LAPD Blog

Upcoming Recruitement events

May 14, 2025
San Bernardino Sun Career Fair 2007
Doubletree Inn
222 N. Vineyard Avenue
Ontario, CA  91764
10:00 to 3:00

May 15, 2025
EDD/Spring Julilee Job Fair 2007
West Hollywood Hyatt Hotel
8401 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, Ca  90069
10:00 to 3:00

Hire a Hero/Hire a Vet
Angel Stadium
Anaheim, Ca 
9:00 to 1:00

May 19, 2025
Long Beach Pride
Shoreline Village Drive
Long Beach, CA
10:00 to 4:30

SoCal Tour de Cure
El Dorado Park
Long Beach, VCa
7:00 to 1:30

Police Celebrity Golf Tournament
10460 Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, Ca  90064
7:00 to 4:00

L.A. Avengers Football
Staples Center
1111 S. Figueroa
Los Angeles, Ca  90015

Activation of New Photo Red Light Equipment in Valley Bureau

Los Angeles: Today, the Los Angeles Police Department announces the activation of a Photo Red Light (PRL) system at the intersection of Sepulveda and Victory Boulevards. This is the fifth activation within Operations-Valley Bureau (15th in the City) with a new PRL monitoring system, which records vehicle license plates that run red lights. In the near future, 17 additional locations will be outfitted with comparable machinery, totaling 32 intersections Citywide.

In June 2005, the City's PRL contract was not renewed after many years because of the poor quality of photographs. In November 2005, the City Council approved the contract with a new vendor, Nestor Traffic Systems, Inc. The new system is an improvement over the former system.

The dual-digital video camera system will record violators as they approach and travel through an intersection, after the light has changed to red. The license plate will be photographed from the front and rear. It is with the rear-facing camera that officers anticipate will increase the likelihood of convictions.

The digital video system will record 30 still frames per second for each violation, allowing a greater opportunity to get a clear photograph of the driver.

The new system has added features like the ability to monitor and adjust the equipment remotely via satellite. It will also provide live photographs from the intersection during a breaking emergency.

A sergeant and four officers will be assigned full time to administer the program. They will use a laptop computer in court to present the digital evidence during disputed cases.

Media inquiries regarding this system may be referred to Sergeant Matthew MacWillie, Traffic Coordination Section, at 213-847-1705.

A list of the current and former Photo Red Light intersections is available from Media Relations Section, upon request.

46th Medal of Valor Ceremony

Today the Los Angeles Police Department presented 18 officers with the Medal of Valor, the Department's highest and most prestigious award.

Hosted by the Los Angeles Police Foundation, the Department and City officials came together to honor the heroic acts of these fine officers.  Opening remarks were given by William R "Russ" Colvin, Development Chair, Los Angeles Police Foundation, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and Chief William J. Bratton, and Vice President Alan Skobin, Police Commission, who each in their own way made moving comments about the honorees.  After which the mike was turned over to the Master of Ceremonies Dave Clark, News Anchor and Reporter, CBS-2/KCAL-9 who eloquently described the events to the guests.  Here is a synopsis of these deeds, pay special attention to an incident which occurred in 1946.

WALTER KESTERSON

On February 4, 1946, while conducting crime-suppression duties in the area of 43rd Place and Avalon Blvd., Metropolitan Division Officers Walter Kesterson and E.W. Patrick observed two robbery suspects.  The suspects had just committed an armed robbery at a local movie theater. Kesterson, the passenger officer, exited the police vehicle and attempted to detain the suspects.  However, Cooper removed a .38-caliber revolver from his jacket and fired at Kesterson, striking him in the upper torso. Kesterson returned fire mortally wounding the suspect.  Concurrently, Kesterson observed the second suspect removing a handgun from his pocket.  Officer Kesterson was able to fire at Boyd, thus neutralizing his deadly threat. Both suspects were pronounced dead at the scene. Kesterson was transported to George Street Receiving Hospital, (now the Staples Center) and died upon arrival.  The investigation would disclose that these suspects had committed at least 25 armed robberies in the LA Area, and were responsible for the death of Vernon Police Officer two weeks prior.  Until today, Officer Kesterson had not been recognized by the Department. 

NEWTON AREA

On May 1, 2006, Newton Area Special Problem Units Police Officers Rudy Barragan and Marco Briones observed a gray Buick crash into a power pole.  As the dashboard ignited into flames, Barragan and Briones attempted to open the driver's door with negative results.  The driver who weighed more than 250 pounds was semi-conscious and trapped behind the steering wheel, bleeding heavily from a wound to the head.  As the fire and heat intensified, Barragan and Briones using tremendous strength managed to pull the driver from the burning vehicle. Just as they cleared the vehicle the vehicle exploded and was completely engulfed in flames.

WILSHIRE AREA

Officers Albert Gavin, Jeffrey Wenninger, Jose Castellanos, Miguel Lopez, Stephen Diaz, Guy Dobine, Jude Washington, Alberto Junco, Mark Pursel, Sandy Kim, Arturo Perez, Kenyard Bilal, and Gerald Jackson were awarded the Medal of Valor for their rescue efforts of June 21, 1996.  The aforementioned officers are credited for entering a two-story home and rescuing eighty senior citizens from a home engulfed in fire and intense smoke.

HOLLENBECK AREA

On August 12, 2006, Hollenbeck Officers John Porras and James Tuck detained a black Honda Accord for a traffic violation.  As the police vehicle came to a stop behind the Honda, the front passenger, Jose Perez exited the Accord armed with an assault rifle and immediately began to fire rounds at the police vehicle.  Multiple rounds rained on the windshield and hood of the police vehicle with some rounds striking Officer Tuck in the left arm.  Unfazed, Officer Porras and Officer Tuck returned fire hitting Perez in the upper leg.  Perez dropped his weapon and fled into the nearby homes, while the driver fled in the Honda.  A subsequent search, with the aid of community members, would lead to the location and arrest of Jose Perez  The driver of the Honda Accord would later be arrested during an unrelated crime investigation where the astute officers recognized the suspect from crime alert posters.

Officer Tuck is recovering nicely from his wounds.

SOUTHWEST AREA

On June 3, 2006, Southwest Area Officers Joseph Meyer and Kristina Ripatti while patrolling the area of Leighton and Denker, a male ran in front of their vehicle causing Meyer to break to avoid a collision.   The suspect looked at the officers and ran, leading the officers to believe he was running for some other reason.  Unknown to the officers, the suspect was running from the scene of an armed robbery he had just committed.  As Ripatti initiated a foot pursuit, Meyer broadcast their location and then joined Ripatti in the pursuit.  As Ripatti attempted to grab the suspect, the suspect armed himself with a handgun and fired four shots at point blank range, hitting Ripatti.  Meyer engaged the suspect and fired several rounds striking the suspect and ending the threat.  Meyer requested help and remained with Ripatti comforting her unit help arrived.

These eighteen officers lived up to the Department's motto, "to protect and to serve.'

Lieutenant Ruben De La Torre

LAPD Rides to Washington for National Police Memorial Week

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department will ride to Washington, D.C. to commemorate National Police Week.

On Saturday, May 12, 2007, about 20 LAPD officers participating in the Police Unity Tour will finish the 300 hundred miles tour of the "Ride for Those That Have Died" at Washington, D.C.

The Police Unity Tour will present a check to the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund for the money raised. In the past, the Police Unity Tour has raised several millions of dollars.

On Sunday, May 13, 2007, at 7:30 PM, the Los Angeles Police Department Honor Platoon will stand in silent formation at the 19th Annual Candlelight Vigil. The vigil will take place at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C., where the names of the 382 fallen officers will be read to the assembled survivor.  Of those 382 names, 145 officers lost their lives in 2006.

On Tuesday, May 15, 2007, the LAPD Honor Platoon will travel to the West Front of the United States Capitol as the President salutes the 145 law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in 2006.

For more information, please contact Lieutenant Don Schwartzer at 213-485-6974.

Men Arrested for Dog Fighting

Los Angeles: A 41-year-old man from South Los Angeles was arrested and charged with dog fighting, and his accomplice, Arnett Counts turned himself in to authorities.

After the neighbors complained about dogs whining, crying and barking behind a six-foot privacy fence of a residence in the 600 block of 85th Street, the Los Angeles Animal Cruelty Task Force conducted a surveillance.

On March 2007, the ACTF discovered the residents were Arnett Counts, 40, and Walter "Randy" Citizen, who was on formal probation for Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.  The ACTF conducted a probation search of their residence and found 17 Pit Bull dogs and four puppies each staked out with a heavy gauge chain around their neck.  ACTF officers found that each dog had healed punctures, scars, and tears on their ears, chest, face and forelegs.  Some of the dogs had newly healed puncture wounds, and were underweight.  Unfortunately neither Citizen or Counts were home at the time of the search. 

On April 17, 2007, an extensive investigation lead to the arrest of Citizen, with the L.A. District Attorney's office filing ten counts of dog fighting.

On May 8, 2007, after three weeks of evading arrest, Arnett Counts surrender to authorities at the Criminal Courts Building in downtown Los Angeles. Counts will be charged with ten counts of owning and training dogs to fight.  If convicted he faces up to three years in state prison.

Persons with information about blood sports or mistreated animals are encouraged to call the ACTF, Detective Susan Brumagin, at 213-847-1417.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Publics Help Needed to Identify Two Armed Suspects

Los Angeles: Detectives are asking for the public's help in identifying two robbers whose images where captured on video robbing a store clerk at gunpoint.

On April 23, 2007, at around 4:00 p.m., two men walked into Payless Tobacco store in the 5900 block of West Pico Boulevard.  One of the men walked behind the counter and pointed a handgun at the clerk while the other stood next to a customer and acted as a "look out."

The gunman demanded money from the clerk.  The clerk, fearing for her life, opened the cash register and complied. The suspects took the cash register and approximately $1,000 in cash.

The robbers were described as two Black men. The first suspect is in his early 20's, 5'5 tall, weighing 140 pounds and wearing a multi-colored jacket.  The second suspect is 6'0 tall, about 220 pounds, and 25-30 years.   

Please contact the Media Relations Unit at 213-485-3586 for photographs of the suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to call Wilshire Robbery Detective Lee at 213-922-8205.  On weekends or during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Officers Come to the Aid of Fellow Officer

Los Angeles:  Northeast Area Officers have joined together to upgrade the home of a fellow officer who is currently serving in Iraq.

When the Officer went off to war his co-workers promised to look after his wife and 8 children and volunteered to complete the repairs needed on their home.

Officers from Northeast Area will be working throughout the day on Wednesday, May 9, 2007, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., until all of the upgrades and repairs have been completed.  Some of the work to be done will include paint (inside and out), masonry, plumbing, electrical and various other construction projects.

A large majority of officers from Northeast Area generously donated funds, time, and talent to accomplish the much-needed repairs and upgrades.  The Los Angeles Memorial Foundation also made a donation for the project. 

The officers are making good on their promise.  Their only hope is that that their efforts will allow Richard to focus on his work in Iraq so he can return home safely.  Knowing that his family is being well cared for should also give him considerable peace of mind.

Any questions may be directed to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

Asian Pacific Islander Community Forum

Elected official representatives, law enforcement, and leaders and members of the Asian Pacific Islander (API) community gathered at the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles in Koreatown on the evening of May 8, 2007, to participate in the Asian Pacific Islander Community Forum hosted by the LAPD’s Community Relations Section.  The forum, lead by Commander Terry Hara, Captain Blake Chow and Community Co-Chair David Iwata, provided guests the opportunity to discuss concerns in the API community in an intimate setting with the LAPD.  City of Los Angeles Deputy Mayor for Homeland Security and Public Safety Arif Alikhan represented the Mayor’s office and answered questions from the attendees.  First Assistant Chief Jim McDonnell updated the audience on the MacArthur Park incident and the new Mid-City Area police facility.  Members of the Korean community presented Chief McDonnell a petition with over 4,200 signatures requesting the boundaries of the new Mid-City Area police station encompass the entire Koreatown, which is currently served by three different police stations.  With the assistance of the Asian Crime Unit and City Attorney’s Office, Chief McDonnell also answered questions from community members regarding Asian gang activity, the Neighborhood Prosecutor Program and the Citywide Nuisance Abatement Program. 

In addressing the Department and Community’s linguistic challenges, Chief McDonnell stated the solution is recruitment and requested the API community’s assistance with the LAPD’s recruitment efforts.  Commander Hara added that he is very interested in mentoring API officers and encourages them to be more competitive and to promote.  Chief McDonnell concluded the LAPD makes every effort to “create an environment where everyone thrives.”

May 12, 2025 Washington, D.C.

On May 12, 2007, The Los Angeles Police Department will travel to Washington, D.C. to commemorate National Police Week.  The LAPD Honor Platoon will be formed up at several events to lend support to the thousands of survivors who will descend on the national capitol to remember their fallen heroes.

The Southern California Chapter of the Police Unity Tour will arrive in Washington after a three hundred mile “Ride for Those That Have Died” on May 12, 2007. There are approximately 20 LAPD Members on that tour.  Upon their arrival in Washington, DC the tour will present the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund with a check for the money raised by the 2007 Tour.  To date the Unity Tour has raised over several million dollars for the national memorial.

On May 13th at 1930, The Los Angeles Police Department Honor Platoon will then stand in silent formation at the 19th Annual Candlelight Vigil at the National Law Enforcement Memorial as the 382 names that have been recently engraved on its' panels are read to the assembled survivors. Of those 382 names, 145 officers lost their lives, nationwide in 2006.

On May 15, 2007, the LAPD Honor Platoon will assemble once again at the West Front of the United States Capitol as the President of the United States salutes the 145 law enforcers who made the ultimate sacrifice in 2006.

Notes from the May 8, 2025 Police Commission Weekly Meeting

•Chief Bratton gave a verbal update on the Department's response to the incident at MacArthur Park on May 1, 2007.  The update included descriptions of the 3 investigations being conducted as well as general updates on the FBI's preliminary investigation, the formation of the City Council Ad Hoc committee, and communications the Chief has had with various civil rights leaders including the ACLU and Advancement Project Los Angeles.  The Chief spoke of informing the Inspector General at the time of the incident, involving him from the very beginning.  He described refresher training efforts being conducted with the Metro Unit and the development of contemporary crowd control re-training to be conducted with all command staff.  The Chief recounted the personnel action taken on May 7, 2007, reassigning Deputy Chief Lee Carter and Commander Lou Gray.  Lastly, Chief Bratton announced the promotion of Commander Sergio Diaz to the rank of Deputy Chief.

•The Commission listened to public comments pertaining to the incident at MacArthur Park on May 1, 2007.  Public comments concluded at approximately 5:50 p.m.

•The Department's Report, relative to the Ethics Enforcement Section Quarterly Report, First Quarter 2007, in accordance with the Annual Audit Plan, was received and directed to the Office of the Inspector General to submit an analysis of this report along with any appropriate recommendations to the Board.

•The Department's Report, relative to the Audit Recommendation Status Report, Third Quarter 2006/2007, was approved.

•The Department's Reports, in response to a Board request, relative to Professional Standards Bureau protocol on racial profiling investigations were continued for one week. 

•The Department's Report and the Inspector General's Report, relative to the Discipline Report, Fourth Quarter 2006, in accordance with Paragraph 88 of the Consent Decree, were continued for one week.

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics May 5, 2007

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2007*            2006*         % Chg

Homicide                               126              156              -19%
Rape                                     247               325              -24%
Robbery                               4532             4753              -5%
Agg Assaults **                     4229             4584              -8%
Total Violent Crimes          9,134           9,818             -7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                6,539            6,783            -4%
Auto Theft                            8,129            8,423            -4%
BTFV                                   10,749           10,424            3%
Personal/Other Theft            8,814            9,534             -7%
Total Property Crimes       34,231         35,164            -3%
Total Part I Crimes            43,365         44,982            -4%

* Both 2007 and 2006 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2006 figures are not annual totals. 

** Prior to 2005, Aggravated Assaults included Child/Spousal Simple Assaults

Los Angeles Police Chief Announces Promotion

Los Angeles: On Tuesday, May 8, 2007, Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton, announced the promotion of Commander Sergio Diaz to the rank of Deputy Chief. 

Commander Diaz, currently Assistant Commanding Officer Special Operations Bureau, will assume his new command as Deputy Chief of the LAPDs Central Bureau effective immediately.

Commander Diaz was appointed to the LAPD in February 1977.  He was promoted to sergeant in November 1985, to lieutenant in January 1991 and captain in May 1998.  As a police officer his assignments included patrol duties in Southwest, 77th Street and Hollenbeck Areas.  Diaz was also assigned as the Hispanic media liaison officer in the Media Relations Section of the Office of the Chief of Police because of his ability to read, write and speak Spanish fluently.

Chief Diaz was appointed to the rank of commander in 2006, assigned as the Assistant Commanding Officer of Special Operations Bureau.

Commander Diaz is a Director of the Hispanic Law Enforcement Administrators; a Department organization dedicated to helping develop the LAPD's future leaders.

A complete bio of Commander Diaz can be found on www.lapdonline.org

Los Angeles Police Chief Announces Personnel Changes

Los Angeles: This afternoon, at a news conference with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Police Commission President John Mack, Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton announced changes to his command staff.

Effective immediately, Deputy Chief Cayler "Lee" Carter, Commanding Officer Central Bureau, has been reverted to the rank of Commander.  He has been assigned to his home. Chief Bratton will announce a replacement for Carter at the Police Commission meeting on Tuesday May 8, 2007.  Additionally, Commander Louis Gray, Assistant Commanding Officer of Operations Central Bureau, has been reassigned to the Office of Operations with his role to be announced at a later date.

During the recent May 1, 2025 immigrant rally demonstration at MacArthur Park, where LAPD Officers were involved in numerous uses of force, Carter served as the highest-ranking officer present.  Gray was the second highest-ranking officer on scene.

Pursuant to the City Charter, a Deputy Chief serves at the discretion of the Chief of Police.  In his capacity as Chief, Bratton has the authority to make personnel decisions and assignments that reflect his desired leadership team.

Man Arrested During Burglary Operation

Los Angeles:  Police arrested  Garfield Thompson, 38, on April 28, 2007, after he broke into a car during a burglary task force operation.

At about 8:45 PM, the Operations-West Bureau Bait/Robbery Apprehension Detail was working in the area of Speedway and Westminster due to a large number of auto thefts and Burglary from Motor Vehicles that had occurred in the area. They were utilizing a "bait car" when Thompson, entered the vehicle and removed a lap top computer. 

Officer  Mark Carbonell, Officer Rosheen Bourke, Officer Stella Miller, and Officer Victor Eguez, approached Thompson and attempted to arrest him for the Burglary from Motor Vehicle.  Thompson resisted and a use of force occurred. 

The officers were successful in taking the suspect into custody.  He had no obvious physical injuries and was transported to Pacific Station.  While at Pacific Station, the suspect became non-responsive and Los Angeles City Fire Department personnel responded and transported him to a local hospital.  He was treated at the hospital and admitted for observation due to his "altered state of consciousness". 

The involved officers were treated for abrasions and contusions that were received during the use of force. 

Force Investigation Division personnel responded and are investigating the incident.

Man Arrested for Vandalizing Councilmember Jack Weiss Office

Los Angeles: A 32-year-old man was arrested for vandalizing the field office of Los Angeles City Councilmember Jack Weiss with anti-Semitic posters glued to the front entrance doors and windows.

On May 3, 2007, at about 6:00 a.m., an employee from the neighboring business witnessed the incident and provided investigators with a detailed description of the suspect responsible for the crime. Investigators noted that this description closely matched that of an individual, Adonis Irwin, who patrol officers had stopped the previous day for creating a disturbance with the Council's staff. With the information provided, investigators were able to obtain a search warrant for Irwin's residence, located less than a mile from Weiss' office. A search of Irwin's home resulted in the recovery of evidence linking him to the crime.

As detectives were preparing to leave the location, Irwin was sighted fleeing the neighborhood. Officers arrested Irwin in the 4600 block of Natick Avenue without incident.

Adonis Irwin, a male white, was booked for Felony Vandalism with Hate Crime enhancements for the language posted and bail set at $40,000.

Los Angeles Deputy Sheriff Fatally Injured By a Teen Driver

Los Angeles: A Los Angeles Sheriff deputy was killed by a drunken teenager early Monday morning. 

On May 4, 2007, at around 8:55 a.m., Deputy Raul Gama, 43, was working a plain cloth surveillance assignment of a person suspected of receiving stolen Verizon cell phones. 

Deputy Gama was sitting in a parked 2004 gold Chevy Venture in the 12400 block of Oxnard Street in North Hollywood when his car was hit by a 2006 Honda Element driven by 18-year-old Luis Yanez.  Deputy Gama sustained serious injuries and died at a local hospital.

Yanez was arrested for suspicion of drunk driving and booked for felony manslaughter.  Bail was set at $50,000.            

Deputy Gama, a 20-year veteran of the Sheriff department, was married and had 4 children. He was awarded the Medal of Valor four years ago for saving a family of six after a runaway train had crashed into their home trapping them in the debris.

Los Angeles Police Department mourns the loss of a fellow officer killed in the line of duty.

Anyone with information is asked to call Valley Traffic Detective Huerta 818-374-1934.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Child Abduction Regional Emergency Alert Issued

 

UPDATE

On May 4, 2007, at about 5 p.m. Jones and the son were located by police. The baby boy was in good health and was returned to the custody of his mother.
 
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting assistance in finding a missing
one month old baby boy taken by his father.

A few weeks ago, the infant parents, Reginald Jones and Naimah Woodson were living together at their Lancaster home.

A distraught Jones threatened to kill himself by placing a gun to his mouth.  Ms. Woodson feared for her life and her kids life, left her Lancaster home and moved into her mother's residence in South Los Angeles.

On April 30, Jones was allowed to spend time with his son and was asked to return him at 7:00 p.m. the same day.

On May 1, 2007, Jones returned the baby from their Lancaster home and handed him to Woodson. Ms. Woodson noticed that her son had a fever. After questioning Jones how the baby got sick, he became angry and grabbed the infant from Woodson's arms and took off in a 2003 black Ford Explorer.

A few hours later, Jones called Woodson demanding money so that he could buy plane tickets and leave California.

Jones has a violent criminal history and the infant's safety is in jeopardy police said.

The infant is Black boy, weighs 9 pounds, has black hair and brown eyes.  He was last seeing wearing a blue beanie, gray shirt and blue pants.

Jones is a male Black, 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighs 180 pounds, he was last seen wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and grey sweatpants. 

Anyone with information is asked to call 77th Division Detective Ramon Zepeda at  213-485-4156.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Los Angeles School Police Officer Arrested

Los Angeles: During the early morning hours of May 3, 2007, the Los Angeles Police Department began an investigation into a report that a Los Angeles School Police Department officer had committed a sexual assault of a female motorist while the officer was on duty. 

The Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division, Rape Special Section assumed investigative responsibility with the full cooperation of the Los Angeles School Police Department. 

The investigation led to the officer's arrest for California Penal Code Section 289(g), penetration with a foreign object.  The Officer was booked at the Los Angeles Police Department's Parker Center Jail with a bail of $250,000.00.  The case will be presented to the District Attorney's office next week.

The officer is identified as Ian King, 34-years of age.         

Anyone with information is asked to call Robbery-Homicide Division.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Motorcycle Collision Leaves One Person Dead

Los Angeles: A Saturday night traffic collision in the San Fernando Valley claimed the life of a motorcyclist whose identity is being held pending notification of his family.

On May 5, 2007, around 9:00 p.m., the man, driving a green 2002 Kawasaki RS-Ninja motorcycle was riding southbound on San Fernando Road past Desmond Street, in Pacoima.  A gray 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo heading north on San Fernando Road was negotiating a left turn into a gas station when the motorcycle collided with the car.  The motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet. 

The driver of the motorcycle was rushed to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.  The driver of the Chevrolet and three passengers were not injured.

For further information, please contact Detective Huerta or Detective Schiltz, Valley Traffic Division, at 818- 274-1930.  On weekends and during off-hours, phone the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Fatal Traffic Collision

Los Angeles:  An early morning traffic collision took the lives of a husband and wife in Northeast Los Angeles Sunday.

On May 6, 2007, around 1:00 a.m., Walter Fernandez, 48, and his wife, Silvia, 42, were in their 2003 Toyota Tacoma pickup heading east in the #2 lane of the 3600 block of Los Feliz Boulevard.  A 2002 Ford Mustang traveling west at a high rate of speed suddenly crossed into the Fernandez's lane and struck their truck head-on.  Mr. Fernandez was killed instantly.  Mrs. Fernandez was rushed by paramedics to the University of Southern California Medical Center (USCMC) for emergency medical treatment.  She later succumbed to her injuries.

The driver of the Mustang, Adrian Bravo-Diaz, 26, sustained a fractured left arm and leg.  He was also transported to USCMC.  He was treated for his injuries and arrested for two counts of Felony Manslaughter, 191.5PC.

Central Traffic Detectives are handling the investigation.  Anyone with information is asked to call Detective M. Kaden at 213-972-1825, during normal business hours.  After hours and on weekends, phone the Central Traffic Watch Commander at 213-972-1853.