LAPD Blog

Devonshire Area Detectives Close Down Last of Medical Marijuana Storefronts

Los Angeles:  Monday afternoon Detectives served a search warrant at the last remaining medical marijuana storefront in Devonshire Area, which at one time had over 60 medical marijuana businesses operating in the area.

On January 30, 2012, around 3 p.m., LAPD Devonshire Narcotics Enforcement Detail served a search warrant at the Herbal Medicine Care facility in the 10100 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.  An extensive investigation into criminal conduct of the storefront provided detectives with probable cause to serve the warrant and close down the business. Three suspects were arrested for Possession of Marijuana for Sale.  Over 50 pounds of marijuana, including 156 Marijuana Plants, over $6000.00, and paperwork detailing the purchase and re-sale of marijuana were also confiscated.

In 1996, California Voters passed the Compassionate Use Act (CUA) sometimes referred to as Prop 215. The CUA gave a limited group of patients and their “primary caregivers” the opportunity to possess, cultivate and transport marijuana for the patient’s personal medical use. However, possession, cultivation, transportation, distribution and sales of marijuana are still illegal under both Federal and California Law.  

In 2003, the California Legislature passed the Medical Marijuana Program (MMP), sometimes referred to as SB420.  The MMP gave patients and their primary caregivers a chance to get a Medical Marijuana ID Card issued by the State of California, and the chance to come together in groups (Cooperatives or Collectives) to cultivate marijuana.

In recent years, many persons have set up marijuana storefront distribution centers claiming to be medical marijuana clinics, dispensaries, cooperatives and clubs. These businesses have set up next to legitimate businesses, schools, and even day care centers. Many of these businesses are supported by the same criminal element that would be selling drugs even if they could not hide behind the laws written to help people with serious illnesses. There is no provision in the CUA or MMP for the sale of marijuana.

The stated purpose of the CUA and the MMP was to help people with serious illnesses get safe access to marijuana. The CUA and MMP did not legalize marijuana or allow anyone to profit from cultivation, distribution, or sales of marijuana. Because of the exploitation of these laws and the strength of marijuana, marijuana is now the number one drug for self-admission to drug rehabilitation centers in LA County.

With these laws in mind, starting in December 2008 the Los Angeles Police Department, Devonshire Narcotics Enforcement Detail in conjunction with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and with the support of the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office and Council District 12, established investigative protocols to determine if these storefront businesses were operating within the protections afforded by the CUA and MMP. At that time, there were over 600 of these businesses operating throughout the City of Los Angeles with more opening daily.

They quickly became the center of various crimes including the sale of marijuana to nonmembers and juveniles in the surrounding neighborhoods, the burglary of adjoining businesses in order to gain access to the marijuana facilities, armed robberies with shots fired and ultimately the attempted murder and murder of the owners and workers at these locations.

Starting in December of 2008, LAPD, Devonshire Narcotics Enforcement Detail has investigated thirty seven of these locations resulting in seventy-one related search warrants (storage facilities, owner’s residences, etc.) and in each case these storefront marijuana sales locations were found to be in violation of State Law. All of these storefronts operated on a retail sales basis of cash and carry.

Several of the locations had armed security in plain clothes and others in uniforms, several had firearms concealed for easy access and in two instances they contained assault weapons including an AK-47 and a collapsible stock Mini-14. Some of these locations had other narcotics in them, including one with 9 kilos of cocaine. Some contained sophisticated hydroponic marijuana growing operations others had a few plants growing in pots under a single light. Owners of these businesses also engaged in tax evasion, money laundering, witness intimidation, threatening of nearby business owners and theft of utilities. All contained various amounts of cash ranging from a few hundred dollars to over half a million.

All of these arrests have resulted in felony filings in Superior Court with the vast majority of defendants pleading out and several cases are still pending.

Since 2008 there have been 74 arrests, over 2 Million in cash seized, the recovery of 30 guns including an AK-47 and a Mini 14, over 1 ton of marijuana, and other dangerous drugs including nine kilos of Cocaine, LSD, Hashish, and Anabolic Steroids.

Anyone with further information on this investigation, or questions may contact Devonshire Narcotics Enforcement Detail, Detective Robert Holcombe at 818-832-1164. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Missing Juvenile-Alfonso Mendez

UPDATE
January 31, 2012

Mendez was found in LAPD’s West Valley area and reunited with his family

 

Los Angeles:  The family of Alfonso Mendez and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) are asking for the public’s help in locating Alfonso, who was last seen on Friday, January 27, 2012, at about 10 a.m., in the 14200 block of Gruen Street in Pacoima.

Alfonso had been despondent after an argument with his mother.

Alfonso is a male Hispanic, with short dark hair, brown eyes, 5 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 95 pounds with a slim build.  He was wearing a dark gray sweater and light gray pants.

Alfonso has been known to frequent the area in the 9000 block of Langdon Avenue in North Hills.   

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Alfonso Mendez is urged to contact LAPD Mission Division at 818-838-9800.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.  REF DR 12-1905606

Super Bowl Sunday DUI Prevention “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk”

Los Angeles:  Football is one of America’s favorite pastimes, but fans can put themselves in serious danger if they don’t plan ahead.  Whether you’re at the game or watching from a sports bar or a friend’s house, designate a sober driver before the game.  Remember, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk!

The following are some recommendations of what you can do if you are hosting a Super Bowl party:

Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers before kick-off or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers

• Find unique ways to recognize the designated drivers at your party

o Give them a great spot to watch the game
o Whatever non-alcoholic beverage they are drinking, make sure their glass is always full
o Let them have the first pass at the buffet table
o Make sure their cars are easy to access when it is time to start driving people home

• Serve plenty of food
• Offer a variety of non-alcoholic choices like soft drinks, juice, and water
• Serve one drink at a time and serve measured drinks
• Only serve alcohol to guests over 21 years of age
• Determine ahead of time when you’ll stop serving alcohol, such as one hour before the end of the party or at the end of the third quarter of the game (just like NFL stadiums) and begin serving coffee and dessert
• Add the numbers of local cab companies into your phone so they are just one touch away
• Take appropriate steps to prevent anyone from driving while impaired
• Be prepared for guests to spend the night if an alternative way home is not available

If you are attending a Super Bowl party or watching at a sports bar or restaurant:

• Designate your sober driver before the party begins and leave your car keys at home if you plan to drink
• Find unique ways to recognize the designated drivers when you are out at a bar or restaurant

o Offer to be the designated driver the next time you go out
o Cover the cost for parking or even pay for a tank of gas
o Whatever non-alcoholic beverage they are drinking, make sure their glass is always full
o Pick up the tab for their food and drink

• Before you go out, add the numbers for local cab companies in your cell phone so if you find yourself in need of a ride, it is just one touch away
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself—eat enough food, take breaks and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
• Take appropriate steps to prevent anyone from driving while impaired. Remember, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.

Always buckle up – it’s your best defense on the road.

For further information, please contact Detective Bustos at 818-644-8021 or Cell 213-841-9060.

LAPD Detective Arrested for Grand Theft

Los Angeles: Detective II Ramon Alvarez, a 25-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department, assigned to Gang and Narcotics Division was arrested on January 27, 2012 by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) for violation of Penal Code 487, Grand Theft.

LAPD’s Internal Affairs Criminal Investigation Division arrested Alvarez at a suspected narcotics location in Los Angeles. During the service of an arrest warrant, a fellow detective believed that Alvarez had possibly removed a quantity of money from the location. The detective immediately notified his supervisor of the possible criminal misconduct. Alvarez’ vehicle was searched, and a quantity of money believed to be the property of the narcotics suspect was recovered from the vehicle.

When advised of the arrest, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck stated, “I am extremely disturbed and shocked by the arrest, but heartened by the actions of the detective who immediately reported what appeared to be criminal behavior.”

Alvarez was booked into the LAPD’s Metropolitan Detention Center. His bail was set at $20,000. LAPD officials have advised and been in contact with the appropriate prosecutorial agencies regarding this arrest.

Alvarez was immediately placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of both the criminal and administrative investigations.

Los Angeles Police Department Media Relations Section, 213-486-5910.

 

New Year, New Officers

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What a great beginning. Today, January 27, 2012, class 8-11 was the first class this year to march across the academy field becoming the newly appointed police officers for the Los Angeles Police Department. Even though the sun was not shinning, thirty six newly recruited officers held their heads up high as it was the brightest day of their lives.

The first comments Chief Charlie Beck made were directed to the friends and family of the new officers.  He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the people that stood by the officers while going through one of the toughest part of their lives.  He stated, “Thank you for what you have done. These officers are here because of you, they are here because you raised them, you befriend them, you encouraged them and you mentored them into the people they are today.” 

Chief Beck addressed the officers telling them how much they mean to him, how much they mean to the Department.  He stated, “What you do for the rest of your careers will influence how the public will view the Department.” 

Check Beck ingrains the word “Character” into the minds of the officers, advising them if they do not have character, they do not have anything.  Character is one of the most important characteristics needed to become a Los Angeles Police Officer.  Chief Beck stands on the word, he believes in the word and he wants the men and women of this Department to have the same belief. 

The officers will start this New Year with their new careers and a new respect for the City of Los Angeles.  Good luck class 8-11. 

Missing Person Janet Dominguez

UPDATED
(January 26, 2012)

Ms. Janet Dominguez has been located.

Los Angeles:  The family of Janet Dominguez and the Los Angeles Police Department are asking for the public’s help in locating Ms. Dominguez.

Dominguez was last seen on January 14, 2012, at around 9 p.m., at her residence in the 2200 block of South Naomi Avenue, in Los Angeles. Dominguez drove from her home in a beige 1998 Ford Contour, with a license plate number 6JEE562. She was supposed to pick up her twin sister at the nearby Metro Station; however Dominguez never arrived at the station and has not been seen or heard from since.  Her family is extremely concerned for her welfare, because she left her three young children at home.

Janet Dominguez is described as a 21 year old female Hispanic with blonde hair, brown eyes, 5 feet 5 inches, and weighs approximately 130 pounds.  She was last seen wearing a white shirt, jean pants, and black and white Nike tennis shoes.  Dominguez also has a tattoo on her right ankle of the word “twins” and a small scar on her right eyebrow.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Dominguez is asked to call the LAPD Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Notes from the January 24, 2012 Weekly Police Commission Meeting

• Police Commission Vice President John Mack said he rode in the MLK Day Parade on Monday and said it was a positive and uplifting experience.

• Police Commissioner Robert Saltzman thanked the employees who were at the special Police Commission meeting last week and expressed  disappointment and concern over the treatment of certain speakers during the public comment portion of the meeting by other members of the audience.

• Police Chief Charlie Beck thanked the members of the community who came out to the MLK Day Parade held in South Los Angeles last Monday. He added by saying the Department currently has 9,925 sworn officers and 2,833 civilian employees on payroll.

• The Board of Police Commissioners’ report, dated January 19, 2012, relative to the Police Commission’s audit of anti-terrorist intelligence section, as given by Deputy Chief Michael Downing, was approved. Chief Downing stated their focus was on how investigations were opened and documentation issues.

• The Department’s report, dated January, 17, 2012, relative to the DNA monthly report for October 2011, was approved and transmitted to City Council.

• The Department’s report, dated January 17, 2012, relative to the DNA monthly report for November 2011, was approved and transmitted to City Council.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the transmittal of the grant award agreement for the fiscal year 2010 infrastructure protection grant program: buffer zone protection program grant, was approved and transmitted concurrently to the Mayor and City Council.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the request for payment of reward offer on City Council file no. 10-0010-S32, was approved and transmitted to the Mayor and City Council.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the Department’s quarterly discipline report, second quarter of 2011, as given by Commander Richard Webb, was received. Commander Webb stated this report included three years of data and there were no statute issues. He added there are more precise definitions of some of the cases pending and there is better data recognition on this report.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the field training officer selection and training inspection (IAID No. 11-0569), was approved.

• The Department’s report, dated January 20, 2012, relative to the recommendation for the Police Commission Distinguished Service Medal, as given by Police Administrator Gloria Grube, was approved. Ms. Grube said five employees from the City Attorney’s office were nominated for their work on the Safer Cities Initiative.

• The Department’s report, dated January 20, 2012, relative to the digital in-car video system inspection (IAID No. 11-120), as given by Deputy Chief Patrick Gannon, was approved. Chief Gannon informed the Board this audit was a significant improvement over the last audit. He said when an employee transfers into the bureau the Commanding Officer of the division sends the date and time of completion of training to him.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the search warrant application and supporting affidavits audit, second quarter, fiscal year 2011/12, was approved.

• The Department’s report, dated January 20, 2012, relative to the foreign language and telecommunications device for the deaf inspection (IAID No. 11-125), as given by Commander Matt Blake, was approved. The Board asked the Department to return in 30 days with an update on progress.

• The Department’s report, dated January 20, 2012, relative to the Operations Central Bureau narcotics enforcement detail command accountability performance audit (IAID No. 11-123), as given by Commander Matt Blake, was approved. Commander Blake stated 51 reports were reviewed with a 96% compliance rate. He added by saying there was 100% compliance with regards to financial disclosure by officers.

• The Department’s report, dated January 12, 2012, relative to the destruction of obsolete duplicate records for Hollenbeck Area, was approved and transmitted to the City Clerk, Records Management Officer.

Man was Gunned down on Front Porch

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Harbor Homicide Division detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the arrest of a suspect (s) who killed 25-year-old Kyon Hicks in Harbor area.

On January 24, 2012, at 1:05 p.m., Hicks was in front of his apartment building in the 1500 block of West 206th Street when he and his two friends became involved in an argument with three unknown male Black suspects.

One of the suspects fired multiple gunshots at Hicks and his friends. Hicks ran a short distance and collapsed while another victim suffered only a graze wound.

The Los Angeles Paramedics transported Hicks to a local hospital where he died from his injuries. It is unknown if this incident is gang related.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Harbor Homicide Detective Boris Oliva at 310-726-7881 or Detective Fernando Rivas at 310-726-7882.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Man Threatens Family, Police, with Handgun

Los Angeles:   Police responded to a call of a man threatening his family, having already battered one of them.  When making contact with the suspect, he armed himself with a handgun that ultimately resulted in an officer involved shooting.

On January 22, 2012, just before 6 a.m., North Hollywood Area patrol officers were called  to the 7700 block of Ethel Avenue for a man acting erratically and threatening his family members.

When officers arrived they were met by the sister of 22-year-old Karapet Bulmadzhyan.  She told the officers that Blumadzhyan had hit her and had threatened she and her mother with further physical harm.

Officers asked Bulmadzhyan to come out of his bedroom so they could speak with him, but he refused.  Ignoring the officers continued commands to come out of the room, Bulmadzhyan instead armed himself with a handgun.

Officers retreated to the front of the residence to gain a tactical advantage.  Bulmadzhyan followed them and came out of the house pointing the gun at the officers resulting in an officer involved shooting.

Bulmadzhyan was hit by gunfire.  Los Angeles Fire Department Rescue responded and pronounced Bulmadzhyan dead at scene. None of the officers were injured. A revolver was recovered at scene.

The LAPD Force Investigation Division responded to the incident and will conduct a thorough investigation of the officer-involved shooting and all related crimes. The investigation will ultimately be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Office of the Inspector General and Board of Police Commissioners for compliance with the Department’s use-of-force policy which states that an officer’s use-of-force actions must be objectively reasonable.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call the FID at 213-486-5230.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.

Military Exercises to be Conducted in the Downtown Area

Los Angeles:   Multi-agency tactical exercises are to be conducted during evening hours around the downtown area January 22-26, 2012.

The Los Angeles Police Department will be providing support for a joint military training exercise in and around the great Los Angeles area.  This will be routine training conducted by military personnel, designed to ensure the military’s ability to operate in urban environments, prepare forces for upcoming overseas deployments, and meet mandatory training certification requirements.  

This training has been coordinated with local authorities and owners of the training sites.  The training sites have been carefully selected to ensure the event does not negatively impact the citizens of Los Angeles and their daily routines.  

Lastly, safety precautions have been taken to prevent risk to the general public and the military personnel involved. 

As such, this training is not open to the public.