and cash. The defendants used multiple rented vehicles and sophisticated techniques to prevent detectives from uncovering their identities.

In recent weeks, investigators were able to locate sufficient evidence and submit the case to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office for filing after detectives caught the suspects during an in-progress burglary in Studio City on June 27. All three defendants were booked and charged with multiple counts of residential burglary.

On July 3, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Burglary-Robbery Task Force executed a search warrant in connection with the “Reflector Vest Crew” investigation. The search warrant resulted in the arrest of Ashely Ellison, 33, the girlfriend of defendant Roderick. The investigation revealed that Ellison was renting vehicles for Roderick, which he used to commit the burglaries.

It was also revealed that Ellison was storing stolen items at her home for Roderick. During the search warrant, North Hollywood Burglary detectives recovered thousands in US currency, two stolen firearms, jewelry appraisals, and additional evidence linking Roderick and others to the burglaries. Ellison was arrested for 496(A) PC- Receiving Stolen Property.

Detectives are actively working to identify additional suspects and other crimes potentially committed by this group. The case is being prosecuted by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, Major Crimes Bureau. Detectives are seeking additional information on these burglaries and are requesting the public’s help.

Detectives are asking anyone with information that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to contact LAPD North Hollywood Burglary Detectives at 818-754-8410. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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 to submit an online tip.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Friday, June 28, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office disclosed that William Thomas Jr., a photographer who represented himself as a modeling industry expert was charged with sexually assaulting three teenagers as each were pursuing modeling careers in Los Angeles between 2017 and 2023.

Photo courtesy of the LAPD.

William Isaac Thomas Jr., 49, is charged in case 24CJCF02920 with three counts of oral copulation; two counts of sodomy by use of force; and one count of attempted sodomy of an unconscious or asleep victim. It also is alleged that multiple victims were vulnerable, and that the manner in which Thomas carried out the offenses indicates planning, sophistication, and professionalism.

He is expected to be arraigned on July 22 in Dept. 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

It is alleged that starting in 2017 through 2020, Thomas sexually assaulted the first victim, age 18 at the time, while the victim was pursuing a modeling career. In 2020, Thomas allegedly established a working relationship with a second victim, age 19-20 at the time, who was also pursuing a modeling career. Thomas sexually assaulted the second victim until 2023. In 2022, Thomas allegedly began working with a third victim, age 19 at the time, and proceeded to sexually assault him until 2023.

Each victim was being represented by Thomas as they pursued careers in modeling. Thomas is being held on $1,525,000 bail. If convicted as charged, he faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison.

The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department. Investigators with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations-West Bureau’s Special Assault Section (SAS) are seeking additional victims and witnesses connected to Thomas.

“He preyed upon young men by promising them jobs and monetary opportunities he never delivered,” said Detective Brent Hopkins, a Special Assault Section supervisor. “Once he made them reliant upon him, the abuse began. Now that he is no longer able to harm these victims, hopefully more will be able to tell their story.”

Detectives are requesting that anyone with details that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to contact LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section, at 213-473-0447. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Sunday, June 30, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division Sexual Assault Unit are seeking additional information on an attack suspect in the Canoga Park area.

The LAPD reported that on June 23 at around 10:30 p.m., a 24-year-old female reported she was walking westbound on Roscoe Boulevard from Owensmouth Avenue, when an unknown male suspect tried to sexually assault her. The suspect was last seen running eastbound on Roscoe Boulevard.

The suspect is described as a 25 to 30-year-old Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes. He stands 6 feet tall and weighs 200 pounds. He was wearing a red shirt, orange and blue long sleeve flannel and dark blue pants.

Video from the LAPD shows the suspect following the victim near a well-light business as two vehicles were stopped near a light.

The LAPD is asking anyone with information about this investigation to contact Detective Padilla at (818)756-3264. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On June 27, the Los Angeles City Council announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the identification/arrest/conviction of those responsible for the theft of the bronze plaques honoring eleven teachers on the Victory Boulevard Hall of Fame at Canoga Park.

Los Angeles City Councilman Bob Blumenfield said, “It’s egregious and awful that someone would yank them out of the sidewalk and try to sell them for scrap metal. They have significant financial value, but beyond that, they have community value.

It’s our version in the West Valley of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but instead of glorifying celebrities, we’re glorifying teachers. When you rip these plaques out of the ground, you’re also ripping out part of the soul of this community.”

The non-profit Walk of Hearts group has awarded and installed 77 plaques in the San Fernando Valley over the last 20 years. These 11 plaques honoring teachers were among those placed in Canoga Park for the impact these teachers had on their community at large.

The initial cost of the plaques was an estimated $4,000 per plaque, but the cost of replacing them is expected to be much higher.

The plaques are not the only recent thefts. There have been reports of fire hydrants, and copper wiring from the bridge, there have been thefts at local cemeteries, and the bronze statue at MacArthur Park was also stolen.

Anyone who has more information regarding the thefts or has seen the stolen items is encouraged to call the Los Angeles Police Department at the 24-Hour Anonymous Tip Line
1-877-LAPD 24-7 or (1-877-527-3247)

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, June 16, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a brush fire that was reported at 2:17 p.m. at 2699 N Cahuenga Blvd.

The LAFD had over 100 firefighters (along with four LA County FD hand crews) stopped all forward progress of the fire at approximately three acres (1 hour 52 minutes from the time of alarm). Fire helicopters made strategic water drops on the head of the fire, while ground crews developed progressive hose lays around both flanks of the fire.

Crews established a containment perimeter and remained on scene into the evening to cool down hot spots within the burn footprint and improve containment lines. No structures were damaged during the fire. The cause of the brush fire is currently under investigation.

One LAFD firefighter was transported to a local hospital in fair condition for a non-life-threatening medical problem.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, June 10 at approximately 2:45 a.m., the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) dispatchers received a 911 call of intruders in the 2700 block of Rinconia Drive in the vicinity of the Beechwood Canyon area.

Police arriving at the scene found shattered glass from the door where the suspects gained entry to the home. The caller, who was not the homeowner, but the housekeeper, indicated that she was asleep in the home at the time of the break in, and woke up to find two men in the room with her while she was sleeping.

The suspects who fled the scene were described as two males wearing all black. The homeowner described the vehicle the suspects drove away as being a black sedan, possibly an Audi or a Honda.

The suspects are still at large. No physical harm was reported. This case remains under investigation. Those who may have more information regarding the break-in are encouraged to contact officers at the LAPD’s Hollywood Community Police Station located at 1358 Wilcox Avenue in Hollywood or call 213-972-2971 Voice / 213-485-9899 TDD/TTY

By Sharon

BRENTWOOD—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Friday, May 17 officers from the Los Angeles Police Department were involved in a crash that left several officers injured.

The LAFD was alerted of the incident at 5:25 a.m. on the northbound 405 freeway. Firefighters arrived to a traffic accident involving LAPD officers who were in pursuit of a vehicle. This resulted in a vehicle crashing into parked vehicles and hitting a police car. Four total officers were injured with one being taken to an area hospital.

The incident expanded to the freeway where the van did go the wrong way and the pursuit ended with crashing into three vehicles on the freeway. No extrication was needed. One patient was transported to an area hospital.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—A woman in her 50s died after she was stabbed in the neck after leaving a Metro Train at on Monday, April 22.

The incident transpired on 3900 block of Lankershim Boulevard shortly after 5 a.m. Paramedics were called to the scene to treat and transport the victim to a local hospital where she later died. The name of the victim has not been announced to the public.

LA Metro posted on X Monday morning:

“B LINE: Trains SKIP Universal/Studio City due to police activity. For alternate service, use North Hollywood and ride back to Universal via Metro bus shuttles or Line 224. Follow announcements.”

Metro was offering free rides to the public in honor of Earth Day (April 22).

A suspect was taken into custody by police. The name and age of the suspect has not been disclosed to the public. No details on a motive for the stabbing have been released to the public.

Anyone with details about the stabbing is asked to contact the LA Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-TIPS or 800-222-8477

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On Thursday, April 4, the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed that the West Los Angeles Auto Detectives, in conjunction with LAPD South Traffic Division, Pacific Division, and Santa Monica Police Department, announced the arrest of a suspect believed to be involved in a series of vandalism crimes that transpired in the cities of Los Angeles, Culver City, Burbank, and Santa Monica.

The LAPD reported on March 28, around 5 p.m., the suspect, later identified as Lisa Jones, 30, drove to the 2000 block of Camden Avenue. Jones exited her vehicle with a brick and threw it at a random vehicle’s windshield. Jones picked up the brick from the ground and drove away. The incident was captured on video and garnered national news coverage. Several other vandalism victims came forward in the Venice, Mid-Wilshire, Woodland Hills, and northeast neighborhoods of Los Angeles, as well as the cities of Culver City, Burbank, and Santa Monica.

Detectives from West LA Division, Pacific Division, South Traffic Division, and SMPD worked together to identify Jones. On April 3, West Los Angeles Autos detectives and patrol officers took Jones into custody. She was arrested and booked for 594(B)(1) PC – Felony Vandalism. She is being held with no bail, Booking no. 6787608.

Anyone with details about these crimes or these types of incidents is asked to call the West LA Auto Detectives at (310) 444-1503. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Thursday, March 21, the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed they are searching for a suspect who has been exposing himself to individuals. The LAPD West Bureau’s Special Assault Section (SAS) noted the incidents have occurred in Mid-City and the West Los Angeles areas.

The LAPD reported on January 28, shortly after midnight, the suspect started harassing residents in the 800 block of North Croft Avenue. He exposed himself and made crude comments to a woman who was headed home. The suspect returned several more times to stare in her windows. On March 2, he repeated this conduct in the 5700 block of West 6th Street in the early morning hours, then again in the 1200 block of Armacost Avenue shortly afterward.

Witnesses describe the suspect as a male, White or Hispanic, around 40-50 years old, dark, graying hair, dark mustache, brown eyes, standing approximately 5-feet-10-inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds.

“When you’re at home, you should be thinking about comfort and relaxation, not this lewd conduct,” said Detective Brent Hopkins, a supervisor with SAS, “There’s no place for this in our neighborhoods.”

The LAPD has responded with increased patrols in the areas and detectives have been in communication with their counterparts at surrounding agencies. Via social media and word-of-mouth, they are also sharing information and photos of the suspect in the hopes of identifying him and preventing additional crimes.

“The community is our most valuable ally and source of information,” Detective Hopkins said. “Someone out there knows who this guy is and can help us put an end to this disturbing behavior.”

Detectives are requesting that anyone with information that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to contact the lead investigator, Detective Brent Hopkins of the LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section, at 213-473-0447or via email at 39343@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department announced on Thursday, March 21, they are currently investigating a felony hit-and-run collision that occurred in January.

Detectives with the LAPD West Traffic Division indicated on January 9, at 7:30 p.m., a black or dark gray Ford F-150 traveling westbound on Santa Monica Boulevard, crashed into a pedestrian that was within the crosswalk from the south curb of Santa Monica Boulevard, west of St. Andrews Place. The Ford F-150 continued traveling westbound on Santa Monica Boulevard to northbound Wilton Place, fleeing the scene without identifying themselves or providing aid to the pedestrian as required by law.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the pedestrian to a local hospital for medical treatment. The victim is a 44-year-old resident of Los Angeles who is currently recovering from severe injuries to their face, torso, and legs. The investigation is ongoing.

Video of the suspect vehicle fleeing the scene can be viewed at West Traffic Division’s X/Twitter account(@LAPDWestTraffic) and their Instagram account (@lapd.wtd).

Drivers are informed that if they become involved in a collision, they are to pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

Pedestrians are reminded to use caution when crossing the street and to always look both ways before proceeding as vehicles may or may not see people crossing the street, especially in hours of darkness.

Anyone with details about this collision is asked to contact West Traffic Division Detective Section at 213-473-0234. 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.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Wednesday, March 6, authorities reported a driver traveling at a high rate of speed in the wrong direction on Pacific Coast Highway was arrested.

The driver was reportedly driving in a stolen white box truck that appeared to have a Lowe’s decal on the side.

According to reports, officers began their pursuit of the alleged truck thief, on the west side of Los Angeles through Malibu and into Ventura County.  Video of the suspect was supplied by News Chopper 4 and the Los Angeles Police Department Airship.  According to police, the suspect was traveling at close to 80 mph.

After LAPD airship was dispatched, multiple patrol units responded to assist but discontinued the pursuit due to poor road conditions during a torrential downpour. The owners of the stolen box truck had a tracking device on the vehicle and were able to help police pinpoint the suspects’ location.

The box truck nearly missed multiple vehicles before crashing into another box truck traveling southbound on 101 Freeway near Thousand Oaks.  Authorities announced the arrest of the suspect at about 2:40 p.m.

The name of the suspect has not yet been released to the public. 

By Sharon

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Wednesday, March 6, the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed that several suspects were arrested by Northeast detectives in connection to a series of burglaries.

The LAPD reported on February 29, detectives tracked the burglary suspects across Los Angeles from the San Fernando Valley to West Los Angeles. Based on the suspects’ actions, detectives realized the group was preparing to commit additional burglaries.

Around 1:30 p.m., authorities observed four suspects preparing to commit a burglary. With the help from LAPD’s West Los Angeles officers, the suspects were apprehended in the area of Castellammare Drive and Sunset Boulevard before they could execute the burglary.

Three adults were taken into custody without incident while still inside their vehicle, and a juvenile was detained after attempting to flee on foot. He discarded his cell phone and changed clothing during the foot pursuit. Officers discovered burglary tools and other potential evidence inside the vehicle, which will be recovered following the execution of a search warrant.

Patricio Lian, 20, has been booked under the booking number 6768393 for one felony count of 459 PC-Burglary, and one felony count of 3056 PC-Parole Violation.

Carlos Antonio Gonzalez-Ravest, 20, was booked under the booking number 6768381. He faces charges including an outstanding felony warrant for 459 PC-Burglary, and an outstanding felony warrant for 487 PC-Grand Theft, alongside the initial charge of 182 (A) PC, Conspiracy to Commit Burglary.

Joaquin Elias Munoz, 19, was booked under the booking number 6768375 for the charge of 182 (A) PC-Conspiracy to Commit Burglary.

The juvenile, a 17-year-old male was booked under the booking number 6768316 for the charge of 602 WIC/182 PC-Conspiracy to Commit Burglary.

Anyone with additional details is asked to contact Northeast Division detectives at 323-561-3220. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wanting 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 can visit www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Saturday, February 17, there was an attempted burglary at Kennedy Surf Shop located at 22026 Ventura Boulevard. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers reportedly responded to the alarm being triggered at that location at 9:30 p.m.

Surveillance footage of the incident first obtained by KTLA depicted shattered glass from the storefront window and the front sidewalk.

A post went out on X at 11:45 p.m. from the SFV scanner, “#lapd#topanga 6600 Topanga Canyon Crime broadcast for a smash and grab 30 min. ago.”

Multiple commenters shared their disdain for the upsurge in crime.

@Jimmy9808872 tweeted, “Hitting the Westfield shopping center in Canoga Park again and again…”

Kat~ also replied, “Neiman’s or Nordstrom? So tired of this nonsense… this area needs a serious neighborhood watch/proactive group until Rams training facility moves in…”

Canyon News reached out to LAPD Topanga Division for more information and a possible description of the suspect(s).  An unnamed LAPD Media Relations officer sent a return email stating that there was no description of the suspects except that, “they were wearing dark clothing.”

By Sharon

 

LAUREL CANYON—The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Missing Persons Detail announced on Saturday, February 10 that they are asking for the public’s help in locating Missing Person, Alexis Gabi Bader who was last seen on February 3, at 6 p.m. on the 6000 block of Laurel Canyon Blvd., in North Hollywood.

Bader is described as a 25-year-old, White Female, standing 5 feet and 8 inches tall and weighing 140 pounds. She has brown eyes, brown hair with a ponytail. She has a tattoo of “Birds” on the left shoulder.

Bader’s family is concerned for her well-being. Anyone with information about Bader’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau – Missing Person’s Detail. To provide information anonymously, call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Friday, February 9, the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed they are in need of the public’s help to locate Asia Alvarado.

The LAPD reported that Alvarado is described as a 32-year-old Black female, with black hair and brown eyes. She stands 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 135 pounds. She was last seen wearing black clothing and burgundy shoes.

Anyone who has seen or has information regarding the whereabouts of Asia Alvarado is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Topanga Division at 818-756-4800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Thursday, February 1, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced in a news release that over 200 cases have been filed to fight against organized retail theft and the task forces are comprised of regional law enforcement agencies and the District Attorney’s Office partnering together to prosecute these crimes.

“Organized retail theft stole the feeling of safety and security from Angelino’s and business owners alike last year,” said LAPD Chief Michel Moore. “This regional organized retail theft task force has restored much of this, although, there is work still to be done. I am proud of the hard work and dedication to public safety of those not only from the Los Angeles Police Department, but our partnering agencies as well. As public servants, we cannot work in silos; we cannot work alone. Public safety belongs to all of us.”

“The Sheriff’s Organized Retail Crimes Task Force in collaboration with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and our partner law enforcement agencies are continuing to work tirelessly to tackle these brazen smash-and-grabs that are having a significant impact on our business communities,” said LASD Major Crimes Bureau Acting Captain Rob Peacock. “Since inception of our task force, we have arrested 438 suspects related to retail theft and 309 cases have been successfully filed. We are not only focused on the individuals responsible for the thefts, but those that are in the criminal chain—the getaway drivers, those that harbor them, and those that sell the stolen merchandise. These individuals need to understand that there will be consequences—we will use all our resources to identify, pursue, and arrest these suspects.”

From January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, the District Attorney’s Office filed at least 200 cases involving adult and juvenile cases, the majority involving multiple defendants, under PC 490.4. This penal code section makes it a felony for an organized group of two or more persons to steal goods from a merchant with the intent for resale. This applies to online merchants and physical stores. Individuals who have partaken in such thefts are being prosecuted, as the thefts have caused large revenue losses for the businesses.

There are some cases pending, sentences can range from probation to state prison, and can include charges such as: organized retail theft, grand theft, robbery, second-degree robbery, conspiracy, and receiving stolen property.

Some of the cases filed included stores that have been targeted like: 99 Cent Store, American Eagle, Bed Bath and Beyond, CVS, Kevin Jewelers, Kohls, Macy’s, Marshall’s, Nike, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Old Navy, Rite Aid, Ross, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sam’s Club, Sephora, Target, Ulta, Victoria’s Secret, WSS, and numerous small businesses.

“WSS acknowledges and supports the vital efforts of the Organized Retail Theft Task Force and the District Attorney’s Office in combating organized retail theft, which detrimentally affects neighborhood security and local businesses. We remain committed to collaborating with law enforcement to deter and prosecute these crimes,” Blanca Gonzalez, senior vice president and general manager, Warehouse Shoe Sale.

In addition to prosecuting these cases, law enforcement worked with task force partners to recover millions of dollars in stolen goods which have been returned to retailers by law enforcement. Over $188,000 in merchandise has been returned to Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills, $250,000 in recovered goods has been returned to Kevin Jewelers, and hundreds of thousands of dollars has been returned to Target and CVS.

Anyone with details on these types of crimes that have occurred in Los Angeles County can call the LAPD Organized Retail Theft Task Force contact, Lt. Michael McComas at 818-374-9420 or email orc@lapd.online, or the LASO Organized Retail Crime Task Force contact, Lt. Derek White at 562-946-7270 or email orctf@lasd.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS/TOPANGA CANYON—On February 1, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of a flash robbery suspect.

The LAPD reported on January 31, 2024, the ORCTF served a search and arrest warrant in Lancaster in connection to a suspect, identified by Glendale Police Department detectives, who was involved in the Topanga Nordstrom flash-robbery that transpired on August 12, 2023. During the search of the location, an unregistered handgun, an extended magazine, ammunition, and approximately $4,500 was recovered.

The Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) was established to combat the flash-robberies impacting various businesses around the region. The task force is a partnership consisting of detectives from the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Burbank, Torrance, and Glendale Police Departments.

The suspect was identified as Travelle Hamblet, 28, of Lancaster. He was arrested and booked at Van Nuys Jail for 211 PC – Robbery, Booking No. 6751803.

Anyone with details is asked to call ORCTF Lieutenant Michael McComas, 818-374-9420, or email ORC@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

LOS FELIZ—On Friday, February 2, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of a suspect believed to be responsible for multiple incidents where he stole over $31,000 in merchandise from a local business.

The LAPD reported on January 31, around 5:20 p.m., the suspect entered a retail store in the 600 block of North Dillon Street in the Silver Lake area near Los Feliz. The suspect removed over $700 in merchandise and exited the business without paying. Rampart area officers arrested the suspect in the parking lot without incident.

Target Asset Protection employees advised detectives that the suspect stole approximately $31,872.48 worth of merchandise over a 7-month period.

The suspect was identified as Brandon Krause, 34, of Los Angeles. He was booked for 487(a) PC: Grand Theft under booking number 6752035 with $35,500 bail.

Anyone with details about this crime or these types of incidents is asked to contact the LAPD Rampart Burglary Theft Detectives at (213) 484-3490. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA—On February 1, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD), the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) announced their annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive to benefit the American Red Cross, and those they service throughout the coverage area including, but not limited to, Westwood, Brentwood, Studio City, and Sherman Oaks.

On the LAFD website it is noted that this annual drive has been a great support for the Red Cross since 2007. Blood donors have contributed over 50,000 units of blood since the inception of the drive. Last year 2,500 units of blood were donated. This year’s goal is 3,000 units.

The police department, fire department, and Sheriff’s department are competing to see who can bring in the most donations.

The drive lasts from January 10 through the end of March 2024. Participants receive a free commemorative t-shirt, while supplies last.

Eligible donors are required to make an appointment through the Red Cross donor app that may be found on the Red Cross website or by calling the Red Cross 1-800 REDCROSS and using the sponsor code BOB24.

The remaining LAFD community blood drives are as follows:

Saturday, February 10 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Fire Station 89 located at 7063 Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

Thursday, February 15 from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Fire Station 59 located at 11505 Olympic Boulevard in West Los Angeles.

Saturday, February 17 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Fire Station 87 located at 10124 Balboa Boulevard in Granada Hills.

Monday, March 18 from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fire Station 5 located at 8900 South Emerson Avenue in Westchester

Saturday, March 23 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Fire Station 87 at 10124 Balboa in Granada Hills.

More donor opportunities are listed on the American Red Cross Website.

February 6 from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m., Riverside Police Department, 10540 Magnolia Ave.

February 13 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., City of Buena Park, 6650 Beach Blvd.

February 13 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Rialto Police Department, 214 N Palm Ave.

February 14, from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. located at City of Seal Beach, 707 Electric Avenue.

February 20 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Ave.

February 27 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., Montclair Police Department, 5111 Benito St.

February 28 from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m., Los Angeles County Internal Svc Downey, 9150 Imperial Hwy.

February 28 from 10 am. until 4 p.m. Glendora Police Department, 140 South Glendora Ave.

February 28 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., George E. Brown Jr. Fed Bldg. Riverside, 3470 Twelfth St.

March 7 from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m., Upland Police Department, 1499 W 13th St.

March 28 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., Bell Gardens Police Department, 6662 Loveland St.

More locations and information may be available on the LAFD, LAPD, and LASD prospective websites.

By Sharon

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Friday, February 2, at approximately 7:50 p.m. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) West Los Angeles Community Station officers received a call for a possible burglary in process.

A police chase ensued between police and a confirmed armed burglar The driver made a run through Pacific Palisades and South Bay in West Los Angeles, Redondo Beach, and Inglewood.

YouTube video footage depicted the suspect driving in a dark-colored sedan and weaving in and out of traffic on the 10 and 405 before getting off on service streets.

The chase eventually ended in the Torrance area around Artesia and Kornblum when the suspect made it through an electric gate and ran into an apartment in the apartment complex.

Reports indicate the suspect, whose name has not been released at this time, gave himself up within an hour of barricading himself in the apartment.  

It is not clear who resided in the apartment the suspect barricaded himself in.

Those with more information on the incident are encouraged to call LAPD West Los Angeles Police Station at 310-444-0702 (Voice) or 310-575-8719 TDD/TTY

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Police Department reported on Wednesday, January 31 that they are investigating a hit-and-run that left one driver dead. Detectives with the LAPD Valley Traffic Division are asking for the public’s help in identifying the driver involved in killing a man in his 20s.

At around 1:10 a.m., a 2005 silver Toyota Camry and a dark colored sedan were travelling at a fast speed southbound on Topanga Canyon Boulevard near Vanowen Street when they collided with each other, sending the Toyota Camry into a light pole. The dark colored sedan continued traveling southbound on Topanga Canyon Boulevard without stopping, identifying themselves, or rendering aid as required by law.

Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and pronounced the driver of the Toyota Camry dead at the scene. His name is being withheld pending identification and notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.
Drivers are reminded if they become involved in a collision, they are to pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about the collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Officer Michael Sison at (818) 644-8022 or Officer Freeman at (818) 644-8115. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Thursday, January 25, at approximately 7:30 p.m., police received a call to report a break-in and possible burglary in process in the vicinity of Oakfield Drive. Initial reports indicate that it was a group that broke into a vacant home in Sherman Oaks.

Dozens of officers responded to the call. Video footage taken at the scene depicted police officers working out of the garage in the area where the suspects may have been hiding.
Reports indicate that multiple suspects were believed to be armed and had barricaded on the premises. The Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.) team was called to the scene.

Little to no information is available on the perpetrators. Updated reports indicate there were two suspects, one of whom was armed and fled the scene of the crime. It is not clear if anything was stolen or damaged in the incident.

This is an active investigation. If you have any information on the incident or the identity of the suspects, you are encouraged to call LAPD, Van Nuys Station at 818-374-9500.


By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 17, the Los Angeles Police Department announced they are investigating a carjacking of a food delivery truck near Beverly Hills on January 15, at approximately 9:50 p.m., at the corner of Plymouth Avenue and 10th Street.

According to police, the victim, who was driving a 2013 white Hyundai Sonata was the driver/delivery man for a food service company. He disclosed to police that he felt like he was being followed after picking up an order for delivery. The vehicle was described as a black, newer model SUV. The driver drove in front of the victim’s vehicle and stopped blocking him so he could not pass. Four suspects were inside the black SUV.

Two suspects were described as Hispanic males between the ages of 25-30 years old. They exited the SUV, and approached the victim at gunpoint, forcing him out of the car, and onto the ground. The suspects took the victim’s wallet and keys and drove away. There is no description of the third and fourth suspects as they stayed in the SUV leaving to follow the other two suspects in the victim’s car.

Anyone with information or who has details about the victim’s 2013 white Hyundai Sonata is asked to contact LAPD Wilshire Robbery Detective, A. Aguayo, at (213) 922-8215. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters can download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On Friday, January 12, the LAPD announced that they arrested several suspect connected to a series of burglaries that have transpired in the region. The LAPD reported in December 2023, the West Los Angeles Division, in collaboration with Beverly Hills Police Department and Glendale Police Department, identified and arrested 13 suspects who have been part of an organized burglary series affecting the greater Los Angeles area and adjacent communities.

On December 19, 2023, the Glendale PD located a burglary group responsible for multiple burglaries in Glendale. Officers spotted three suspects enter a vehicle, wearing similar clothing consistent with descriptions previously provided. The officers started to drive in the direction where the burglaries had occurred. Glendale officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. One suspect was detained and the other two fled on foot but were quickly apprehended. All three suspects were arrested for residential burglary.

On December 27, 2023, West Los Angeles Area officers responded to a radio call to meet officers with the Beverly Hills Police Department in the area of Coldwater Canyon Drive south of Mulholland Drive to assist with a burglary investigation where approximately five suspects fled on foot. The suspect’s vehicle was described as a black Ford Explorer. A perimeter was established, and three suspects were taken into custody after an extensive K-9 Unit search. The suspect’s vehicle was impounded, and over $1 million dollars in stolen designer purses, clothing, watches and jewelry, belonging to the victim, were recovered.

On December 28, 2023, West Los Angeles detectives, along with Metropolitan Division officers, identified a home where the suspects had been recently staying and stashing property. A search of the suspect’s residence and vehicles resulted in the discovery of additional stolen designer purses, watches, jewelry and additional evidence linking the suspects to multiple crimes. Three suspects were arrested during the incident and the case was submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office where all three suspects were filed on for one count of residential burglary.

On December 30, 2023, LAPD officers responded to a radio call of burglary suspects at a residence near Hutton Drive and Melinda Drive. Additional information was provided by the BHPD regarding a 2018 white Mercedes GLS used in an additional burglary in their region. The white Mercedes GLS was located near the area and a female inside the vehicle was detained. A perimeter was established, and four suspects were taken into custody after an extensive K-9 Unit search. All four suspects were arrested and booked for conspiracy to commit burglary.

In the past few weeks, detectives discovered evidence connecting the arrests to a large organized burglary ring responsible for a multitude of cases throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Detectives from the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Burbank, and Glendale police departments are working in tandem with additional affected agencies to identify the remaining members of the group and to secure additional charges for the crimes they are responsible for committing. Detectives identified and returned most all the recovered stolen property to the rightful owners but hope to discover additional victim’s property as they continue their investigative efforts.

Due to the ongoing investigation additional suspect information and photographs will be released at a future time. Detectives are releasing photographs of the suspects because they believe there are additional victims who have yet to be identified.

Victims, or anyone with information to these individuals, can contact detectives at (213) 216-5308. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS/SANTA MONICA—On January 10, the LAPD disclosed that on January 9, the Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) served a search warrant in the 400 block of West 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles that recovered thousands of dollars in stolen goods and U.S. Currency. The personnel from the ORCTF, which consists of detectives from Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Burbank, Torrance, and Glendale Police Departments, were involved in the operation.

The LAPD indicated in a news release that the investigation was on a business believed to be selling stolen merchandise. The ORCTF is actively investigating individuals who steal from retail establishments, as well as the individuals or businesses who receive it with the intent to resell the stolen items to consumers.

Over $23,000 of US currency, a firearm, and hundreds of items including high-end eyewear and clothing, jewelry, and designer bags were recovered during the operation. The recovered property was conservatively estimated at a value of $300,000. Detectives are working with retailers to identify their items. Any evidence that is identified as having been stolen will be returned to the victims.

The ORCTF will continue to conduct operations throughout the Los Angeles County with the focus of identifying, disrupting, and arresting retail thieves and those who sell stolen items.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—On Tuesday, January 9, the Los Angeles Police Department Major Crimes Division announced they are asking victims of a vandalism suspect to come forward. The LAPD reported on January 8, around 3:30 p.m., Topanga Area patrol officers arrested Edelidio David Wallace, 64, in the 21000 block of Victory Boulevard. He was arrested and booked at Valley Jail for 594 (b)(1)PC: Felony Vandalism, with an outstanding felony warrant, booking number 6739226.

Authorities indicated on January 6, at approximately 3 a.m., Topanga Area patrol officers responded to three vandalism incidents within three blocks of the 20900 block of Victory Boulevard. The suspect used rocks and cement bricks to smash glass windows and doors belonging to several closed businesses. The suspect fled from the location on foot.

On January 8, between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., Wallace vandalized additional closed businesses on Vanowen Street, Topanga Canyon Boulevard, and Sherman Way, again throwing rocks and bricks. All the vandalism occurred within a two-mile radius. Major Crimes Division is investigating the vandalism series to determine if there is a hate crime nexus based on three businesses being Jewish owned. The rocks recovered had “Glory” and “Pay Up” written on them.

Major Crimes Division is investigating additional vandalisms that occurred on January 5 and January 7 in the same general area to determine if they are related. During the incidents, authorities noted that Wallace was wearing the following items:

-January 6: Nike green sweatshirt, black pants, white Nike shoes

-January 8: Nike burgundy sweatshirt, black pants, white Nike shoes

Investigators believe there are other victims who have yet to be identified. Anyone who may have been a victim or have information about the investigation is asked to contact Major Crimes Detectives Beard or Patin at 213-486-7280. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department are currently investigating a string of businesses that were vandalized in the Woodland Hills region.

Video captured a man tossing a rock at one business. The glass was not shattered as a result of the object being thrown. The LAPD are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime after receiving two other reports on Saturday, January 7 on the 20900 block of Victory Boulevard.

According to CBS Los Angeles, one business owner indicated several other businesses were targeted, all Jewish owned that had damage to their establishments with windows being shattered because of object that were thrown at them. Messages written on the businesses included “Pay Up” or “Glory.” One of the businesses damaged was a dance studio.

The LAPD have not reported any arrests or additional details on a suspect or suspects in any of the incidents.

By Trevor

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Police Department reported that a non-tactical unintentional discharge of handgun occurred on December 5.

The LAPD reported around 11:50 a.m., an on-duty, plain clothes, vice sergeant was in the Topanga Community Police Station vice office when a Non-Tactical Unintentional Discharge (NTUD) occurred. The sergeant was in the vice office, preparing his handgun for an upcoming training when he inadvertently discharged a round, striking a nearby refrigerator.

The round did not exit the refrigerator and no other officers or employees were in the office when the NTUD transpired. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident. Force Investigation Division (FID) investigators responded to the scene and are investigating the incident.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers worked an undercover sting operation from November 22 and November 25 targeting flash mob thieves and other shoplifters during the Black Friday sales at local retailers resulting in the arrest of 11 individuals.

According to a November 28 press release on the LAPD website, on August 21 the LAPD Commercial Crimes Division set up the Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCT) in response to the “Flash Mob” robberies that have hit local retail establishments in the area.

The ORCT includes plain clothes officers and detectives from Beverly Hills, Burbank, Santa Monica, and Torrance Police Departments.

On November 22, officers from the Hollywood Division focused on the 5500 block of Sunset Boulevard. The following information on the arrests made on the first day of the operation came directly from the aforementioned press release.

“Lisa Lewis, Black female, 55-years-old, of Long Beach, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.

Ryan Karbelk, White male, 39-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.

David Stafford, White male, 46-years-old, of Los Angele, was arrested for 459.5(a) PC-Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.

Verastad Derpedrosian, White male, 40-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.

Thomas Kopay, White male, 41-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a) PC-Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.

Joyce Ramirez, Hispanic female, 46-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting and was cited and released on Zero Bail.”

On November 24, 2023, the following people were arrested near the 9800 block of South Alameda Street.

“Dwayne Michael Haley II, Black male, 34-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 484(a)PC- Petty Theft, booked at 77th Street Jail, and released on Zero Bail.

Cecelia Whettstone, Black male, 25-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 484(a)PC- Petty Theft and was cited and release on Zero Bail.

Yanah Meekins, Black female, 38-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 211PC-Robbery. She was booked at 77th Street Jail, under booking number 6715885, and her bail is set at $50,000.00.

Vincasia Love, Black female, 21-years-old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 211PC- Robbery. She was booked at 77th Street Jail, under booking number 6715867, and has a “No Bail” due to a probation hold.

Ebony Berry, Black female, 32-years-old, of Los Angeles, for 211PC- Robbery. She was booked at 77th Street Jail, under booking number 6715868, and her bail is set at $50,000.00.”

On November 25 officers from the Van Nuys Division were scheduled to work in the area in the 14000 block of Riverside Drive. No arrests were made on this day.

In addition to the eleven arrests, a total of $5,390.00 in stolen merchandise was recovered. The website indicated that the ORCT will be conducting additional operations over the holidays with the end goal of, “identifying, disrupting, and arresting retail thieves”.

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that transpired on November 1.

The LAPD reported around 7:45 p.m., Topanga Division uniformed officers responded to a radio call of an “Assault with a Deadly Weapon, suspect there now,” in the parking lot located in the 23300 block of Avenue San Luis.

The suspect, identified as Benjamin Pritchard, was armed with a machete and struck a victim several times causing minor injuries. Pritchard dropped the machete and produced a knife, causing the victim to run away.

Officers arrived on scene and spotted Pritchard in the parking lot, holding a knife. He ran from the officers, who broadcast a back-up request. The officers continued to follow Pritchard in their vehicle, they spotted him now armed with a glass bottle along with a knife. Officers made several attempts to detain him and gave directions to Pritchard to drop the bottle and knife. The suspect continued to flee on foot. Officers followed Pritchard, who was still armed with a knife and bottle, heading towards a nearby restaurant. Officers utilized their Public Address System to direct community members to shelter in place, as Pritchard ran into a parking lot of a restaurant.

Officers continued to verbalize with Pritchard who refused to comply, resulting in two TASER deployments. The first was ineffective and the second TASER deployment resulted in Pritchard falling to the ground, causing him to break the bottle in his possession. Still armed with the knife, the suspect stood up, and ran inside the restaurant outdoor seating area.

Patrons were still inside the restaurant as Pritchard turned towards the officers holding up the knife and an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) occurred. He was struck by gunfire and fell to the ground and taken into custody without further incident. An officer rendered medical aid until a rescue ambulance arrived.

Pritchard sustained gunshot wounds and was transported by Los Angeles Fire Department rescue ambulance to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Pritchard was positively identified by representatives from the coroner’s office. Notifications to Pritchard’s next of kin were made.

A machete was recovered at the original call location and the knife was recovered at the OIS scene. No officers or other community members were injured during this incident. Force Investigation Division (FID) investigators responded to the scene and are investigating this incident.

The officers in the below incident have been identified as Police Officer III Geoffrey Carlson, Serial No. 37373 and Police Officer II Phillip Phan, Serial No. 42556 assigned to Topanga Division.

The complete investigation is expected be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Board of Police Commissioners, and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with LAPD’s policies and procedures.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office who responded to the scene will review the subsequent FID investigation, evidence collected, and witness statements to determine if the force used by the officer was reasonable.

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

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On October 15, at approximately 9:30 p.m. a shooting was reported in the 2800 block of Holly Ridge Drive near the Bronson Caves at the edge of Griffith Park.

A woman has been identified as Beatrice De Alba, an Academy Award-winning hair stylist who worked on movie sets such as “National Treasure” and “Hunger Games” and the Oscar-winning film, “Frida.” De Alba’s husband, Alex Spears made the 911 call to the police as his wife held the suspect at gunpoint.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, a male suspect, approximately 30 years of age broke into the star’s $1.7 million home through a window with a pocketknife. As he entered, De Alba aimed her shotgun and told the suspect to leave. Reports indicate that she did not shoot the suspect until she saw him reaching for something in his pocket.

KCAL 9 first reported the couple told police they could hear the suspect say, “They hurt me,” and asked them to allow him inside. He was taken to an area hospital where he was listed in critical condition.

Neighbors later told police the suspect had been seen sneaking around in their bushes and attempting to break into other homes.

Anyone with information about the suspect or incident is asked to contact the LAPD’s Hollywood Community Police Station at 1358 N. Wilcox Avenue, in Hollywood or call 213-972-2971 to speak to a real person or 213-485-9899 TDD/TTY.

By Trevor

TOPANGA—The Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that occurred in the Topanga Division on Saturday, October 7. The LAPD reported that around 12:57 a.m., Topanga Division uniformed officers received a radio call of a male holding a handgun while seated inside a grey pick-up truck in the parking lot of a shopping center located in the 21000 block of Sherman Way.

Upon arrival officers located the truck parked in the lot and positioned their vehicles behind it. Due to the truck’s tinted windows, it was unclear if the vehicle was occupied. Officers approached the truck on the passenger side and observed the suspect, later identified as Oscar Lopez, 44, seated in the driver seat, and a second individual in the front passenger seat.

Both individuals appeared to be intoxicated and did not respond to verbal commands to exit the truck. After opening the passenger side door, an officer saw a handgun in Lopez’ waistband and ordered him multiple times not to reach for the handgun. Lopez lowered his right hand toward his waistband and an OIS occurred. Lopez was struck by gunfire and personnel from the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded and pronounced Lopez dead at the scene.

The passenger in the truck was removed by officers just prior to the OIS and he was not injured. The LAPD’s Family Liaison Section made notifications to Lopez’ next of kin about his death, while at the scene.

A loaded Polymer 80, Model 940 C, 9mm black semi-automatic handgun was recovered and was booked as evidence. An additional magazine containing four live rounds was recovered from the scene and was booked as evidence. No officers or community members were injured during the incident.

LAPD’s specialized Force Investigation Division responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses and supervised the collection of evidence by the Forensic Science Division.

The complete investigation will be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Board of Police Commissioners, and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with LAPD’s policies and procedures. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office who responded to the scene will review the subsequent FID investigation, evidence collected, and witness statements to determine if the force used by the officer was reasonable.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—West Traffic detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department are investigating a fatal hit-and-run collision that killed a pedestrian on Sunday, September 24.

The LAPD reported around 1:24 a.m., a 2022-2023 blue Chevrolet Corvette, traveling southbound on La Brea Avenue, possibly racing a white sedan, crashed into a male pedestrian at the intersection of La Brea Avenue and Sunset Boulevard.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and provided aid to the victim, who later died at the scene. The name of the victim has not been disclosed to the public.

The driver of the Chevrolet Corvette fled the scene without identifying themselves and/or providing aid. Speed is believed to be a factor in the crash, but it is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact West Traffic Detectives at (213) 473-0234. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877- LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call CrimeStoppers at 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.”

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating an Officer Involved Shooting that transpired on Saturday, September 9. The LAPD Force Investigation Division indicated a shooting occurred around 1:45 a.m. at a nightclub on the southwest corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Ivar Avenue. Security guards flagged down uniformed officers and noted that a group of patrons were fighting and pointed out a male who appeared to be the cause of the altercation.

The suspect who was identified as a white male, approximately 30 years old, got into the driver’s seat of a white Mercedes-Benz that was parked on Ivar Avenue south of Hollywood Boulevard. The suspect drove the car in reverse, negotiated a turn and stopped in the middle of the street facing the west curb.

While the officers were driving towards the suspect’s Mercedes-Benz, the suspect who was seated pointed a handgun outside of the driver’s side window and fired the weapon towards people on the west sidewalk, involving in an OIS.

The suspect immediately fled southbound in his vehicle towards Sunset Boulevard.  Officers initiated a pursuit and after a short distance, lost the suspect’s vehicle and the pursuit was stopped. No officers or community members were injured during the incident.  Force Investigation Division (FID) and Robbery Homicide Division (RHD) investigators responded to the scene and are investigating.

The LAPD’s specialized Force Investigation Division responded to the scene, interviewed witnesses, and supervised the collection of evidence by the Forensic Science Division personnel.  The complete investigation will be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Board of Police Commissioners, and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with LAPD’s policies and procedures.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD—A 35-year-old man was shot outside of Hollywood grocery store Tuesday, August 29, and police are now looking for a suspect.

At around 4:40 p.m. the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call about a shooting that took place in the parking lot of the Pavilions store located near the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Vine Street.

When police arrived, they discovered the 35-year-old victim suffering from a gunshot wound who was still conscious and breathing. He was transported to a nearby hospital after the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene.

According to video footage of the scene, bullet holes were visible in the victim’s car.

The suspect is described as a 30-year-old man with a ponytail who was last seen driving westbound on Melrose Avenue in a white four-door Toyota hatchback. No other details are available.

Investigators are unsure what led up to the incident.

This shooting occurred just days after 53-year-old Mario Palacios Membreno was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting that took place in North Hollywood. He was shot at his home and died at the scene. According to the medical examiner he died by a gunshot wound to the chest. Police do not have a description of the suspect.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call LAPD’s Hollywood station at (213) 972-2971.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—Agri Shahrian, 30 of Woodland Hills, was fatally shot over the weekend in Woodland Hills. His body was identified Monday, August 28, and police are pursuing an investigation.

On Saturday, August 26, police arrived at the 21000 block of Erwin Street at around 7:10 a.m. after receiving a report of a “man down.” According to the LAPD, “Responding officers located a single male victim down in the driveway of a nearby apartment complex. The victim had sustained a gunshot to the chest.”

Shahrian died at the scene. There is no suspect information available at this time.

Anyone with information on the case was urged to call LAPD Valley Bureau homicide detectives at 818-374-9550, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS. Tipsters may also use the website www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Christianne

TOPANGA CANYON—Homicide detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations Valley Bureau are investigating a fatal shooting that left a man dead on Saturday, August 26. The LAPD reported that at 7:10 a.m., patrol officers with the Topanga Division responded to a call of a “man down” at the 21000 block of Erwin Street.

Officers arrived on scene to find a single male victim lying in the driveway of a nearby apartment complex. The victim had sustained a gunshot to the chest. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel arrived on scene and paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The name of the victim has not been disclosed to the public. He is described as a Persian male of approximately 30-years-old. No information about a suspect in the case has been disclosed to the public.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact OVB Homicide at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls can be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone who wants 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.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on Tuesday, August 22 that they arrested a suspect connected to a murder.

On July 27, 2023, at approximately 5 p.m., officers were alerted by an ALPR notification of a vehicle in Beverly Hills connected to a Los Angeles murder investigation with the suspects described as armed and dangerous.

BHPD Real Time Watch Center (RTWC) personnel located the wanted vehicle and directed Patrol officers to its location. A traffic stop was initiated, and a vehicle pursuit ensued as the suspect vehicle fled. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided into a parked vehicle.

The suspect exited the vehicle and ran on foot while armed with a gun. The suspect discarded the handgun while being chased on foot, but police officers caught up to the suspect and took him into custody without using force. Police arrested Angel Joel Rodriguez, 21, of Van Nuys.

The investigation was turned over to the Los Angeles Police Department for completion.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on Tuesday, August 22 that they arrested a suspect connected to a murder.

On July 27, 2023, at approximately 5 p.m., officers were alerted by an ALPR notification of a vehicle in Beverly Hills connected to a Los Angeles murder investigation with the suspects described as armed and dangerous.

BHPD Real Time Watch Center (RTWC) personnel located the wanted vehicle and directed Patrol officers to its location. A traffic stop was initiated, and a vehicle pursuit ensued as the suspect vehicle fled. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided into a parked vehicle.

The suspect exited the vehicle and ran on foot while armed with a gun. The suspect discarded the handgun while being chased on foot, but police officers caught up to the suspect and took him into custody without using force. Police arrested Angel Joel Rodriguez, 21, of Van Nuys.

The investigation was turned over to the Los Angeles Police Department for completion.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On August 19, one individual was assaulted at Runyan Park in Hollywood Hills.

It was indicated via the Citizen App a 911 caller reported the incident at 1:28 p.m. Police responded at 1:29 to 2000 N. Fuller Avenue to find one person injured by a man who was wielding a machete. The suspect fled the scene. No details were disclosed about the suspect or victim. 

Canyon News contacted the Los Angeles Police Department, but did not hear back before print. 

The LAPD Public Information Officer confirmed the incident on “X” formerly known as Twitter stating:

“Today, at 1:07 p.m., HWD officers responded to Romaine St and Highland Ave for a call for service. The investigation revealed that two parties fought and left the scene. One victim was located and taken to a local hospital. This is an isolated incident; the investigation is ongoing.”

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Police Department are hunting for the suspects involved in a “Flash Rob” style theft that occurred at the Nordstrom store inside the Westfield Topanga Shopping Center on Saturday, August 12th.

The LAPD reported the incident occurred after 4 p.m. at the store located at 21725 Victory Boulevard. Over 30 people entered the establishment and started grabbing merchandise. More than $300,000 in merchandise was stolen from displays near the entrance of the store.

The suspects ran from the store, ransacking shelves and display tables as they took merchandise. The suspects were wearing ski masks and fled with high-end handbags, clothing, and other re-saleable items. One suspect, after entering the store, sprayed bear spray on the face and body of the security guard at the entrance.

In video that has been posted on the internet, the masked individuals can be seen storming the store and grabbing items on displays damaging property along the way as they exited the establishment. The store was also targeted in 2021.

Similar incidents have occurred at high-end retailers like the Louis Vuitton store at Union Square in San Francisco in 2021. Last week, thieves targeted an Yves Saint Laurent establishment in Glendale, California. In June 2023, Westfield Mall in San Francisco announced it would stop paying a $558 million mortgage because of the decline in sales in the region. Other retailers like Whole Foods, Old Navy and Nordstrom are also leaving the downtown San Francisco area.

The LAPD is combing through security footage to identify the suspects involved. Anyone with details on the incident or other incidents like this are asked to contact the Commercial Crimes Division, Organized Retail Crime Section, Detective Santander at (818) 374-9420. During non-business hours or on the weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Individuals wanting to submit videos or information about the incident via e-mail, send the information to ORC@lapd.online. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-2228477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD—Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division are asking for the public’s assistance to locate an attempted murder suspect they announced on August 4. The LAPD reported that on April 16, 2022, at 2:35 a.m., a victim was followed from Hyde Sunset nightclub to their vehicle located on the 8200 block of Sunset Boulevard.

The victim was approached by two suspects armed with firearms, while by his vehicle. The suspect fired a gunshot hitting the victim during the attempted robbery. No property was taken from the victim during the incident. Both suspects got in a 2004-2012 BMW 3-Series sedan, black or dark colored, before fleeing the scene. The vehicle has 5-spoke wheels, no front license plate and possible damage or malfunction to the passenger side taillight.

A $50,000 reward is being offered leading to the identity, arrest and prosecution of the individuals involved in the incident. The suspects have been described as two Black males. No details on age or descriptions of clothing have been disclosed to the public.

Anyone with details is asked to call the LAPD RHD, Detective Dupree or Detective Casalicchio at 213-486-6890. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Those wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. 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 to submit an online tip.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD/BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department’s West Bureau Homicide Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect responsible for the death of a 17-year-old male and injuries to two other victims on Sunday, July 9.

The LAPD reported at 3:50 a.m., officers from the Wilshire Area responded to a call of an ambulance shooting at 3rd Street and Orlando Avenue. After arriving on the scene, officers found three victims who were shot. Victim 1, a 17-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel. Victim 2, a 17-year-old male, and Victim 3, a 26-year-old male, were taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, by Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel for medical treatment and are listed in stable condition. The name of the deceased has not been disclosed to the public.

Authorities have described the suspect as a Black male, who was last seen traveling southbound on Orlando Avenue from 3^rd Street on foot.

Anyone with details on the shooting is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s West Bureau Homicide Detectives at 213-382-9470. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Tipsters can visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Casey

TOPANGA—A Taser Gun was used by the Los Angeles Police Department after an incident on June 17. The LAPD reported at around 1:30 p.m., Topanga patrol officers received a radio call of a ‘Robbery Suspect’ at the 7400 block of Pomelo Drive.

As units were responding, an additional radio call in the area was broadcast of an ‘Assault with a Deadly Weapon Suspect There Now,’ with a similar suspect description. After arriving on the scene, officers observed the suspect, later identified as Isaac Zamost, 25, in the middle of the roadway, not wearing a shirt and with blood on his chest, abdomen and wrists. The officers spotted that Zamost had three taser darts embedded in his chest and abdomen.

Officers ordered Zamost, who appeared to be suffering from a mental illness, to stop walking toward them and to place his hands on their police vehicle or he would be tased. The suspect continued walking aggressively towards the officers, resulting in one officer discharging a Taser in the probe mode, striking Zamost, who immediately fell onto the roadway.

Zamost stood up and again walked toward the officers, resulting in a second Taser probe mode deployment which struck him and he immediately fell onto the roadway, striking the back of his head on the pavement. Officers handcuffed Zamost and took him into custody without further incident.

A Los Angeles Fire Department rescue ambulance arrived at scene, treated, and transported the suspect to a local hospital. He was admitted into the hospital for injuries sustained during the incident and additional medical testing.

The preliminary investigation revealed that prior to the officers’ arrival; Zamost was involved in an altercation with a citizen, which resulted in him being tased by the citizen.

No officers were injured during the incident. Detectives from Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and are investigating this incident.

By Casey

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department announced on Monday, May 15 that they were made aware of the criminal case involving former Police Officer Paul Razo, 47, who has been charged with eight counts of lewd acts with a child on May 5, by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The Los Angeles Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division initiated an administrative investigation, which is being conducted simultaneously with the pending criminal case. The administrative investigation will include reviewing his past work history for similar behavior.

“Chief Michel Moore is deeply disturbed by these allegations as they are in direct opposition to the Department’s Core Values and expectations of a Los Angeles Police Officer,” the LAPD indicated in a statement.

Officer Razo has been employed by the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years and was last assigned to Hollywood Area as a training coordinator. He separated from the LAPD in March 2023. He sexually assaulted four boys at his Covina home.

“The allegations of sexual abuse against vulnerable children in this case are deeply disturbing and it’s particularly troubling that the defendant was a law enforcement officer at the time,” said District Attorney Gascón.

Childhood sexual abuse causes immeasurable harm and our hearts go out to the victims who were victimized by someone they trusted. We will do everything in our power to ensure that they have access to the support and resources they need to heal. Sexual abuse of any kind is a heinous crime and we will not tolerate it in our community.”

The defendant is accused of sexually assaulting two of his young male relatives. One of the victims was about 11 or 12 years old when Razo allegedly began the abuse, while the other victim was around 13.

The other two victims were sons of a woman Razo had been dating and they often reportedly spent the night at his home. One of the boys was 9 or 10 years old when Razo is accused of sexually assaulting him, while the victim’s brother was 12 years old.

The alleged crimes occurred during various times between 2006 and 2017.

The LAPD is cooperating with the LADA’s Office and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s investigation relating to Razo’s alleged criminal conduct.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Special Victims Bureau toll-free tip line at (877) 710-5273 or at specialvictimsbureau@lasd.org.

To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or http://lacrimestoppers.org.

TOPANGA CANYON—Patrol officers with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Division arrested three potential robbery suspects. On Wednesday, April 12, officers were patrolling the parking structure of the Westfield Topanga Mall. The officers spotted three adult males near a parked Acura sedan. All three males were wearing full-face ski masks; one of the suspects was also wearing a cross-body backpack.

The LAPD reported that officers were aware that cross-body backpacks have become increasingly used to conceal firearms from view and, due to the warm weather, full-faced ski masks were out of the ordinary.

Based on their observations, the officers continued to monitor the suspects and drove in their direction. As the officers approached, the suspects quickly entered the Acura, drove away at a high rate of speed while committing numerous traffic violations. Moments later the officers conducted a traffic stop for the observed violations.

Officers determined two of three occupants were on parole for assault with a deadly weapon and for burglary. A search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of two, loaded, semi-automatic “ghost guns,” two high-capacity magazines, and 78 rounds of live ammunition. All three suspects were arrested and booked for possession of a concealed firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and parole violations. The observations of these alert officers very likely prevented the commission of a violent, potentially deadly, crime from occurring and removed two “ghost guns” and 78 rounds of ammunition from the street.

The suspects were identified as, Brix Urulaza, 22, of Tarzana (booking number #6585468), Wilbert Majano Vasquez, 21, of Redlands (booking number #6585463), and Michael Crowe, 23, of Las Vegas, Nevada (booking number # 6585445). All three suspects were booked at Van Nuys jail. Urulaza was booked for 25400 (a) (1) PC-Felon in possession of a firearm, he is being held with no bail. Majano Vasquez was booked for 25400(a)1 PC- Concealed firearm, his bail was set at $35,000.00. Crowe was booked for 3056 PC-Parole hold, he is being held with no bail.

Anyone with details related to crimes at the Westfield Topanga Mall are asked to contact LAPD Topanga Area Detectives, at (818) 756 3523. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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 Los Angeles Police Department Los Angeles.

By Casey

WOODLAND HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations-West Bureau’s Special Assault Section (SAS) are seeking additional victims and witnesses in a series of sexual assaults in the areas of North Hollywood, Mid-City, Hollywood, and Woodland Hills.

The LAPD reported on February 28, 2023 investigators arrested Matthew Werner, 45, a resident of Las Vegas, on suspicion of a series of violations of rape dating back to 2015.

Werner, a Massachusetts native, targeted women using social media and dating applications using various aliases to avoid detection. He is described as a White male, who stands 6-feet tall and weighs 250 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes.

Investigators identified five women whom Werner assaulted within the city of Los Angeles, but suspect there are others who have yet to come forward. It is believed Werner has been involved in additional unreported sexual assaults.

Detectives are requesting anyone with details that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to contact LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section, at 213-473-0447. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Tipsters may visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Casey

STUDIO CITY—The Los Angeles Police Department Valley Traffic Detectives are investigating a fatal hit-and-run that occurred on Thursday, April 6 at 8:30 p.m. on Laurel Canyon at Keswick Street in Los Angeles, CA, 91605.

They are seeking the public’s help to identify the driver of the vehicle (shown above). The truck is described as a two-tone blue older model pickup truck that is either manufactured by Nissan or Toyota. The driver pulled into an unspecified nearby parking lot nearby following. The incident caused damage to the front of the vehicle.

“[The] pickup truck was traveling southbound Laurel Canyon at Keswick Street when it ran the red light and hit a pedestrian who was walking inside a marked crosswalk. The pedestrian was pushing a small cart and got stuck on the truck causing the pedestrian to travel southbound colliding with the roadway. The driver of the truck continued traveling southbound on Laurel Canyon towards Saticoy Street without stopping to render aid to the pedestrian who was left on the roadway. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the pedestrian in grave condition to a local hospital where she died,” the LAPD stated on their website.

The victim is described as a 55 year-old Hispanic female. Under the Hit-And-Run Reward Program Trust Fund, a reward of up to $50,000 is available to those who provide information that lead to the “offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Detective Davis, Serial No. 38353 at (818) 644-8032 or (818) 644-8000. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.
By Rob

WOODLAND HILLS—On Thursday, March 16, authorities arrested Daekun Cho, 38, of Woodland Hills at his residence for allegedly extorting “protection” money from Koreatown businesses. According to the District Attorney, in some cases, Cho would use violence against those who refused to pay. 

This federal investigation began about a year ago and investigators discovered that Cho was demanding protection money from karaoke businesses in Koreatown, as well as from “doumi” – or hostesses – employed by patrons of the karaoke establishments.

“To further his extortion scheme, Cho committed shootings, a carjacking, a kidnapping, and other acts of physical violence,” according to the complaint affidavit. “Cho made explicit threatening statements to the doumi drivers and karaoke bar owners to get them to pay a monthly fee.”

Back in 2022, Cho demanded that a doumi driver at a karaoke bar leave the location and, as the driver and two doumis were driving away, they heard gunshots and one of the doumis suffered a gunshot wound to the neck, according to the affidavit. That incident remains under investigation by the LAPD.

In another incident with a doumi driver who refused to pay the protection money after a price increase, was subject to a baseball bat beating, allegedly by Cho and another individual, on May 8, 2021. That doumi driver suffered a broken arm and multiple lacerations according to the affidavit. 

One victim, who had been paying Cho for about four years, claims that he had decided to stop paying Cho before he allegedly assaulted him and stole approximately $1,000 from him on January 24. The affidavit details how that victim, working with law enforcement, made an extortionate $500 payment to Cho on February 16.

Cho was arrested by special agents from Homeland Security Investigations and officers from the Los Angeles Police Department pursuant to a federal criminal complaint filed last week. Both those agencies are working on this case. The complaint charges Cho with interference with commerce by threats or violence which carries a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. He is expected to make his initial appearance Friday, March 17, in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—El Camino Real Charter High School was locked down on Tuesday, February 21, due to a report of a shooter on campus. The call was reportedly later found out to be fake, Fox 11 reported. 

At 9:03 a.m., the Los Angeles Police Department received an “unknown trouble” call that there was an active shooter at the 5400 block of Valley Circle Boulevard, LAPD Officer Moran told Canyon News. Officers responded to the scene, and the school remained locked down while an investigation took place. LAPD investigators found no evidence of a shooter and by 10:55 a.m., the school re-opened and students could leave classrooms. 

“An announcement said ‘this is not a drill, this is a lockdown, this is not a drill,” Shaina, an 11th grade student at El Camino Real, told Fox 11. “We just pushed a bunch of desks up against the door. We were all kind of scared, we all went into a corner and we all just huddled together in a corner,” Shaina added. 

Another El Camino student named Hannah texted her father, “Active shooter on campus. I love you and I love mom too. We piled the desks against the door,” Fox 11 reported.

Canyon News reached out to El Camino Real’s Director of Human Resources, Dr. Laury, for comment but did not receive a response before print.  

Fake calls to 911 are illegal and will result in arrests being made. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the LAPD.

By Lacy

WOODLAND HILLS—A disabled woman who traveled from Albuquerque, New Mexico to visit friends for the holidays had her RV stolen sometime between December 24, 2022 and December 25.

Jill Silverthorne was spending the night at a friend’s on Christmas Eve and had her RV parked outside. She awoke to find that her RV was missing and all her belongings gone. One of the items within the RV was her electric wheelchair. She is currently relying on her walker to get around. 

Silverthorne spoke to Canyon News in an interview. The RV allowed her the freedom to see family and friends she explained. After the crime took place, both she and the friend she was staying with asked around the neighborhood to see if anyone was able to catch the crime on video. Most of the residents either had their cameras off or they weren’t working.  

She has not been able to travel back to her home since the crime occurred. 

Silverthorne had been saving for 10 years to obtain her custom RV and it took her 5 years to find it. It was designed to help her as a disabled person travel. She found the RV in Everette, Washington and it is equipped with all the necessary adaptations to the brakes and the steering wheel so she could travel. It also included a wheelchair.

She found the RV online and flew to Washington to purchase it. Once she got the vehicle she traveled south across multiple states to bring it back to her home and endured a major storm while transporting the vehicle. 

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the theft and her niece started a GoFundMe to help Silverthorne during this ordeal. So far they have made $1,940 of their $100,000 goal. To donate visit the GoFundMe page.

Anyone who may have information regarding this crime is asked to contact LAPD at 818-756-4820. Police currently do not have a suspect.

By Christianne

TOPANGA—The Los Angeles Police Department Topanga Division is asking for the public’s help in locating Kyra Mangayayam, a 19- month old girl who was abducted by her mother.

The LAPD reported on November 29, Kyra was last seen at 1:15 p.m., in the 20200 block of Keswick Street in Winnetka. She was taken by her mother known as Diana Robles, who does not have custody rights.

Kyra is described as having brown hair, brown eyes, standing at 2 feet tall and 5 inches tall, and weighing approximately 35 pounds. The child was last seen wearing a grey long sleeve shirt, red pants, and white socks with pink toes.

The suspect /mother is described as Diana Robles, a Hispanic female, with black hair, brown eyes, standing at 5 feet and 2 inches tall. She was last seen wearing a grey sweater, black pants, and black shoes. She is driving a White 2012 Ford Focus Hatchback license plate number 9ARV684.

Anyone who has details on the whereabouts of Kyra Mangayayam or Diana Robles is asked to contact Topanga Division Detectives at 818 756-3525. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 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 visit www.lapdonline.org , and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an onlinetip. Tipsters can download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

TOPANGA—The Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Bureau Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in providing any information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect involved in the murder of Bilal Bin Abdullah, 43, of Lancaster.

The LAPD reported on Sunday, November 27, at 3 p.m., Topanga Area patrol officers responded to a shooting call in the 20000 block of Sherman Way. Officers arrived to find a male inside the home, suffering from gunshot wounds. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced Abdullah dead at scene.

Preliminary investigation revealed, a male entered the location and confronted Abdullah in the upstairs bedroom. Several shots were heard, and the suspect fled the location in a red or maroon sedan.

Anyone with additional details is asked to call Valley Bureau Homicide Detective Mark O’Donnell, at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters can visit www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Tipsters may download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

GRIFFITH PARK—Officials from the Los Angeles Police Department are warning tourists, who are looking to visit the Griffith Park area, of the recent upsurge in car thefts. The department held a press conference regarding the matter on Tuesday, August 23. 

Many of these thefts have been taking place at the Griffith Park Observatory parking lot and around the Greek Theater. According to reports, there have been 121 car break-ins in the area, 63 of them since May of this year. 

Police stated that the suspects are targeting rental vehicles with valuables located within the vehicle in plain sight. The thieves are also targeting vehicles with out-of-state plates. 

“When they see a rental car appear in the park, there’s a greater likelihood that there will be money, credit cards, IDs, possibly passports and or valuables, so those tend to be targeted and hit much more often,” said Detective Michael Ventura.

Officials stated that they believe that the suspects behind the string of thefts originates from the Northern California area. 

“We have been tracking organized theft groups that have been coming from Northern California,” said Detective Michael Ventura of the LAPD. “We can see where the cars were rented, they originate in NorCal, come down here, go to Griffith Park, Hollywood and Venice Beach.”

According to police it takes as little as 10 seconds to break into a vehicle and get away with valuables. They advise that you keep your valuables hidden out of plain sight if you are going to leave it in your car.

By Christianne

TOPANGA—Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department Valley Bureau Homicide are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for killing a man on Monday, June 27.

The LAPD reported at around 7 a.m., Topanga Area patrol officers responded to a stabbing call at the intersection of Deering Avenue and Gault Street. Upon arrival, they discovered a male suffering from stab wounds. The victim was treated by paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department who pronounced him deceased. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification to next of kin.

Preliminary investigation revealed the victim was standing on the sidewalk with the suspect and other individuals. The suspect stabbed the victim and fled from the scene. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male with a blue shirt and black baseball cap.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call the Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau Homicide, at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Tipsters may visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Casey

TOPANGA—Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Devonshire Division are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a commercial burglary suspect dubbed the, “Two O’Clock Rock” burglar who has targeted over 60 businesses in the San Fernando Valley in 2021.

The LAPD reported that the suspect committed burglaries at businesses in Devonshire Division, Van Nuys Division, North Hollywood Division, Topanga Division, West Valley Division and in the cities of Burbank and San Fernando.

The culprit targets businesses during early morning hours, generally between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. He first cases a location, then stages rocks in front of the businesses he is about to burglarize. The suspect gains entry by throwing a rock through the front glass door and, once inside, removes cash from the register. In several cases he has stolen locked cash boxes.

The suspect is described as a Black male with dark skin with a receding hair line that sometimes wears glasses. He stands 5 feet and 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 150-180 pounds. He tends to wear a dark hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans, and black shoes.

The suspect has been seen riding a bicycle or driving an early 2000’s 4-door dark-colored Nissan Maxima or Sentra.

Anyone with details on these crimes is asked to call Devonshire Burglary Detective II J. Eastburn at (818)832-0936 or Detective C. Parchman at (818)832-0941. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. 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 to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Donald