LAPD Blog

Armed Robbery, Caught on Camera

Los Angeles:  detectives are asking the public’s help in identifying three men seen robbing a downtown computer supply store yesterday, April 23, 2009.

“These guys are quite bold and dangerous,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, head of detectives for the Central Police Station.  “They tied up eight persons and really took their time inside.  It looks like they were mainly after blank DVD media, probably for use in making illegal DVD for sale on the black market.”

Just after 1 PM, two Hispanic men walked into the Blank Media and Supplies store, at 1359 S. Hope Street, in downtown Los Angeles.  One man was tall with a baseball cap and the other was thin with a distinctive white crooner’s hat.  He was carrying a camouflage athletic bag.  After posing as customers for a bit, the two robbers pulled guns, barked orders in Spanish, and herded customers and employees into a back room.  

A third, heavyset Hispanic man joined the pair and all three suspects tied the victims’ wrists with plastic zip ties after demanding cell phones and money from each person.  The trio donned gloves and spent the next 26 minutes loading blank DVDs and big screen TVs into two vans that belonged to the business.  However, the suspects had to leave most of the loot behind when neither of the vans would start.  They moved more merchandise into a van the belonged to a customer then drove away.  Police found the abandoned van two hours later on 103rd Street in South Los Angeles.

“Anyone who knows these suspects should be able to recognize them from the video,” Vernon added.  Detectives believe the robbery crew had a lookout in the street and were talking to him throughout the robbery.  One suspect called the lookout by the name “Ulises.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Bennie Batac at 213-972-1246 during normal business hours.  After hours and on weekends, phone 1-877-LAPD 24-7 (527-3247).  Persons can also send anonymous tips by texting CRIMES (274637) and typing LAPD to start the message.

Lt. Vernon is available for interviews at the Central Police Station, 251 E. Sixth Street, Los Angeles  90014, TODAY between 1 PM and 3 PM.  Outlets may record video from a screen at the police station.

CHIEF BRATTON VISITS RECRUIT CLASS

April 23, 2025 - This morning at Elysian Park Academy Chief Bratton addressed the newest Recruit class. He stated the Recruits had worked hard to get there, and encouraged them to continue to work hard in order to complete the strenuous demands and training of the program. Chief Bratton recognized that by being in the Academy, the Recruits have proved they have the physical, mental, and spiritual strength needed to become an LAPD Officer.

He informed the Recruits law enforcement is an extraordinary profession, and the LAPD is an excellent organization, the epitome of law enforcement. The LAPD badge is most recognized worldwide, it is a privilege to wear it, and the Recruits should not be tempted to tarnish it.  “Every time you pin it, look at it, feel it and understand what it represents. ’’

Chief Bratton stated the recruits have joined the Department at an exciting time. He commented that becoming an LAPD Officer comes with great power, but the law should be enforced with great responsibility. The Chief urged the Recruits to enforce the law constitutionally, compassionately, and consistently. Police Officers must never break the law to enforce it, and never be tempted to pass the threshold of the Constitution.  Lastly he encouraged the Recruits to work hard and strive to be the best, to be an individual, but to share their skills with others that might need help.

The class composed of 76 recruits, began training in the Academy in March 2009, and is scheduled to graduate in September 11, 2009.

Family Needs Help Finding Missing 19-Year-Old

UPDATE:

Mr. Freddie Coney has been located and is at home with his family.

Los Angeles: The family of Freddie Coney and the Los Angeles Police Department request the public's assistance in locating Freddie.

Freddie was last seen by his mother on March 30, 2009, at around 10:00 a.m., at her residence in the Southwest Area of Los Angeles.  Although a friend of Freddie advised that he last heard from him on April 3rd, Freddie has not contacted his family or other friends in several weeks, which is very unusual.  Freddie has not come home for his clothing and has not used his cell phone since he went missing. 

Freddie is described as a male African-American with brown hair, brown eyes, 6' 3" tall and weighs approximately 280 pounds. 

Anyone who has information regarding the whereabouts of Freddie Coney is asked to contact the LAPD's Missing Person's Unit at 213-485-5381.  After hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 or by texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with the letters LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website, www.lapdonline.org.  All tips may remain anonymous.

                                      

Armed Robbery at Medical Marijuana Clinic

Los Angeles:  An armed and violent suspect robbed a medical marijuana clinic during the mid-morning hours.

On April 16, 2009, at around 10:45 a.m., the suspect rang the front door bell of the Safe Life Caregiver Store located in the 3000 block of West Olympic Boulevard.  The clinic attendant opened the door and allowed the suspect to enter.  Once inside the suspect pulled a handgun from his waistband.

Fearing he was about to be shot, the attendant initially struggled with the suspect over control of the handgun, before finally giving into the suspect’s demands.  He handed over a trash bag full of marijuana, and the suspect ran out of the store with it.

As the suspect was fleeing, the attendant armed himself with a handgun and ran after the suspect.  Outside, the attendant pointed his handgun at the suspect and ordered him to stop.  In response to the attendant, the suspect fired one shot at him and dropped the bag of marijuana, prompting the attendant to return shooting several rounds at the suspect.  Neither the suspect or attendant were injured.

The suspect is described as a Black man, black hair, brown eyes, 6 ft. 2 in. tall, 180 lbs., between 29 and 32 years of age.  

Surveillance video of the suspect is available by logging onto www.lapdtv.org.  This suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
 
Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to contact Olympic Robbery Detectives Sergio Martinez or Luis Corona at 213-382-9460.  During off-hours, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247).  Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.”  Tipsters may remain anonymous.

Fatal U-Turn

Los Angeles:  An elderly man was killed after he attempted to make a U-turn on Westwood Boulevard.

On April 21, 2009, at around 11:20 a.m., 81 year-old driver, Viron Konstantinidif, a resident of Los Angeles, driving a Jeep Cherokee made a U-turn from the southbound curb lane of Westwood Boulevard near Coventry Place.  An Audi Q7 being driven south on Westwood Boulevard by a 28-year-old man, collided into the driver's side of the Jeep.

Both drivers and the three passengers riding in the Jeep were transported to local hospitals with serious injuries.  The driver of the Jeep was pronounced dead at the hospital, and all the others were listed in serious but stable condition.

West Traffic Division, Collision Investigation Officer's Jerry Post and John Elsdon conducted the on-scene collision investigation.  West Traffic Detective Section, Detective Judy Acosta will be responsible for the follow-up investigation and can be reached at 213-473-0234.
                                                             
                                                                

Beloved Wilshire Detective Loses Long Battle with Cancer

Los Angeles:  On Monday, April 13, 2009, Wilshire Gang Impact Team Detective Janine Manji passed away after a 7 year battle with cancer. 

Janine Manji was born and raised in Sacramento, California.  In 1990 Janine graduated from UCLA after majoring in Psychology and Business.  She later pursued her dream of becoming an LAPD officer and joined the Department on August 7, 1995.  After her probationary period in North Hollywood Division, she found her home at Wilshire Division. 

Janine's heart and commitment was clearly in the battle against gang crimes.  She quickly became the team leader in the Gang Enforcement Detail, leading uniformed officers into the dark and gang infested streets of Los Angeles.  Although small and petite, Janine's big heart and commitment allowed her to capture and put away many members of the most violent and notorious street gangs in Los Angeles.  Janine is recognized nationally as a gang expert and has assisted various local, state, and federal agencies in the identification and/or capture of wanted fugitives for crimes ranging from theft, robbery, assault, extortion, and murder. 

In 2002 at the age of 35, Janine was diagnosed with cancer.  Immediate treatment and her will to overcome this disease appeared to have prevailed.  She was cancer free for the next few years and did not allow this terrible disease to hold her back. 

Janine was thrilled In 2005 when she was promoted to the rank of Detective and continued her crusade against gangs while assigned to the Wilshire Gang Impact Team.

The cancer returned in December of 2007.  Despite aggressive treatments and her will to survive, the cancer was no match.  Up until recently, Janine would not let her illness keep her down and she refused to give up.  Although visibly weak, weary, and often in unbearable pain, Janine continued to contribute greatly as a Detective assigned to Gang Impact Team.  Janine died at the age of 41.  She will be memorialized and remembered fondly during her funeral services scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2009.

Please contact Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586 for further information

Armed and Violent Suspect Eludes Capture for Two Hours

Los Angeles:  A suspect armed with a handgun ran from responding officers and eluded capture for two hours.

On April 17, 2009, at around 7 p.m., Northeast Area patrol officers responded to a "Man with a Gun" radio call at 1169 South Hoover Street.  Upon arrival, the officers observed the suspect on a bicycle with a gun in his waistband.  The suspect fled and a perimeter was established.  K-9 officers and an LAPD airship assisted in a search that took over two hours. 

During the search, the officers located the suspect inside a bedroom of a single family home at 1164 Commonwealth Avenue.  When the suspect refused to comply with the officers, a bean bag was deployed twice, striking the suspect on his side and buttocks area.  The suspect then charged the officer and was struck on the head with the butt of the bean bag shotgun.  The suspect was taken into custody without further incident.

The suspect was examined at Kaiser Hospital and was released and booked at Metropolitan Jail 12021.5 (A) PC, ex-con in possession of a firearm.  A semi-automatic Tec-9 was recovered at the scene.  The suspect has been identified as 29-year-old Luis Ibarra.

Involved officer is Richard Gadsby who has been with the Department for 13 years and 8 months.

Force Investigation Division was notified and is conducting the head strike investigation.  Northeast Detective Division is investigating the weapons charge.  A parole hold was placed on the suspect.  

Deputy Escalante’s Killers Arrested

***UPDATE***

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On December 16, 2008, two suspects were charged with the murder of Deputy Escalante; 24-year-old Carlos Velasquez and 20-year-old Guillermo Hernandez, both residents of Los Angeles.

On April 15, 2009, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed charges on one additional suspect, 18-year-old Jose Renteria, who is currently in custody. 

A fourth suspect, Armando Albarran is at large.  He is a 26-year-old Hispanic man, black hair, brown eyes, 5 ft. 11 in. tall, and 180 lbs.

Robbery-Homicide Detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating Albarran.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Daniel Jenks or Detective David Holmes at 213-485-2531.   After hours or on weekends, call a 24-hour toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 or by texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with the letters LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website www.lapdonline.org.  

Deputy Escalante’s Killers Arrested

Los Angeles: A collaborative investigation culminated in the arrest of two suspects believed to be responsible for the murder of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Juan Abel Escalante.

Deputy Escalante was a devoted husband to his wife and a dedicated father to his three children.  As a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff and a United States Army Reservist, Escalante was dedicated to a life to public service.

On Saturday, August 2, 2008, in the early morning hours, Deputy Escalante was leaving for work,  when he was brutally shot and killed in front of his parent’s home in Cypress Park.

A task force was developed which included representatives from the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and members of the Los Angeles High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (LA HIDTA).  An increased uniform patrol element was included in the task force.

On December 11, 2008, detectives obtained a series of search and arrest warrants.  The warrants were executed on December 12, 2008.  As the investigation progressed throughout the day, two male adults were arrested and booked in connection with the murder of Deputy Escalante.

The suspects have been identified as Guillermo Hernandez, 20, and Carlos Velasquez, 24, both residents of Los Angeles.  The suspects were booked and arrested for the murder of Deputy Escalante and are being held without bail at LAPD’s Jail Division.  

The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on December 16, 2024 for filing consideration.

The investigation is still ongoing in an effort to search for additional suspects that may have been involved in the murder of Escalante.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Robbery-Homicide Detectives at 213-485-2531.   After hours or on weekends, call a 24-hour toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 or by texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with the letters LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website www.lapdonline.org. 

Bring Your Child to Work Day

The Los Angeles County Probation Department observed “Bring Your Child to Work Day” on Tuesday, April 21 with a first ever tour of the Los Angeles Police Department.  The children of Probation Department employees were treated to an inside look at the inner-workings of the
9-1-1 Communications Center located in Downtown Los Angeles.

“Whoa! This is cool,” said Manuel Gonzalez, nephew of Probation Department Clerk Alexandra Cuadra.  “Look at all the computers,” he said as he pointed with a smile.

Police Service Representatives Angela Rodriguez and Jenelle Williams of the Community Relations Unit, offered the children informative reasons on when to call 9-1-1 and when not to use the emergency number.  They also answered questions on everything from graffiti to not going to school as reasons to use the emergency service.

The children were also able to take a tour of the Criminal Courts building where they sat in on a hearing and met with Judge Ronald Rose for a question and answer session.  They were given a talk on the dangers of gangs by Deputy Probation Officer Thomas Williams and at the end of their busy day, the children were given a check in the amount of $5.00 for their hard work.

 The Los Angeles Police Department would like to thank the members of the Los Angeles County Department of Probation who participated in “Bring Your Child to Work Day” and for their expressed interest in the LAPD.   While we belong to different organizations, we all belong to the law enforcement family.

Notes from the April 21, 2025 Weekly Police Commission Meeting

•    Police Commissioner Alan Skobin mentioned a study on DNA and forensics conducted by the National Academy of Science in February and how it could have a tremendous impact on policy and procedure.  He asked Assistant Chief Sharon Papa to keep the Commission abreast on the Department’s response to the findings.

•    Police Commission President Anthony Pacheco commented on the Board of Education’s decision to terminate the Diploma Advisory Project, which retrieves students who are at risk of dropping out of high school.  President Pacheco believes the elimination of the program would have adverse implications for police and encourages the Chief to continue to work with the school district in order to save the program.

•    Assistant Chief Sharon Papa informed the Commission the Department just broke the 9,900 mark in sworn police officers.  The new academy class for this month brings the total of sworn officers in the Department to 9,904.

•    The Department’s verbal report and discussion relative to City Council Motion (CF #09-0546)  regarding the naming of the new Police Administration Building was given by Assistant Chief Sharon Papa.  She informed the Commission the motion to name the new Police Administration Building “Parker Center” is going to be heard by the City Council on Wednesday, April 22.  The Commission authorized the President of the Board to prepare and send a letter to the City Council setting forth the Board’s position relative to naming the new Police Administration Building.

•    The verbal presentation and update from the Commanding Officer and Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) representative regarding community initiated problem solving, crime strategies, and other programs and goals within the Central Area was given by Captain Blake Chow.  He informed the board his area is a very diverse community.  They place an emphasis on youth outreach with an Explorers program, a youth committee, Internship opportunities, and youth programs which have approximately 225 people enrolled. Events planned are a National Night Out event at Pershing Square and a Central Area open house tentatively scheduled for October.  Their primary goal is to change the nature of what C-PAB’s are and should be.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 8, 2009, relative to the Department’s response to the recommendation of the timekeeping and Fair Labor Standards Act audit, March 2008, was received and filed.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 9, 2009, relative to the City Council Motion 09-0066: procedures related to monitoring of sex offenders, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 6, 2009, relative to the Gang Enforcement Detail quarterly status report, first quarter 2009, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 16, 2009, relative to the Criminal Case filing rates of individuals arrested – 1st Quarter report (January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025), was approved.

•    The Inspector General’s report, dated April 9, 2009, relative to the review of the Anti-Terrorism Intelligence Audit, fiscal year 2008/2009, was approved.