LAPD Blog

Chief Bratton Comments Recruit Graduation

Chief Bratton Comments
Recruit Graduation
Friday, December 8, 2024

Good morning and welcome.  Welcome to this great field, where every Los Angeles Police Officer for 70 years has marched on as this group did this morning to join the ranks of this great and wonderful organization.  I welcome all of you to this ceremony, to this continuing of the tradition.  We're an organization that is quite proud of our traditions, quite proud of our reputation, and extraordinarily proud of the men and women who choose to seek to become members of this organization, and go through the most rigorous training of any organization in America, before they are privileged and honored, and have earned the right to wear the badge that they now all so proudly have on their chest.

The class president this morning, and I compliment him on his remarks, and I hope that you all listened to them closely, he talked about experiences and expectations.  The idea that this class coming in was shaped by the experiences prior to joining the ranks of the Los Angeles Police Department.  The many walks of lives that they came from and how all of those came together to help strengthen the class while they were here going through the new experiences of training to become a Los Angeles Police Officer.  And how they understood that individually, they were only as strong as the totality of their class.  And that quite clearly they understood that they needed to work together, to help each other, to ensure that at the end of that class training, they were all standing there together.  He also talked about expectations.  We have very high expectations for the men and women of this department.  We have to.  There's no profession in this country, in our democratic society, of who so much is asked, to whom so much responsibility is given.  We are the protectors.  We are those who ensure that all of our residents and citizens get the benefit of the entitlements of our democracy.  We protect and we serve.  It is an obligation that is not taken lightly, cannot be taken lightly, and can never be abused.  Today, as you begin your police careers, you assume responsibilities beyond those given to any other citizen of our country.  You are given the power to take control of somebody's liberty; you are given the power in defense of your life or some other citizen's, to take a life.  To use force.  It is an awesome responsibility to take somebody's liberty; an awesome responsibility to ensure that the force you are empowered to use is always used appropriately, lawfully, constitutionally and never abused.  You cannot break the law to enforce the law.  Your role is to protect and to serve.  It is never to punish. 

Earlier this week, I had to order the arrest of a Los Angeles Police Officer, who I believe lost sight of our goal and our mission; went over the line.  As you begin your careers, think about that event.  Think about the dishonor that he brought to himself, to his family, and to this department.  And vow that you will never, under any circumstances, cross the line.  That you will never abuse the power that you were given.  If you do, if you behave like the criminals that we are asked to deal with, you'll be treated like a criminal.  We will find you, we will arrest you, we will prosecute you, and we'll do our best to ensure that the stain that you might create is removed from this department.

But the good news is, that those that cross that line are so few; that the vast, vast majority do the right thing.  And when they don't, most times it's an honest mistake, an omission rather than a commission.  We will retrain, and we'll correct for that.  You're human; you make mistakes.  And in this business it so easy to make mistakes every day.  We ask so much of you.  We have tried to train you to the best of our ability but your training will continue for the rest of your careers.  That's why we focus so much attention on it.  We want to protect you to the best of our ability so you can protect all those who have a right to public safety and a right to be protected. 

Enjoy today, you and your families, it is a special day.  Thirty-six years ago I was privileged to pin another badge on my chest, and over those 36 years I have the opportunity to have many badges on my chest.  But there is none that I wear more proudly than this one.  This is the most famous one in the world.  You have the opportunity to varnish that badge to a tremendous shine.  You also must commit yourself to never doing anything intentionally or willfully to tarnish it. 

Congratulations.  We want you, we need you, we know how hard you worked to get here, to stay here, and now as you move into the streets of Los Angeles you'll have to work even harder.  But we believe you are up to that task and that challenge.

One final comment: Enjoy every day of it.  Thirty-six years have gone by like that [snap].  I can remember when I first began and I looked at somebody with 30-35 years on the job and said, my God, what are they still here for?  Why are they here?  Believe me its going to go bye in the blink of an eye; enjoy every minute of it.  This is a job that you can have a lot of fun at, you can have a lot of satisfaction at, and it is a great, great job.  And you're lucky to have it.  Congratulations.

Stolen Car Crash Kills Unborn Child

Los Angeles: On December 6, 2006, shortly after 3:00 p.m., a 14-year-old boy, driving a stolen pick-up truck, crashed into a Chevy Cavalier, which was being driven by an 8-month pregnant woman.

According to investigators, the teenager was driving northbound on Towne Avenue when he ran a stop sign and collided with the expectant mother's car at Century Boulevard.

Regina Roberts, 24, was taken to a local hospital where she is listed in serious condition.  Following emergency surgery, doctors discovered that the unborn child had died.

The teenager suffered major head injuries, and remains hospitalized in critical condition.

The pick-up truck was stolen at 9:30 a.m., the same day in South Los Angeles Officer Ravega said.

Anyone with information is asked to call South Traffic Division Officer Jesse Ravega at 323-290-6063.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number
at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

LOS ANGELES POLICE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION RECEIVES GRANT FOR COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

On Wednesday, December 6, 2006, the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation (LAPMF) received a grant in the sum of $500,000 from the Jean Perkins Foundation.  Jean Perkins, an heiress to the Carnation Company, established her foundation with the intention of providing first responder organizations with grants to expand their merit-based college scholarship programs. This is the first grant they have awarded.

“The generous and kind donation of the Jean Perkins Foundation will greatly assist the Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation with its merit-based college scholarship program,” said Al Atkins, Executive Director of the Police Memorial Foundation.

The LAPMF established its college scholarship in 1999.  Each year it receives an average of 70 applications from the children of LAPD employees and selects between 15 to 20 students for personal interviews.  Five $20,000 scholarships are awarded with ten to 15 finalists receiving $1,000. These are the only grants issued by the Memorial Foundation that are not based on unforeseen catastrophic circumstances.

“This grant is our way of thanking the dedicated officers of your fine Department, who put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis to protect the citizens of our community,” said James J. Carroll III, President of the Jean Perkins Foundation.  “We hope and trust that the funds will, in some measure, ease the economic burden of the college education of their high-achieving children.”

“In seven years we have awarded $700,000 to the college bound dependents of Department personnel,” added Atkins. Currently the Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are working to pattern a scholarship program similar to the LAPMF.

Pictured here, from left to right are Alan Atkins, Executive Director, Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation; Willard Z. Carr Jr., Board Member, Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation; Chief William J. Bratton; James J. Carroll III, President, Jean Perkins Foundation; and Joseph Connolly, Board Member, Los Angeles Police Memorial Foundation.

Come Get Your Car Washed By LAPD Officers

Officers of the Los Angeles Police Department’s West Valley Area will be hosting a bar-be-que and car wash to take care of one of their own. One of the Area’s veteran sergeants is having an especially difficult holiday season. Her husband, a California Highway Patrol officer, is undergoing lengthy treatment for cancer. The sergeant has been home taking care of her husband and their six children.

The men and women of LAPD’s West Valley Area are seeking the community’s help. They are committed to making this holiday season a bright one for this family.

Come visit with your local police officers, while they wash your car and grill burgers. Donations of $5.00 for a car wash and $5.00 for lunch are appreciated.

WHEN:    Sunday, December 10, 2024
              9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

WHERE:   19036   Vanowen Street, Reseda
               Behind the West Valley Library next to West Valley
               Community Police Station

CONTACT: West Valley Area Watch Commander at 818-374-7611

LAPD Officer Arrested

Los Angeles:  Today, Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton announced that investigators with the Department's Professional Standards Bureau arrested a 13-year veteran officer early this morning for violating Penal Code Section 149, Assault Under the Color of Authority.

Forty-one-year-old Sean Joseph Meade was arrested at his home around 7:00 A.M. this morning after a non-stop investigation, which began around 2:00 A.M. Tuesday, December 5, 2006.

At approximately 1:25 A.M. on December 5, 2006, Officer Meade and his partner were handling booking procedures for the arrest of a 16-year-old Hispanic male, who had been detained in Chinatown on a curfew violation.  The detainee had been taken to the Central Area Police Station.

After hearing a disturbance between Meade and the arrestee in a juvenile holding room, a third officer alerted the station watch commander who immediately initiated a personnel complaint investigation. The watch commander directed Scientific Investigation Division to take photographs of the holding room, the officer, and the detainee.  The 16-year-old was examined at a local hospital, but he had no apparent injuries.  He remains in custody at juvenile hall as police have not been able to locate his parents or a responsible guardian.

At the time of the incident, the officers and the watch commander were unaware that a camera, which had been set up near the holding room to obtain evidence of vandalism to chairs in the detective squad room, captured a portion of the assault.

Investigators and technicians enhanced the videotape and viewed it. Upon being notified of the preliminary findings, Chief Bratton ordered that Officer Meade be relieved of duty, which occurred at 8:00 P.M. on December 6, when the officer reported for duty at the police station. His badge, gun and police identification were taken.

After viewing the tape himself later that evening, Chief Bratton ordered the officer’s arrest.  Prosecutors from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Justice System Integrity Division (JSID) have been informed of the investigation, as has the Mayor’s office, Inspector General, the Police Commission, and the FBI.

The criminal and disciplinary investigations are ongoing.  State law limits the amount of information the police department can disclose from a peace officer personnel complaint investigation, including the videotape of the incident.

Download dec_7_press_conference_audio.wma

Air Support Division Celebrates 50 Years of Continuous Operation

The Los Angeles Police Department achieved another milestone on Wednesday, December 6, 2024 by celebrating the 50th anniversary of continuous service of its Air Support Division (ASD).  At an open house, hosted by the Division, Chief Bratton presented a proclamation from the Mayor and City Council recognizing this significant anniversary and acknowledging the Division’s half-century of progress.  Additionally, a large carved mahogany plaque featuring the Air Support insignia was unveiled honoring the landmark occasion.

For the LAPD, what started out as a unique approach to monitoring traffic on a rapidly expanding freeway system in 1956 has grown into the largest municipal airborne law enforcement operation in the world.  During the past 50 years, ASD has evolved in to the model that other law enforcement agencies have looked to.  It is recognized worldwide as a premiere innovator and leader in law enforcement aviation.

In 1956 at its inception, ASD consisted of four officers and one supervisor.  There was only one aircraft, a Hiller 12-C helicopter.  The unit logged 775 hours of flight time during its first full year of operation.

Today, the Division consists of 77 sworn and 25 civilian employees.  The fleet consists of 18 helicopters and one airplane.  Its average yearly flight time is 18,000 hours.  Each year, ASD responds to approximately 43,000 calls for service, which include roughly 325 vehicle pursuits, 1,100 foot pursuits, and 1,700 perimeters, resulting in as many a 5,800 felony arrests and 1,600 recovered vehicles.

In 1970, 14 years after ASD’s inception, a study commissioned by NASA and conducted by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s Space Technology Application Office questioned the effect that airborne law enforcement had on crime and criminal activity.  What this study found was:

• Part 1 Property Crimes were reduced when an LAPD helicopter assisted ground officers.
• A threefold increase in arrests involving radio calls occurred.
• The residents of Los Angeles accepted helicopter patrols as a necessary part of the City’s policing effort.
• Patrol and investigative officers overwhelmingly favored having a helicopter overhead while handling calls for service.

In his remarks at the open house, Chief Bratton stated "Air Support Division is a tremendous asset in fighting crime in this City.  They are our black and whites in the sky."

Chief Paysinger Addresses Recruit Classes

Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger addressed the 10/06 and 11/06 Los Angeles Police Department recruit classes at the Ahmanson Recruit Training Center today.  As eighty-eight young recruits attentively listened, Chief Paysinger discussed the Department's expectations for these new officers, and provided some personal insight into his own thirty-year career.

Chief Paysinger informed the recruit officers that they will soon be serving and protecting members of our communities. Business merchants and residents have basic fundamental needs; raising their families in a safe enviornment and protect possessions they worked so hard to earn.  They also want and are entitled to expect to live a life free from crime and fear.  The communites we serve depend on the LAPD to protect the fundamental right to live safe and peaceful lives.  Upon graduation, the City of Los Angeles will depend on these very recruit officers to perform this task, while upholding the Code of Ethics. 

Chief Paysinger encouraged each recruit officer to strive to achieve their maximum potential, while always demonstrating integrity, honor, and respect.  Finally, he referred to the Department's hiring goals and expressed this thoughts on how everyone can be a part of this important recruitment effort. 

A Violent Night Leaves Two Dead

Los Angeles:  Two men died last night in two separate shootings in the Harbor Area. The first shooting occurred at 7:45 P.M. Officers were dispatched to a call at the 1500 block of West 205th Street. The victim, Arturo Mercado, 34, was standing in the driveway with his two friends when unknown suspects approached him and fired several rounds. Mercado was shot in the chest and transported to a local hospital where he died a short time later.

The second shooting occurred at 8:40 P.M. Officers were dispatched to another shooting call at a market in the 600 block of N. Wilmington Boulevard where two men were shot, and one died. The deceased, Kendall Chun, 34, had been at the cash register paying for his purchase. The injured victim had just walked into the store to check on his wife who was standing behind Mr. Chun. As the injured victim passed Mr. Chun, a Hispanic man stood at the entrance and began shooting in the direction of the two victims. Mr. Chun was hit in the chest and died at the scene. The injured victim was taken to a local hospital where he is listed in stable condition. The suspect entered a black 1999-2000, four door, Honda Accord with three Hispanic men and drove off.

Detectives are asking anyone who was at either location or has information regarding either shootings to please come forward. The motive for both shootings is believed to be gang related.

Anyone with information is asked to phone Harbor Homicide at 310-522-2036, 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).

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics December 6, 2024

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2006*          2005*         % Chg

Homicide                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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                                437              466              -6%
Rape                                      827              902               -8%
Robbery                              13,105        12,393              6%
Agg Assaults **                    13,235        14,464             -8%
Total Violent Crimes        27,604        28,225              -2%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              18,252           20,013           -9%
Auto Theft                          22,488          24,674            -9%
BTFV                                   27,185          30,321          -10%
Personal/Other Theft         25,497         28,334          -10%
Total Property Crimes       93,422       103,342         -10%
Total Part I Crimes            121,026       131,567          -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

Detectives Seek Victim of Attempted Rape

Los Angeles: Los Angeles detectives have released the photograph of a 19-year-old man who was arrested October 15, 2006, after he tried to rape a young woman in a restroom. While the suspect, Kenneth Williams, is still in custody, detectives have no idea who the victim is. She left the scene without identifying herself.

"Detectives and prosecutors have asked us to release Williams' photograph in the hope that the victim will come forward, or that someone who knows her will phone in a tip," said LAPD spokesman Lieutenant Paul Vernon. "We're not letting this case go because this is the second similar act by Williams in two years."

After his arrest last October, detectives learned that Williams had a recent conviction for having sex with an 11-year-old girl, in 2005. It did not result in any order for him to register as a sex offender. Williams met the 11-year-old girl at a local community center.

Last October, he met his second victim during an exhibition and dance at the Good Hood Café and Urban Art Gallery. Witnesses saw Williams dancing with the young Black woman. She went into the women's restroom around 2 A.M., and Williams followed her.

According to detectives, the victim was partially disrobed in the stall when Williams told her he wanted sex. "She tried to fight him off, but Williams hit her so hard, she fell against a sink, knocking it over and cutting the woman," Vernon said. The commotion and screams caused Williams to run out of the restroom. Security guards noticed blood on his shirt and detained him for police. Many of the witnesses were so incensed with the crime that the guards had to protect Williams from being harmed.

"All we need is the victim to really make this case" Vernon said. "Our concern is that if released, Williams will be even more emboldened to offend again through a sense of impunity."

Detectives think prior attempts to locate the victim have been in vain because the victim may be underage, 17 to 20 years old, and the crime took place where liquor was being served.

"We think the victim may be afraid to come forward because she was drinking under age," Vernon added. "But that's not our concern. The victim endured a traumatic experience, and we'd like her to help us prevent another victim from having to endure the same or worse."

Witnesses described the victim as a Black woman in her early-to-mid twenties. She was about 5 feet 7 inches tall with braided hair. She was wearing blue jeans, a brown shirt, and black boots at the time of the attempted rape.

Anyone with information about the sought-after victim is asked to call Wilshire Detective Roger Klohr at 213-473-0447. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Fatal Hit and Run Investigation, Reward Offered

Los Angeles: City Councilmember Jan Perry and the Los Angeles City Council have announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a hit and run driver who killed a 21-year-old man.

On Tuesday, October 10,2006, around 8:10 P.M.,Lisandro Romero was riding his bicycle northbound near 47th Street when he was struck by a Hit and Run driver.  Romero sustained severe head trauma, was transported to California Hospital where he died eight days later. There were no witnesses, description of the driver, or of the car at the time of the accident.

The Los Angeles Police Department is asking the public’s help in finding the suspect that killed Romero.  Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call Central Traffic Detective Felix Padilla at 213-972-1825 or the Central Traffic Division Watch Commander at 213-972-1853. Callers may remain anonymous. 

Victim Dies in Gang Shooting

Los Angeles.  A 21-year-old Los Angeles man died Monday afternoon after being shot by a rival gang member.

On December 4, 2006, at 12:30 P.M., Billy Grant was standing in the 2600 block of South Orange Drive. A rival Black gang member fired several rounds from a handgun striking Grant in the chest, killing him.

The suspect is described only as a Black male who drove away in a white car.

Anyone with information regarding this murder is asked to call Southwest Homicide Detectives Robert Lait or Stacey Szymkowiak at 213-485-2418. On weekends and after hours call the toll-free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Woman is Struck and Killed by a Hit and Run Driver

Los Angeles:   Detectives are asking for the public to help identify the driver of a car who fatally struck a 76-year-old woman on Friday night. 

On December 1, 2006, at about 8:50 P.M., Mary Rickenbacker, a resident of Los Angeles, was crossing the street, when a car traveling on Gramercy Place made a left turn onto Washington Boulevard and struck her. The driver of the car failed to stop at the scene and render aid as required by law. Mrs. Rickenbacker was taken to California Hospital where she died a short time later. 

The hit and run driver was last seen driving a burgundy Chevy Astro Van with California license plate 5HVF118, in the 2700 block of La Salle Avenue.  The driver is described as a male Hispanic in his thirties, with a thick mustache.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact West Traffic Detective,
M. Dominguez at 213-473-0237.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

LAPD Angels Toy Drive

Today LAPD kicked-off its annual toy and book drive at Ann Street Elementary School.  One hundred and sixty children from kindergarten through the 5th grade received toys handed out by Chief William Bratton and members of the LAPD's Centurion Baseball Team.

As the Holiday season starts, the Department and the communities we serve will once again join forces to donate unwrapped toys and new and gently used books for many of the underprivileged children in Los Angeles.

Chief Bratton announced the kick-off to the fifth annual LAPD Angels Toy Drive.  Members of the community wishing to donate unwrapped toys or books may do so at any of the Department's police stations.  Chief Bratton asks that donated new or gently used books include an inspirational message written on the inside front cover of each book, wishing a child happy holidays and a prosperous new year.

This year, the Memorial Foundation will be donating activity books that teach children important safety and traffic tips.  The back cover of these books has a contract for children and their parents to sign, encouraging the children to keep safe and have respect for the law.

All the Department's police stations will be reaching out to families in need within their communities throughout the City of Los Angeles. Click on the link below for a schedule of events.   

News Release - Chief Bratton Launches LAPD Holiday Toy Drive
Holiday Toy Give-A-Ways - Winter 2006

Valley Shooting Claims a Life

Los Angeles:  Two victims were shot, and one later died, as a result of an early morning shooting in the San Fernando Valley.

On Sunday, December 3, 2006, at 12:30 A.M., Mission Area officers responded to Mission Community Hospital after receiving a radio call, "Assault With a Deadly Weapon, Shots Fired."  Two victims suffering from multiple gunshot wounds had been transported to the hospital by private vehicle.

Officers found 20-year-old David Cejas being treated in the emergency room, suffering from life threatening gunshot wounds. He was subsequently transferred to a trauma center where attempts to save his life were unsuccessful.

Ceja's friend, a 17-year-old male, had also been shot multiple times.  Due to the severity of his injuries, he was also transported to a trauma center.  He underwent surgery for his injuries and was later listed in critical but stable condition.

Both victims were riding in a vehicle with three other companions after attending a party in the 8700 block of Aqueduct Avenue. The group was heading westbound in the 15700 block of Parthenia Street when they came under fire. Three of the occupants escaped the incident without injury.

Detectives do not have any suspect information at this time and are asking for the public's help in identifying the shooter, or shooters, who were involved in this crime.

Anyone with information is asked to call Mission Area Detectives G. Parshall or J. Weiler at 818-838-9810.  On weekends and after hours call the toll-free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

27-Year-Old Dies At a Local Night Club

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the undetermined death of a 27-year-old who patronizing a local night club.

On Saturday, December 2, 2006, at approximately 2:00 A.M., officers responded to a radio call at the Grand Avenue Club, in the 1000 block of Grand Avenue, Downtown Los Angeles.  Upon arrival officers were directed to the enclosed entry to the club where the victim, a male Black, was lying on the floor.  The victim appeared to be in cardiac arrest.  Paramedics already at the location on an unrelated incident provided medical attention to the victim.

The victim was transported to California Hospital where he died a short time later.  The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of the family.  The cause of death will be investigated by Central Area detectives.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Central Area Detective, E. Badar at 213-972-1203.  After hours and on weekends, call the 24 hour toll free at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Triple Shooting in Van Nuys

Los Angeles: Detectives are investigating a triple shooting that left one dead and two wounded.

On Sunday, December 3, 2006, at about 1:30 A.M., Van Nuys patrol officers responded to a, "Shooting Just Occurred," radio call in the 15800 block of Marlin Place.  Responding officers discovered three people had been shot leaving a residential party.

Daniel Santos Hernandez, a 19-year-old resident of Los Angeles, was shot in the neck and later died from his injuries at a local hospital.  His companion, 19-year-old Christian Rangel, also a resident of Los Angeles, had been shot in the arm. He was transported to a separate hospital and was listed in stable condition.  The third victim, 22-year-old Jason Fuentes of Arleta, was shot in the leg, and is  listed in stable condition after being transported to a third local hospital.

The suspects were described only as possible male Hispanics.  Detectives obtained conflicting statements from witnesses and were not able to establish a motive for the shooting.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to call Van Nuys Homicide Detectives M. Mojarro or L. Lowande at 818-374-0040. 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.

18-Year-Old Missing, Could Be At Risk

UPDATE

On Sunday, December 3, 2006, at approximately 4:30 P.M., Los Angeles Airport Police found Trason Hubbard around the airport. Mr. Hubbard was in good health and is now in the custody of his foster parents.

Los Angeles: Police are asking for the publics help in finding an 18-year-old man who suffers from multiple mental disabilities and has the mental capacity of a 7-year-old.

Trason Hubbard was last seen on December 1, 2006, at around 6:00 P.M., in the area of Arlington Avenue and 46th Street.

Hubbard is Black male, 5'7", and weighs 265 lbs.  He was wearing blue jeans, a burgundy shirt and black tennis shoes, at the time of his disappearance.

Anyone who sees Hubbard should immediately contact police, but avoid direct contact as he  suffers from mood swings and outbursts.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Newton Area Watch Commander at 323-846-6547.

Argument between two brothers turns Deadly

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the murder of 37-year-old, Randy Duane Rogers.

On Friday, December 1, 2006, at approximately 8:40 P.M., officers responded to the 4800 block of Wiota Street in Eagle Rock.  Officers found Randy Duane Rogers' body lying on the driveway.  Responding paramedics made several attempts to resuscitate him, but were unsucessful. 

Through their investigation detectives learned that a struggle escalated between the victim and his brother, 40-year-old, Darren Rogers. The struggle ended when Darren choked his brother to death.

Darren Rogers was arrested for the murder of his brother, and is being held at Jail Division on a $1,000,000 bail.  The motive for this crime is unknown and is being investigated by Northeast Homicide detectives. 

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Northeast Homicide Detectives, L. Rivera or H. Dicroce at 213-847-9447.  After hours and on weekends, call the 24 hour toll free at 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-5293855).

Rotweiler Attacks Officers

Los Angeles:  A rotweiler charged three police officers last Monday, November 27, 2006, when the officers entered a yard, conducting a burglary investigation.

It was just after 1:00 P.M. when three officers from the Foothill Area Police Station answered a complaint of a "Burglar There Now," called in by a neighbor in the 8700 block of Rosyndale Avenue in Arleta.

Two officers cautiously walked into the yard through the garage in the back of the property, while a third officer entered through a gate from the front.  A large rotweiler charged the first two officers without any warning.  Police Officer Jon Healy, 35, and his partner, Jeremy Martin, 24, fired at the dog, who retreated down the side of the house.  The animal charged the third officer, Thomas Conrad, 37, who also fired.

The dog died from its injuries.  Healy and Martin sustained minor injuries, possibly from round fragments fired during the incident.  Officer Healy has over 10 years with LAPD.  Officer Conrad has over 7 years, and Officer Martin has just over one year with the Department.

Force Investigation Division is assigned to investigate the shooting.  No evidence of any burglary was found at the residence.