LAPD Blog

Speech Given to LAPD Graduation Class by Deputy Chief Gary Brennan February 29, 2025

A Brennan has been in the department since 1923. The youngest, Deputy Chief Gary Brennan, is retiring.--LA Times article, March 4, 2025

Mr. Mayor

Commissioner

Distinguished Guests

Good Morning

Chief Bratton, allow me to thank you publicly for the opportunity to address this graduation. You have honored me more than you know. Thank you.

34 Years ago, during February 1974, I graduated from the Los Angeles Police Academy (Class of 9/73) here at this police. I have much to be proud of today, as I prepare to retire, but in particular is that my wife Su who was with me 34 years ago as I graduated, is here with me today.

These Police Academy grounds are truly special. Indeed, these are hallowed grounds. Every Los Angeles Police Officer Since 1931 has graduated here at this Academy. Today the ranks of our graduates are enhanced by the presence of officers from the LA Airports, LA General Services and LA Harbor Police Departments. To you family, friends and loved ones of these graduating recruits…a very special welcome to this Academy on this most special day in the lives of the officer of classes 8/07 and 9/07.

It is to these recruit officers that I wish to speak. As I stand here at the end of my career and you at the beginning of yours, I want to congratulate and encourage you in your commitment to law enforcement, the LAPD and our allied agencies. You are embarking on a journey of work few others have the chance, or even the ability to take. And my hope for you is that 35 years from now, you will know as much pride, satisfaction and fulfillment in your lives in law enforcement as I’ve known in mine with the LAPD.

Throughout your training you’ve been taught what our expectations are of your duty performance as police officers. These are such things as respect for others, compassion, honesty, courage, attention to duty and adherence to law, policy and procedure. I am confident you have learned these things and I know you will also learn the practical implications of them when you hit the streets tomorrow, Sunday and next week.

What I want to share with you however, are three bits of advice that may also help you find success in your careers.

First is this: police work is work full of challenge and opportunity. Our agencies, the LAPD in particular, are organizations of almost unlimited opportunities for you personally to go after whatever challenges you want to take on. You are soon going to be exposed to almost all of it. Take it all in and look for the challenge that fires you up. What will you want to do…work gangs, narcotics, vice? Befriend a neighborhood; help solve everyday problems? Handle dogs, work traffic, ride motorcycles, ride bicycles; sleep days work nights, fly helicopters? Investigate murders, or robberies; work property, white collar or computer crimes? Become an expert, be a generalist, recruit and train others, supervise, mange, lead?

Whatever your challenge is, look for the opportunities to get there, and prepare yourself. At every step along the way, work at doing the assignment you’re in, performing it to the best of your ability. Each assignment you have will be important, demand that it be done well. One of the most rewarding aspects of a career in law enforcement is that virtually every one of its varied tasks is necessary. You should never lack for meaningful work.

Secondly, be a person of character. Seek to live a life of integrity and to encourage it in others. Earn the trust of your peers, your supervisors, and the community. Police work is a business of partnership. It begins in that black and white and it is dependent on the trustworthiness and credibility of the individuals involved. Be a good partner by being an individual who is trusted based on a reputation for integrity and competence.

My third bit of advice is to keep a sense of balance in your lives. Ground yourselves in family, faith, friends or community. This job can be all consuming if you let it…I know. But we don’t expect it of you. You will always be better on the job when your life is balanced off the job. The best example of this may be that of SWAT officer Randy Simmons. But be assured there are dozens more. People like Seargent II Bob Rives in South West Area; Detective III Trish Hauck at Central Homicide; Police Officer-3 Cesar Corona of the violent crimes task force, Operation Valley Bureau Detective I Frank Lopez, Wilshire and Detective II Dan NEE, Commercial Crimes Division, to name a few that I know. Look for those men and women throughout our organizations whose character, work ethic and balance you respect and whom you can emulate. I guarantee you, these good people are looking for opportunities to mentor and develop others in the truest sense of passing the torch. You’ll recognize them easily because to you they’ll stand out. I encourage you to become such a stand out.

Success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. If you love what you’re doing you will be successful.

You have in front of you the opportunity to achieve success such as this in your law enforcement careers.

Trust me on this…I know.

Congratulations. GOD Bless. Be safe.

13-Year-Old Boy Killed

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect(s) who shot and killed a 13-year-old juvenile in Echo Park.

On March 6, 2007, around 8:00 p.m., Rampart patrol officers responded to a call of an ambulance shooting in the 800 block of North Bonnie Brae where they found 13-year old, Anthony Ezquiel Escobar lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. 

Paramedics responded to the scene and rushed the young teen to a nearby hospital where he later died.

Anthony had gone outside to pick some lemons from a nearby tree, when he was shot and killed by unknown suspects, authorities said. 

One of his family members who was home at the time, went outside to see what was delaying Anthony and found the young boy lying on the ground in the driveway.

The investigation is in the preliminary stages and the motive for the shooting is unclear.

There is no suspect or vehicle description at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives John Motto or George Lee at 213-207-2060. During off-hours or on weekends,  call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Police Seek Sexual Predator

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department detectives have released a photograph of a man, arrested for multiple sexual assaults in order to identify additional possible victims.

On March 5, 2008, at 6:00 PM, detectives arrested 54-year-old Joseph Sheck, (aka Joey Malone) for numerous counts of sexual assaults at his home in the 17900 block of Montague Court, in Granada Hills.   

Sheck, a co-owner and teacher at The Performing Arts Center, located at 7932 Haskell Avenue, allegedly sexually assaulted several young adult female students at his art center. 

According to detectives, Sheck intimidated and threatened to “black ball” the students from talent agencies if they refused his sexual advances. 

The assaults occurred between October 2007 to February 2008.

Sheck’s bail was set at $225,000.00.

Police are asking if any current or former students who may have been victimized by Sheck are urged to call Van Nuys Area Sexual Assault Unit at 818-374-0093.  On weekends or during off-hours call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Off-Duty Deputy Marshal Involved in Shooting

Los Angeles: On Wednesday, March 5, 2008, just before midnight, an off-duty United States Deputy Marshal became involved in a domestic dispute with his wife in the 7300 block of Melrose Avenue.

The argument continued into the alley to the rear of a closed business, near Poinsettia Avenue. A 26-year-old man intervened and brandished a handgun at the Deputy Marshal. An argument between the two men escalated with the 26-year old man punching the Deputy Marshal in the head multiple times, while continuing to threaten with the gun.

The Deputy Marshal identified himself as a law enforcement officer, but the man continued to point his gun at the Deputy Marshal. The Deputy Marshal, in fear for his life, drew his sidearm and fired at the man.

The man was pronounced dead at the location.  His name is being withheld pending notification to his family.

The Deputy Marshal was arrested for Domestic Battery and was booked at Hollywood Jail. The United States Marshal’s Service is withholding his name due to the administrative investigation.

Robbery-Homicide Detectives are investigating the incident.

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

Major Auto Fraud Ring Exposed

Los Angeles: Today the Los Angeles Police Department working in partnership with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, National Insurance Crime Bureau, and insurance company investigators served arrest warrants on members of an insurance fraud ring.

Earlier this morning, 42 felony arrest warrants were served in conjunction with an insurance ring involving fabricated automobile accidents and related fraudulent physical injuries.  The felony arrests included two attorneys and one disbarred attorney, a chiropractor, and a proprietor of an auto body shop.  Thirty-six additional suspects were identified as participants to an elaborate fraud scheme imposed against ten separate insurance companies.   

•     NOTE:  As of late this afternoon, 24 arrests were made, with 18 outstanding. 
     

Senior Investigator Anne Luce, Bristol West Insurance Group, initially presented the case to the Los Angeles Police Department, Auto Fraud Unit, whose collaborate efforts covered 18 months of investigation and review of 18,000 insurance claim documents.

With support of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, the DA filed 74 charges, including 33 counts of Insurance Fraud, 2 counts of Identity Theft, 18 counts of Perjury, and 21 counts of a form of insurance fraud committed by the attorneys, for a total of 42 named suspects.

The criminal activity of the suspects centered on an established auto body shop located near the 3000 block of West 48th Street, Los Angeles.  The inner-ring of suspects are family members and have previous criminal convictions connected to insurance fraud, and other felony crimes.  The insurance fraud scheme was perpetrated through false application and report of collision information and by fabricating and/or falsifying physical injuries.  In some cases, the suspects used previously damaged and/or wrecked cars in conjunction with a host of recruited “willing” participants using fictitious identities in order to report false claims of damage and physical injury.  To expedite the receipt of false monies paid out by each insurance company, several attorneys and a chiropractor were instrumental in falsifying medical records and legal documents. 

Although this investigation focused on only the most recent, provable fraudulent claims, it appears the core group of suspects has been falsifying claims since the mid-1990’s.  The suspected family patriarch served prison time from 1989 to 1994 for the same criminal offenses.

Officer Accidentally Fires Weapon

Los Angeles: An off-duty Los Angeles Police Department officer accidentally fired his weapon.

On March 5, 2007, at about 2:00 p.m., Officer Jason Clauss, assigned to South Traffic Division, was at home cleaning his off-duty gun, when he accidentally discharged his weapon. One round was fired into the wall and no one was injured as a result.

South Traffic Division detectives ares handling the investigation.

Officer Clauss has nine years with the Los Angeles Police Department.

If there are any questions, contact Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

Foot Pursuit in Cypress Park Results in Officer Involved Shooting

Los Angeles: On Feb. 29, 2008, at approximately 6:25 p.m., a Los Angeles Police Department officer became involved in an Officer Involved Shooting after a brief foot pursuit.

The incident began as uniformed officers from the Metropolitan Division were riding in an unmarked police vehicle to conduct gang-related crime suppression in the Cypress Park area of Los Angeles.  Officer Mario Gallegos has 9 years with the Department; and Joshua Kniss, 11 years with the Department.

As the officers traveled on Loosemore Street toward Pleasant View Street, they saw suspects Carlos Edwin Arevalo and Moises Mora standing in the street behind a parked vehicle. After stopping near the vehicle to investigate, Arevalo ran southbound from the officers on the sidewalk. Eventually, Officer Jason Schwab, 10 years with the Department, chased Arevalo to the rear of 3411 Loosemore Street where an officer involved shooting occurred.  Officers also retrieved a .45 caliber pistol.

Arevalo, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, was treated at the scene and transported by Los Angeles Fire Department personnel to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center where he expired from his wounds.

No officers were injured in the incident, and Force Investigation Division personnel are investigating the OIS.

Traffic Officer Involved Shooting

Los Angeles: South Traffic Division (STD) officers investigating a traffic collision became involved in an officer involved shooting (OIS).

On March 1, 2008, at 7:05 p.m., STD officers were in the area of Crenshaw Boulevard and 57th Street when they saw a gray-colored pickup truck traveling at a high rate of speed.  As the truck passed 57th Street, it collided with a large palm tree and came to a stop.

As the officers approached the truck, they noticed Maurice LeRoy Cox in the driver’s seat. Cox, while reaching for the glove box, told the officers to move away or he would kill them. Over the next several minutes, the officers maintained sight of Cox, who barricaded himself in his truck, refusing to exit.  Officers assigned to 77th Area, STD, and Southwest Area responded to the location to aid in the investigation.  Five officers, all assigned to 77th Area were positioned at Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard to coordinate perimeter control. The involved officers were Jose Campos, six years and 11 months with the Department; Thomas Callian, one year and 10 months with the Department; Osbaldo Ramos, 13 years and 10 months with the Department, Hector Ramirez, five years with the Department, and Corey Meisner, 12 years and 10 months with the Department.

At around 7:20 p.m., Cox left his truck and pointed what appeared to be a weapon in a northerly direction where the officers had deployed. As a result, an OIS occurred between Cox and Officer Campos. Cox then ran south and east from his truck toward the northeast corner of Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard into a bank parking lot. While running along the north side of the bank, Cox turned toward the pursuing officers resulting in an additional OIS.

Cox continued to run through the parking lot to the east side of the bank. Once again, Cox pointed what appeared to be a weapon at the perimeter officers where another OIS occurred. Wounded, Cox was taken into custody and transported by the Los Angeles Fire Department to California Hospital where he expired from his wounds.

No officers were injured. Investigators recovered the object, a cigarette lighter power adapter, Cox pointed at the officers. Force Investigation Division is investigating the OIS.

ACTIVISM or COWARDICE?

At a recent public hearing, an activist group, who will remain nameless as always, entered the hearing and began their usual chants and rhetorical pot shots against the Los Angeles Police Department and myself.  This is nothing new.  Most people are immune to their tactics, which are almost comical, until we see the negative results of their activities.

Yet what was different than before, was the fact that these activist took it upon themselves to attack a fallen officer, who had valiantly given up his life trying to save lives, along with his injured partner.  This officer is not able to defend himself.  As we all know, we recently lost not only a great officer, but also a wonderful human being.  On duty and off duty, SWAT Officer Randy Simmons dedicated his life to protecting the community and mentoring to children.

In the wake of his death, a member of this activist group decided to verbally assault the memory of this officer, by implying that his death was punishment from God, as a result of our police activities in skid row.  If that were the case, don’t you think the incident would have been more localized.  Furthermore, the officer was a man of God who had a solid faith in the Lord.  This in my opinion is low even for this particular activist group.  As I have written many times, I do not care if anyone speaks negatively of me, it is their right to do so.  But I will always defend our officers and myself when they slander us.

This act is one of many acts of cowardice displayed by some radical groups in the area.  They, know that we cannot verbally confront their lies, as we are required to carefully try to ensure their right to free speech (even their hate speech).  If we respond to them, they twist our words and run down to the police station and make a complaint, which is more than likely not based on fact and can potentially hurt the career of the officer who responds to them.  For years they knew that we could not respond.  But I decided to change that.  I did not give up my right to defend myself and speak out when I was sworn into the police academy.

I decided after the Democratic National Convention in 2000, that being silent was not taking the moral high ground, for what is immoral against standing up to those who lie and defame us.  If we continue to allow this, we only enable our detractors to continue to drag this Department through the mud, causing the focus to be on the few negative exceptions of law enforcement rather than the honorable rule.  This causes a divide between the community and the police department that hinders positive relationships with each other.

But now I use my 1st Amendment right to tell you the Skid Row community, about how I truly feel about serving you, instead of just letting you hear it from liars and embellisher's with an agenda.

Their display was a disgusting act and a clear indicator of the length some activists will go to just to make a statement.  As disgusting were the men and women who stood up and said that this group was “honorable,” after they made these horrible statements about a man that was not a coward, but a hero in every sense of the word.

I am limited in what I can say in response to them, for as I said before, I am held to a standard of professionalism, which they are not.  But I would not wish or gloat over a tragedy involving them, for I only have disdain for their tactics, but not for them individually as my faith teaches.  In closing, I leave you with comparisons of our brave LAPD officers to some radical activist groups:

Officers like Randall Simmons run to danger to try to save people’s lives.  Activist groups throw stones at them from a safe place for doing so. 

Officers are not afraid to put their reputations on the line when they do their jobs. Activists are afraid of how they will be perceived if they actually take a stand against the criminal element.

This Department and some others have largely been alone in the fight to make Skid Row a safer place.  Radical activists only hide and criticize us for trying to do so, with no clue of how difficult it is to combat crime.

Officers do the best they can to tackle the gang problems, which hinder a safe environment for Skid Row residents.  Activists sit back and watch this occur and refuse to report it, even as it occurs in front of their office.

Activists have the audacity to ask City officials to violate my first Amendment rights to tell the truth about their tactics, and hide behind the same rights to spread lies, paranoia, and propaganda against the Department.

I will leave it to you to decide who the real cowards are.

Sincerely,

Central Area Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph

Dogs Charge Officers, Resulting in an Officer Involved Shooting

Los Angeles: On February 28, 2008, at around 8:55 p.m., Police Officer Josh Wade and his partner responded to a "Domestic Violence" radio call in the 7500 block of Leescott Avenue in Van Nuys.

When the officers walked towards the home, they noticed that the front door was open. When Officer Wade reached the sidewalk, two large dogs, a Bullmastiff and a Labrador Pit Bull mix, charged out the front door at Officer Wade. Officer Wade fired one round missing the Bullmastiff and both dogs retreated back inside the house. The investigation revealed that no crime had occurred and there were no injuries as a result of the shooting.

Police Officer Josh Wade has served with the LAPD for three years.

Van Nuys homicide detectives are conducting the investigation.

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

Missing Young Woman in Need of Seizure Medication

(Update)

Around 4:20 p.m., Christina Ramirez was found at Pacifica Hospital.  Because of communication problems, investigators have yet to determine if she's been a victim of a crime.

Los Angeles:  Police are asking for the public’s help in finding a young woman who is in need of seizure medication.

On Tuesday, March 4, 2008, 18-year-old Christina Marie Ramirez, a female, Hispanic with blond hair and brown eyes, walked away from Sylmar High School located at 13050 Borden Avenue, in Sylmar.  Ms. Ramirez stands 5’6”, weighs approximately 170 pounds, and was last seen at 1:45 p.m., wearing a black sweater, orange capri pants, and a backpack.

In addition, Ms. Ramirez has the mental capacity of an 11-year-old, has mild seizures and is in need of seizure medication. 

Mission Area officers have conducted follow-up investigations to her residence, local hospitals, and local area parks with negative results.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Ms. Ramirez is asked to call the Mission Area Watch Commander at 818-838-9800.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour, toll free anonymous tip line at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).   

Gang Member Suspects Arrested in Connection with Shooting of 6-Year-Old Boy

 

(UPDATE)

Los Angeles: Two men have been arrested in reference to an incident on March 4 in which a 6-year-old child was shot in the head: Ernesto Murillo, age 25, and Ismael Torres, age 26. The child was a passenger in an SUV that was moving through a Harbor Gateway neighborhood at Halldale Avenue and 227th Street when the shooting occurred, at approximately 12:30 p.m.

As the vehicle proceeded west on 227th Street, the suspects, standing in a yard, flashed gang signs at the victims as they drove by. After the victims passed the suspects’ location, the suspects fired several shots at their vehicle. One of the rounds passed through the vehicle’s back window and struck the 6-year-old in the head.

The vehicle had six passengers, three adults and three male children, including the child who was struck and the victim’s expectant mother. Help was summoned, and the critically wounded child was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.

An immediate search of the area was conducted, but the suspects couldn’t be located. Later, with the assistance of police personnel from the Operations South Bureau Criminal Homicide Group, the immediate neighborhood was canvassed for evidence and witnesses. Due to cooperation from the community, both suspects were identified.

Working through the night, Harbor Area detectives obtained search and arrest warrants for the suspects, resulting in two warrants. SWAT and C Platoon of the Metropolitan Division served the search warrants around 5:30 a.m. this morning and were able to take both suspects into custody. Both suspects will be booked for attempted murder.

Photos of the suspects are being withheld because the investigation is still in progress. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to call Detective Rodriguez at 310-522-2036 or Harbor Area detectives 310-513-7133.

Notes from the March 4, 2025 Police Commission Meeting

•    Police Commission President Anthony Pacheco returned to the weekly meeting today after having completed work on a lengthy out of state legal case.  He was welcomed back by his fellow commissioners and he thanked them all for keeping him informed during his absence.

•    Commissioner Alan Skobin met with Council Members Bernard Parks and Tony Cardenas to discuss the Department’s need for replacement handheld Astro radios.

•    Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger sat in on this week’s meeting.  He offered a tribute to recently retired Deputy Chief Gary Brennan, a 34-year Department veteran.  Chief Brennan was the third generation of his family to join LAPD.  He enjoyed a very productive and successful tenure with the Department, concluding with his assignment as Chief of Detectives.  On his last day, February 26, 2008, as he walked out of his office for the last time, LAPD command staff formed a hallway gauntlet and saluted him on his way to the elevator. 

•    Chief Paysinger recently paid a visit to Reseda High School Police Academy Magnet, which he praised for their success and great work.

•    Lieutenant Andre Dawson welcomed Detective Sandra Betancourt to Commission Investigation Division.

•    The Office of the Inspector General named Performance Auditor Jennifer Litchfield employee of the month.

•    The Department’s report, dated February 21, 2008, relative to the West Valley Area Gang Enforcement Detail Command Accountability Performance Audit, as discussed by Police Auditor Erin Kenney and Captain Phil Trotter was accepted.

•    The Department’s report, dated February 15, 2008, relative to the City Controller Audit of Fiscal Operations Division of the Los Angeles Police Department, Quarterly Report, was continued for one week.

•    The Department’s report, dated February 12, 2008, relative to the Criminal Cases Submitted to Prosecutors for Review, Fourth Quarter 2007, was postponed.

•    The Department’s report, dated February 28, 2008, in response to Board query, relative to the Complaint Investigations Audit for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, as discussed by Deputy Chief Mark Perez and Commander Rick Webb, was approved.

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics March 1, 2025

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

VIOLENT CRIMES                 2008**            2007**       % Chg
Homicide                             67                    54             24.1%
Rape                                   123                  126            -2.4%
Robbery                             2055                 2242           -8.3%
Agg Assaults **                   1892                 1939           -2.4%
Total Violent Crimes          4137               4361           -5.1%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              3028               3356           -9.8%
BTFV                                  4908                5587         -12.2%
Personal/Other Theft          4026                4507         -10.7%
Auto Theft                         3569                4132          -13.6%
Total Property Crimes     15,531            17,582       -11.7%
Total Part I Crimes          19,668            21,943       -10.4%

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

Father and Son Killed in Shooting

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the person responsible for the fatal shooting of two men in 77th Division.

On March 1, 2008, at approximately 12:55 am, 20-year-old Alan Turcios and his 42-year-old father, Santos Turcios were on 73rd Street, just west of Central Avenue, when they were confronted by a male suspect who for unknown reasons began shooting at them.  Both victims were shot multiple times, but managed to ask for help at the 7300 block of South Central Avenue. 

Paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced Santos Turcio dead at scene.  Alan was taken to a nearby hospital where he later died as well.

The suspect was last seen driving a light blue four-door sedan with chrome rims, southbound on Central Avenue from 73rd Street.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call South Bureau Homicide Detective Linda Heitzman or Detective Refugio Garza at 213-485-1383.  After hours and on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).

Argument Leads to Freeway Shooting

Los Angeles:  North Hollywood officers find victim of a single gunshot wound at Lankershim Boulevard and Hesby Avenue.

On March 1, 2008, around 1:50 a.m., 26-year-old Bunthan Roeung and his friends were driving on Hollywood Boulevard when they had a verbal dispute with several male suspects in a gray or black Chevrolet Monte Carlo with red pinstripes and possible “F-1 motor sports” paper plates. The suspects followed Roeung and his friends northbound onto the 101 freeway and began to tailgate them. Mr. Roeung was sitting in the rear seat when the suspect fired a single gunshot, striking the victim in his upper back. The victim and his friends exited the freeway at Lankershim Boulevard and drove to Hesby Avenue where they called 911.

The Los Angeles City Fire Department personnel responded and immediately rendered medical treatment to Mr. Roeung. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

The suspect is described as male Black, having a dark complexion and approximately 25-29 years old. He was last seen wearing a white baseball cap with a red bandana underneath. He is further described as being tall with a muscular build.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to contact Detective III Richard Wheeler, North Hollywood homicide at 818-623-4075. During off-hours or on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

Officer Involved Shooting in Van Nuys

Los Angeles: Officer assigned to the Valley Bureau Violent Crime Task Force was involved in an officer involved shooting. 

On February 27, 2008, motorcycle officer Derek Mousseau, a 12-year veteran of the Department and his partner, were assigned to the Valley Bureau Violent Crime Task Force.

At around 6:50 p.m., the officers saw Julio Eddy Perez commit a traffic violation while driving a 1997 burgundy Saturn in the vicinity of Van Nuys Boulevard and Valerio Street. The officers conducted a traffic stop at Cedros and Valerio Streets when they saw four other males in the car. After a brief conversation with the officers, Perez drove away and a short pursuit took place.

At the corner of Valerio and Kester, the left rear passenger, Byron San Jose got out of the car, holding a black metal object with both hands. San Jose advanced on Officer Mousseau’s partner who was still seated on his motorcycle causing him to accelerate and strike San Jose with the front of his motorcycle. At the same time, Officer Mousseau dropped his motorcycle in the roadway and deployed his service pistol, resulting in an officer involved shooting. During the confrontation with San Jose, suspect Perez drove away. The car was abandoned in the vicinity of Willis and Saticoy and the occupants left on foot. Four of the five occupants are accounted for including the driver, suspect Perez.

San Jose received multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles City Fire Department personnel. 

No officers were injured. The black metallic object possessed by San Jose, turned out to be a metal microphone stand approximately three feet long with a tripod base.

Force Investigation Division personnel responded to the scene and investigated the use of force and the officer involved shooting.

For additional information, please call Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.