LAPD Blog

Metro Officers Officer-Involved Shooting in Newton Division

**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department's understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**


Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Force Investigation Division is investigating an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS) that occurred in Newton Division early Monday evening.

On March 19, 2018, around 6:50 p.m., Metropolitan Division uniformed officers; Police Officer III Josue Osorio, Serial No. 39357 and his partner were in Newton Division conducting routine crime suppression. During their patrol, the officers heard a radio broadcast of a shooting in the area of Washington Boulevard and Griffith Avenue, which described the suspect's vehicle as a white van. As the Officers drove northbound on Griffith Avenue toward the shooting location, they observed a white van driving southbound, matching the vehicle description of the shooting suspect as provided in the radio call. The officers made a U-turn as the suspect's van drove eastbound from Griffith Avenue onto 22nd Street, travelling a short distance before abruptly coming to a stop.

The officers quickly exited their unmarked police vehicle at which time they observed the suspect (later identified as 35-year old Eric Vaquero) walking alongside the driver's side of the van, armed with a gun in his hand. Officer Osorio fired his police service weapon at Vaquero. Vaquero, who as not struck by the gunfire, re-entered the van and drove a short distance east on 22nd Street before coming to a stop. The officers initiated a high-risk vehicle stop as Vaquero surrendered to arrest without any further incident.

Vaquero's loaded semiautomatic handgun was located inside the vehicle and booked as evidence. In addition, no officers were injured as a result of this incident nor were any pedestrians injured during the initial shots fired incident.

LAPD's specialized Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and began interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence. A representative from the Office of the Inspector General responded and monitored the scene investigation.

The complete investigation will be reviewed by the Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners and the Office of the Inspector General to determine the thoroughness and accuracy of the investigation and whether the use of deadly force complied with LAPD's policies and procedures.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to call the LAPD at any of the following numbers:

• During business hours at 213-486-5230;
• During non-business hours or on weekends at (877)-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247);
• Anonymously 24-hours a day to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or by texting "LAPD" and your tip to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S); or
• Online at www.lapdonline.org and click on "Anonymous Web Tips.

Dog Shot and Killed in South Los Angeles

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department Detective Support and Vice Division, Animal Cruelty Task Force, is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the suspects responsible for killing a dog.

On March 9, 2018, around 10:10 p.m., patrol officers responded to a radio call of shots fired in the 900 block of East 91st Street. Upon arrival, officers found a dead dog in the yard of a residence.

The dog was transported to the Los Angeles Animal Services, Harbor Shelter, where a veterinarian determined that the dog had been shot. A video was obtained which showed the killing of the dog.

The suspects were possibly four males and there is no further information at this time.

Anyone with additional information is urged to email the Animal Cruelty Task Force at [email protected]. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Father of Three-Week-Old Infant Arrested NR18072ma

 

Los Angeles: On March 3, 2018 around 11:05 p.m., Los Angeles Police Department Rampart Division patrol officers responded to a radio call. The suspect, later identified as thirty-two-year old William Lemuszetino, and the victim, his ex-girlfriend, were involved in an argument. While holding their three-week-old infant, the suspect struck the victim several times. He then dropped the infant on the floor.

Officers responded to the location and discovered the baby lifeless. Officers performed CPR which caused the baby to regain consciousness. The infant was transported to a local hospital where he was listed in stable condition and has since been released to his mother.

The suspect was arrested and booked for 273A(A) PC, harmful injury to a child. The suspect, William Lemuszetino, remains in custody on 100,000 bail.

LAPD Juvenile Division has assumed the investigative responsibility for this case. The investigation is ongoing and there is no further information at this time.

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Man Murdered in Mid-City NR18088dm

 

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department West Bureau Homicide Detectives are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect, or suspects, responsible for killing a man.

On March 18, 2018, around 10:00 p.m., patrol officers responded to a radio call of shots fired in the 4700 block of 17th Street. Upon arrival, officers found a victim of gunshot wounds who was being cradled in the arms of a family member.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at scene. The victim has been identified as 22-year-old Steven Lopez, a resident of Los Angeles.

The suspects were possibly two males and there is no further information at this time.

Anyone with additional information is urged to call West Bureau Homicide investigators at 213-382-9470. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

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Suspect Involved in 2 Robberies Caught on Video

Los Angeles: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Newton Area are seeking the public's assistance in identifying a violent robbery suspect.

On Saturday, March 17, 2018, around 6:00 p.m., a robbery occurred in a cell phone store located on the 2100 block of Central Avenue. An armed suspect entered the business and shows the employee a handgun and demanded the money from the cash register. The suspect opened backpack and instructed employee to put money in backpack. The suspect fled the location on foot.

On Monday, March 19, 2018, around 2:25 p.m., a robbery occurred at a title and loan company located in the 800 block of Washington Boulevard. An armed suspect entered the business armed with a handgun. The suspect chambered a round in the handgun while demanding money from the employee. The suspect exited the business and fled on foot.

The suspect in both robberies is described as a 25-30-year-old male Black with medium complexion. He stands 5 feet, 5 to 7 inches tall and weighs approximately 185 pounds. He was wearing a backpack, dark blue beanie with a Rams logo on the front, blue sweater with a white stripes, mustard yellow colored pants, and dark blue Vans. The suspect also has a tattoo of unknown writing on the left side of his face.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Fitzsimmons or Detective Avila, Newton Area Detectives at 323-846-6572. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). 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 www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips."

Class 10A-17 Recruit Graduation

Graduation 3-16-18 rev

 

Friday, March 16, 2018 – This morning in the auditorium of the Los Angeles Police Academy in Elysian Park, Chief Charlie Beck welcomed 31 new police officers to the LAPD family. The graduating officers proudly stood at attention as they were presented their diplomas of graduation in front of family and friends. The officers completed a comprehensive, highly structured 920-hour rigorous training program over the course of 24 weeks. The training program included classroom instruction, practical exercises, and scenarios to help each officer develop the knowledge and skills to excel in law enforcement.

Chief Beck thanked the family and friends of the new police officers for entrusting their loved ones to what can be a very dangerous and trying profession in a great City. Chief Beck also gave his thanks for creating an individual who can be a Los Angeles Police Officer. “The thing that defines an LAPD officer,” said Chief Beck, “is their character. Their character comes from you.”

The officers begin their assignments on the streets of Los Angeles this weekend. For more information on how you can become a Los Angeles Police Officer, please visit www.joinLAPD.com.

To hear Chief Beck address the graduating class, please lick on the link below.

Street Vendor Robbed and Brutally Assaulted

Los Angeles: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Newton Area are seeking the public's assistance in identifying violent robbery suspects.

On March 18, 2018, around 5:00 a.m., Newton Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of a Robbery Investigation at the corner of 31st Street and San Pedro Street in the City of Los Angeles. Upon arrival to the scene, officers discovered 54-year-old street vendor Pedro Reyes suffering from facial injuries he sustained as a result of being assaulted by suspects during a street robbery.

Reyes was in the process of setting up his produce for the day when the suspects drove up and exited their vehicles. The suspects demanded money from Reyes and other street vendors on the street. Reyes attempted to run away, but was caught by the suspects. The suspects punched and kicked Reyes repeatedly in the face, before taking his money and the additional street vendor's money. The suspects fled in their vehicles.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and transported Reyes to a local hospital where is currently being treated for a broken jaw and facial fractures. Two additional victims were treated at the scene for minor injuries and not transported.

The suspects were described as four male Blacks, 25 to 40 years old, and one female Black, approximately 25 years old.

Anyone with additional information is urged to call Detective Nubia Avila, Newton Area Robbery, at (323) 846-6572. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

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This St. Paddy’s Day, Don’t Rely on the Luck o’ the Irish Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving

St. Patrick's Day, like Cinco de Mayo, is popular holiday in the United States that is often associated with overindulgence in alcoholic beverages. In 2016 alone, 60 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Paddy's Day holiday period (from March 16, 2018, 6 PM to March 18, 2018, 6 AM) nationwide. The selfish act of drinking and driving can rip people from their friends and loved ones forever. For this reason, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is working to spread the message about the dangers of drunk driving. Even one drink can be one too many. If you're heading out for the Irish festivities, plan ahead and remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.

The LAPD will deploy additional officers at the following DUI Checkpoints and DUI Saturation Patrols, which will be conducted to specifically stop and arrest drivers showing signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment:

Friday, March 16, 2018
• 5 PM to 1 AM - DUI Saturation Patrol: North Hollywood Area
• 7 PM to 12 AM - DUI Saturation Patrol: Rampart Area
• 7 PM to 12 AM - DUI Checkpoint: Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard & Figueroa Street
• 8 PM to 1 AM - DUI Checkpoint: Vermont Avenue & 6th Street

Saturday, March 17, 2018
• 5 PM to 1 AM - DUI Saturation Patrol: Southwest Area
• 5 PM to 1 AM - DUI Saturation Patrol: Wilshire Area
• 8 PM to 1 AM - DUI Checkpoint: Figueroa Street & 9th Street
• 8 PM to 1 AM - DUI Checkpoint: Van Nuys Boulevard & Remick Avenue

Note: Locations of the checkpoints are subject to change or cancellation.

The California Highway Patrol, county sheriff departments and municipal police departments will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of impaired driving crashes.
In recent years, California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes. The LAPD supports the new effort from the Office of Traffic Safety that aims to educate all drivers that "DUI Doesn't Just Mean Booze." If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI. Also, marijuana use can lead to impairment, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI.

Remember: It's not just about you. There are other people on the roads who want to get where they are going safely. Don't let alcohol and or drug impairment cause you to be a risk to yourself and others on the road. Impaired driving is an act of selfishness. Before you put your keys in the ignition, remind yourself: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. If you feel a buzz, you are in no shape to drive."

The LAPD recommends the following safe alternatives to drinking and driving:

• Always remember to plan ahead. If you plan to drink or use marijuana, make arrangements for someone not impairment to drive you home. Is it your turn to be the designated driver? Take that role seriously-your friends are relying on you.

• Don't forget about the other safe ways available to get home. The OTS DDVIP smarthphone application is now available to download for free on iOS and Android devices. The app offers enhanced features that allows users to search all participating bars and restaurants throughout California. Additionally, the app users can easily order a sober ride from Uber, Lyft or Curb.

• Have a friend who is about to drink or use marijuana and drive? Be a good friend. Take their keys away and make arrangements to get them home safely.

• Always remember to report impaired drivers - call 911.

This enforcement effort is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The next DUI campaign is set for Cinco de Mayo.

Robbery Homicide Division in Identifying a Suspect

South Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery Homicide Division is seeking the public's help in identifying a suspect responsible for a series of business robberies.


The first of the six robberies detectives believe the suspect is responsible occurred on January 11, 2018. Since that time, the suspect is believed to have committed five additional robberies. The most recent robbery occurred on March 13, 2018. The suspect is described as a female Black, 40-50 years old. She is between 5'07" and 5'10" tall and weighs between 220 to 240 pounds. She is targeting small neighborhood markets and businesses, and has used a hand gun in all but one of the robberies. All the robberies have occurred in the area of Manchester Ave and Avalon Blvd. While no one has been injured during the robberies, the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.

If you have any information, contact Detective Teresa Alonzo, Robbery Homicide Detectives, at (213) 486-6840. During non-business hours or on weekends, please contact 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

LAPD Statement Related to POTUS Visit NR18080jr

 

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is working closely with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to prepare for President Trump's first visit to Southern California since taking office.

While the Department is well rehearsed at dealing with presidential visits, every administration brings with it unique challenges and new protocols, and unfortunately out of an abundance of caution many details about this visit are being withheld for security reasons.

The LAPD will be heavily deployed throughout the city to ensure the safe transport of the president and secure locations he will be visiting.

The Department will also be available to accommodate any residents who may feel a desire to exercise their First Amendment rights. We ask all of our residents to prepare for increased traffic with the potential of temporary street closures and delays."

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