ATM Burglaries

Whittier, CA. – The Whittier Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying 2 suspects involved in approximately 10 burglaries throughout Los Angeles County. On 08/29/06, the Whittier Police Department received a call from a citizen who saw a Blue Chevrolet Astrovan parked to the front Walgreen’s Pharmacy. While Whittier Police Officers were en route, the witness observed two Male Hispanic Adults pry open the front sliding door and shortly thereafter, drag an ATM out of the store using the van. Moments later, the van fled along Hadley St., having removed the safe from the ATM.

While searching the area, a Whittier Police Officer noticed the van traveling southbound on the 605 freeway, approaching Firestone Blvd. Pulling in behind the van, the officer attempted to stop the vehicle but it began to flee westbound on Firestone Blvd. Approaching Newville Ave., in the city of Downey, the two suspects fled from the vehicle on foot in opposite directions (East and West). With the assistance of Downey PD, Monterey Park PD, and the LACO Sheriff’s Department, Whittier Police Officers established a 4 square block perimeter and began searching. Unfortunately, the suspects were not located. The van however, which contained clothing, tools, and other evidence was recovered and discovered to be stolen from Long Beach several days prior.

Inside the van, the safe from the ATM was located and $7360.00 was recovered. While investigating this crime, Whittier Detectives learned of multiple other burglaries in the LACO area beginning on 03/06/06, with a similar MO. Nine other locations have been burglarized, including 3 other Walgreen Pharmacies. The locations of theft include Los Angeles, Lynwood, Compton, Lawndale, and Bellflower.

The suspects were described as Male Hispanic Adults, 5’08”-6’00” tall, 150-180 lbs, wearing black hooded sweatshirts, black pants, and gloves.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Detective R. Hanson (Whittier PD) at (562) 945-8267. Anyone with information regarding the previous burglaries is urged to call Detective R. White (LASO) at (323) 567-8121 x4546.