LAPD Blog

Detectives Seek Additional Victims of Sexual Assault Suspect NR21021ti

Valley Glen: The Los Angeles Police Department’s Devonshire Area Sexual Assault detectives is hailing the community’s assistance and announcing the arrest of a sexual assault suspect.  

 

On January 14, 2021, around 2:30 p.m., Daniel VelascoMoreno was arrested near the 13100 block of Oxnard Street for Sexual Assault of a Minor 10-years of age or younger, from November 2019 through September 2020.  He is currently held with a $1,250,000 bail.  Daniel VelascoMoreno was a counselor who worked with children with an absence or deficit in their attention span, language, and social skills.   

This is an ongoing investigation and detectives are seeking any additional persons that may have been victimized by Daniel VelascoMoreno.       

Anyone with further information regarding this matter may contact Devonshire Area Sexual Assault investigators, Detective John Eastburn at 818-832-0918, or Detective Ruben Arellano, at 818-832-1167. 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 (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.  

Los Angeles Police Department is Deeply Saddened with the Passing of our Police Sergeant NR21019mp

Los Angeles: It is with an extremely heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Sergeant Amelia “Terry” Martinez, who passed away.  Our deepest condolences go out to Sergeant Martinez’s entire family, colleagues, and friends in this most difficult time.

On January 12, 2021, Sergeant Martinez, assigned to Hollenbeck Division, died due to complications related to the Covid-19 virus.  

Sergeant Martinez was a bright shining star for Hollenbeck Division.  Her passing is a loss for not only her brothers and sisters here in the Department, but for the people of Los Angeles who she dedicated her life to protecting and serving.    

Sergeant Martinez is survived by her sons Robert and Steven and her daughter Amanda Lara as well as her mother and several siblings.   

Chief Michel Moore said, “Sergeant Martinez, we thank you for your service and you will be greatly missed.  May God welcome you home and may God bless the Los Angeles Police Department.”

Fatal Shooting in Pacoima NR21017ll

Pacoima: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Valley Bureau Homicide unit have arrested two suspects for Murder.

On January 11, 2021 at 6:00 p.m., LAPD Foothill Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of an, "Ambulance Assault with a Deadly Weapon" at the 12700 block of Van Nuys Boulevard.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a fifteen-year-old male Hispanic laying in the grass in the courtyard of an apartment complex. He was unconscious and not breathing. He was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

The Los Angeles Fire Department personnel responded and pronounced the victim dead at scene.

Simultaneously, another police unit saw the suspects matching the description running inside a local market. The suspects were taken into custody.

The victim's name is not being released at this time.

Suspect #1: Smith, Walter
Male, Black
Booking No.6104744
DOB: 05/21/1999
Charge: Felony 187(A)PC-Murder
Bail: $2,000,000

Suspect #2: Roberston, Ja'Ree
Male, Black
Booking No. 6104801
DOB: 09/07/2002
Charge: Felony 187(A)PC-Murder
Bail: $2,000,000

Anyone with additional information is urged to call the Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau Homicide, Detective Steve Castro at 818-374-1925. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org and click on "Anonymous Web Tips" under the "Get Involved-Crime Stoppers" menu. Tipsters may also download the "P3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Missing 23-Year-Old Female

Los Angeles: The family of Isis Griffin and the Los Angeles Police Department are requesting the public's assistance in locating her.

Isis was last seen on January 8, 2021, near the 6700 block of Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. She was wearing a black jacket with a dark grey hoodie and grey sweat pants. She was not wearing any socks or shoes at the time she went missing. She hasn't been seen since and her family is concerned.

Isis is described as a 23-year-old female black with dark brown dreadlocks and brown eyes. She stands around 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds.

If you have seen or have any information regarding his whereabouts please contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Missing Persons Unit, at 213-996-1800. 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 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.

Fatal Hit and Run Traffic Collision NR21009dm

Los Angeles: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's West Traffic Division are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for the Fatal Hit and Run traffic collision that killed a 25-year-old man.

On January 8, 2021, around 2:15 a.m., a vehicle was traveling west on Beverly Boulevard at Normandie Ave when it struck a pedestrian crossing Beverly Boulevard outside of a marked crosswalk. The vehicle continued west Beverly Boulevard, failing to stop, identify themselves or render aid to the pedestrian as required by law.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at scene. The victim's identity is being withheld pending notification to next of kin.

There is no vehicle or suspect description.

Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

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 about this collision is asked to contact West Traffic Detectives at 213-473-0234. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to1-877-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 (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.

Murder Suspect Arrested NR21004dm

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department South Bureau Homicide detectives announce the arrest of a murder suspect.

On December 16, 2020, around 3:15 p.m., a male victim was shot during a robbery after exiting a business near the 3500 block of South La Cienega Boulevard. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital where he later died.

South Bureau Homicide detectives were assigned the case. Through the course of their investigation, detectives identified 27-year-old Allen Robinson (Booking #6086509) as the suspect responsible for the murder.

On December 29, 2020, South Bureau Homicide detectives, Metropolitan Division, Gang and Narcotics Division and the FBI/LAPD Fugitive Task Force Team conducted a multi-location operation. Robinson was taken into custody by the Task Force Team in Moreno Valley, while Metropolitan Division simultaneously served a search warrant at his residence in Los Angeles.

On December 31, 2020, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed murder and robbery charges against Robinson.

Anyone with additional information about this crime is asked to contact South Bureau Homicide Detective Jamison at 323-786-5111. 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 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 "P-3 Tips" mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

Shooting Suspect Sought NR21006jc

Pacoima: Detectives of the Los Angeles Police Department's Valley Bureau Homicide Division are seeking information in a shooting that occurred on the 13900 block of Weidner Street.

On January 6, 2021 at 11:50 a.m., officers from the Los Angeles Police Department's Foothill Division responded to the 13900 block of Weidner Street for a call for service of shots fired.

The officers located a 33-year-old Hispanic man that had sustained gunshot wounds. The investigation revealed that although several gunshots were heard, no suspects were seen. A dark-colored sedan was seen fleeing the area. No arrests have been made and Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives have assumed investigative responsibility.

Anyone with further information regarding this matter may contact Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives, Detective Sharon Kim at 818-374-9550. 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 (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.

Woman Involved in Alleged Hate Crime Incident During Protest Located and Investigation Launched

Los Angeles: On January 7, 2021, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) was made aware of a set of photographs that were circulating the internet depicting what was described as a hate crime incident that took place amidst a protest in front of Los Angeles City Hall. One of the photographs depicted a male white holding a female black in a, "bear hug" from behind.

 

Shortly after it was brought to the department's attention, LAPD Central Division Detectives were able to locate the woman, a hate crime - battery report was completed, and an investigation was initiated. Their thorough investigation determined that the male in the photographs was not an aggressor as initial social media posts had claimed.

The woman involved in the incident told investigators that the she felt a bear hug from behind and a male voice stated, "You're O.K., I'm not going to hurt you. I got your phone in my hand. I'm going to try to get you out of here, these people are trying to hurt you." The male subsequently carried her away from the hostile crowd and let her go. The woman then walked across from the south lawn area to Police Headquarters Building, where she received first aid from an unidentified person. The male depicted in the photographs appears to have been a good Samaritan, shielding and helping the woman, which she confirmed with her statements during the investigation.

 

The LAPD is continuing to conduct a thorough investigation, and we encourage any witnesses or those with information on the suspect(s) to contact Central Area Detectives.

 

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Central Bureau Detectives at 213-833-3750. 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 (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.

Statement Regarding the Death of Former City Councilman Tom LaBonge NR21008dm

The Los Angeles Police Department is mourning the sudden death of former City Councilman Tom LaBonge. The L.A. native dedicated his life and career to the service of this City. LaBonge served the people of the 4th Council District for 14 years. Prior to his tenure in the Council Chambers, he worked for the Department of Water and Power, and also served as a special assistant to Mayor Richard Riordan.

Chief of Police Michel Moore expressed, "Tom LaBonge was so much more than an elected representative. He was the ultimate goodwill ambassador, servant, and historian for his City of Angels, and an icon. He led with his heart and truly loved the men and women of the LAPD."

The Department sends its deepest condolences and sympathies to LaBonge's family.

Detectives Seek the Public’s Assistance in Apprehending Murder Suspect NR21005jc

Update
January 7, 2021

The suspect shot the victim in the presence of their young child. Video of the shooting is available on www.lapdonline.org

 

 

Pacoima: On January 6, 2021 at 9:35 a.m., officers from the Los Angeles Police Department's Mission Division responded to the 9000 block of Bartee Avenue for a call for service of a shooting that had occurred.

Once at the location, the officers located a 35-year-old Hispanic woman that had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department also responded to the scene and pronounced the victim deceased. Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives assumed investigative responsibility and their preliminary investigation revealed the victim's former boyfriend had fired multiple shots at the victim with a semi-automatic handgun resulting in her death.

The suspect has been positively identified as Herbert Nixon Flores and he is described as a 46-year-old Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes. Herbert Nixon Flores stands at 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs around 220 pounds.

Herbert Nixon Flores is considered armed and dangerous and, if seen, the public is urged to not confront of attempt to apprehend him but to contact law enforcement immediately.

 

Anyone with further information regarding this matter may contact Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives, Detective Sharon Kim at 818-374-9550. 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 (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.