LAPD Blog

An early morning start for LAPD’s Recruitment Section

(Thursday, May 15, 2008) A few minutes past 5:00 am, Officer Julian Canales, Recruitment Section, found himself in the make up chair for the first of two television interviews on Telemundo’s Channel 52 weekday morning show, ‘Buenos Dias.’ Officer Canales was there to promote the LAPD Latino Recruitment Seminar taking place Saturday, May 17, 2008, at the Ahmanson Recruitment Training Center. 

Quickly after wrapping up his second live television interview, Officer Canales then traveled two blocks down to W Radio 690AM where he was a guest on Hoy X Hoy with hosts Gerardo Lorenz and Mirthala Salinas.  Officer Canales was given the entire 10-minute segment to inform radio listeners about the written examinations and qualifications to become a LAPD officer.   

His day was just beginning!  Next stop was across town at the Spanish Broadcasting System radio studios.  Officer Canales was in studio for 45 minutes with ‘El Cucuy De la Mañana’ (The Boogy Man of the morning) on La Raza 97.9FM.  The highly rated radio show broadcasts in several different markets across the country.  Officer Canales was asked about the areas of the City he had been assigned to, the challenges police officers face in the field, the career opportunities available within the Department, and the salary one can expect as they advance in rank. 

Officer Canales’ partner, Officer Louis Origel, was also busy promoting the recruitment seminar.  Located down the hall from La Raza 97.9FM, Latino 96.3FM generously donated time from its already packed Thursday morning schedule to allow Officer Origel to record a 10-minute interview they would air the next morning.

“I’m very grateful to Telemundo, W Radio, El Cucuy and Latino for their assistance once again with our Department’s recruitment efforts. They were all kind enough to have me on as a guest in January when we had our previous Latino Recruitment Seminar,” said Officer Canales.   “The majority of the people who attended in January said they learned about our recruitment event from the media interviews we did the week prior to the event.”

“We expect a healthy turnout on Saturday from the media interviews we did this morning,” added Officer Origel. 

Last week on Thursday, May 8, 2008, La Ranchera 980AM also assisted with recruitment efforts by promoting the LAPD Latino Recruitment Seminar on their weekday morning show.

The interviews were scheduled by the Public Relations Unit, Public Information Office, and are part of the LAPD’s media campaign established with Spanish language media outlets to help bridge the communication gap between the Department and the Hispanic community.

DUI Prevention Presentation at University High School

(May 12, 2008) In a series of scenes and skits, the Drama class at University High School conveyed the important message of the dangers of drinking and driving.  With the entire Senior class in attendance, the students were enthralled by the performances, which had relevance to their experiences.  Skits entitled “First Date”, “Faceless”, “Mama with a Bottle”, and “8 Years Later”, all shared a theme in which underage drinking and driving led to their ultimate demise.

After the assembly and during the school’s lunch hour, the LAPD’s West Traffic Division, in conjunction with Safe Moves, had on display a vehicle that had recently been involved in an alcohol related accident.  Students were able to see first hand the consequences of driving under the influence.  Officers from the Department answered student’s questions and performed field sobriety tests with students willing to be the subject.  Brochures with information on transportation alternatives were available, as were handouts on the consequences of under-aged drinking and driving.

With the Senior Prom season in full swing and graduation just around the corner, these presentations and displays come not a moment too soon.  The Department takes a proactive approach by annually conducting its “Safe and Sober Graduation” operation as well as on-campus presentations on the dangers of drinking and driving.  With the help of high school students around the City, the Department can spread this message and help ensure a safe and happy, prom and graduation season. 

Safe Moves is one of the leading authorities in traffic safety education in the country for children, teens and their families.

Click images to enlarge:

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics May 03, 2008

VIOLENT CRIMES                2008**              2007**        % Chg

Homicide                             148                 136            +8.8%
Rape                                    273                 301            -9.3%
Robbery                              4481               4772            -6.1%
Agg Assaults **                    4217               4442            -5.1%
Total Violent Crimes           9119               9651            -5.5%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                               6676              6973            -4.3%
BTFV                                  10494            11382            -7.8%
Personal/Other Theft           9079               9790            -7.3%
Auto Theft                          7757               8525             -9.0%
Total Property Crimes     34,006            36,670             -7.3%
Total Part I Crimes          43,125            46,321             -6.9%

Notes For The May 13, 2008 Police Commission Weekly Meeting

•    Police Commission President Anthony Pacheco provided an update on the Commission’s investigation into the Explorers Program’s compliance with the City’s non-discrimination policy.  He stated that the Department of Public Works Bureau of Contract Administration was currently investigating the Explorers Program’s affiliation with the Learning for Life Program and examining the City’s social policy ordinances, including all non-discrimination ordinations.  Once a ruling has been made in the case, the Police Commission will be able to proceed and agendize the matter.

•    Commissioner Robert Saltzman attended a workshop at the University of Southern California on counter-terrorism with the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice.

•    Commissioner Andrea Ordin attended a series of internal meetings on the Department complaint process.

•    Commissioner Alan Skobin attended a meeting with Captain Ann Young and Lieutenant Patrick Shields regarding the City’s hotel ordinance.  He also attended a board meeting and retreat for the Peace Officers Association of Los Angeles County and attended a luncheon for the Task Force for Regional Auto Theft Prevention. 

•    Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger commended the Department on its recruitment efforts.  He noted that the Department’s current composition is 12.2 % African Americans, 40% Latinos, 6.6% Asians, and 39% Caucasians, and that the Department is the most diverse law enforcement agency in the nation. 

•    The verbal presentation relative to the status of Personnel Complaint Investigations arising from the May 1, 2007 MacArthur Park Incident was given by Commander Mark Perez.  He stated that the complaints are in the process of adjudication and should be ready for presentation to the Chief of Police in two weeks.  After presentation to the COP, the accused officers will be skellyed, at which time they can provide a response. Commander Perez stated the cases were still several months away from being presented to the District Attorney.  He recommended to the Board that another presentation be scheduled in four weeks to update the Commission at that time.

•    The verbal presentation and discussion relative to the Autism Awareness Program Training was presented by Captain Ann Young.  She stated that the Department is leading the way with Autism training and has trained over 500 officers and civilians this year.  It is her hope that the training be offered to Detention Officers as well.  She also stated that they are in the process of putting together a video to be played at roll call and plan to have an Autism Awareness Day later in the year.

•    The Department’s report, dated May 6, 2008, relative to the City Council Motion (Council File No. 07-0071), concerning the Community-Based Gang Intervention Model, was approved.

•    The Department’s Report, dated April 30, 2008, relative to the Transmittal of the Grant Application for the 2008 Click It or Ticket Program from the California Office of Traffic Safety, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 23, 2008, relative to an Approval of Professional Services Agreement between the City of Los Angeles and LexisNexis for Computer Assisted Research Services, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 23, 2008, relative to the Supplemental Police Account First Quarterly Report (January through March 2008), to comply with the provisions of Article 17, Section 5.115 of the Los Angeles Administrative Code, was approved.

•    The Department’s report, dated April 23, 2008, relative to the Timekeeping and Fair Labor Standards Act Audit, March 2008, as presented by Police Auditor Erin Kenney was approved.  She reported no FLSA violations were found.

•    The Department’s report, dated May 1, 2008, relative to the Ethics Enforcement Section Quarterly Report, First quarter, 2008, was received.

•    The Department’s report, dated January 30, 2008, and Office of the Inspector General’s report, dated May 2, 2008, relative to the Review of the Ethics Enforcement Section’s Quarterly Report, Fourth Quarter, 2007, was approved.

Missing Person in Need of Medical Attention

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public’s help in finding a missing person that is in need of medical attention and is unable to care for himself.

On Sunday, May 11, 2008, at around 8:40 p.m., 47-year old, John Dixon walked away from Northridge Hospital in Reseda.  Mr. Dixon is described as a male, Black, with black hair; brown eyes, stands 5’4” and weighs about 180 pounds.  He was last seen wearing a gold sweater, blue jeans and white tennis shoes.  Mr. Dixon has a tattoo on the left arm of the word “microphone” and the right arm of the words “Big city records.”

West Valley Area officers have conducted follow-up investigations to several locations but have been unsuccessful in locating him.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Mr. Dixon is asked to call the West Valley Area Watch Commander at 818-374-7611.  On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

L.A. City Councilman Sponsors Reward for Homeless Man Killer

Los Angeles:  Detectives are asking for the public’s help in finding the person responsible for the death of a 69-year-old homeless man.

On April 14, 2008, at around 10 p.m., an unidentified Hispanic man in his mid-20s approached Gene Loftis, an elderly homeless man, and punched him in the face near an El Pollo Loco Restaurant at Roscoe and Reseda Boulevards. Loftis fell to the ground, hitting his head on the sidewalk. He was then admitted to Northridge Medical Center, where he remained in a coma until his death on May 1, 2008. The motive for this assault remains unknown.

At a press conference earlier today at LAPD’s Devonshire Community Police Station, 12th District Los Angeles City Councilman Greig Smith announced his sponsorship of a reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the suspect.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call LAPD Devonshire detectives at 818-832-0609. After hours and on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).

68-Year-Old David Penton Has Been Missing Since May 3rd

Los Angeles:  The family and the Los Angeles Police Department are asking for the public’s help to locate Mr. David Penton.

David Penton was last seen on May 3, 2008, at 1500 W. Vernon Avenue in South Los Angeles, during the grand opening of the family’s business.  Mr. Peton has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and is need of medication. 

Mr. Penton is described as a 68-year-old male, Black with a white beard, black hair, brown eyes, 5’9”, and weighs approximately 135 pounds.  He was last seen wearing a blue and white checkered shirt, light blue jeans, black shoes, a white hat and eyeglasses.

If you have seen, or have any information regarding the whereabouts of David Penton, please contact Detective Kwock, Missing Persons Unit at 213-485-5381.  After hours and on weekends, please call the 24-hour Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855).

Arrest of Lock/Pick Burglar in West Los Angeles

Los Angeles:  LAPD catches burglar who has extensive criminal history in New York, Florida and California.

On April 10, 2008, a 64-year-old, male Caucasian identified as David Niera entered a condominium complex in West Los Angeles by using a credit card to slip the perimeter grounds gate lock.  Once inside the complex Niera would enter a residence by picking/slipping the front door lock and remove jewelry from the victim’s home. 

Niera’s image was captured by the condominium complex’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system.  A community alert was disseminated which included the CCTV image of Niera, whose identity at that time was unknown. 

On April 23, 2008, Niera returned to the same building and again attempted to force entry. An occupant recognized Niera from the CCTV video and summoned the police. West Los Angeles patrol officers took Niera into custody outside of the complex.

Niera was ultimately identified by Live Scan pursuant to his arrest and booking for burglary. It was believed that Niera was responsible for a large number of similar lock pick/slipped lock residential burglaries that occurred in the West Los Angeles area over the last year.  Through the detective’s investigation, it was also discovered that Niera had an extensive criminal history in
New York, Florida as well as California. 

The District Attorney’s Office has filed a felony burglary complaint for the burglary described above.  David Niera remains in custody on $1,000,000 bail and his preliminary hearing is set for May 9, 2008.

In addition, since the arrest of David Niera, lock pick/slipped lock residential burglaries have virtually ceased in West Los Angeles. 

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact West Los Angeles Detective Gonzales at
310-444-1564, or LAPD Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

LAPD Cracking Down on Buckling Up Click It or Ticket Aims to Boost Seat Belt Use

Los Angeles, California – The Los Angeles Police Department will be aggressively enforcing the state’s occupant protection laws as part of California’s 2008 Click It or Ticket mobilization, taking place May 12-June 1, 2008. The campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help California achieve the highest seat belt use rate in the nation.  California currently has the nation’s fourth highest seat belt use rate at 94.6 percent.

California has a primary seat belt law which requires that every passenger in the car, including the driver, is required to wear a seat belt at all times.  If stopped and found to be in violation, law enforcement will issue citations without warning.  Tickets for first seat belt violations range from $80 to $91 for adults and $330 to $401 for children under age 16, depending on the county. 

“We’re doing well with nearly 95 percent buckling up, fourth highest in the nation,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety.  “That’s 1.5 million more people protected from death and injury by using seatbelts since the Click It or Ticket campaign started in 2005.  But we can do better yet.  I urge everyone to always buckle up.”

While the buckle up rate for adults has continued to climb in recent years, California’s teen seat belts use rate lags behind the general population.  In 2007, California’s teen seat belt use rate was 88.9 percent, well below the state rate of 94.6 percent for the same year. 

More than 280 law enforcement agencies statewide will be participating in this year’s Click It or Ticket mobilization. Additionally, agencies are encouraged to conduct nighttime patrols in an effort to boost compliance at night.

Funding for officer overtime to support California’s Click It or Ticket campaign was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If you have any questions regarding the Department’s involvement in the mobilization, please contact Officer Don Inman, Traffic Coordination Section, at 213-847-1624.

Woman Found in Alley

Los Angeles:  Passer by finds woman in a South Los Angeles alley.

On May 9, 2008, at around 9:00 am, Southeast Division patrol officers responded to a radio call of a possible dead body in the alley in the 11200 block of South Avalon Boulevard. Upon arrival to the back alley, officers located the body of a female who had suffered severe injuries due to blunt force trauma. 

During the investigation, homicide detectives identified the victim as 46-year-old Jaquelyn Fields who was last seen by her friends’ late yesterday evening.  She was known to frequent
the area of Imperial Highway and Avalon Boulevard. 

The initial investigation has revealed that Ms. Fields suffered from multiple stab wounds, blunt force trauma and that she was murdered at the location where she was found.  Investigators do not have a description of the suspect(s) and the motive for this crime is unknown.

Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s assistance to identify the suspect(s) or witnesses to this incident.  Anyone with information is asked to call South Bureau Homicide Detective
Sal LaBarbera at 213-485-4341.  During off-hours or on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free anonymous tip line at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Welcome LAPD Recruits!

NOTE: click here for Chiefs Welcome to Recruits

Chief William J. Bratton welcomed the Department’s 3A-08 recruit class at an early morning meeting today at the Ahmanson Recruit Training Center.  Motivated by the motto “To make a Difference, you got to be the difference,” Chief Bratton inspired the recruits with the myriad of possibilities and career opportunities the Los Angeles Police Department holds in store for their futures.  He reminded the recruits the LAPD badge was among the most reputable in the nation and should be worn proudly.  Upon graduating and receiving their badges, Chief Bratton encouraged the recruits to always keep in mind the immense responsibility the badge entails, to uphold their commitment to protect and to serve, and to “do everything you can to make it shine.”

Leading By Example

On April 23rd, 2008, Senior Lead Officer Karen Reade, LAPD, joined Narine Zardarian, Field Deputy from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, in leading a class of 27 fifth- graders at Van Nuys Elementary School in the fight against crime. Zardarian, along with hundreds of deputy district attorneys and district attorney investigators, teaches about the criminal justice system as part of the District Attorney’s Project L.E.A.D. curriculum.

Having met Officer Reade through the Panorama City Neighborhood Council, of which Zardarian serves as the Secretary of the board, the two decided to introduce a different side of law enforcement to the students. Zardarian’s students are no stranger to law enforcement: one has a brother who was recently released from juvenile hall, another was asked to join a gang, and many other similar scenarios form the reality these kids are faced with on a daily basis. Surprisingly, on the first day of class, when Zardarian asked the students to write what they would like to be when they grew up, many said, a police officer. A police officer they would meet, Zardarian decided at that point.

Officer Reade fit the role perfectly. Her friendly smile and demeanor showed a different side of law enforcement to the class; yet her strong personality demonstrated that she meant business. Officer Reade was the perfect role model for the girls and a mind opener for the boys. The class had prepared many questions for her such as whether she likes her job, why she became an officer, if there are different requirements to becoming a police “girl” and if she has ever feared for her life.

These discussions not only informed, but also inspired the students. Prior to handing out prizes and saying good-bye, Officer Reade emphasized the most important thing about her job which is to treat everyone with respect. She challenged their views of the criminal and law enforcement relationship when she told them that even when arresting someone she still treats them with humanity, to the point where one individual said, “thank you,” when getting into the patrol car.

Project L.E.A.D. is grateful for the partnership of those who go above and beyond their call of duty and Officer Reade did just that when she committed herself to speaking to Zardarian’s Van Nuys Elementary 5th graders.

Narine Zardarian

Hit-And-Run Collision Kills Man on a Bicycle

Los Angeles: The LAPD is asking for the public’s help to identify a hit-and-run suspect who killed a bicyclist in the Hollywood area.

On March 16, 2008, at around 6:45 a.m., 72-year-old Artine Zarkarian was riding his bicycle northbound on Western Avenue when an unknown vehicle struck the rear of his bike just south of Elmwood Avenue and failed to stop.

Ejected from his bicycle, Zakarian landed on the street and sustained serious head injuries. He was transported by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics to a local hospital and eventually died from his injuries on April 29.

Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Acosta at the LAPD West Traffic Division, 213-473-0234. During off-hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Suspect Identified in Lincoln Heights Hot Prowls, Still Sought

Los Angeles: Los Angeles police have a name to match the face of a man suspected in series of hot prowl and sexual assault incidents that occurred two weeks ago in the Lincoln Heights area. The suspect is still at large, and police are seeking the public’s help in capturing him.

Through the use of photographs and forensic evidence, detectives quickly identified Rogelio Galvan, 21, as the suspect who burglarized several homes and sexually assaulted his victims.  He is described as Latino. He stands 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 140 pounds.

The rash of prowls took place on April 26 and 27, 2008, during the late-night and early-morning hours. Galvan entered the homes through a window and fondled his victims while they’re asleep, authorities said.

Over year ago, Galvan was arrested for a similar offense in the same area.

Anyone with additional information or the suspect’s whereabouts is asked to contact Hollenbeck Division detectives at 323-526-3000. During off-hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

North Hollywood Detectives Arrest Child Sexual Predator

Los Angeles: An aggressive investigation by the North Hollywood detectives has resulted in the arrest of a sexual predator of children in Sun Valley.

On May 5, 2008, a sexual assault crime involving a six-year-old juvenile victim, a resident of Sun Valley, was reported to the LAPD. The suspect’s mode of operation was to rent a room or residence next door to where the child/victim was living, befriend the child or the child’s family and eventually move forward with the assault. Information obtained during the investigation also revealed that the suspect had committed an additional sexual assault involving a minor victim. The investigation then moved into an aggressive attempt to locate the suspect and prevent further such crimes in the community.

On May 6, 2008, a search warrant was served at the Sun Valley residence of the suspect, 28-year-old Pedro Ortiz, where evidence was recovered that led to his arrest. Ortiz was booked at LAPD Valley Jail Section for lewd acts on a child under the age of 14. 

North Hollywood Detectives are seeking information from the public to determine if there are additional victims of this sexual predator. Ortiz previously lived in the Panorama City area of the San Fernando Valley, has gone by the name “Pete” and has used the aliases Sadot Lopez and Andres Lopez. He also has prior felony convictions and is a previously deported convicted felon.  A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold has been placed on Ortiz.

Anyone with additional information, especially in reference to other outstanding victims, may contact Detective Karen Crawford or Lieutenant Alan Hamilton at the LAPD North Hollywood Division, 818-623-4045. Calls during after-hours or on weekends may be directed to a 24-hour hotline at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

LAPD Chief Responds to London News Reports

Los Angeles: There have been several recent news articles indicating that I have been approached and accepted a position to act as an advisor to the new Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. 

I have had no conversations with Mr. Johnson, I have not spoken with any members of his administration and I have not been approached to act as an advisor as it relates to matters of crime reduction.

As a law enforcement executive I am often asked to share my thoughts and opinions on reducing crime and making communities safer.  I have long supported the “Broken Windows” theory of policing that by focusing on minor crimes, more serious offenses can be prevented.

In the past I have provided advice to former Mayor Ken Livingston and have consulted for both the city of London and the national government.  I would certainly be willing to do so, if asked, for the new Mayor in my official capacity as Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department. 

William J. Bratton
Chief of Police
Los Angeles Police Department

NOTES FOR THE MAY 6, 2008 POLICE COMMISSION WEEKLY MEETING

Police Commission Vice President John Mack, Commissioner Andrea Ordin, and Commissioner Robert Saltzman attended various May Day preparation meetings.  Commissioner Mack commented the event went extremely well and Chief William Bratton and Deputy Chief Michael Hillmann are to be commended for the extraordinary work they did in preparation for and execution of the event.

Police Commission Vice President John Mack also participated in yesterday's Annual Police Memorial Ceremony where the Department paid tribute to all 201 fallen LAPD officers.  A special presentation was made to the Simmons family and the 100th anniversary of the death of Captain Walter Auble was commemorated.

Commissioner Skobin met with Captain Baca and Lt. Carlton to discuss the Bandit Taxi Enforcement program, which is a joint effort with the Department of Transportation.  He also met with a senior official from the Drug Enforcement Agency, and separately with the Los Angeles Police Foundation Board to discuss issues of mutual concern.

Chief William Bratton reaffirmed the Mayor's commitment to the Department's hiring goals, and informed the Commission that recruitment is on track with the Department's goal of 1000 new officers. 

Chief Bratton also noted how well the May 1st demonstration went.

The Department's Report, dated April 4, 2008, relative to the Adjudication of Categorical Use of Force Incidents - Completion of Training Status Report - March 2008 was approved on Commissioner Skobin's recommendation that the next report be presented quarterly and include a historical trend analysis.   

The Office of the Inspector General's Report, dated April 22, 2008, relative to the Review of Increased Civilianization of the Los Angeles Police Department, was approved and transmitted to the Office of the Mayor and Office of the Controller.

The Department's Report, dated May 6, 2008, relative to the Proposed Revisions to Council-Approved Records Retention Schedule for Original/Official Records for Internal Affairs Group, was approved and transmitted to the City Clerk, Records Management Officer.

The Department's Report, dated April 24, 2008, relative to an Amendment to Santa Clarita Community College District Affiliation Agreement No. C-107437 was approved and transmitted to the Office of the Mayor.

The Department's Report, dated April 30, 2008, relative to the Office of the Inspector General's Non-Categorical Use of Force Investigations Audit, Fiscal Year 2007/2008, as presented by Inspector General André Birotte and Assistant Inspector General Beth Kennedy Alonso was approved.  In order to ensure the integrity of the results, Commissioner Skobin stated that it was critically important that the public know that investigations are conducted thoroughly and fairly and that officers are confident in the system.      

The Department's Report, dated April 18, 2008, relative to the report to City Council on Operation Status of Department Owned Security Cameras, was approved.                                                                                                          
The Department's Report, dated April 21, 2008, relative to the Memorandum of Agreement Between the Los Angeles Police Department, Board of Police Commissioners, and Department of General Services, was approved and transmitted to the Public Safety Committee.

The Department's Report, dated April 30, 2008, relative to the Gang Enforcement Detail quarterly Status Report - First Quarter 2008, was accepted.   

The Department's Report, dated April 9, 2008, relative to compliance with Inspector General's recommendations for the Discipline Report, Second Quarter, 2005 - Recommendation Item No. IG-01, was pulled.            

The verbal presentation and update from the Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) regarding community initiated problem solving, crime strategies, and other programs and goals within the Hollenbeck Area as discussed by Hollenbeck Area Captain Blake Chow and Hollenbeck C-PAB Co-Chair Sal Martinez was received.  Captain Chow informed the Commission of the station's efforts to better relations and increase dialogue with the community.  The Hollenbeck C-PAB is engaged in community outreach and fostering communication with its teenage community members.  It is also developing a website, monthly newsletter, as well as teaming with the Boys & Girls Club on this year's National Night Out event.

Police Commission Vice President John Mack invited the audience to attend the Los Angeles Police Commission Community Meeting on May 27, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. at Hollenbeck Middle School.

Two Brothers, Victims of Homicide

Los Angeles: On May 4, 2008, two brothers were gunned down and killed.

Manuel Romero, 37 years old, and his 27-year-old brother, Roberto Romero, were standing near Manuel's vehicle parked on the street in the 500 block of West 74th Street.  A suspect drove up to where the brothers were standing, pulled out a handgun and began firing at them. 

Manuel was hit multiple times by gunfire and collapsed next to his car.  Roberto was also struck multiple times by gunfire and attempted to run for safety.  He did not get far before collapsing in the street.

Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics responded and pronounced Manuel dead at the scene.  Roberto was transported to a local hospital and died a short time later.

The suspect is described as a male Black who was seen getting into a full size newer model silver or beige sport utility vehicle being driven by a Black female who fled from the location westbound on 74th Street.

The incident is not believed to be gang-related.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call South Bureau Homicide Detectives Linda Heitzman or Refugio Garza at 213-485-1383. During off-hours or on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Los Angeles Police Memorial Ceremony

(May 5, 2008) In a ceremony held at the Elysian Park Police Academy, the Department paid homage to the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and died in the line of duty.  With family members and fellow officers in attendance, the ceremony offered a sense of kinship as the names of the 201 officers were read. 

After the names of the fallen were read, members of the LAPD Honor Guard performed a rifle volley followed by the playing of Taps.  Air Support Division executed a Fly Over in the Missing Man formation that culminated with an End-of-Watch Broadcast of “we will never forget.” 

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a Presidential Proclamation making the second full week in May National Police Week.  Law enforcement agencies across the nation hold memorial ceremonies and other activities in honor of the men and woman who so proudly and honorably serve their

COMPSTAT Citywide Profile

Crime Statistics May 03, 2008

VIOLENT CRIMES                2008**            2007**      % Chg

Homicide                             141                 128          +10.2%
Rape                                    252                 290          -13.1%
Robbery                              4244               4511            -5.9%
Agg Assaults **                    4032               4165            -3.2%
Total Violent Crimes          8669              9094            -4.7%

PROPERTY CRIMES

Burglary                              6333               6582            -3.8%
BTFV                                   9939             10808            -8.0%
Personal/Other Theft           8604               9219            -6.7%
Auto Theft                          7285                8080            -9.8%
Total Property Crimes    32,161            34,689           -7.3%
Total Part I Crimes         40,830            43,783           -6.7%

Officers Confronted by Armed Suspect

Los Angeles:  Gang Enforcement Officers responded to a shooting call and were confronted by an armed suspect.

On May 2, 2008, at around 11:05 p.m., Officers from the Newton Area Gang Enforcement Detail (GED) were called to a residence in the 1400 block of East 23rd Street to investigate a radio call of a shooting that had just occurred. A victim met the officers as they arrived and told them that the suspect had fired a handgun at him and was still inside a residence, located next door to the victims. Officers were able to determine that they were dealing with a felony, assault with a deadly weapon, suspect.

Police Officer Eric Rose, and his partner, Officer Kevin Raines, along with additional GED officers formulated a plan to enter the residence to search for the suspect who had refused to come out. Rose and Raines entered the residence and encountered the suspect, Marco Gomez, 31 years of age, who had armed himself with a semi-automatic pistol. It was during this encounter that an officer involved shooting occurred and Gomez was shot.

Paramedics responded and pronounced Gomez dead at scene.

Gomez' semi-automatic was recovered at scene.

Officer Rose has been with the department for 8 years and Officer Raines for 6 years.

Force Investigation Division personnel responded and are investigating the shooting.      

22-Year-Old Woman is Missing

Los Angeles: The mother of Erica Ebony Granderson and the Los Angeles Police Department are asking for the public’s help in finding Erica, who has been missing since May 1, 2008.  Erica was last seen at Queen Anne Park located in the 1200 block of West Boulevard in the Mid City area of Los Angeles at about 9:00 a.m.

Erica’s mother left her at the park to look for younger sibling that had skipped school that day.  Her mother then left to take her other child to school and when she returned to the park, Erica could not be located.

Erica is five feet, ten inches tall and weighs about 275 pounds and wearing a black shirt, black pants and white shoes.

Erica has the mental capacity of a 10-year-old.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Erica is asked to contact Southwest Division Watch Commander at 213-485-2582 or the LAPD Missing Persons Unit at 213-485-5381. During off-hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Man Shot and Killed while Driving

Los Angeles: Authorities said a 31-year-old man was fatally shot early Saturday morning driving his car in the Pico-Union area of Los Angeles.

Just before 2:30 a.m., a traffic unit was called out to investigate a traffic collision at Venice Boulevard and Magnolia Street.  When officers arrived at the scene, they saw a mangled car smashed into a pole.  Paramedics pulled the victim from his vehicle and rushed him to California Hospital where he died.  At the hospital, police learned that the victim had been shot multiple times in the chest.

A preliminary investigation determined the victim, the only occupant of the targeted car, was driving a burgundy Camero west on Venice Boulevard when a gunman opened fire on him.  The victim lost consciousness and crashed into a pole.  An unidentified witness told police he or she heard four to five gunshots go off.

No one else was hurt.

Detectives are unclear if the victim and the gunman had been in an earlier confrontation.

There has been no arrest.

The victim’s identity is being withheld until a family member has been notified.

Detectives have no suspect description and few leads.  Anyone with information regarding this shooting is urged to call Rampart Homicide Detectives John Motto or Michael Arteaga, at 213-207-2060.  On weekends or after hours, contact the toll free 24-hour number at the Detective Information desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Man Shot and Killed

Los Angeles: Authorities said 25-year-old Roberto Perez was fatally shot Friday evening while walking in the area of the 4000 block of South Vermont.

Just before 8:00 p.m., unknown suspects driving northbound on Vermont, in a dark color vehicle stopped next to Perez.  The passenger exited the vehicle and shot Perez multiple times.  Perez was struck by the gunfire and collapsed on the sidewalk.  The shooter ran back to the waiting vehicle and fled northbound on Vermont

Paramedics responded and pronounced Perez dead at the scene.

The shooting appears to be gang related.  The suspects and weapons remain outstanding.

South Bureau Homicide Detectives Frank Alvelais and Ty Lee are conducting the investigation.  Anyone with is asked to call at 213-485-1383.  On weekends or after hours, contact the toll free 24-hour number at the Detective Information desk at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

Young Child is the Victim of Hit & Run

Los Angeles: A 4-year-old boy was struck and killed by a hit and run driver Wednesday afternoon. 

On April 30, 2008, at about 3:30 p.m., Jaylynn Watts, 4-years of age, was in an unmarked crosswalk walking southbound at Clyde Street and Jefferson Boulevard, along with other members of his family.  A driver in a 1998 Toyota Corolla driving eastbound on Jefferson Boulevard struck Watts and then fled the scene, failing to stop to render aid or identify himself, as required by law. 

Watts was transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries.  Shortly after the accident the driver of the vehicle, a 17-year-old juvenile from Los Angeles turned himself into police and was booked for vehicular manslaughter.  His name is being withheld due to his age.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact South Traffic Detective Rodney Jones at 213-485-7336.  During weekends and off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFUL (1-877-529-3855).