LAPD Blog

Officer Uses Warning Shot to Disperse Unruly Mob

Los Angeles:  A Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer fired a warning shot into the air to disperse a hostile group of people whose activities were rapidly escalating into acts of violence.

Shortly after the conclusion of the 2010 NBA Championship Game on June 17 at around 9 p.m., a crowd of about 200 to 300 people gathered on the northeast corner of Figueroa Street and Pico Boulevard.  Undercover officers from LAPD’s 77th Street Area saw some members of the crowd begin to vandalize an advertisement kiosk near a bus stop after one of them shattered the kiosk’s glass with his skateboard.

At this point, as the crowd was rapidly turning into an agitated, aggressive mob, one of the officers attempted to take the man with the skateboard into custody.  Additional undercover officers who identified themselves joined the effort and formed an arrest circle around the skateboarder.  However, the mob’s aggression continued to escalate, and officers were assaulted as they struggled to take two more suspects into custody.

Fearing for the safety of her officers and in an effort to break up the crowd, Sergeant Alma Burke (14 years, five months with the Department), a supervising officer at the scene, fired one round from her service pistol in an upward, easterly direction.  Immediately, people began to disperse, and all three suspects were taken into custody.

Nine officers were injured during the confrontation.  Injuries included numerous contusions, abrasions and a fractured nose.  LAPD Force Investigation Division personnel are investigating the crimes against the officers, the officer-involved shooting and the vandalism.

Chief of Police Message - July 2010

BUDGET

The Department’s budget team has worked tirelessly with the Mayor’s staff and City Council to get our budget approved. Some of the budget highlights include the ability to maintain our sworn workforce at 9,963. We will only hire to attrition and new academy classes will range between 20 and 50 recruits to be cost effective. The City has allowed us to restore 17 regular civilian positions vacated as a result of the Early Retirement Incentive Program. These 17 positions will fill critical vacancies throughout the Department.

As I previously mentioned, our Department will not be purchasing any new vehicles or motorcycles but we were able to secure funding for Motor Transport Division to purchase vehicle parts and supplies. Additionally, funding from the Forfeited Assets Trust Fund and the City’s General Fund will help pay for maintenance of Force Option Simulators, replacement of technology as it becomes outdated and the disposal of live ammunition, keeping our personnel working in a safe and productive work environment.

We took a large hit with our overtime budget so I would like to remind all personnel of the revised Compensatory Time Off bank limits. I am counting on all of you to remain vigilant in our efforts to conserve overtime usage and adhere to the mandates of Administrative Order No. 7, December 2009, while complying with the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Integrity Audits

In July 2009, the Department was released from the Consent Decree. One of the major contributing factors in making this happen was the Department’s ability to show the Independent Monitor and the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and the Federal Judge that our police officers, day in and day out, were conducting their work with professionalism and integrity.  Capturing this evidence was the result of the work conducted by the Ethics Enforcement Section (EES), Special Operations Division of Professional Standards Bureau. Although the Department is no longer operating under the Consent Decree, all eyes are on us now more than ever, to see how we as a Department police ourselves.

A hallmark of our Department is that the rules and values of this organization are very clear, and so are the consequences. The Ethics Enforcement Section regularly performs a variety of integrity audits, both random and specific sting audits. They are essentially “open book” tests, designed to give the officer a choice to either choose to do the right thing or choose to do the wrong thing. Overwhelming the majority of the times, the information EES captures shows officers, supervisors and detectives hard at work making this City a safe place to live.  Occasionally, employees engage in conduct inconsistent with the standards expected of a Los Angeles Police Officer. When this happens, a personnel investigation and sometimes a criminal investigation are conducted into the matter.

Most disappointing to me are the sting audits where officers have failed to handle property that otherwise should have been booked. Do not take or create shortcuts. Follow the procedures and policies that you have been taught to follow. Many of you have received commendations for passing integrity audits and our Standards Based Assessment (SBA) rating has a box to document your proven integrity as a result of an EES audit. Keep in mind, EES is not the only entity monitoring your performance in the field. News organizations and the public routinely capture your activities on video. Do not disgrace the badge, always behave constitutionally and respectfully in the performance of your duties. I expect all of you to remain true to your oath of office and EES will continue in their mission to help ensure the integrity of police operations within the Department. Remember when you fail we all fail as an organization.

“LAPD” on Display

The most recognizable police vehicle is the 4-door black and white. But our latest display in the entrance to our new headquarters will showcase alternative police vehicles. On display are the T-3, the Polaris – an electric 4 wheeler vehicle, a patrol bicycle, and a dirt bike (used for off road terrain). Come by and enjoy the display.

Together We Can…

Since my last message, I have received more emails and spoken to many in the field who have shared their concerns. Although I may not have the perfect solutions carefully “packaged” in response to your questions at the time that you ask, I listen to each and every one of you. I appreciate and value your insight. Every decision I make weighs on me, because I realize that it has the potential to affect your livelihood and ability to comfortably work in an environment where you feel supported and inspired to do what we all signed up to do as public servants.  Trust that I act with your best interest in mind, for you now and for those that follow you in the years to come. I have been your Chief for over six months now and will continue to ask for your suggestions in the future because together we can make a difference.

So, here’s the latest on the various projects initiated by your inquiries:

•   In an effort to create a more responsive and timely process for issuing awards, citation and  commendations, these Department awards will now be given out quarterly rather than only once a year.
•   In the next few months, you can look forward to the implementation of the DUI Arrest, Cite and Release Program
•   The Department is in discussion with the City Attorney regarding the Citywide standardization of the RFC
•   A pilot program to assess the need to take “Complained of Injury Only” Traffic Collision Reports is being developed
•   The closing the Area’s front desk during off-hours is likely to be implemented in the near future.
•   The Department is looking at approving the deployment of the model 1911handgun (unknown makes at this time) for all officers who are able to shoot a bonus score of “expert”, details are being worked out now for the fall implementation.

Two Men Shot Outside Gas Station in Gang Related Shooting

Los Angeles: One man was fatally shot and another was injured during a gang-related shooting yesterday outside a South Los Angeles gas station.

The shooting occurred around 3:50 a.m., when 22-year-old Chad Andrew and his companion drove to a gas station located at Western and Vernon Avenues to purchase cigarettes.  According to investigators, when the pair got out of their car to go inside the store, two men approached them on foot and opened fire.  Both victims were struck.     

Paramedics pronounced Andrew dead at the scene.  The other victim was taken to a local hospital where he is listed in stable, but critical condition.

The suspects responsible for the shooting remain at large, and are described only as two African American men.

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call LAPD’s Criminal Gang/Homicide Division detectives at 213-485-1383.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

22-Year-Old Killed While Driving His Car

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Foothill Area homicide detectives are asking the public to provide information that would lead to the arrest of a suspect wanted for the killing of a 22-year-old man.

On July 4, 2010, at around 7:50 p.m., officers responded to a radio call of an assault with a deadly weapon shooting in the vicinity of Foothill Boulevard and Maclay Avenue in the city of Sylmar.  While officers were attempting to locate a crime scene, the victim was driven to a local hospital by friends.  Foothill officers responded to a local hospital and found a 22-year-old male Hispanic, a Pacoima resident, suffering from multiple gun-shot wounds.  The Victim died a short time later from his injuries.    

Further investigation determined that an unknown suspect fired multiple rounds at the victim while he was driving northbound on Dronefield Avenue and Corcoran Street.  Detectives believe the crime is gang related, the weapon is outstanding and there is no suspect(s) description at this time.

The Victim’s name is being withheld until next of kin has been notified.

Anyone with information on this crime is encouraged to contact Foothill Detective Mario Santana at 818-834-3115.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

14-Year-Old Girl Shot on Fourth of July

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Rampart Area homicide detectives are asking the public to provide information that would lead to the arrest of a suspect(s) wanted for the killing of a 14-year-old Daisy Garcia.

On July 4, 2010, at around 10:20 p.m., a patrol unit was dispatched to a radio call in the 1300 block of South Toberman Street.  The victim was outside of her home celebrating the 4th of July holiday with her family and neighbors when 4-5 male suspects approached from the north end of the street.  One of the suspects fired multiple rounds striking Garcia in the upper torso.

The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and transported Garcia to a local hospital where she died a short time later from her injuries.

The suspects are described as 4-5 male suspects, no further description.  Detectives believe the motive for this crime is gang related.

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

“Baby Garcia” Murder Suspect Identified City Council Offers $50K Reward as Detectives Seek Public Assistance to Locate Him

***UPDATE***

Suspect in Baby Andrew Garcia’s Murder,
 Arrested After 10 Months on the Run

In October 2009, Van Nuys Area homicide detectives obtained a felony arrest warrant for Ricardo Hernandez, 24 years of age, believing he was the person responsible for the shotgun murder of 4-month-old Andrew Garcia.

During the month of June 2010, detectives received anonymous information that Ricardo Hernandez was staying in Jalisco, Mexico.  With the help of the Foreign Prosecution Section, Gang and Narcotics Division, detectives enlisted the aid of Mexican authorities to verify the tip.  

On July 1, 2010, Hernandez’s identity was verified and he was taken into custody in Mexico.  The following day, July 2, 2010, he was deported as an “Undesirable United States Citizen in Mexico.”  Upon his return to the United States, Hernandez was arrested on the outstanding murder warrant.  At about 7 p.m., Friday evening, Hernandez was booked into Van Nuys jail where he was being held without bail.  


Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Van Nuys Division homicide detectives have identified a suspect in the tragic shooting of 4-month-old Andrew Garcia on Sept. 27, 2009.  Detectives hope a $50,000 reward offered through the Los Angeles City Council will help encourage public assistance in the case.

On Sept. 27, 2009, at around 1 a.m., the infant Garcia was in the company of his mother, father and family friends in the 14300 block of Kittridge Street in Van Nuys.  A family friend was seated in the passenger seat of a vehicle where he was feeding the child.  At the same time, another family friend was standing outside the vehicle when he became involved in a verbal confrontation between the family group and two suspects walking across the street.  Suddenly, one of the suspects fired at the group with a shotgun, striking the baby and two adults.
LAPD detectives have now identified a suspect and obtained a felony arrest warrant charging 23-year-old Ricardo Hernandez with the murder of the 4-month-old child.  Hernandez is described as being 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing about 185 pounds.  He has a missing or broken upper tooth and acne scars on his face.  He was linked to the crime by both physical evidence and a variety of tips and leads.

Detectives believe the motive for the crime is gang related and that Hernandez is still in the
Los Angeles area.  He is also a known street gang member and should be considered armed
and dangerous.

On Sept. 28, 2009, the Los Angeles City Council posted a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Garcia’s murder.  Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact LAPD Van Nuys Division homicide detectives at 818-374-0040.  After-hours and on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips.  When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”  Tipsters may remain anonymous.

Operation Save Our Streets Joint Task Force

Los Angeles:  Through the generous support of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Criminal Gang Homicide Division has an opportunity to make the streets of South Los Angeles safer.  Historically, the areas of Los Angeles that are within the purview of responsibility for Operations-South Bureau (OSB) lead the City in violent gang homicides.  Approximately 70-80 percent of all homicides in OSB can be linked to violent street gangs.  Over 1,000 unsolved homicides have accumulated since 1978.  In March 2007, the criminal Gang/Homicide Division (CGHD) was activated to reorganize and centralize homicide investigations, reduce the incidence of violent gang crimes and develop meaningful strategies to intervene in gang disputes and save lives.  The CGHD is comprised of three distinct entities; Homicide Detectives from 77th Street, Southeast and Southwest Areas, Bureau Gang Enforcement Detail and the Violent Crime Task Force.  This approach emphasizes a full spectrum approach to gang homicides and facilitates a unique partnership with a variety of law enforcement agencies to aggressively apprehend and prosecute murder suspects.

The primary focus of the Los Angeles Police Department’s 2009 crime fighting strategies was on gang related crime.  While gang crime in Los Angeles is down, a recent spike in homicides and gang-related shootings have emerged.  Criminal Gang/Homicide Division investigated 126 homicides in 2008, 108 homicides in 2009, and 50 homicides year-to-date.

The resources being provided by the FBI will augment a successful Safe Streets Task Force already in existence in Los Angeles.  The spike in homicides in Los Angeles can be attributed to gang violence; much of which can be attributed to gangs already targeted for investigation by the FBI and the LAPD for federal and state prosecution.  Over the last year, FBI Safe Streets Task Forces in the Los Angeles Region have arrested more than 700 gang members from over a dozen gangs.  The recent spike in gang related homicides requires an even greater proactive investigative and prosecutive strategy in order to enhance current SSTF gang investigations, curtail the increases in gang-related homicides and identify new gang and criminal enterprise threats within the City of Los Angeles.  
 
The FBI's Safe Streets Task Forces operate nationwide to assist local law enforcement by addressing violent crime in American cities.  The FBI operates more than 200 Safe Streets Task Forces in the U.S. with participation from over 500 law enforcement agencies.  
 
Los Angeles is the birthplace of many gangs that have migrated to almost every state and many countries.  Los Angeles is also a city at the forefront in terms of fighting gangs.  Law enforcement in Los Angeles at the local and federal level proactively address local, regional, national and international gang violence using tools and strategies that set the investigative and prosecutive trends for the rest of the nation.  The collaboration formed through the S.O.S. initiative will support open investigations into gangs and criminal enterprises operating in the city of Los Angeles that also have tentacles reaching cities across the United States, Central America and beyond.  Gang-related violence incubated in Los Angeles is a crime issue that affects the United States and is appropriately being addressed by the federal government, as well as locally.
 
The Operation Save Our Streets (SOS) Joint Task Force will identify homicide investigations and target violent homicide suspects who are identified as being involved in the homicides and impacting the South Los Angeles area.  The task force will enhance the effectiveness of federal/state/local law enforcement resources through a coordinated initiative seeking the most effective investigative avenues to apprehend and convict homicide suspects.

The task force will focus on unsolved homicide cases.  The cases will be assigned to investigators based on knowledge of the case, experience, training, performance, expertise and existing case load.  The investigators will identify, locate, and interview witnesses and suspects, prepare and serve search warrants and arrest warrants, conduct surveillances, develop shared informants and exhaust all leads on the case with the ultimate goal of presenting to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

The Operation Save Our Streets (SOS) Joint Task Force will begin a three month operational period starting on July 1, 2010, through September 30, 2010.  The primary focus will be to identify, investigate and clear unsolved homicides within South Bureau that have a high probability of being solved.  None of this could have occurred without the assistance of the FBI.

For more information, contact Detective III Sal LaBarbera, 77th Criminal Gang and Homicide Division at 213-485-4341 or Laura Eimiller, FBI Press Relations at 310-996-3343.

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics July 03, 2025


VIOLENT CRIMES                  2010**           2009**          % Chg

Homicide                              151*                147             2.7%
Rape                                     371                 431          -13.9%
Robbery                               5617               6124            -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                     4780               5607          -14.7%
Total Violent Crimes           10919             12309         -11.3%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                                 8407             9194           -8.6%
BTFV                                    14336           14606            -1.8%
Personal/Other Theft           12949           14039            -7.8%
Auto Theft                             8533             9226            -7.5%
Total Property Crimes       44,225         47,065           -6.0%
Total Part I Crimes            55,144         59,374           -7.1%

* Numbers reflects a change in reclassification for Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) guidelines and numbers are adjusted accordingly.

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

Money and Expensive Jewelry Stolen in Bel Air

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) West Los Angeles Burglary detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the arrest of three burglars caught on video surveillance in the Bel Aire area.

On Tuesday June 1, 2025 at around 6 p.m., LAPD West Los Angeles patrol officers received a radio call of a burglary that occurred at a residence in the 900 block of North Beverly Glen Avenue. Once the officers arrived, they immediately checked the residence and called the burglary detectives.

The detectives’ investigation revealed that the suspects entered the premises of the property through the victim's front gate and forced their way into the rear of the residence.  Large amounts of cash and an expensive piece of jewelry were stolen during the commission of this crime.

Video footage shows that three male African American suspects were involved.  

The first suspect, whose face is shown on the video, was described as having a shaved head.  He was wearing a black or blue "Sean John" long sleeved shirt or jacket, dark pants and dark shoes.  He stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs around 180 pounds.  The second suspect was described wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with dark pants and dark shoes.  He also stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs between 180 to 200 pounds.  The third suspect was described wearing a gray, hooded sweatshirt with a blue design on back.  He wore dark pants and dark sneakers.  He was only described as having a stocky build.

Video footage of the suspects will be available at www.lapdtv.org.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call LAPD West Los Angeles Detective Guevara at 310-444-1523 or 310-444-1522 during regular business hours. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.