Juvenile Suspects Arrested in LA Car Burglary Spree
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Pacific Area auto detectives have announced the arrest of two juveniles suspected of being involved in a string of motor vehicle burglaries in the Westchester and Playa Del Rey areas. On the Pacific Division’s social media, the LAPD cautioned that residents should always remember to lock their vehicles and report any suspicious activity.
On January 20, 2024, in the early morning, two individuals shattered the windows of more than 60 parked vehicles in the Westchester area. Detectives collected video evidence depicting the suspects wearing dark-colored hooded sweatshirts as they smashed vehicle windows, looted property, and fled the scene.
Almost three months later, on April 14, a similar series of break-ins occurred in Westchester.
Seven days later, on April 21, another 17 vehicles were broken into in the Playa Del Rey area. As the investigation progressed, Pacific Area officers and detectives were able to pinpoint the whereabouts of the culprits.
Video evidence from several of the crimes led to the identification of two juveniles, who were detained in an apartment complex in the 7500 block of Manchester Avenue. Among the items recovered from the apartment were burglary tools, multiple backpacks, ID cards, and credit cards.
Both suspects were apprehended and booked for violation of 459 PC: Burglary from Motor Vehicle before being released to their parents. The investigation remains ongoing, and findings will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office for felony filing consideration.
Individuals with any information regarding this incident or other related incidents involving the aforementioned suspects are urged to contact Pacific Area Auto Detective Damien Levesque at 310-482-6367 (35094@lapd.online) or Detective Carlos Carias at 310-482-6420 (35790@lapd.online).
During non-business hours or weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anonymous tips can be provided to the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org. Additionally, tipsters may utilize the “P3 Tips” mobile application, selecting the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.