LAPD Blog

Help Sought in Hit-and-Run

  Los Angeles: Los Angeles police are asking for the public's help to identify a suspect in a hit-and-run accident that killed 37-year-old Rafael Trejo of Long Beach.

On October 30, 2006, just before 6:15 p.m., Trejo, was standing in a private parking lot near Eastern Avenue and Axtell Street when an unidentified car struck and ran over him. The victim was taken to University of Southern California Medical Center where he died a day later.

"This is an unusual accident and we have no suspect leads, nor any evidence was left at the scene," said Detective Michael Kaden. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Central Traffic Detectives Michael Kaden or Josephine Mapson at 213-972-1825.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Chief Bratton Addresses Video Clip

 Los Angeles: Today at his monthly media availability, Los Angeles Police Chief William J. Bratton announced the Department has launched an investigation into an arrest made by two Hollywood Police Officers on August 11, 2006.  The arrest was captured on videotape and is circulating on the internet.  Chief Bratton provided the following preliminary information about the incident:

While on patrol, Officers Patrick Farrell and Alexander Schlegel recognized William Cardenas, 23, a local gang member, who was wanted on a felony warrant for receiving stolen property.  When the officers tried to arrest him, Cardenas ran from them.  The officers were able to knock Cardenas to the ground, near Gordon Street and Fountain Avenue. 

After a struggle, the officers arrested Cardenas.  The officers included a summary of the force used in their arrest report.  Their summary included a description of Officer Farrell striking Cardenas’ face.  Following LAPD policy involving non-categorical use-of-force incidents (i.e. uses of force that do not involve serious injury, or life-threatening force), sergeants investigated the reported use of force.  The investigation included interviewing witnesses, some of whom reported seeing the officers and Cardenas fighting.  One witness described seeing an officer punch Cardenas in the upper torso.

Based on the LAPD's preliminary investigation, the involved officers and the investigating supervisors were not aware that an uninvolved witness recorded part of the arrest on a video camera.  The footage was first made public September 14, 2006, during Cardenas’ preliminary hearing on the charges of resisting arrest and the felony warrant.  The Cardenas defense showed the video in court; nevertheless, the judge held over Cardenas for trial.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Justice System Integrity Division (JSID) provided the video footage to LAPD.  A complaint investigation by Professional Standards Bureau was immediately opened. Both officers have been assigned to administrative duties, pending the investigation.

Upon completion, the criminal investigation will be referred to the District Attorney's office for their review and action.  The Los Angeles Police Commission's Inspector General, Andre Birotte, is also monitoring the investigations, which include an administrative investigation by the Professional Standards Bureau to determine if LAPD policy or procedures were violated.

"Police work is not always pretty," Chief Bratton offered.  "But in my 36 years in law enforcement, I’ve learned not to make a judgement until I have all the facts."  Bratton added, "All of the provisions and safe guards under the Consent Decree were followed.  We now have to let the process follow its course."

The District Attorney's office charged Cardenas with two counts of resisting arrest.  Prosecutors also noted a gang enhancement, which could result in a stiffer penalty, should Cardenas be found guilty of the charges.

Robberies of Personal Electronic Devices Rising

There has been a sharp rise in iPod and cell phone robberies in the Southland; we are urging citizens to become more aware when using their electronic devices in public.  Police statistics indicate that robberies of iPods and cell phones are up 34 percent this year, accounting for about 1,700 of the city’s 8,000 total robberies.  Some victims have reported having their iPods and cell phones stolen several times.  The electronic devices usually cost anywhere from $150 to $500. 

Those items are targeted because they're easy to conceal and carry.  Suspects rob people of these items and walk down the street undetected.  iPod, cell phones and portable GPS device thefts tend to rise during the holiday season.  Electronic devices are highly sought after by thieves because they are easy to sell.  Police statistics indicate that a rash of robberies of iPods were reported earlier this year near local area high schools and the University of Southern California campus.  The crime pattern reveals that thieves target campuses to commit these robberies due to large amounts of potential victims. 

In some areas of South Los Angeles, victims have reported groups of two to three suspects approaching a single individual.  Sometimes the victims are standing at bus stops or just getting out of school.  The suspects are either juveniles or young adults anywhere between the ages of 14 and 25. The suspects tend to commit the robberies around junior high or high schools, and are usually bullies or gang members who target people they can easily intimidate. 

Police and school administrators have urged students to leave electronic devices at home so that they are not easy prey for thieves.  Parents should encourage their children to leave these items at home.  Police have advised the public to conceal cell phones, iPods, and portable electronic devices systems in clothing so that the items are less noticeable.

These unsuspecting victims are often distracted by listening to music or talking on the phone and are not aware of their surroundings. This is an open invitation for thieves. Police suggest that students walk to and from school in groups and arrange for friends or relatives to escort them to the bus stop if possible.

         

Lt. Gregory Allen
Detective Gena Brooks
Southwest Area Detectives

76-year old Man Missing

 Los Angeles: A local family is asking for the public's help in searching for a 76-year-old man whose been missing since October 22, 2006.

Around 6:30 a.m., 76-year old Romero Edward Arcieniega walked away from a retirement home located in the 7700 block of Woodman Avenue and haven’t been seen since.

"The missing man is blind in one eye with impaired hearing, and has wandered off before" said Officer Antonio Medina.

Mr. Arcieniega is 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighs 160 pounds, and has gray hair and brown eyes.  It is unknown what type of clothing he was wearing.

A Photo is available through LAPD Media Relations Section.

Anyone with information is asked to call Missing Persons Unit Detective Brue Kuehl or Officer Antonio Medina at 213-485-5381.

Los Angeles Police Foundation Recognized

For the third consecutive year, the Los Angeles Police Foundation has received a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America's largest independent evaluator of charities.

Charity Navigator (www.CharityNavigator.com) salutes the Los Angeles Police Foundation's charitable efforts. Receiving four out of a possible four stars indicates that your organization excels, as compared to other charities in America, in successfully managing the finances of your organization in an efficient manner. This consistency in your rating is an exceptional feat, especially given the economic challenges many charities have had to face in the last year.

CHARITY NAVIGATOR

South Los Angeles Gang Shooting

Los Angeles: Police are requesting the public's assistance in solving the gang-related shooting of a 19-year-old man who died Wednesday in South Los Angeles.

On November 8, 2006, around 8:05 p.m., officers were dispatched to a shooting call in the 2900 block of Palm Grove Avenue. When police arrived, they found Jose Ramiro Garcia seated in his car, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his chest.

The victim was taken to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries.

According to detectives, Garcia was seating inside his car, when three men walked up to him and fired numerous times. The men fled in a red or burgundy four door car in an unknown direction.

The first suspect was described as a male Hispanic with black hair, about 5'11" tall and weighing 200 pounds. The second suspect was a male Black with black hair, about 5'7" tall and weighing 190 pounds. The third suspect was only described as a male Black.

Anyone with information is asked to phone Southwest Homicide Detective Young Mun or John Richardson at 213-485-2418, during normal business hours. After hours and on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (1-877-529-3855).

LAPD Leads Multi-Agency Truancy Task Force in South Los Angeles

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department, in conjunction with twelve local law enforcement and school agencies, today conducted a multi-jurisdictional task force in South Los Angeles aimed at ensuring that children of school age attend classes as required by law.

The task force was formed to combat truancy and the crimes often committed by children who should be in school: vandalism, theft, burglary and robbery.  The city is divided among numerous police jurisdictions and school districts, but juveniles committing crimes often reside in areas other than those in which the crimes occur. Moreover, some juveniles have been out of school for extended periods, while others violate the conditions of their parole or probation by not attending school.  In creating a joint-agency operation, the goal was to reduce crime by getting at-risk students throughout South Los Angeles back in school.

Partnering with the City Attorney's office, the Probation Department, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Department of Mental Health, the operation also sought to address the underlying social issues that contribute to truancy.

A Command Post was established at the Mount Carmel Park Gymnasium, 830 West 70th Street,in the LAPD's 77th Area.  Operations were conducted between 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.  When Task Force officers or deputies located suspected truants, the students were required to provide positive identification.  Officers then checked to see if the students were on parole or probation.  Those whose identities could be verified, and who were determined to not be on parole or probation, were cited and returned by police to their schools.  All others were taken to the Command Post, where their assigned school, parole or probation officer, and parents were notified.

Truants were cited under Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 45.04 or Los Angeles County Section 13.57.00, and were transported by the arresting officer/deputy.  Truants' school of attendance was verified and contacted by Pupil Services Advisors (counselors).  Students with special needs and the very young were processed first.

In total, 449 children were cited for truancy.  Included in the 449 were 4 students arrested for probation violations, 6 arrests for outstanding felony warrants, and 2 students who were arrested when officers happened upon a burglary in progress.

The following law enforcement agencies and school districts participated in Task Force operations:

Los Angeles Police Department   
Los Angeles County Sheriffs' Department
Los Angeles County Probation Department   
Los Angeles County Police
Transit Services Bureau   
City Attorney's Office
Department of Children and Family Services   
Los Angeles County Mental Health Department
Los Angeles School Police   
Los Angeles Unified School District
Compton Unified School Police   
Compton Unified School District
Inglewood Unified School District   

Questions may be directed to Media Relations Section.

Detectives Arrest Two in Triple Gang Shooting

Los Angeles: Detectives arrested two teen-aged gang members this morning following a drive-by shooting last night in which three other young men were shot.

Detectives and gang officers from Mission Area worked through the night to identify the suspects and track them down. Detectives served search warrants this morning and arrested two. The white van, used in the shooting, and its driver are still at large.

"Today's arrest shows the value and effectiveness of gang officers," said Deputy Chief Michel Moore, who oversees San Fernando Valley police operations. "These officers and detectives keep their finger on the pulse of what's going on among gangs. That intelligence helps them know the players and solve the crimes when they happen."

The suspected shooter is 15 years old and an accomplice is 14 years old. Both are local Hispanic gang members from the North Hills area.

The shooting occurred yesterday evening, November 7, 2006, when as many as four suspects in a white van shot into a group of four other youths, who were gathered in front of one boy's residence in the 9400 block of Orion Avenue. Three of the boys were struck. A 12-year-old was hit in the groin and flown to Children's Hospital for treatment. A 14 year old was struck in the legs, and a 16 year old was grazed in the stomach. All three are expected to survive their wounds.

Detectives believe the victims were members of a local tagger crew, but they were not engaged in tagging at the time.

While gang crime in the San Fernando Valley represents less than one-fifth the gang crimes in the City, gang-related crimes have showed a marked increase by about one-third this year.

"We're concerned about the rise in gang crime in the Valley," said Deputy Chief Moore. "One way to address it is to re-deploy more gang officers into the effected area, but we have to be considerate that other parts of the city have much more gang crime."

The South and Central police bureaus, about one-quarter of the City's geography and population, account for nearly three-quarters of all gang crime.

Critical Missing 82-Year-Old Man

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is requesting the public's help in finding Clifford Charles Owen.

Mr. Owen went missing at about 8:30 AM, on November 8, 2006, from his home at the West Hills Retirement Center, located at 7055 Shoup Avenue in West Hills.  Mr. Owen is in the beginning stages of Dementia and requires medical attention for Diabetes.  He needs his medication, making it urgent that he be found quickly.

Mr. Owen is 5 feet 7 inches tall, 150 pounds and has gray hair and brown eyes.  He was last seen wearing a green long sleeve shirt and khaki pants.  This is the first time Mr. Owen has disappeared.

A photograph of Mr. Owen is available and can be e-mailed upon request from Media Relations Section. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Valley Police Station at 818-374-7611. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).   

A Skid Row Cop's Opinion II

My name is Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph.  I am the lead officer for the Skid Row area.  There have been many questions raised in regards to the effectiveness of the Safer Cities Initiative (SCI).  Several of our opponents touted boastfully it was a waste of resources, and predicted unavoidable failure even prior to its initiation.  These are groups whom somehow benefit by keeping things the way they were.

In spite of their opinions, we have pressed forward, and the difference in the Skid Row area is glaringly apparent.  As I patrolled my area during the last two weeks, it has been a pleasure to see streets, where service providers work hard to help the homeless, such as San Julian and San Pedro Streets, become environments that are conducive to positive change.  The change is apparent at these facilities, not just on the exterior but the interior as well.

For the first time in years, I observed a woman walking with her three small children down streets that were once tent-covered brothels of criminal behavior and filth.  Single Room Occupancy (SRO) residents and street dwellers alike express their appreciation for the change. These conversations are now a common theme as I interact with individuals in my designated area.

Also the radio is unusually quiet, as opposed to the repeated calls of narcotics dealing, overdoses and assaults that were routine over our frequency.  Most of the individuals that are unhappy with these changes are the drug dealers, and the addicts who used to rule the streets with a renewed vigor after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court ruling, regarding the Los Angeles Municipal Code
(LAMC) 41.18(d).

Though the job is far from being complete we continue to work on strong partnerships with the District Attorney's Office, the Superior Court Judges, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, and Los Angeles County Probation Department.  With their support we can send a strong message that narcotics dealers, and violent criminals will not be tolerated in an area that is designed to provide shelter and resources to assist people beat their addictions, and overcome homelessness.

Our detractors state that we are failing to deal with the root of the homeless problem.  In my opinion the root of the problem nationwide is poor education and lack of jobs.  However, in the area of Skid Row, the problem can be easily diagnosed when you walk down some streets and see rows of addicts smoking rock cocaine and injecting heroin.  Narcotics are the reason for the continuum of the downward spiral of many Skid Row residents.

As we continue our efforts some of the individuals whom came here for  "the party," as my Captain so aptly expressed, are now leaving the area to their real residences or hotel rooms.  I believe that in time, as we make the area unattractive to the criminal elements that have thrived here for years; it will help the missions in their efforts.  For instance, rather than drug dealers using the missions as crash pads while they poison the community during the day, the truly needy individuals will have a safe facility to receive guidance and assistance.

As the face of this area begins changing, block by block, I believe it is a prime opportunity for the residents, the homeless, and business communities to finally take a stand and take back their streets.  That is another element of this effort that has been missing in the past.  I strongly believe that citizens will be more inclined to report crime, as it becomes safer to do so.

So when I am asked what is LAPD Central Area's role in helping the Skid Row community, the answer to me is clear.  Our role is: To maintain order, enhance safety and create an environment that is conducive to the positive change in the lives of the homeless, residents of the SROs, service providers, and the business community in Skid Row.

Sincerely,

Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph
Los Angeles Police Department, Central Area
32511@lapd.lacity.org

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics November 7, 2024

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

Crime Statistics November 7, 2024

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                              403              421              -4%
Rape                                     742              802              -7%
Robbery                           12,065          11,243               7%
Agg Assaults **                 12,180          13,346              -9%
Total Violent Crimes       25,390        25,812              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              16,721          18,234            -8%
Auto Theft                          20,539          22,534            -9%
BTFV                                   24,893          27,876           -11%
Personal/Other Theft          23,404          26,150           -11%
Total Property Crimes      85,557         94,794           -10%
Total Part I Crimes          110,947       120,606            -8%

* Both 2006 and 2005 crime categories represent Year-To-Date figures.  The 2005 figures are not annual totals. 

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

Man Found Injured in Echo Park Dies

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives are asking for the public's help in finding any witness who may have seen what happened to David Lipkin on October 26, 2006, in Echo Park. 

On Thursday, October 26, 2024 at about 4:45 a.m., Los Angeles paramedics responded to a man down call and found a 29-year-old White man on the sidewalk with a broken nose and head trauma.  The man was rushed to USCMC in critical condition. 

On November 2, 2006, the social workers from USCMC notified the Los Angeles Police Department that the man was identified as David Lipkin. Los Angeles police officers took an Assault with a Deadly Weapon Report based on information provided on the paramedic's report.  A day later Mr. Lipkin passed away. 

Detectives need your help to determine exactly what caused or who caused Mr. Lipkin's demise.   

Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call Northeast Detectives L. Burcher or K. King at 213-847-9998.  On the weekends or during off-hours, the public can call the toll-free, 24 hour anonymous tip line at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Officer hurt during struggle with Suspect

Los Angeles:  A narcotics suspect who attempted to flee from police, fractures his hip when police take him into custody.

On Friday, November 3, 2006, at about 8:05 P.M., Mission Division uniformed Police Officers Andre Abrams, 34, and Joshua Ordonez, 29, were driving a black and white police car travelling northbound Memory Park approaching the T-intersection at Rayen Street. 

The officers saw three male adults standing together on the west sidewalk of Memory Park, just south of the intersection.  One of the males, identified as Cesar Harley Robleto, appeared to be conducting a hand to hand narcotics transaction with one of the others, when he looked up in the direction of the officers.  Robleto, appearing suprised by the officer's presence, alerted his two companions, then turned and walked away. 

The officers directed the suspects to stop.  Two complied, but Robleto initially ignored the commands and walked a short distance on the south sidewalk. 

Officer Ordonez then observed Robleto remove a glass pipe from his pants pocket and toss it on the ground where it shattered.  At that point, Robleto complied with the commands and was escorted by Officer Ordonez back to the corner where Officer Abrams had detained the other two individuals. 

While Officer Ordonez was using his police radio, Robleto turned and used his hands to push Officer Ordonez down, allowing him to escape detention.  Officer Ordonez got up and quickly caught up to Robleto taking him to the ground.  Robleto got back to his feet initiating a struggle with Officers Ordonez and Abrams.  The officers were able to handcuff Robledo only after the arrival of the first responding unit.

Robleto complained of pain to his leg and was transported by Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics to Mission Community Hospital, where it was later determined that he had sustained a fractured hip requiring surgery.  He was transferred to, and absentee booked under guard, at Providence-Holy Cross for two outstanding felony warrants.

Officer Abrams sustained a separated right shoulder, as well as lacerations and abrasions to his left forearm and was placed off duty.

Force Investigation Division is handling the investigation.  Questions may be directed to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

LAPD Trick Task Force Operation

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police officers arrested 10 individuals on November 3, 2006, related to prostitution activities near Sepulveda Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley. Undercover female police officers posed as street prostitutes and arrested violators, commonly referred to as "Johns," who stopped and solicited them for sex. Officers also impounded the "John's" cars, employing city ordinance 41.70 LAMC, enacted in 2005. A total of six vehicles were seized. The City Attorney's Office will determine what fines will be levied against the arrestees to enable them to retrieve their cars. In some cases, the cars may qualify to be forfeited permanently.

Operations-Valley Bureau vice units conduct periodic prostitution task forces in areas prone to blatant, chronic prostitution and other vice activities. This is a full spectrum approach to the problem that seems to be effective at reducing individuals who are prone to soliciting prostitutes in the San Fernando Valley.

The following people were arrested for 647(b) PC- Prostitution.

Name,   Age,   City of Residence
Kamenir, David L.,  52,  Canoga Park   
Canseco, Antonio,  35,   Sylmar
Anaya, Jose G.,  25,    Sylmar
Casanovas, Fernando,  55,   Van Nuys
Panousian, Robert,   37,   North Hollywood
Agesian, Gagik,  23,   North Hollywood
Cortez, Enrique,  25,   Mission Hills
Gomez, Javier,  32,   North Hills
Mosqueda, Jose,   33,  Van Nuys
Barajas, Salvador,  31,  Arvin, CA

Note: The arrest of any person does not imply guilt, nor does it guarantee prosecution for the charge. All arrests are referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office.

Media questions on this release may be referred to Sergeant Rolando Solano, Officer in Charge, Van Nuys Area Vice, 818-756-8385.

Accidental Discharge With No Injuries

Los Angeles: An on-duty Los Angeles police officer accidentally discharged his weapon at Northeast Police Station.

On November 2, 2006, around 6:35 p.m., Officer Mario Jacinto assigned to Northeast Area was inside the police station when he noticed his holster was unsnapped. As Jacinto attempted to re-snap his holster his gun fired shooting one round into the floor.

No one was injured as a result of the accidental discharge. Officer Jacinto is 28 and has been with the Department for 4 years and 5 months. Northeast Area is handling the investigation.

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

Korean Man Shot to Death

Los Angeles: Rampart Homicide Detectives are investigating the murder of a Korean man on Sunday afternoon.

On November 5, 2006, at about 2:20 P.M., Rampart patrol officers responded to an ambulance shooting on the 600 block of South Kenmore Avenue.  Upon arrival officers observed the victim, Jang Ho Jong, 24, a male Korean, down on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound to his head.  Los Angels Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene and transported Jong to USC Medical Center where he was admitted and listed in critical condition. 

On November 6, at about 2:20 A.M., Jong died from his injuries.

The investigation revealed, that Jong was in a parking lot standing next to his car, when a confrontation occurred with an unknown suspect.  The suspect shot Jong, striking him twice in the head.  The shooter and a second suspected entered their vehicle that was also in the parking lot.  The suspect's vehicle was seen driving northbound on Kenmore Avenue, then eastbound on 6th Street. 

The suspect's vehicle was a gold or tan mid-size 4 door. The driver was described as a possible male Asian.  There was no description of the shooter (passenger).

The motive for the shooting is unknown, and the suspects are still outstanding.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives Silva or Velasco at 213-207-2060, during normal business hours.  On Weekend or after hours contact the toll free number at the Detective Information desk at 1-877-LAWFULL.  (1-877-529-3855).

Shooting Claims Life of Man in South Los Angeles

Los Angeles:  77th Street Homicide Detectives are investigating the shooting death of a man who was gunned down on Sunday evening.

On November 5, 2006, around 10:00 P.M., Greg Huerta, 32, was standing on the sidewalk in the 400 block of West 71st Street.  Unknown suspects walked up, shot him in the torso and fled the scene.  Paramedics responded and transported Mr. Huerta to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. There is no suspect description.

While investigating this shooting, officers were notified of a second victim, Dwight Hernandez, a 22-year-old Hispanic man who was also shot at the same location.  The second victim was shot in the back and driven to the hospital by friends.  He is listed in stable condition. 

The public's help is requested in solving this murder.  Anyone with information is asked to call 77th Area Homicide Detectives Ted Hammond or Tracy McClanahan at 213-485-1383, during normal business hours. After hours and on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855). 

Callers may remain anonymous.

Gang Shooting Leaves One Dead at Party

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police detectives are asking for the public's help in finding any witnesses who may have information regarding the shooting death of 26-year-old Raymond Uribe, and the injury of two others.

On Sunday, November 5, 2006, at about 4:00 A.M., Foothill Area patrol officers responded to a "Shots Fired" radio call in the 13800 block of Eustace Street, in the Pacoima area.  Upon arrival, officers found Raymond Uribe dead in the rear yard of a residence.  Officers learned that two additional victims were transported to a local hospital. Evidence at the crime scene indicated the shooting happened during a party.

The surviving victims were transported to a local hospital in serious but stable condition.  One surviving shooting victim was identified as Jorge Ortiz, a 20-year-old resident of Pacoima.  The second surviving victim has not been identified.

The motive for this crime is believed to be gang related.  The weapons and the suspects are still outstanding. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic wearing dark clothing. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Foothill Homicide Detectives Charles Lenane or Jorge Martinez at 818-834-3115.  After 5:00 P.M., call 818-756-8861.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855). 

Callers may remain anonymous.

Detectives Looking for Witnesses of a Fatal Hit and Run Accident

UPDATE: On November 5, 2006, at approximately 3:30 P.M., Hollywood Area detectives arrested 30-year-old Manuel Eric Munera on suspicion of Felony Hit and Run causing great bodily harm or death.  The arrest came after Munera called Hollywood desk personnel with detailed knowledge of the accident.  The car involved in the accident was impounded for investigation. 

Los Angeles: Authorities are asking for the public's help in finding witnesses who might have information regarding a fatal traffic accident involving two pedestrians.

On November 5, 2006, shortly before 2:00 A.M., a hit and run accident occurred in the Hollywood Area.  The accident involved two pedestrians, a male and a female that were crossing Franklin  Avenue northbound at Vista Del Mar Avenue.  A vehicle travelling east on Franklin Avenue struck both pedestrians and drove from the scene of the accident.  The female pedestrian was thrown about 50 feet from the point of impact. 

The hit and run vehicle was last seen driving east on Franklin Avenue and is described as a 2002 to 2005 dark colored 4 door sedan.  The vehicle has right front-end damage and is missing the right side passenger door mirror.

Both pedestrians sustained blunt force trauma injuries and were transported to a local hospital.  A short time after, the female victim, 22 years of age and a resident of Los Angeles, died of her injuries. Her identity is being withheld pending notification of her next of kin.  The male pedestrian is 27 year-old, Luke Coffee a resident of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Police Department's West Traffic Division Section is conducting the investigation to identify the hit and run suspect and vehicle. 

Anyone with information is asked to call West Traffic Division Detective Section at 213-473-0237 or West Traffic Division Watch Commander at 213-473-0222.  On weekends and off-hours, call the toll free 24-hour hot line at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Man Kills Ex-girlfriend, then Shoots Self

Los Angeles: A 29-year-old man shot his ex-girlfriend to death then turned the gun on himself Friday evening inside an apartment in the 20200 block of Roscoe Boulevard police said.

Just before 10:00 P.M., SWAT officers were dispatched to a shots fired call that involved a dispute between a boyfriend and girlfriend.  When the officers arrived, they heard shots ring out from inside the apartment and saw a bullet come through a window.   

After evacuating residents from the building, authorities entered the apartment and found the bodies of Jessica Vasquez, 26, and her ex-boyfriend, whose name hasn't been release until his family has been notified.

According to investigators, the man came over to Vasquez's apartment. During a heated argument, the man became angry, pulled out a gun, and shot Vasquez in the chest several times, before killing himself.

Anyone with information is asked to call West Valley Homicide Detectives Brad Roberts or Jason Leduff at 818-374-7721.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Gang Member Assaults Detectives

Los Angeles: A local gang member was arrested after he pointed a gun at pursuing gang detectives in South Los Angeles yesterday morning.  One detective fired after the gang member pointed a gun.

The incident started around 7:30 A.M. when gang detectives from the Southeast Police Station were driving near Main Street and 110th Street.  A group of gang members were illegally crossing the street and impeding morning traffic.  One detective noticed 19-year-old Jamar Henry among the group.  Henry was a person the detectives were interested in talking to about a recent homicide.

When the detectives tried to detain the group of jaywalkers, Henry ran.  Police Officer Patrick Flaherty, 37, and another officer chased after Henry as he ran through a metal fabrication business, which was full of employees.

According to witnesses, Henry displayed a gun and Officer Flaherty fired.  Henry dropped his gun but continued to run for another 40 feet before he fell down and was captured.  Henry was wounded in the shooting.  He was treated at the Harbor UCLA Medical Center and released for booking.

No other person was injured in this incident.  Henry's gun was booked as evidence.  Henry was arrested on a charge of Assault With a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer.

Officer Flaherty has been with the LAPD for nearly 4 years.  The metal fabrication business was located at 10962 South Main Street.

Force Investigation Division will investigate the officer involved shooting and Henry's assault on the officer.  Questions regarding this release may be referred to Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.