LAPD Blog

Statement Regarding Investigation into Former USC Dr. George Tyndall

Los Angeles: In mid- May, news broke of allegations from patients and staff at the University of Southern California describing conduct and examinations which appeared to go beyond the norms of the medical profession. The doctor at the center of the accusations was Dr. George Tyndall, a former USC gynecologist.

Currently, the LAPD has the names of 52 people who have alleged inappropriate conduct by Dr. Tyndall between 1990 and 2016; 39 names were provided to LAPD by USC and 13 people have contacted LAPD directly. The LAPD investigation is independent of the USC administrative investigation and will remain autonomous. Investigators will be working to speak with the people they have identified to gather information regarding their experiences with Dr. Tyndall.

The LAPD wants to personally outreach to those who may have been impacted and believe they have been the victim of criminal conduct by Dr. Tyndall. Please know the LAPD stands ready to listen, respond, investigate, and ultimately present the investigation for prosecution when the facts lead us there. The LAPD will hold your information in confidence and in absolute compliance with California law as it pertains to issues of privacy when reporting acts of sexual assault and misconduct.

Anyone with additional information in this matter is urged to call Robbery-Homicide Division, Special Assault Section at (213) 486-6910. 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 L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) 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 L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

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Response to Partial Release of Video

Response to Partial Release of Video by Plaintiff's Attorney in Teresa Dominguez et. al. vs. City of Los Angeles et. al.

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is aware of the partial release of digital video evidence by the plaintiff's attorney in Teresa Dominguez et. al. vs. City of Los Angeles et. al. during a press conference earlier today.

The LAPD conducted a thorough investigation of the officer involved shooting and examined all of the evidence in the case to determine whether the officers met the high standards expected by the community in the use of deadly force.

The independent Inspector General and the civilian Board of Police Commissioners also thoroughly reviewed the full investigation by examining all of the video evidence, the statements of officers and witnesses, the forensic reports, and several other factors in determining that the use of force was appropriate. In addition, the Los Angeles District Attorney reviewed the entirety of the case and determined that Officer Medina used reasonable force in self-defense and the defense of others.

The Los Angeles Police Department understands that any time that an officer uses deadly force that ends in a fatality it is a painful tragedy for the family and friends of the suspect, the community and the officers involved. This is why the LAPD, its oversight bodies, and the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office scrutinizes these incidents as closely as possible to ensure that the use of deadly force was appropriate to defend the life of the officer or members of the public.

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Murder in Sylmar NR18150dm

 

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

On May 28, 2018, at 9:40 p.m., Mission Area officers responded to a "Shots Fired" radio call at Sylmar Park, located in the 13100 block of Borden Ave in Sylmar. Upon arrival, officers located a victim of a gunshot wound.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at scene. The victim has not been positively identified.

There is no suspect information.

Anyone with additional information is urged to call Valley Bureau Homicide Detective Johnneen Jones at (818) 374-1931, or Marco Evans at (818) 374-1936.
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.

MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL GANG TASK FORCE

 

Los Angeles: In the early morning hours, personnel from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, East Los Angeles Station, and the Los Angeles Police Department Hollenbeck Area Gang Impact Team, worked together to address recent gang violence that has plagued both jurisdictions.

On May 23, 2018, over forty officers participated in the multi-jurisdictional parole and probation task force, with the assistance of other governmental agencies such as Los Angeles County Department of Probation and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

The individuals that were involved in the compliance searches were identified as being some of the most active, and violent from their respective criminal street gangs. The intent of the action was to ensure that the individuals were in compliance with court ordered conditions, and if they were, intervention services, such as job training and other support services were offered.

As a result of the 35 compliance checks nine gang members were arrested, six firearms were recovered, including an assault rifle. In addition, an explosive device was recovered and rendered safe by LASD personnel, and as various-types of ammunition were recovered as evidence.

The multi-jurisdictional efforts will increase in the coming months and will involve agencies from throughout the East Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley Area. The agencies involved are committed to the safety and overall reduction of gang violence.

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."

Officer-Involved-Shooting in Northeast 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 Northeast Division early Monday morning.

On May 21, 2018, around 12:03 a.m., Northeast Patrol Division uniformed officers were in the area of Figueroa Avenue and Avenue 52. The officers observed a Honda Civic and confirmed via their Mobile Digital Console that they were following a reported stolen vehicle. The suspects in that vehicle immediately sped away and the officers went in pursuit. While in pursuit, the officers observed the passenger expose his upper torso out of the passenger window while holding what appeared to be a shotgun. The suspect began to shoot at the officers, resulting in an OIS.

The pursuit terminated when the officers lost control of their police vehicle and collided with the curb at Avenue 50 and Aldama Street. A short distance from the traffic collision, the suspects' vehicle and a loaded shotgun were recovered.

No officers were injured and one suspect was treated at a local hospital for a non-life threatening injury.

LAPD's specialized Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and began interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence. Representatives from the Office of the Inspector General and Los Angeles County District Attorney's Justice System Integrity Division responded and monitored the 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.

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Woman Dies from Injury Sustained in Assault

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department's Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect(s) responsible for the beating death of 58-year-old, Lynn Wright Matthews.

On July 1, 2017, around 11:50 p.m., Foothill Division Patrol officers received a radio call of a, "415 Man Assaulting a Woman", in the 10500 block of Florita Avenue.

Officers arrived and observed the victim laying on the ground, bleeding from the head and unresponsive. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel responded to the scene and transported the victim to a local hospital where she remained unresponsive and in critical condition.

The victim remained in the hospital for several months and her condition never improved. She was transferred from several hospitals and eventually admitted to Intensive Care Unit due to her condition. On May 18, 2018, she was pronounced dead due to her injury.

Suspect is described as a male, without any further description at this time.

Anyone with additional information is urged to call Detective Steve Castro, Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau Homicide, at (818) 374-1925. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. 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 L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

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Traffic Collision Leaves Victim Dead

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department's West Traffic Detectives are asking for the public's help in providing any information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect involved in a fatal hit and run collision that killed a white Male around 25-30 years-old.

On Tuesday, May 22, 2018, around 11:05 p.m., the driver of a vehicle struck and killed a man on Sunset Boulevard near Normandie Avenue. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries. The driver of the vehicle, failed to stop and render aid to the pedestrian, as required by law, and left the scene eastbound on Sunset Boulevard to southbound Normandie Ave. Deceased's next of kin has not been notified. The investigation is still ongoing.

On April 15, 2015, the City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit and Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members who provide information leading to the offender's identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Traffic Division Detectives during business hours at (213) 473-023 or (213) 473-0222. 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 the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit ww.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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Detectives Seek Additional Victims of Extortion Suspect

Los Angeles: On April 26, 2018, police officers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Rampart Division arrested Jose E. Morales, a resident of Los Angeles, for extortion.

On Tuesday, April 3, 2018, at 3:00 pm., the victim visited a business, a legal office in the 500 block of N. Alvarado Blvd., where Morales was employed. The victim, having been lead to believe that Morales was a licensed lawyer, asked Morales for assistance with her husband’s immigration case. During the visit, Morales became sexually aggressive with victim and she quickly left his office. Over the next few days, Morales repeatedly called the victim offering discounted legal services for her husband’s case in exchange for sex, which the victim refused. Morales told the victim he would not work on her husband’s case and he would have her U-Visa revoked unless she had sex with him. The victim contacted the local bar association to report Morales, at which time she was told to file a police report. The victim reported Morales to Rampart Area and Morales was arrested.

Morales had been an employee at the legal office for atleast ten years, possibly longer. Detectives believe there are numerous other victims and they are encouraging them to come forward.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Rampart Robbery Area Detectives at (213) 484-3640. 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 ww.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.

Notes from the May 22, 2018 Weekly Police Commission Meeting

PC Mtg May 22

Commissioner President Steve Soboroff opened the meeting and a quorum was established.

All Consent Agenda items were unanimously approved.

 

Executive Director’s Report, dated May 18, 2018, relative to the Renewal of Towing and Storage Agreement, Contract No. C-121705, with Absolute Towing – Hollenbeck Division, Inc., for Official Police Garage Service Area 4, as set forth. [BPC #18-0175] was approved and will transmit to the City Council.

Department’s Report, dated May 17, 2018, relative to Field Operations Training Unit – Recommendation for the Police Commission Unit Citation, as set forth. [BPC #18-0173] was approved.

Department’s Report, dated May 17, 2018, relative to the Special Olympics Working Group – Recommendation for the Police Commission Unit Citation, as set forth. [BPC #18-0172] was approved.

Department’s Report, dated May 16, 2018, relative to the 2018 First Quarter Report on Homelessness, as set forth. [BPC #18-0174] was approved.

Department’s Report, dated May 16, 2018, relative to the update on the Implementation of the National Best Practices, as set forth. [BPC #17-0370A] was approved.

Chief Beck said the 9th annual Gunbuy Back collected almost 500 guns, 10% of which were assault weapons. This event is part of reducing overall gun violence. Prior to the police commission meeting, Chief Beck gave more than one hundred 35-year service pins which speaks to the tenure of the LAPD leadership.

Chief Beck reported on an Officer-Involved Shooting that occurred in Northeast area after midnight on Monday May 21, 2018, in the area of Figueroa and Avenue 52. Officers observed and verified a stolen vehicle per their Mobile Digital Terminal. While in pursuit of the stolen vehicle, the officers saw the passenger lean out of the passenger window and begin firing at the police vehicle with a shotgun. Officers returned fire and were soon involved in a traffic collision. Suspects were captured and a loaded shotgun was recovered nearby.

Chief Beck wanted to clarify comments made last week by the President of the United States (POTUS) at a news conference with people from the State of California. POTUS stated in January 2018, LAPD arrested an illegal immigrant from Mexico for drug possession and instead of honoring an ICE detainer the LAPD released the suspect. A few weeks later the suspect committed a murder. Upon hearing this, Chief Beck had this incident investigated and verified the suspect’s identity with federal authorities. The suspect had been arrested several times by the LAPD. The murder occurred the summer prior of his initial arrest and had nothing to do with his release from custody following a minor narcotics arrest in January 2018. The LAPD arrested the suspect for that murder and he remains in custody. After reviewing records, there was no evidence that an ICE hold request was received for this individual.

Chief Beck provided Part IA crime statistics. Beck reports there are 10,035 sworn personnel, 2,939 civilian personnel, over 400 reserve officers, 271 specialists and almost 1,800 cadets

Metropolitan Officer-Involved-Shooting in 77th 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 a 77th Division neighborhood early Saturday evening.

On May 12, 2018, around 7:10 p.m., Metropolitan Division uniformed officers; Police Officer III Joshua Parker, Serial No. 38959, and his partner were conducting crime suppression in 77th Division. While driving on the 1400 block of 55th Street, they observed two male individuals standing in front of a location, whom they believed were involved in gang activity. Officer Parker and his partner attempted to make contact with those individuals, however one individual immediately ran while holding a gun in hand. The officers chased the individual (who was later identified as Kevin Palencia) which resulted in an Officer-Involved-Shooting. Officer Parker fired his police service weapon at Palencia. Palencia was not injured or struck by gunfire and was immediately taken into custody without any further incident.

Although Palencia's handgun was not found, a loaded magazine was recovered at scene and booked as evidence. Fortunately, no officers or persons were injured as a result of this 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 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.

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