Injured Citizen Refuses Treatment

On September 14th at 5:41pm, Enoka Futui, a 38 year-old male from Whittier, went to Whittier Hospital to be treated for a head injury he received as a result of being drunk and falling at his residence. Unsatisfied with the wait at the hospital, he made a brief scene and then left on foot. Moments later an Officer saw the subject walking down the street bleeding profusely from his head. He was less than cooperative and extremely intoxicated however, he eventually submitted and allowed himself to be cuffed by the officers as they investigated what happened.

A short time later, relatives arrived and were going to take him back to the hospital so he could be treated, but he refused. He then began to struggle while he was cuffed, causing his head to bleed even more. Paramedics arrived, but he refused to be treated. This was despite the fact he clearly required medical treatment. Based on his inability to make a rational decision and care for himself, he was arrested for public drunkenness. He then resisted the officers and paramedics as they tried to get him into the ambulance. Ultimately, Mr. Futui received the care he needed.

Female Suspect Saught in Stabbing

On September 13th at 10:00pm, units responded to the Embers Lounge (11332 Washington Blvd.) regarding a stabbing that had just occurred. A regular customer at that location by the name of “Casey” was named as the suspect. Casey was at the location and was heavily intoxicated and extremely distraught over a breakup or similar incident with her boyfriend. While she was at the bar, she engaged in a verbal altercation with the victim. As the victim went to the restroom near the back of the bar, the suspect attacked her with a knife. After stabbing her, the suspect fled the location in a westbound direction. An area check was conducted, which included other local bars in the area, along with a search for a motor-home which the suspect either lives in or drives frequently. “Casey” is described as a White female, blonde, wearing a long white dress. The victim was transported to St. Francis for her injuries and is in stable condition.

Father Arrested for Assaulting Son

On September 13th at 8:41 pm, a 19-year-old Whittier resident, came to the lobby of the Whittier Police Department to report an assault with a deadly weapon and terrorist threats made against him that had occurred in the area of 16200 Janine Drive. Officers learned that the victim and his father had argued during the afternoon. The victim was struck several times by his father but not injured. At one point however, the father removed a pump-action shotgun from a wall rack, cocked it, aimed it at the victim and threatened to kill him. The victim was able to get away from his father and he armed himself with a knife, which he placed in his pocket. As the argument continued, the father apparently became aware of the knife and hit the victim in the face, causing him to pass out. When the victim came to, his father had the knife pointed at the victim and threatened again to kill him. When the victim told his father he was going to the hospital, his father said that if anyone (i.e. police) came to the house, he would shoot them. LA Co Fire paramedics responded to examine the victim and he was transported to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital on a precautionary basis. The victim’s girlfriend was in the residence during the incident and overheard the father rack the shotgun. Later, she received text messages from the father reiterating his intent to kill anyone who came to the house. The victim stated his father had outside video surveillance cameras and monitors them.

Ultimately, Officers responded to the address but the father did not answer phone calls into the residence. Eventually, the suspect exited the house and was arrested. Michael Yanez, 42 years old, was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, terrorist threats, and brandishing a firearm.

Local Physician Arrested on Sexual Battery Charges

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: September 11, 2008
Contact: Press Information Officer Jason Zuhlke
Subject: Local Physician Arrested on Sexual Battery Charges

Whittier, CA. – The Whittier Police Department in conjunction with the Medical Board of California, Office of Investigative Services has arrested Doctor Wazir Nadir Ali (08-21-64) of Rowland Heights on charges of sexual battery under false pretenses and penetration with a foreign object.

In March of 2007, a 20-year-old female victim was seen by Dr. Ali at Bright Medical for what was described at the time as “leg pain.” During the examination, the victim claimed Dr. Ali sexually assaulted her under the guise of a medical examination. Sometime later, a second case was reported when a female victim complained of similar conduct to Bright Medical staff. The victim of this alleged assault, a 53-year-old female, reported an occurrence date of May 2005.

The Whittier Police Department and the Medical Board of California is requesting contact by anyone who feels they may have been sexually assaulted by Dr. Ali. Detective G. Hamilton of the Whittier Police Department may be contacted at 562.945.8274 while Investigator J. Gomez of the Medical Board of California may be reached at 562.402.2780.

Dr. Ali has been charged with five (5) counts of penetration with a foreign object and one (1) count of sexual battery under false pretenses and is currently being held on $525,000 bail.

Media inquiries may be directed to PIO J. Zuhlke at (562) 945-8282

"Beret Bandit" in Custody

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: September 11, 2008
Contact: Press Information Officer Jason Zuhlke
Subject: “Beret Bandit” in Custody After Month-Long Crime Spree

Whittier, CA – The Whittier Police Department has arrested the “Beret Bandit,” after a one month long crime spree where he was suspected of committing at least eight robberies through both LA and Orange Counties. The suspect’s series of robberies began in mid August and concluded today at the Southwestern Federal Credit Union located at 11749 Whittier Blvd. Other locations the Beret Bandit was suspected of robbing included the Washington Mutual in Uptown Whittier, the US Bank on Whittier Bl. and the Washington Mutual in La Mirada to name a few. In most cases the suspect used a demand note to perpetrate the crimes and recently began using taxi cabs to flee the scene. While the exact amount of cash taken in the robberies is unknown, it is estimated at $4,000 - $5,000.

Suspect Booked for Attempted Murder in Domestic Violence Case

On Sunday, September 7th, Officers responded to the 7300 block of Comstock Avenue at 9:42pm where a domestic dispute had just ended. During the domestic dispute, the male suspect grabbed his wife around the neck, wrapped an electrical cord around her neck and choked her. While doing this, he told her that if he could not have her, then no one could have her. As she was about to pass out, she bit his arm and was able to get away from him. She then grabbed their one year old baby and started to run out of the apartment. The suspect grabbed the baby away from her and then chased her out of the apartment. He caught her outside and, while holding the baby, punched and kicked the victim until she was unconscious. He then picked up the baby and started to run back to their apartment. He was taken into custody at the apartment. The female was injured, however she declined treatment. Daniel Aranda, 09/18/85, of Whittier was taken into custody for attempted murder.

Machete Wielding Suspect in Custody

On September 4th, at 8:00pm, Officers were dispatched to 13944 Whittier Blvd after receiving a call of a suspect (Raul Espinoza, 12/08/60, Whittier Resident) with a machete. After arriving, it was discovered that Espinoza went to the above location where he used a machete to slice the victim’s tires and also threaten the victim, a thirty-six-year-old Whittier resident. The victim escaped and Espinoza fled the scene. Later, it was learned that Espinoza was upset with the victim because he believed the victim and Espinoza’s wife were having an affair. With the assistance of an LASO helicopter, Espinoza was located near his home in his truck. Espinoza was subsequently arrested for Terrorist Threats, Vandalism, and Brandishing a weapon.

Metal Thief In Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On August 30, 2008 at 8:15 pm, officers responded to a call of a suspicious person in the back yard of a business in the 11600 block of Pike Street. Officers surrounded the business and located a suspect that was in the process of stealing metal. The suspect collected a large amount of metal and was about to load it on a truck that was backed up to the fence. Alvidez, Walter (1-28-62) from Pico Rivera was arrested for grand theft.
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Three Robbery Suspects In Custody

On August 29, 2009 at 11:20 pm, three robbery suspects accosted a juvenile in the 6300 block of Whittier Avenue and demanded money. The victim resisted and the suspects fled on foot. moments later, the three suspects approached another juvenile and demanded money. When the victim stated that he had no money, the suspects instead took a sling the victim had for an inured arm. Moments later, officers were flagged down by the victim and a search of the area resulted in the arrest of two of the three suspects. The third suspects fled from officers, which called for a large-scale search. K-9 officers from Montebello, Pasadena and South Pasadena and Los Angeles County Sheriff's Aero Bureau provided assistance during the search. The third suspect was located on the roof of a house on Broadway Street.

Arrested were Bonilla, Guillermo from El Monte (7/20/78), Lara, Vincent from Whittier (2/10/85) and Grandos, Agustine from Whittier (3/9/84). All were charged with robbery and attempted robbery.
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Detectives Act On Lead, Discover Chop Shop

Whittier Detectives assigned to Santa Fe Springs, developed information regarding a stolen vehicle inside a commercial location. Detectives served a search warrant at the business, which was located in the 13000 block of Imperial Highway. During the investigation at the location several vehicles, vehicle parts and tools were confirmed stolen and recovered.

The Regional Auto Theft Task Force (TRAP) responded and assisted in the identification and recovery of the stolen property. One suspect was taken into custody.

Arrested: Jorge Lopez (09/03/62), Whittier County, arrested for PC 487(D)

Police Seek Suspects in Drive-By Shooting

On August 21st at 7:50pm, Whittier Police Officers responded Code 3 to the front of 8949 La Puebla Street on a drive-by shooting. According to witnesses, the victim was returning home with his girlfriend and small child in their white Chevy Impala and was executing a U-Turn in the intersection of La Puebla and Janine Drive when a "white, 4 door vehicle" cut him off and a male Hispanic suspect exited via the passenger door. As the suspect approached the victim's vehicle he opened fire with a semi-automatic pistol, striking the victim multiple times as he sat behind the wheel. The suspect then re-entered the car and fled north on La Puebla.

The victim's girlfriend and small child were uninjured in the shooting and the victim was transported to St. Francis medical center where he was pronounced dead on arrival. At this time, the motive behind the shooting is unclear however all possibilities are being investigated by the Whittier Police Department's Investigative Division. Furthermore, investigators have not ruled out the possibility that the shooting is gang related. The victim was a 21 year-old Hispanic male from Whittier.

Other than 2 male Hispanics driving a white 4 door car, no other suspect information is known however, anyone with information is urged to contact the Whittier Police Department immediately by calling (562) 945-8250.

Bomb Threat

On Monday, August 18th at 7:30pm, the main operator at Target, located at the Whittwood Town Center, received a call from a male subject who said they had ten minutes to get out of the store or a bomb would explode. Officers responded and helped evacuate Target and neighboring businesses. Target was searched but nothing was found. Ultimately, the store re-opened for business.

US Bank Robbed - Police Seek Suspect

On Monday August 18th, the US Bank at 13525 Whittier Blvd., was robbed at 1:00pm. According to witnesses, a White male adult, 6 feet tall weighing 150 pounds with a thin build (approximately 35 yrs old), and wearing a “Bob Marley” type hat, black pants and camouflage shirt, claimed to possess a machine gun. He presented an envelope to the teller, and was given approximately $500. He fled eastbound on foot towards the Papa John’s Pizza and out of sight. Anyone with information pertaining to this robbery is urged to contact the Whittier Police Department at 562.945.8250.

Car Thief In Custody

On August 13, 2008 at 10:40pm, Officers received a Lojack activation for a stolen vehicle in the area of Whittier Boulevard and Calmada Avenue. The Lojack information detailed a 2008 Nissan Maxima. Officers began to hone down the Lojack signal and were able to locate the vehicle as it entered the Best Whittier Inn. Just as officers arrived, the observed a suspect exit the vehicle. He was taken into custody without incident and the vehicle was returned to the owner. Castellano, Joseph (DOB: 6/14/86), who is on parole, from Whittier was arrested for auto theft and parole violation.
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Graffiti Suspect Arrested

Santa Fe Springs - On August 6, 2008 at 4:17 pm, officers responded to a report of vandalism in progress at the Santa Fe Springs Aquatic Center and Library. When officers arrived, they located the suspect leaving the location on a skateboard. When the suspect noticed the officers, he fled on foot. Whittier Officers and Santa Fe Springs Public Safety Officers gave chase and were able to take the suspect into custody. The suspect, a 15-year old male Downey resident, was identified by witnesses and arrested for vandalism. Two additional juveniles were detained and released to their parents. The suspect spray painted walls and doors at both facilities.
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Armed Suspect Arrested

On August 6, 2008 at 2:10 am, officers conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle in the 12700 block of Lambert Road. A field investigation resulted in the search of the vehicle. Officers recovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Steven Ramon (DOB: 10-17-86) from Whittier was arrested for carrying a loaded firearm in public.
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Police Seek Robbery Suspect

Santa Fe Springs - On August 4th at 8:30 pm, a male suspect walked into THE SUBWAY restaurant at 11411 East Telegraph Road and pointed a .22 caliber handgun at the employee. The employee handed the suspect $120.00 in U. S. Currency, before he fled in an unknown direction. Despite the fact the suspect was wearing a ski mask, the employee was able to tell he was a Hispanic male, 20-27 yrs of age, 5’11” tall with a medium build. Investigating the scene, the officer obtained latent fingerprints from the counter. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Whittier Police Department at 562.945.8250.

Short Pursuit Ends With Car Thieves in Custody

While two Whittier Patrol Officers were traveling northbound on Painter Avenue yesterday afternoon at 3:30, a vehicle exited the Quad (8537 Laurel Avenue) almost causing a traffic collision. While attempting a traffic stop on the vehicle it fled eastbound on Whittier Blvd and then southbound on Laurel Ave. After a short distance however, the car stopped and the driver and passenger were taken into custody.

The vehicle was recently reported stolen to Whittier PD and had been "cold plated," meaning another stolen license plate was placed on the car to masque its "stolen" identity. The victim is a 26 year old female resident and other items inside the car were determined to be from a recent auto burglary. Both suspects were charged with grand theft auto, fleeing from officers with disregard for public safety, receiving stolen property, and possession of burglary tools. Arrested Driver: Jeffrey Hatfield 9/30/82 Whittier resident, passenger: Pedro Gonzalez 9/01/76 Whittier resident.

Detectives Use Forensic Evidence to Identify and Arrest Suspect

On November 30, 2007, an attempted robbery occurred in the parking lot of Ralph’s Market at 14919 Whittier Blvd.. The female victim had just finished shopping at the store and upon returning to her car, her passenger door was opened by a male suspect who demanded her purse. The female victim screamed in fear and fled from her vehicle causing the male suspect to flee, leaving his baseball cap behind in the victim’s vehicle. At the time, the female described the suspect as a male White approximately 5’6”, 160 lbs. wearing a dark blue baseball hat, dark flannel, and blue jeans approximately 30 years of age.

Through forensic evidence, Robert Marcum (01/24/65) was identified as a possible suspect in the case and Whittier Detectives put together a photo line up which included a photo of Marcum that was shown to the female victim. Upon review of the line up, the victim positively identified Robert Marcum as the suspect in this case. The case was presented to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office where attempt robbery charges were filed and a $1,000,000 warrant was issued for Robert Marcum’s arrest.

On July 29, 2008, Detectives from the Whittier Police Department with the assistance of Deputies from Riverside Sheriff’s Office served the arrest warrant at Robert Marcum’s last know address in Winchester California. Robert Marcum was taken into custody with out incident and is currently being held with $1,000,000 bail.

Burglars in Custody

Santa Fe Springs - At 8:30pm on July 29th, a male Hispanic entered the AT&T store at 11464 Telegraph Road and cut the cables to 3 IPhones. When the alarm activated an employee walked over to investigate and saw the suspect enter an older Toyota or Honda stopped just outside the door. As the witness was on the phone with dispatch, 2 Black females and 1 Black male entered the store and immediately engaged the employee in small talk. While two attempted to distract the employee, one of the females was stealing bluetooth ear devices from the rear of the store. The two females then traded places and the second female took her turn at stealing merchandise.

After completing the theft, the suspects left the area in a white Ford Expedition and the witness provided dispatch with the license plate. Almost immediately, a Whittier Police Officer advised he had the vehicle and was following it to Lynwood where sufficient officers were on scene to safely take the suspects into custody. All stolen property as well as a duffel bag full of additional stolen items, was recovered and the following suspects were arrested for burglary: Christopher Norton (01-19-82) of Los Angeles, Katherine Wagner (10-03-86) of Lynwood, and one Female juvenile residing in Los Angeles.

Pursuit Ends with Arrest of Robber

On July 28th at 2:00pm, two male subjects committed robberies of two separate victims in the uptown area. Shortly thereafter, a caller from the Coffee Bean called to report a person with a gun walking westbound on Wardman Street. Moments later a Whittier Officer responded and located the subjects near Wardman and Milton Ave. As he attempted to contact them, they ran and the Officer gave chase but lost the subjects. Not losing any time, the Officer coordinated a containment and eventually located one of the subjects hiding on a second story balcony of an apartment at 7232 Newlin Avenue. Also during the search, the gun was recovered in the backyard of a residence on Wardman Street. While the second subject was not found, it was determined the subjects with the gun were the suspects in the two robberies. The arrested person was a 16-year-old male juvenile from Whittier. He was booked at WPD for 211 P.C., Robbery.

Officer Makes Great Arrest

While working patrol on July 28th at 3:30 in the morning, a Whittier Police Officer received information from detectives regarding a subject named Brandon Neuner who was wanted for robbery. The Officer saw Neuner hours later near Neuner’s residence. He took him into custody based on the information he received from the detectives and conducted a search of Neuner’s vehicle, locating a number of credit cards and other items of identification. After arriving at the station, the Officer began following up with the owners of the ID/credit cards. At least one victim of a theft from a vehicle was located.

National Night Out Against Crime

On Tuesday, August 5th, from 5 – 8pm, neighborhoods throughout Whittier are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the “25th Annual National Night Out” (NNO) crime and drug prevention event. National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Whittier Police Department, will involve over 10,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, over 34 million people are expected to participate in ‘America’s Night Out Against Crime’ on August 5th.

National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

On August 5th, residents in neighborhoods throughout Whittier and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police. All residents are encouraged to join the Whittier Police Department and your neighbors at Michigan Park from 5 – 8 PM. Festivities will include: Raffles and Giveaways, Free food & drinks, K9 demonstration, Tactical Entry Team, Mounted Police, Ride-a-Longs, Kids Fingerprinting, LACO Fire Department, Bounce House, Music, and much more...

For further information, please contact PIO Jason Zuhlke at (562) 945-8282

Attempted Robbery

Victim #1 (Male 19 of Whittier) and Victim #2 (Female 18 of Whittier) were sitting adjacent to the parking lot on the Palm Avenue side of Palm Park. Two Hispanic Males in their 20's approached the victims and asked if they had any marijuana. The victims said "no". The suspects continued walking but stayed in the area of the park. After a few minutes the suspects returned. One of the suspects approached the victims and demanded their wallets. The victims refused to comply. The suspect threatened the victims but to no avail. The victim picked up a Leathermen Tool, from the ground next to him, and threatened the suspects with it. The suspects fled the scene.
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Police Seek Man Reported to Have Lured 12 Year-Old Girl

Santa Fe Springs- On July 21st at 12:30pm, a 12 year old female student of Lake Center Middle School was walking home when she was approached by a male white in his 60’s, in the area of Florence Avenue and Gard Street. The suspect was driving a red "older model" pick up truck that appeared to have been painted by a paint spray can. According to the victim, she was walking eastbound on Florence Ave. when the suspect approached her in his vehicle and asked her if she wanted a ride. The victim said no and continued walking on Florence toward Gard St. (where she lives) while the suspect followed her. This incident occurred somewhere near the cross walk on Florence, east of Orr and Day Rd. The only information the girl could provide was that the suspect was wearing a brown shirt and had light complexion. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Whittier Police Department at 562-945-8250.

Five Suspects in Custody for Grand Theft Auto

On July 23rd at 7:30 pm, Officers responded on suspects tampering with a vehicle in the area of Whittier Blvd and Jordan Rd. A male suspect reportedly got out of a black Acura and attempted to force entry into a tan Honda. The suspect vehicle was last seen fleeing westbound on Whittier Blvd. Moments later a Whittier Police Sergeant located the vehicle and ultimately made a felony stop in the Smart and Final parking lot located near La Serna and Whittier Blvd. It was discovered that the car the suspects were in was a recently reported stolen in El Monte. Five suspects were arrested for Grand Theft Auto. Cesar Pedroza of Pico Rivera DOB-03/13/92, Juan Salazar of El Monte DOB-12/22/92, Enrique Ruiz of La Puente DOB-02/09/90, Gilbert Davila of El Monte DOB-11-16-89, and Gilbert Mendez of El Monte DOB 07/27/88.

Police Seek Suspects in Commercial Burglary

On July 24th at 1:00 am, officers received a radio call to respond to Quizno’s located at 12215 Telegraph Road, for an audible alarm. Officers arrived on scene and observed that suites #101(Quizno’s), 102, and 104 at the location all had smashed front doors. Officers conducted a search of each location for suspects with negative results. Even though three suites were affected, only suite #104 (Salad 2000) suffered monetary loss. The locations had all been searched by the suspect(s) but fled with money from the one location only. Anyone with information pertaining to this burglary should contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Fatal Traffic Collision

On July 22, 2008 at 8:55 p.m. a pedestrian crossed Beverly Boulevard between Palm and Norwalk, not in a crosswalk. The 60 year old victim did not see a vehicle approaching east bound on Beverly and was struck. The victim died at the scene. Traffic Bureau is investigating this incident.
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Serious Injury Traffic Collision

On July 22, 2008 at 7 p.m. a 25 year old male motorcyclist was driving on Homeland south of La Forge when he lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a brick wall. The victim was airlifted to USC medical center with serious injuries. Traffic Division handled the investigation.
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Bobcat Reported at Whittier High School

On July 20, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. Officers responded to Whittier High School after a report of a bobcat on campus. Upon arrival, officers approached the bobcat, which caused it to run into a shed. Officers secured the shed and Animal Control personnel were able to safely remove a 20-pound tomcat from campus.
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Burglary in Progress - Suspect in Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On July 20, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. Officers responded to a burglary alarm at the Yoshinoya restaurant located at 11400 Washington Boulevard. Upon arrival officers saw that the front door glass was broken and subsequently noticed a suspect inside the business. The suspect had placed a large rice cooker outside of the business and was in the process of removing a computer monitor when officers arrived. Salvador Torres (DOB: 6-28-62) from Whittier was arrested for burglary.
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Stabbing - Suspect in Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On July 19, 2008 at 9:20 p.m. officers responded to the Motel Six on Excelsior and Carmenita in Santa Fe Springs regarding a stabbing that just occurred. Upon arrival, officers located the victim and suspect still in the hotel room. Preliminary investigation indicated that after an argument ensued between the two females, the suspect armed herself with a knife and attempted to stab the victim. A struggle took place between the two and in the process, the victim was stabbed in the hand. Officers arrested Denise Help (DOB: 9-5-78) from Santa Fe Springs for assault with a deadly weapon.
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Assault With Deadly Weapon

On July 19, 2008 at 8:37 p.m. a 20-year-old male victim was accosted by a number of male suspects believed to be local gang members in the 12700 block of Mar Vista Street. During an argument that ensued, one of the suspects displayed a knife and held it against the victim's neck. The suspect eventually released the victim and fled the scene. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, 25-30 years old with a shaved head.
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Road Rage Incident Arrest

On July 18, 2008 at 7:50 p.m. two drivers got involved in an argument in the area of Beverly Boulevard and the 605 freeway over a driving incident. During the argument, the suspect exhibited a firearm and fired a projectile at the victim. The victim was not struck. After receiving the information from the victim, officers began an exhaustive search for the suspect. Officers were able to locate the suspect vehicle in the area of Hadley and Whittier Boulevard. The investigation indicated that the suspect used an "air soft" handgun that shoots plastic pellets. The suspect, Angel Martinez (8-12-86) from La Puente, was arrested for California Vehicle Code section 23110(b), throwing missile with intent to do serious bodily harm - a felony.
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Graffiti Arrest - Greenway Trail

On July 18, 2008 at 4:25 p.m. motorcycle patrol officers assigned to the Greenway Trail located two juvenile subjects cutting the access fence in the area of the 13800 block of Lambert. Further investigation indicated that the suspects attempted to gain access to an area next to the trail so they could post graffiti. Both were arrested for vandalism. One juvenile is a resident of Whittier and one is a resident of the Whittier County area.
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Robbery

On July 16, 2008 at 2:30 pm, a female teenage victim was standing on the sidewalk at the southeast corner of La Serna High School when a silver Nissan pickup with three males and one female stopped in front of the victim. The female suspect exited the pickup and approached the victim, demanding her cell phone. When the victim refused to hand over her cell phone, the suspect pushed her to the ground, struck her in the head and forcibly removed the cell phone from the victim. The suspect got back into the pickup and left north bound on Via Verde Street. The victim sustained minor injuries.
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Stolen Vehicle Recovery - Suspect In Custody

On July 16, 2008 at 3:30 am, a patrol officer ran a license plate check on a white Pontiac Grand Am, which was driving in the 11900 block of Washington Boulevard. The plate check indicated that the vehicle was stolen. When backup officers arrived in the area, a traffic stop was initiated and the suspect was taken into custody without incident. The vehicle was stolen in Los Angeles. Pedro Cibrian (DOB 6-29-66) from Long Beach was booked for vehicle theft in the Whittier Police Jail. Stolen vehicles are often used by criminals to commit more serious crimes such as burglaries and drive by shootings.
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Whittier PD Cracks Down on Parolee's

The Whittier Police Department with the assistance of Montebello Police, Bell Gardens Police, La Habra Police, the Sheriff's gang unit, Sheriff's homicide, State Parole, the Department of Probation, and the Department of Children and Family Services, searched the homes of over 9 gang members during a Parole Sweep early this morning. For the entire story click here.

Catalytic Converter Thieves Arrested

While working patrol on Friday, July 11th at 11:30 pm, a Whittier Police Officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on Jordan Road in the 10700 block. The driver and passenger turned out to be gang members from Huntington Park. After speaking with them for some time, their stories didn’t add up. The Officer eventually searched their vehicle and found two recently removed catalytic converters in their trunk. Both suspects were arrested for suspicion of possessing stolen property. One of the arrestees would cop-out to stealing the catalytic converters, but wasn’t familiar enough with the area to say where the thefts occurred.

Structure Fire

On July 5, 2008 at 8:30 a.m. officer responded to a report of a house fire with a female possibly trapped inside in the 8800 block of Maryknoll. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the fire was at a detached garage, which fully engulfed. Officer assisted L.A. County Fire and the flames were extinguished.
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Major Traffic Collision

On July 5, 2008 at 3:50 a.m. officer responded to a major traffic collision in the intersection of Mulberry and Santa Fe Springs Road. One of the parties was transported to Saint Francis Medical Center with critical injuries.
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Car to Car Shooting

On July 5, 2008 at 12:05 a.m. the victim was driving his truck eastbound Philadelphia in the area of Pickering when unknown suspect(s) from another vehicle opened fire on the victim, using an unknown type firearm. The victim was struck in the upper torso and was able to drive himself to a local hospital. The gang unit is currently investigating this incident.
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Stabbing / Brandishing Weapon

On July 4, 2008 at 2 a.m., the victim left the Radisson Hotel and was driving south bound on Greenleaf when he was confronted by three suspects in a bronze colored 4-door Honda Accord. While stopped at a red light at La Cuarta, one suspect exited the vehicle and attacked the victim through an open driver's door window. The victim was punched in the face and stabbed in the head. He then followed the suspect vehicle to the area of Whittier Boulevard and Painter, at which time the suspect vehicle stopped and another suspect exited. This time, the suspect brandished a handgun. The victim left the location and drove himself to a local hospital. All three suspects are described as male Hispanics with no further details at this time.
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4th of July Activity

The Whittier Police Department responded to a high volume of calls for service on the 4th of July. A majority of the calls involved loud parties, fireworks, fights, and intoxicated subjects.
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Vandalism Arrests - Greenway Trail

On July 3, 2008 at 2 a.m., officers on patrol observed several subjects acting suspiciously next to a business in the area of Lambert and Calmada. When officers tried to contact the subjects, all but on fled on foot. Officer canvassed the area and were ultimately able to locate the two subject who fled. A detailed investigation revealed that the three suspects were members of a "tagging crew" named "NBK" (Natural Born Killers) and had just finished vandalizing areas of the Greenway Trail, as well as businesses in the area of Painter and Labmert and Lambert and Calmada.

Two juveniles, one from Whittier and one from La Mirada, and an adult, Bradley Sanchez (DOB 9/28/89) were arrested for felony vandalism.
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Burglary-Tools-Stolen Property Arrest

Santa Fe Spring, CA - On July 2, 2008 at 4:45 p.m. officers on patrol in the Walmart Parking Lot recognized a vehicle that was wanted in connection with a recent residential burglary that occurred in Friendly Hills. When a subject returned to the vehicle, he was detained and a field investigation began. Officers located stolen property and burglary tools on the suspect and in the vehicle. Derek Brandon Smits (DOB 2-16-79) from the County area of Whittier was arrested for burglary, possession of stolen property and possession of burglary tools.
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Whitter PD to Keep Streets "Safe and Sane"

From the Whittier Daily News....

Officials prep for safe holiday
By Ruby Gonzales, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 06/30/2008 08:51:50 PM

Local law enforcement agencies will be keeping an eye out for anyone setting off illegal fireworks this Fourth of July weekend.

Read the entire story here.

Possible Burglars Arrested

On June 27, 2008 at 3am officers made a traffic stop on two vehicles in the Uptown area. A subsequent search of the vehicles revealed burglary tools, including glass cutters, a center punch window breaking tool, portable radios, gloves, and flashlights. Officers also found potential stolen goods and a large sum of cash. Both suspects were on parole and were taken into custody for suspicion of burglary. If you have been a victim of a vehicle or residential burglary in the past few days, please contact us at 562-945-8250.
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Whittier PD to Crack Down on Drunk Drivers

Whittier, CA. – On Friday, June 27, 2008, the Whittier Police Department will conduct a Driving Under the Influence Checkpoint. The checkpoint will be conducted in the area of Whittier Blvd. and Colima Rd. The time of the checkpoint will be 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM.

The checkpoint and other enforcement efforts are part of the Whittier Police Department’s grant project for “Selective Traffic Enforcement Program.” The funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Officers will also be checking for unlicensed motorists or those who are driving with a suspended driver’s license. Any motorist found driving with an invalid license may have their vehicle impounded for 30 days and be issued a citation.

For further information, please contact Sgt. Dan Lowe at 562-945-8256

Missing Person Located By Officers

On June 22, 2008 at 6:50pm officers received a call of a critical missing person.  The missing person was a 64-year-old disabled man who was visiting from out of state.  Officers conducted an extensive search in vehicles, on foot and with the use of a police helicopter.  After two and a half hours, officers located the missing person on the corner of Pickering and Pacific.  He was transported back to his family’s location.

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Wanted Person In Custody

On June 21, 2008 at 11pm officers attempted to question a suspicious person who was looking into back yards in the area of Broadway and Gretna. When the suspect saw the officers, he ran away and a short foot pursuit ensued. Officers were able to catch up to and detain the suspect. It was discovered that he had an outstanding warrant. He was taken into custody and booked at the Whittier Police Department Jail.
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Male And Female Found Shot In Vehicle

Santa Fe Springs, CA. - On June 21, 2008, at 2:15 p.m., the Whittier Police Department received a call from the California Highway Patrol, advising two gunshot victims had been located inside a vehicle at Telegraph Road and the 605 Fwy. Upon arrival at the location officers located a female and male victim seated in the front seats of an SUV, stopped on the off ramp of the northbound 605 Fwy. The female seated in the passenger seat had a single gunshot wound to the head, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver also had a single gunshot wound to the head, and was transported to a local hospital.

Preliminary investigation indicates the possibility of a murder/suicide, and there are no known outstanding suspects at this time.

At this time neither of two people have been identified, and the Whittier/Santa Fe Springs detectives' investigation continues. Anyone with information should contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.
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Attempted Robbery - Suspect In Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On June 20, 2008 at 8:08pm a female victim was walking near the athletic fields at the 9700 block of Pioneer Boulevard carrying a purse over the shoulder. She was accosted from behind by a suspect, who punched her in the head several times and attempted to remove her purse. After failing to release the purse straps from the victim's body, the suspect gave up and walked away from the location.

Luckily, the victim informed arriving officers that she had seen the suspect in the neighborhood before and provided a complete and detailed description of the suspect. Officers conducted a thorough check of the area and located the suspect at the corner of Charlsworth and Millergrove. He was positively identified and was taken into custody for attempted robbery.
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Stolen Vehicle Recovery - Suspects In Custody

On June 19, 2008 at 1:31am, officers observed a vehicle driving at a high rate of speed in the Uptown Whittier area. When officers tried to stop the vehicle, the suspect attempted to eluded the police unit. A short pursuit ensued, which ended when the suspect collided with the Rick's Burgers building at Penn and Greenleaf. Damage to the suspect vehicle and the building were minor.

Two known WVL gang members were arrested. The vehicle was stolen earlier in the night.
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Metal Theft Arrest

On May 18, 2008 a theft of metal tubing occurred at Step Up Scaffolding in Santa Fe Springs. The stolen metal was estimated at $8000. A Santa Fe Springs Public Service Officer and Whittier Police CSI staff were able to locate a finger print at the location following the theft. The fingerprint was analyzed and identifies a suspect. On June 19, 2008 detectives arrested a 35-year old suspect from the County area of Whittier and charged him with grand theft. He was booked at the Whittier Police Department Jail.
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Search Warrant Nets Drugs and Guns

Santa Fe Spring - A search warrant served by Whittier and Santa Fe Springs investigators on 6-18-08 netted a variety of drugs including crack cocaine, methamphetamines, and marijuana. Also located were two handguns and cash. Two adults were taken into custody.
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Wireless Telephone Laws FAQs

Two new laws dealing with the use of wireless telephones while driving go into effect July 1, 2008. The Whittier Police Department has put together a "Frequenetly Asked Questions" guide regadring the new laws.

View the Wireless Telephone Laws FAQs
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Burglary Suspects - In Custody

On June 17, 2008 at 12:25pm four suspects entered the AT&T store at the Whittwood Towne Center and committed a theft of several cell phones. The suspects left the store and entered a vehicle, which was followed by an alert citizen. When the citizen blocked the getaway car, the suspects rammed the citizen's vehicle in an attempt to escape. After several failed attempts, the suspects fled on foot.

Whittier Officers responded to the area and were able to contain the suspects in a an adjacent neighborhood. A search of several back yards resulted in the arrest of three juveniles and one adult. All four were transported to the Whittier Police Department and were booked at the Whittier Jail for commercial burglary and the driver was also charged with vandalism to the citizen's vehicle.

The stolen property was recovered.
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Pit bull Shot After Attacking Owner

From the Whittier Daily News...

Police officers shot and killed a pit bull Saturday after the dog mauled its owner, officials said. The incident occurred about 1:15 p.m. on Court Avenue.

Officers responding to a call of a dog attack found a pit bull running loose, police said. When police tried to trap the dog, the pit bull lashed out and charged at one of the officers, forcing them to shoot, officials said.
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Armed Robbery

Santa Fe Spring - On 6-12-08 at 5:10pm, the victim was riding his bicycle between the Town Center Hall and library buildings when he was confronted by three male Hispanic suspects. One suspect pointed a handgun at the victim and demanded his bicycle. After the property was obtained, the three suspects ran to a nearby parked white Toyota pickup with a blue racing stripe and fled southbound on Alburtis street. The suspects were further described as 17-18 years old and two wore bandanas.

If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact us at (562) 945-8250

Transformer Fire/Power Outage

An electrical transformer overloaded in the area of Russell and Larrylyn on 6-12-08 at 4 pm, which caused an outage affecting a multi-block area, including traffic control signals at Scott and Whittier.

Burglary Suspect Arrested

From the Whittier Daily News....

SANTA FE SPRINGS - Officers arrested a second man wanted for breaking into two homes and recovered property stolen from other burglaries, detectives said Wednesday.

Fernando Mosqueda, 20, of Cudahy was booked Tuesday on suspicion of burglary. He was being held at the Whittier Police Jail in lieu of $20,000 bail. His alleged partner, Sergio Rodriguez, 20, of Bell, was arrested May 27 and remains in custody.

Whittier police Detective Gonzalo Ponce said the duo is suspected of pulling about 15 burglaries in Santa Fe Springs, Huntington Park, South Gate, Downey and Bell. Ponce said the pair are suspects in four or five Santa Fe Springs residential break-ins.

The burglaries occurred in the daytime and the culprits ransacked bedrooms in search of money and jewelry, he said. They also allegedly took items like television sets, video game systems and computers.

Investigators pulled over Mosqueda when he left his home on Tuesday. A PT Cruiser believed to have been used as a getaway vehicle in the recent Santa Fe Springs burglaries was recovered, as well as a video game system. Ponce said a TV, games and a laptop computer taken during other burglaries were also found.

Shiara Davila, spokeswoman for the District Attorney's Office, said Rodriguez has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree residential burglaries and one count of receiving stolen property.

Police Seek Robbery Suspect

On June 10th at 10:30am, a White male suspect described as 6' 2" tall and weighing 250 pounds with short brown hair, entered the ‘Check Into Cash’ store at 15907 Valley View Avenue and brandished a handgun while demanding money. After he received the cash, the suspect pulled a videotape from a surveillance camera before leaving. No vehicle was seen however, anyone with further information is urged to contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Building mutual understanding and respect

From the Whittier Daily News....

The phone rings.

"Traffic, Sgt. Lowe."

The caller immediately wants to know why the police are not doing their job and stopping all the speeding motorists or why did I receive a parking ticket when I have been parking that same way for years?

I usually sense that the callers are often unsatisfied and frustrated when I reply, "Speed is not specific to your street, it is an issue throughout the city" or that "the length of time you have parked in a certain manner does not make it legal, it just means that the violation has not been enforced until now."

The caller with the speeding issue wants an officer at the location today and every day hereafter. I try, often to no avail, to explain to the caller how the deployment of department resources (officers) is based on the street's traffic collision history and other factors.

The recipient of the parking citation wants the citation dismissed and is unhappy when told that the citation cannot be dismissed since it was a valid citation based on the violation.

I have had to answer these types of calls, and many similar calls, on a daily basis during my time as the Traffic Bureau supervisor for the Whittier Police Department.

During my 24-plus years in law enforcement, I have learned that many people are frustrated with their police department because of misinformation or lack of any information. An informed public means greater understanding and an increase of respect.

An increase of respect brings about stronger partnerships between the public and police. Strong partnerships between the public and police make a community stronger.

The information, understanding, and respect flows both ways. I learned this lesson after six years of teaching "Administration of Justice" part time at two of the local high schools. My respect for the teaching profession and high school students increased and my students gained respect for law enforcement as evidenced by the fact that some of my former students are now working as officers at this department.

My problem: How do I reach the public as I did high school students when I was teaching?

Then I heard about a traffic officer from an agency in Northern California who writes a column in his local newspaper. The column solicits questions from the community regarding any topic dealing with traffic or parking. I thought it was a great opportunity to provide information regarding traffic/parking issues, as well as improving understanding and raising respect on both the public's and the police department's behalf.

If you are a skeptic regarding this idea, then look at it from this perspective. Those readers with children have undoubtedly been tasked with helping your child with his/her homework.

Before you can help your child with his/her homework, you must have a basic understanding of the subject matter, that is unless you don't mind your child looking at you with the same dumbfounded look that the student participants on the game show, "Are you Smarter Than a 5th Grader" look at the adult contestants.

So if you do not want to give or receive a dumbfounded look then "ask a traffic cop." Please e-mail any traffic or parking-related questions to dlowe@cityofwhittier.org

Officers "Clean Up" the Streets with Multiple Arrests

Santa Fe Springs - While patrolling in the area of Alburtis Drive and Broaded Street on June 4th at 8:30pm, a Whittier Police K9 Officer received information that a male was tagging a wall in the neighborhood. He set up from a distance and watched a juvenile ‘tag’ a residential wall off of Alburtis several times. The Officer confronted the Santa Fe High School student and he was arrested.

Then, only two hours later in the 10600 block of Pioneer Boulevard, a citizen who lives on Clarkman Street reported he saw three males exit a parked car on the street and run over to the buildings on Pioneer with items in their hands. Officers set up a perimeter and caught three subjects as they were in the process of tagging the rear wall of a business, adjacent to the rail road tracks. One adult and two juveniles were taken into custody.

Pistol Packing Gang Members in Custody

On June 3rd at 8:00pm, while working a patrol assignment in the area of Lambert Road and Villa Drive, two members of the Whittier Police Department's Special Enforcement Team made a traffic stop on a vehicle for unsafe backing. A pat down search of the passenger, an admitted gang member, produced live .38 handgun rounds and shaved Toyota keys. The driver was on felony probation. A search of the vehicle produced the handgun of the same caliber as the ammunition located earlier. Both subjects were arrested for possession of a firearm with special circumstances and identified as David Jimenez (01-20-86) and Juan Hernandez (06-09-72) of Whittier.

Taggers in Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On June 3rd at 5:40pm, Whittier Police Detectives were in a plain car travelling south on Greenleaf Avenue just south of Mulberry Road when they saw a male spray painting the back of a building which was adjacent to the railroad tracks. One Detective gave foot chase and caught the tagger and other Officer's who arrived to assist, caught the ‘lookout’ by the York Field playground as he tried to flee the scene via scooter. Both males were juveniles who lived in Whittier and were remanded into custody.

Traffic Enforcement at PSA 2 High Collision Intersections

Traffic safety is a serious matter of concern for the Whittier Police Department. In 2007, Whittier had 941 traffic collisions that included 11 fatalities and 478 injuries. Whittier has 11 “high collision intersections.” Eight of those intersections fall within PSA 2. In fact, PSA 2 accounts for 83% of the traffic collisions that occur at high collision intersections. PSA 2 high collision intersections include:

• Santa Fe Springs Rd &Washington Blvd


• Whittier Blvd & Laurel Ave


• Mulberry Dr & Greenleaf Ave


• Whittier Blvd & Mar Vista St


• Painter Ave & Lambert Rd


• Whittier Blvd & Painter Ave


• Hadley St & Whittier Blvd


• Santa Fe Springs Rd & Mulberry Dr.

A study by Northwestern University indicates that directed traffic enforcement has a positive impact on traffic collision and injury reduction. This study looked at a concept called the “traffic index.” The traffic index is a percentage based ratio that compares the number of injury traffic collisions with the number of hazardous violation citations that are issued by officers. Hazardous violations include traffic offenses related to speed, stop signs, red lights, seatbelts and other unsafe moving violations.

The Northwestern study indicates that in order for an agency to have any measurable impact on the reduction of injury traffic collisions, it must maintain a traffic enforcement index of 25%. The Whittier Police Department typically averages a traffic index of only 13%. PSA 2 officers are committed to reducing the number of death and injury related traffic collisions by aggressively changing this statistic.

Therefore, PSA 2 personnel will be partnering with the WPD Traffic Bureau to help reduce the number of collisions in PSA 2. This will be a multi-faceted approach that will include an educational campaign and strict enforcement of hazardous traffic violations in and around the areas of these high collision intersections. By doing so, we hope to save lives and reduce injuries caused by unnecessary traffic collisions. In order to better serve and protect our community, we will be heavily enforcing hazardous vehicle code violations. If stopped and found to be in violation, law enforcement will issue citations without warning.

Rash of daytime burglaries prompts police warnings

From the Whittier Daily News....

SANTA FE SPRINGS - Due to a recent spate of daytime home burglaries, city officials are telling residents how to avoid becoming the next victim.

The Department of Police Services called residents and also put out fliers at city facilities like City Hall and the senior center last week.

The flier tells people to secure garages, windows and doors, keep shrubbery cut low and not too dense around doors and windows, and encourage neighbors who are home during the day to call police if they see any suspicions person, cars or activity.

"We just want people to be aware in case they see (these) individuals and to call us," said Dino Torres, assistant to the director of police services.

Torres said the department made close to 2,000 calls, adding that it was the first time they used the phone tree system for this type of notification.

The community notice and phone calls to residents are a response to five recent residential burglaries. The suspects are described as two black men and one black woman.

Whittier police spokesman Officer Jason Zuhlke said there were three burglaries in April and two in May that happened in different parts of the city. Santa Fe Springs contracts for police services with Whittier.

He said the modus operandi is the same; the suspects were able to slip locks and open doors. The burglars took cash and jewelry.

The suspects used different vehicles for the burglaries but were seen
in a red maroon Toyota Camry with paper plates at one of the break-ins.

Zuhlke said the first burglary happened April 29 in the 11700 block of Parkmead Street, where cash kept under a mattress was taken. A neighbor noticed the Camry backed into the driveway with a woman in the driver's seat and later saw two men run out of the house.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Police Services Center at (562) 409-1850.

Two men held in alleged vandalism

From the Whittier Daily News...

WHITTIER - Two Whittier men were arrested on felony vandalism charges after what police said was an early-morning spree on Whittier Boulevard that included uprooting saplings, knocking over trashcans and seriously damaging three new vehicles at the Harris automobile dealership.

Anthony Sanchez and Johnny Reyna, both in their 20s, were taken into custody about 2 a.m., Whittier police Lt. Bryan Ellis said Saturday.

Police got reports of two men damaging trees and trashcans on Whittier Boulevard, Ellis said, and when officers arrived on the scene Sanchez and Reyna fitted the descriptions the callers had given.

"At the time the officers responding didn't know about the damage to the vehicles," which they later connected to Sanchez and Reyna, Ellis said.

The windshields of the three vehicles were smashed and the bodywork had been "hit repeatedly with stepping stones" probably picked up from the ground nearby, Ellis said.

Mark Johnson, manager of Harris Buick Pontiac GMC at 13617 Whittier Blvd., said the vehicles damaged were two new GMC trucks and a Pontiac Solstice. He estimated the damage to the windshields and bodywork at "somewhere in the $5,000 to $6,000 range."
Johnson said the vehicles were inside the lot's gated area.

Greenway Trail Patrols Begin

Whittier Police Officers Michael Hinson and Hugo Figueroa, both Uptown Whittier bicycle patrol officers, on The Greenway Trail with the agency's new 650 Hondas that will be used for patrol on the six mile trail that use to be a railroad track.

Read more at the Whittier Daily News....

"Late Bloomer Bandit" in Custody

Whittier Police Detectives arrested 52 year-old Martin Ridgeway on Wednesday in conjunction with three robberies committed over the last two months; the first being on March 28th inside the Ralph's supermarket on Painter Avenue and Whittier Boulevard. Once inside the Ralph's, Ridgeway approached the Union Bank and demanded cash while simulating a handgun in his waistband. After talking to police, witnesses described Ridgeway as an older White male with grey hair; a description that proved consistent in subsequent robberies.

Not wasting any time, Ridgeway struck the Banco Popular inside the Wal-Mart in Pico Rivera the next day using a similar M.O.. Then, on April 16th, Ridgeway made his final stop at the Banco Popular inside Wal-Mart in Santa Fe Springs. This time however, good witness statements coupled with a partial license plate kept Whittier Detectives hot on Ridgeway's trail. Following investigative leads, Detectives arrived at a residence in the county area of Whittier where they found a silver 2000 Hyundai Tiburon that matched the vehicle description. Further investigation of the residence revealed a white male in his 50’s with a history of robbery; this would prove to be Ridgeway.

Using an old booking photo, Detectives presented “line-up’s” to victims and witnesses in all three robberies and Ridgeway was positively identified as the culprit. After bolstering their case further, Detectives made their move yesterday at 2:30pm, arresting Ridgeway after pulling him over in his Hyundai. A search warrant was then served at Ridgeway’s place of residence that uncovered additional incriminating evidence.

After robbing three banks of approximately $4000, Ridgeway now faces Federal prosecution as the case attracted the attention of the FBI. Ridgeway is currently in custody at the Whittier Police Department with $100,000 bail.

Suspect Arrested After Evading Officer

Eric Loez, a twenty three year-old Whittier resident is in custody after assaulting a Whittier Police Officer while trying to flee from him. On May 13th at 1:45pm, the Officer was working a "Click or Ticket" seat belt enforcement assignment when he observed a vehicle drive by that had three males inside who appeared to be smoking marijuana. He made a traffic stop and pulled out the driver to talk about what he had observed when he heard glass break and realized they had thrown a glass pipe out of the car. While detaining the driver, the front passenger (Lopez) exited the car and fled the location.

The Officer chased the passenger and caught him as he was jumping a fence. While doing so, the suspect spun on the officer and punched him in the face. The passenger was then able to slip the Officer’s grip and continued to flee only into the arms of additional Officers. Lopez was arrested and the other two detainees were released at the scene. The officer did not receive any significant injuries and continued to work the duration of his shift while Lopez spent the night and subsequent days at the Whittier jail.

Whittier PD to Celebrate Open House

WHITTIER POLICE DEPARTMENT CRACKING DOWN ON BUCKLING UP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Name: Sgt. D. Lowe
DATE: May 9, 2008 Agency: Whittier Police Department
Phone: (562) 945-8256
e-mail: dlowe@cityofwhittier.org

Whittier, Calif. - The Whittier Police Department will be aggressively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws as part of California's 2008 Click It or Ticket mobilization, taking place May 12-June 1. The campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help California achieve the highest seat belt use rate in the nation. California currently has the nation's fourth highest seat belt use rate at 94.6 percent.

"We want to make sure that all drivers and passengers buckle up on every ride, day and night," said Police Chief David Singer. "Our officers will be on the lookout for those who are not buckled up and for teens and children not riding properly restrained. We will not accept excuses or give warnings. It's Click It or Ticket."

California has a primary seat belt law which requires that every passenger in the car, including the driver, is required to wear a seat belt at all times. If stopped and found to be in violation, law enforcement will issue citations without warning. Tickets for first seat belt violations range from $80 to $91 for adults and $330 to $401 for children under age 16, depending on the county.

"We're doing well with nearly 95 percent buckling up, fourth highest in the nation," said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety. "That's 1.5 million more people protected from death and injury by using seatbelts since the Click It or Ticket campaign started in 2005. But we can do better yet. I urge everyone to always buckle up."

While the buckle up rate for adults has continued to climb in recent years, California's teen seat belt use rate lags behind the general population. In 2007, California's teen seat belt use rate was 88.9 percent, well below the state rate of 94.6 percent for the same year.

Rail Road Worker Killed in Train Accident

Santa Fe Springs - On May 7th at 12:45 pm, 24-year-old Xavier Arriaga of Hisperia was struck and killed by an Amtrak Train in the intersection of Valley View Avenue and Stage Road. Employed by "A-CECO," a private rail road company, Xavier, along with 4 of his co-workers were maintaining one of three tracks running through the area. While the track he was working on was closed, the two others that parallel it were active.

As the Pacific Surfliner #774 approached traveling southbound, Xavier was operating a piece of equipment used to compact newly laid asphalt. Feeling the machinery was to close to the adjacent track, Xavier began moving the tool by turning his body and back away from the train. While doing so, a ladder on the side of the train, used for boarding struck Xavier as the train traveled at approximately 77 miles per hour. He was then pulled under the train and came to rest approximately 30 feet away. Deputies from LACO Sheriff's Department were first on scene before it was ultimately released to the Whittier Police Department for investigation. Representatives from Amtrak, BNSF, Cal-OSHA, and the Los Angeles County Coroners Office would assist in the investigation.

Felony Taggers in Custody

At 1:00am on today's date, a Whittier Police Officer was patrolling to the rear of 10445 Slusher Avenue when he came upon a group of taggers spray painting the wall of a business that backs up to the rail road tracks. The Officer then co-ordinated assisting units and the suspects were soon surrounded. One suspect used a ladder and was on the roof plying his skills when Officers flushed three others into the waiting arms of Officers and, out of breath, they quickly surrendered. The fourth suspect eluded apprehension by jumping off a 30’ wall, wrestling with an Officer and sprinting away. He was later captured at his home in Pico Rivera and charged with felony vandalism and resisting arrest. All were adults and from either Montebello or Pico Rivera. The arrestees were identified as Jose Trujillo (4/5/87), Michael Padua (3/5/84), Christopher Mariz (5/7/86), and Steven Faustinos (5/6/86).

Suspects Saught in Attempted Murder

At 9:00 pm on Sunday May 4th, four friends and family members were standing in front of their home in the 13200 block of Oval Drive when a white Ford Probe with two gang type occupants pulled up next to the house. The passenger of the vehicle then asked the residents “where they were from,” implying a gang affiliation. After the residents failed to reciprocate, the passenger began to fire four rounds from a small caliber handgun at all four of the residents. One of the rounds struck the abdomen of the 19-year-old victim, Yehuri Rodriguez and he was later transported to a local hospital where he immediately underwent surgery. Rodriguez is currently in stable condition and is expected to survive. While unconfirmed, Detectives are exploring gang rivalry as a possible motivation for the shooting.

Anyone with information pertaining to this crime is urged to contact the Whittier Police Department's Detective Bureau by calling (562) 945-8250.

Officers Credited for Helping Save Life of 2-Year-Old Child

Whittier, CA. – On April 30th at approximately 4:30pm, Whittier Police Officers Ad. Bobadilla and J. Draper responded to a call of a 2-year-old girl who was not breathing in the area of 12800 East Danbrook Drive. Arriving on scene, the Officers found the child without breath or pulse. Acting quickly, the Officers began giving the child 2-person CPR until LA Co Fire arrived and transported the child to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital. At the hospital, doctors discovered the child swallowed a metallic cotter-pin that had lodged in the child’s throat. The child was stabilized at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital and was later transferred to CHOC for the removal procedure. Medical staff would attribute the survival of the child to the Officers and first responders at the scene. The child is now in stable condition.

Additional inquiries may be directed to PIO J. Zuhlke at (562) 945-8282.

Sergeant Saves Life of 2 Year-Old Baby

On April 21 at 6:30pm, a Whittier Police Sergeant was called to 13608 Earlham Street on a baby who was not breathing. Arriving after an expedited response, the Sergeant was flagged down by the baby's mother who led him to the apartment where the baby lay lifeless. As the Sergeant entered the room, he noticed the child was grey in color and not breathing but had a faint pulse. Reacting immediately, the Sergeant administered several small abdominal thrusts to the baby and was able to clear the airway of obstruction. The baby then began breathing on his own and was transported to a local hospital where he is in stable condition.

Watch FOX11 news coverage of this incident here

Whittier Police Officers Break-up Large Fight

In the early morning of April 20th, Whittier Police Officers responded to a call of a large fight at the Slam Dunk sports bar at 14226 Whittier Blvd. When units arrive several fights are occurring just east of the bar in the parking lot. Most of the fights stop once they see the Officers and most participants flee from the area. Of the many involved, three individuals were detained and two were on parole with minor injuries. It would take Officer's 30 minutes to ensure the patrons cleared the lot and the fights did not flare up again. None of the participants were desirous of prosecution and it’s not clear how the fight started but detained participants were identified and interviewed.

Foot Pursuit Ends in Arrest of Parolee

On April 5th at 9pm a Whittier Police Officer observed a male subject walking against a red light in the area of 8446 Shulman Avenue and attempted to make contact with him. The subject did not want to be contacted however, and decided to run away. Additional officers were requested to respond to the area and look for the subject and he was located running across the street against traffic. This time, another Officer gave chase and a foot pursuit ensued over three residential walls. The Officer eventually caught up to the subject where they became involved in a physical altercation. The subject continued to resist and attempted to throw the Officer into a pool. Eventually, the Officer used his Taser to help subdue the subject and take him into custody.

The subject initially provided a false name, but it was later determined he was Tom Moerbeck (01-06-63), a Parolee at large with two outstanding warrants.

Petty Thieves Arrested

Officers arrested two juvenile thieves after they stole large dolls that were being set-up at Santa Fe High High School for a carnival. Witnesses reported the theft last night at approximately 11:15pm when they saw the juveniles running through the ball field at the high school. When Officers arrived, the thieves had stashed the dolls and were caught walking on Gard Street, south of the school. The dolls were recovered and the two juveniles were taken into custody.

Neighborhood Watch Newsletter Online

Don't miss this month's newly re-formatted Neighborhood Watch Newsletter. Look for the newsletter each month for valuable crime prevention tips and information you won't want to miss. You may download the newsletter by clicking here.

Missing Person Located

Janelle Halbrook has been located.

Police Seek Public's Help in Finding 13 Year-Old Girl

Stant Fe Springs, CA - The Whittier Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating thirteen-year-old Janelle Halbrook after she walked away from Lake Center Middle School at approximately 4 pm today. Janelle was reported missing by her mother at approximately 7 pm this evening after she failed to show up to the front of the school where her mother waited to pick her up. Diagnosed with a form of Autism known as Asperger's Syndrome, Janelle attends Lake Center Middle School on the corner of Clarkman St. and Pioneer Blvd. where she receives a curriculum specific to her learning style. After completing her regular classes at Lake Center for the day, Janelle is escorted by a teacher to another building on campus where she attends an after school program. According to faculty, Janelle's regular teacher was not on campus today when it came time for the escort. Officers learned that when Janelle's regular routine is interrupted, she has a tendency to wander. This information was provided by her mother who informed Officer's of a similar "walk-away" occurrence several months ago.

Janelle is described as 5'03" tall weighing 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Her hair is shoulder length and has thick bangs to the front. She was last seen wearing a red and black hooded sweatshirt, dark grey sweatpants, and blue Vans tennis shoes. According to witnesses, Janelle was last seen walking westbound on Clarkman Street at 4 pm towards Santa Fe High school.

The Whittier Police Department would like to urge anyone with information to contact our Dispatch Center immediately at (562) 945-8250. If you think you have seen, or may have seen Janelle, please do not hesitate to contact the Department.

Media Inquiries may be directed to Officer Jason Zuhlke at (562) 945-8282.

Suspect Arrested After Stabbing Witness

Richard Orea, an 18 year-old (10/16/89) Whittier County resident was arrested today after stabbing a man who witnessed him vandalizing a residence. On March 4th at 12:45 pm, the Whittier Police Department received a call of a traffic collision in the area of 11700 Broadway Avenue. Callers were reporting a man lying adjacent a black Ford Mustang that appeared to be bleeding. After arriving however, investigating officers learned the complete story.

While driving in the area of the above address, the victim witnessed Richard Orea spray painting a wall of a residence and decided to verbally challenge Orea's actions from within his car. Soon thereafter, Orea ran up to the victims car and began stabbing him with a box cutter. The victim defended himself and received several cuts to his arms while doing so. Orea then fled from the scene. The victim however, was transported to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital where he was treated for his wounds and released.

Video surveillance and strong witness statements assisted Investigators in identifying Orea, which in turn led to his arrest this afternoon. The successful resolution of this case comes as the result of collaboration with witnesses and the full force of the Whittier Police Department's personnel.

The Whittier Police Department would like to remind the citizens of Whittier of the importance of our partnership! It is through the courage of citizens that we learn of crime occurring and may apprehend criminals such as Orea. While we openly encourage citizens to report such crimes, please consider your personal safety while doing so. If a suspect displays violent behavior towards you, stay on the phone with dispatch (if possible) and immediately seek safety; your safety is of the utmost concern to the Whittier Police Department!

While speaking with our dispatchers be prepared to answer questions that will help Officer's respond quickly and efficiently. Typically, our dispatchers will ask you for your information first, such as name, phone number, etc....in case you are disconnected. Then, be prepared to provide information relating to the location, suspect, suspect vehicle, and time of occurrence, to name a few. Again, it is through our partnership with your that we can respond quickly and efficiently.

Program aims to stop kids from defacing property

The Whittier Police Department is a proud participant in the newly implemented ATAG (Aware Teens Against Graffiti) Program. To read more about this innovative regional program, click here....

Arrested Juvenile Admits to Over 40 Vandalisms

On February 16, 2008, at 12:00pm, Whittier Police Officers responded to a call of a vandalism that had just occurred in the area of Mar Vista Street and Greenleaf Avenue. Arriving on scene, the Officers located two juvenile suspects matching the description. One of the suspects was positively identified by a witness as committing the vandalism, while the other subject was in possession of “slap up” stickers and a marker.

Following their arrest, both officers conducted custodial interviews and learned their monikers. With this information, both officers accessed the Graffiti Tracker system and learned that one of the suspects was most likely responsible for 42 previous tagging incidents. This subject was confronted with this information and admitted to committing all of these vandalisms. Both juveniles were subsequently transferred to Los Padrinos Juvenile Detention Center.

VONS Federal Credit Union Robbed

Santa Fe Springs, CA. – The VONS Federal Credit Union, located within the VONS Distribution Center at 12801 E. Excelsior, was robbed today at approximately 10:00am. While claiming they were executing a delivery to the Distribution Center, four male black adults entered the premises in a red 4-door Buick LaSaber and proceeded to the credit union. After arriving, three of the suspects exited the vehicle leaving the driver behind who drove away from the credit union. Once inside the credit union the suspects allegedly demanded cash and used force against a female inside, who was later transported to a local hospital with a minor head injury. An unknown amount of cash was taken during the robbery and the three suspects fled from the location into a Silver PT Cruiser parked off the premises.

Giving chase, a security guard would catch up to the PT Cruiser while driving a brown van. Once along side the suspect vehicle, the three suspects pointed handguns at the guard and began firing. An unknown amount of cartridges were discharged while the guard fled for his safety. The security guard was not injured and the PT Cruiser fled the area in an unknown direction.

Moments later, a witness spotted the red Buick LaSabre and alerted responding officers who would catch up to the car as it entered the northbound lanes of the 5 freeway. Once sufficient units arrived, a traffic stop was conducted without incident. The vehicle would be positively identified by witnesses and the driver was arrested. The other three suspects are outstanding at this time and are described as male Black adults.

The Whittier Police Department would like to encourage anyone with information regarding this case to contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Female Injured In Traffic Collision

Santa Fe Springs, CA - On February 3, 2008, at 1248 hrs., officers were dispatched to the area of Alondra Blvd., east of the 5 freeway for a single car traffic collision. When officers arrived, they discovered a vehicle had lost control and veered off Alondra Blvd. into the riverbed below. The vehicle was overturned, but not submerged in the water caused by the day's rain.

 

The female driver along with a one year old child were removed from the vehicle by Santa Fe Springs Fire Department, with the child receiving what appeared to be only minor injuries. The female driver was air lifted to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center to be treated for unknown injuries. Anyone with additional information should contact the Whittier Police Department at 562) 945-8250.

Critical Missing Adult FOUND

Whittier, CA - The Whittier Police Department located Julie Lanning on 02/03/08. For further information refer to original release below.

Critical Missing Adult

Whittier, CA - The Whittier Police Dept is seeking the public's help in locating an elderly female who has been missing since early this morning ( 2-02-08 ). Julie Lanning, an 82 year old White female was reported missing by her family after leaving Whittier Hospital this morning. Lanning was reported to have left the hospital on public transportation enroute to her home, but never arrived as of 2:00 P.M. this afternoon. She was last seen wearing a tan coat and blue trousers. Lanning is described as 5'2" tall, 100 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. Lanning was also described as wearing a gold band ( wedding ring ) with a single center diamond and two smaller side diamonds. While the Whittier Police Department has enlisted the help of surrounding agencies, buslines and hospitals, they are again asking for the publics help in locating Julie Lanning, who suffers from Alheimer's, Dementia and a Thyroid condition, all of which require medication.

Death Investigation

At 12:48pm this afternoon, officers received a call of a domestic dispute in the 7600 block of Newlin Avenue. When officers arrived, they discovered a male and female deceased at the location. Detectives are on scene investigating the case.

Two Found Deceased Inside a Motel Room

On January 5, 2008 at 11:20 a.m., the Whittier Police Department received a call of a person down in a motel room at the Whittier Inn Motel, located at 11435 Whittier Boulevard. Upon the arrival of the Whittier police officers, they discovered two people were deceased inside the motel room.

At this time neither of two people have been identified, and the Whittier detective’s investigation continues. Anyone with information should contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Hit and Run Kills an Unidentified Pedestrian

On December 24th, at 5:40 p.m., Whittier police officers patrolling the City of Santa Fe Springs responded to the 12100 block of Slauson Ave., regarding a hit and run. As the officers arrived they found an unidentified male who had been struck by a car while walking across the westbound lanes of Slauson Ave. The unidentified black male, died at the scene. The man appeared to be in his fifties and possibly a transient in the area. A light color four door sedan was seen in the area when the accident occurred. Anyone with information should contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Man Stabbed to Death

On November 30, 2007 at approximately 2:00 a.m., Whittier Police Department officers were dispatched to a stabbing that had occurred in the parking lot of the Slam Dunk located at 14226 Whittier Blvd. Upon the officers arrival, they found a 34-year-old Hispanic male suffering from stab wounds. Los Angeles County Fire Department and Paramedics also responded, and pronounced the Whittier resident dead at the scene.

Previous to stabbing, the victim had a verbal altercation with two patrons inside the bar. The two suspects and the victim walked outside of the bar, and a physical altercation began. One of the suspects stabbed the victim numerous times throughout his body while the other suspect kicked the victim. The suspects drove away in unknown direction, as the victim walked back inside the bar to ask for help. The victim collapsed a short time later.

The suspects are described as male Hispanics, both with shaved heads, one possibly in his fifties and the other in his twenties. They drove away in a light color, older model, Chevrolet El Camino.

Anyone with information should contact the Whittier Police Department Detective Bureau at (562) 945- 8250.

Man Killed by Gun Fire

Whittier, CA. – On November 26, 2007 at 9:30 p.m., three men were standing near the corner of Redman Ave. and Orange Dr. A small dark compact vehicle parked near the men, and a man wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt stepped out of the car. The man began to shoot a handgun at the three men, striking two of the men. One victim, described as a male Hispanic in his 20’s, was pronounced dead at the scene, and the second victim was transported to a local hospital to treat his gunshot wound.

Investigators are currently following up on information provided by witness. Police are seeking further assistance on this matter, anyone with any further information should contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.

Police Seek Suspects in Shooting

Whittier, CA - The Whittier Police Department is seeking the public's help in bringing three suspects to justice who allegedly shot two Whittier residents in the 7200 block of Whittier Avenue. At 3:45pm, Whittier Police Officers responded to a call of shots fired with a victim down across the street from John Greenleaf Whittier Park. Arriving on scene, officers discovered an additional victim on the ground. Both victims received a single gunshot wound; one to the hip and one to the leg.

As officers began speaking to the victims, they learned that three "gang types" approached them and asked them "where they were from," implying a gang affiliation. The victims responded by denying no affiliation whatsoever. At this point the three suspects began shooting "5-6 shots." Immediately after the shooting stopped, the suspects fled eastbound into the west alley of Whittier Avenue where a "compact" car was waiting. According to witnesses, the vehicle fled southbound and out of sight.

While the suspect description was limited, the Whittier Police Department is seeking the public's help in obtaining additional information that could lead to the suspect's apprehension. Anyone with information is urged to call (562) 945-8250