Detectives Investigating Robbery

Whittier Police Department Detectives are actively investigating a robbery that occurred on January 20th at 4:15pm at the Bank of America located at 15742 Whittier Blvd. According to witnesses, the suspect entered the bank via the Whittier Blvd. entrance and loitered around the business side of the bank. After several minutes, he approached the teller and asked about opening an account. When told she could not help him, the suspect lowered his voice and said, “This is a robbery give me the money.” The money was placed in his pockets and he fled out the same door toward Santa Gertrudes Avenue. The suspect was described as a male Hispanic, 20-30 years old, 5'-6", and weighing 170 pounds. He was wearing dark clothing, a dark baseball cap and dark sunglasses. He also had a tattoo on the left side of his neck. No weapon was seen and the loss was estimated to be approximately $4,000.

If you have information about this crime, please contact Detective R. Wolfe at (562) 945-8268

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Santa Fe Springs Detectives Investigating Homicide

Santa Fe Springs- The Whittier Police Department is actively investigating the death of a 30-year-old man from Santa Fe Springs. At 3:15 am on January 19th, a call was received of a man down in front of a green Ford pickup truck in the parking lot of the "Santa Fe Inn," located in the 10900 block of Orr and Day Road. Arriving officers discovered the man lifeless having suffered from multiple gunshot wounds and he was soon pronounced deceased at the scene. No witnesses were located as the shooting occurred after the bar closed.

The Santa Fe Springs Investigations Bureau of the Whittier Police Department is actively seeking information from anyone who may have information pertaining to this case. Please contact the Whittier Police Department at 562.945.8250 with any information.

Victim of Stabbing Turns Aggression Towards Officers

On the eve of January 18th at 5:30 pm, Vince Zaragozza, a 23-year-old man from Willmington, got into argument with his mother's boyfriend at her home in the 15000 block of Jupiter Street. As the argument escalated, the boyfriend, Sergio Bayardo (55 years old) of Whittier, armed himself with a steak knife and stabbed Zaragozza twice. Zaragozza sustained stab wounds to the lower back and upper right arm before his mother intervened and persuaded Bayardo to leave prior to Whittier Police Officers arriving. As Bayardo left the home however, he threw a brick through a window of the home before being located and taken into custody by officers.

During the course of the investigation, Zaragozza would become uncooperative and threatening towards officers and he was subsequently tased. Zaragozza was later transported to UCI where he received treatment for his stab wounds.

Thieves Arrested After Stealing Skateboard

On January 18th at 5:20pm, in the area of 14419 Washington Avenue, four gang members took a 15-year-old's skateboard by holding a knife to his throat. While fleeing, the mother of the victim saw them as she was driving in the area. Officers responded and two of the four suspects were positively identified and taken into custody and booked for robbery. Both suspects were juveniles residing in Whittier.

Whittier PD Seeks Possible Child Predators

Whittier - On Wednesday January 14th at 3:30pm, two 12 year old boys were walking to the East Whittier Library when they were approached by a vehicle driven by a white male in his 30's, approximately 5'9" tall, 220 pounds, wearing an orange short sleeve t-shirt and blue jeans. His car was described as a dark red sedan. Approaching the boys he asked them if they wanted a hamburger to which they replied "No", and continued to walk towards the library. As the boys continued to walk, the driver and a passenger, also described as a White male in his 30's, approximately 6'0 tall, 180 pounds, with black hair and a light mustache, wearing a brown t-shirt and dark blue jeans, exited the car and once again approached them. The driver held out a Carl's Jr. bag and again offered the boys a hamburger which was rejected before the boys ran into the library to call the police. The driver and passenger of the sedan were unfamiliar to both children, and it is unknown which direction the vehicle left the parking lot.

The Whittier Police Department is investigating the incident and seeking assistance from anyone with additional information. Please call the Whittier Police Department at 562-945-8250.

Starbucks Robbery

On January 13th at 10:30pm, Officers received an alarm call from the Starbucks at 15909 Valley View Avenue with the operator advising he could hear a male voice in the background telling the clerks to count to 100. Moments later a Whittier Police Officer arrived just as the clerks finished their count. Speaking with employees, they stated they were robbed at gunpoint as they were locking up the store. The suspect forced them back into the store, told one of the girls to open the safe, and had them lay down while he removed the money and put it in a backpack. Prior to leaving, the suspect also took cell phones belonging to the employees.

The suspect was described as a male, possibly black, wearing a ski mask and long sleeved shirt and fled the location in a green SUV, possibly a Suburban. Both victims were female and reside in Whittier and La Mirada, aged 20 and 24 respectively.

Shooting Leaves Three Victims Injured

On January 10th at 8:15pm, Whittier Police Officers responded to assist Sheriff units responding to a call of shots fired with a victim down to the front of the condos at 8105 Norwalk Blvd. and a second victim down in front of 8140 Norwalk. As officers arrived, it was apparent the shooting had occurred in front of 8105 and the second victim had fled on foot in a southbound direction until he came to rest in front of 8140. Up to that point, details were vague as to what had occurred however, about 2 hours into the investigation, Pomona PD informed the Whittier Police Department that a 3rd gunshot victim had arrived at Pomona Valley Hospital who had admitted to being involved.

A short while later, a Whittier Officer responded and made contact with the victim in Pomona. According to this individual, he and an acquaintance were walking southbound on Norwalk and came to the front of the residence at 8105. They began to exchange words with three individuals that were standing near the front porch of the condo at 8105 when a single shot was fired from one of the suspects near the porch. This single shot struck the [Pomona] victim in the lower back area. Almost immediately, the victim's acquaintance returned fire with an unknown type handgun, possibly a revolver since no shell casings were found at the scene.

After the initial exchange 7 rounds were fired from one of the three suspects by the front porch and the second victim (acquaintance) was hit several times. Both victims then fled southbound on Norwalk Blvd. together. One of the victims was able to run all the way to Broadway Avenue (to the 7-11) where he called a friend to pick him up while the second victim, after being shot several times, went down to the front of 8140 Norwalk.

One of the 3 suspects in the yard was struck several times and the 2 remaining suspects fled westbound through the condo complex and into the neighborhood in the county area west of the location. The suspect that was hit several times retreated into the condo prior to units arriving but re-emerged to the front of the condo where he was treated by paramedics.

The Whittier Police Department's Detective Bureau and Forensics Division were called to the scene to investigate.

Robbery Leads to Short Kidnapping

On January 9th at 12:40 pm, Whittier Police Officers patrolling Santa Fe Springs were called to an armed robbery incident at 13700 Milroy Place. The robbery and kidnap occurred to a catering truck and its employees (husband and wife team). According to the victim, he saw suspects 1 and 2 walk up to the catering truck and inquire about a job. Then, according to the victim, suspect 1 entered the catering truck and brandished a stainless or chrome semi-automatic hand gun, as did suspect 2. Suspect 1 then ordered both victims to the floor and restrained the victims with their hands behind their backs using electrical tape. Demanding money, suspect one would ultimately retrieve approximately $2000.00 in U.S. currency from the victim's pocket. According to the victims, both suspects ordered them to stay on the floor while they drove the catering truck from the above location to another location on Marquardt, south of Milroy Place.

Both suspects exited the catering truck and fled the location in an unknown direction. Prior to leaving however, suspect 1 took the cash register as well. Both victims were from Cerritos and were husband and wife. They were 43 years old and 46 years old, respectively. Neither victim was injured as a result of this robbery/kidnap.

Suspect 1 was described as a male Hispanic, 20 years old, 5’06”, 200 lbs, and was wearing a white long sleeve shirt and blue jeans. Suspect 1 was clean shaven and had short hair. Suspect 2 was described as a male Hispanic about 20-25 years old wearing a long sleeve blue shirt and Levi shorts, 5’6”, and 225 pounds. Suspect 2 was also described as clean shaven with short hair.

Anyone with information pertaining to the identity of either suspect is encouraged to contact the Whittier Police Department at 562.945.8250.

Pedestrian Struck by Motorist

On January 10th at 10:45 am, Officers were called to an auto vs. pedestrian traffic collision at the intersection of Valley View Avenue and Rosecrans Avenue. While enroute to the call, information was received that the pedestrian was non-responsive and lying in the street. Upon further investigation, Officers determined the injured party, a 49 year old man from Whittier, was crossing the street in the crosswalk along the South side of Valley View when he was struck by a 2006 Chevrolet Blazer driven by a 41 year old man from Pico Rivera. The driver of the vehicle was traveling eastbound on Rosecrans and turned southbound on Valley View when he ran into the pedestrian. According to the driver of the vehicle, he never saw the man as he was crossing in the crosswalk. The subsequent impact caused the man to be thrown approximately 30 feet south of the crosswalk. The victim was treated at the scene by paramedics prior to being transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Whittier Police Seek Suspect for Attempted Carjacking

On 12/29/08 a female driver (6 months pregnant) was approached in her vehicle while she
was stopped for a red light at the intersection of Greenleaf Avenue and Lambert Road. Suspect #1 started striking the female several times in the head through her open window while demanding her vehicle. Suspect #2 approached the driver's door and opened it while Suspect #1 attempted to drag the female out of the vehicle. During the altercation, the female driver was struck in the stomach. At this point Suspect #2 noticed that the female was pregnant and both suspects fled on foot.

The Whittier Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in bringing these criminals to justice. Suspect #1, pictured above, is described as a male Hispanic, 5'8" tall in his 30's. He has a thin build, shaved head, and was seen wearing a black sweater at the time of the crime. The suspect also has cursive lettering, possibly a female’s name on the right side of his neck along with red lips on the front. Suspect #2 could only be described as a male Hispanic with a shaved head.

Anyone with information pertaining to either of the suspect's identity is urged to contact Detective Wolfe at 562.945.8268.

Short Pursuit Ends With Arrest of DUI Driver

While patrolling Santa Fe Springs on January 3rd at 11:30pm, a Whittier Police Officer observed a speeding vehicle near Alondra and Carmenita. As he attempted to stop the car for the speeding violation, a pursuit ensued. As the pursuit began, the driver started swerving from side to side all over the road. Within a very short time the driver yielded near Firestone and Valley View. During the traffic stop, the driver, Bailey, J.T. (9-19-59) of Buena Park, became belligerent, combative and appeared intoxicated. He refused to follow the officer’s orders and “spun around” on the arresting Officer when handcuffing was attempted. A taser was used in order to gain control of the subject who was later arrested for DUI.

Robbery Suspects In Custody

On January 2nd, at 10:15pm, three suspects confronted a victim as he was walking out of CVS Pharmacy at the Whittwood Town Center. They punched and kicked him in the head and after he was down, they took his watch.

A witness followed the suspects as they fled and he directed officers to the area of Corley and Lanning where the suspects had abandoned their vehicle. Officers located the suspects a short distance away from the vehicle hiding in some bushes and they were taken into custody for robbery. The suspects were all male from La Puente and Whittier and were 25, 22, and 16 respectively.

Robbery Suspects In Custody

Shortly before midnight on Christmas Eve, a Whittier Police Officer responded the police department's lobby where a 19-Year-Old Whitter resident was reporting a robbery. The victim was walking in the area of Comstock Ave and Walnut Street when he was approached by two suspects. The victim said he heard what he believed to be a knife blade locking. One of the suspects demanded property from the victim and he gave the suspects an MP3 player and a cell phone. The suspects fled in an unknown direction but the victim was able to describe one of them in a fashion that resembled the description of a subject that the officer taking the report had sighted in the area earlier in the day.

Next, the officer contacted a Whittier Detective and they conducted a follow-up investigation that ultimately led to the identification and arrest of the suspect aforementioned. While at the station, the officer spoke with another officer, who had just come on duty. This officer believed he knew the second suspect and further investigation led to the victim identifying him which in turn, led to his arrest.

Vandal In Custody

On December 12th at 5:00pm, Whittier PD arrested a 14 year old who resides in SFS, who admitted to damaging city property by way of etching. It was also discovered that the juvenile had an outstanding warrant for yet another vandalism. He was transported to Los Padrinos.

One day prior, Town City Hall personnel noticed scratched vandalism in the form of local gang initials on the men's bathroom mirror. A view of the video just prior to the incident singled out one person who caused the damage. That person was, again, hanging out at Town City Hall on 12-18. Whittier PD was called to investigate and confronted the suspect who was subsequently arrested.

Whittier PD to Deliver Toys with Santa

On Thursday December 18th, Whittier Police Officers will partner with Santa to deliver toys to children at local hospitals and the Women and Children's Crisis Center. The toy distribution is the end result of a partnership with the Salvation Army Whittier Corps. Over the last month, the police department has collected donated toys at various locations throughout the city in preparation for the distribution. The Salvation Army will also coordinate distribution of toys to families in the Whittier area.

Speaking with Santa, 911 Dispatchers learned he will arrive at the Police Station on the 18th at 0800 hours via a Harley Davidson. From the station at approximately 0830, Santa will receive a police escort to Whittier Hospital Medical Center where Police Officers will help him distribute toys before traveling to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital to do the same. The Whittier Police Department and its Officers feel honored to help Santa with such a worthy cause.

Six Suspects In Custody After Warrant Service

On December 16th at 3:00pm, the Santa Fe Springs Problem Oriented Policing Team and Detective Bureau, assisted by Whittier Narcotics, the Special Enforcement Team and the Patrol Division served a search warrant at 10419 Orr & Day Road in the city of Santa Fe Springs. The warrant resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of 13 grams of rock cocaine, 8 grams of methamphetamine, nearly $2000 in cash from the primary suspect and various instruments associated with the sale of narcotics.

This residence, which is located less than 300 feet from Santa Fe High School, has been a location of interest for sometime due to suspected narcotic sales. The investigation and subsequent search warrant is an outstanding collaboration of effort by personnel in Santa Fe Springs and Whittier that lead to a successful operation.

The following suspects were arrested for various drug related charges:

Alejandro Ortiz, 33 years, of Santa Fe Springs.
Philip Jones, 36 years, transient.
Joanne Medina, 35 years, of Norwalk.
Doug Hampton, 45 years, of Commerce.
Kaycee Brown, 46 years, of Santa Fe Springs.
Erica Aguliar, 31 years, of Downey.

Tagger Arrested

While patrolling Santa Fe Springs on 12/16/08 at 2:00pm, an officer observed a male tagging a wall adjacent the railroad tracks in the area of Florence Ave. and Pioneer Blvd. The suspect was using a black ‘Magnum Marker’ when confronted by the officer and a short foot pursuit took place. Moments later, a Sergeant checking the area located the suspect in a residential area and he was positively identified by the investigating officer. The arrestee was a 17-year-old juvenile from Norwalk.

Whittier PD "Paints" a Clear Picture of Justice for Taggers

On Wednesday, December 10th, members of Whittier Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team apprehended two chronic taggers in the area. The Special Enforcement Team follows up on all taggers when they’re arrested and match them to other “tags” in the city. The Special Enforcement Team, known as SET, conducts routine juvenile probation searches of those convicted of vandalism.

During the early morning hours of Wednesday, morning December 10th, the team noticed several taggings of one of the community’s chronic taggers in and around his apartment. Further investigation by Whittier’s SET unit determined he was heavily involved in tagging for well over two years in the Whittier area. The juvenile, whose name cannot be released due to his age, was 17 years old and lived in the Uptown area. He is responsible for over 108 incidents in the last year amounting to nearly $25,600 damage. Most of the damage was to city property, however five other private victims were identified.

Again, on Thursday, December 11th, the Whittier SET team followed up on leads to another vandal in the city—this time a female. Though she lived in the County area of Whittier she had school ties to the community. She had a “No-Bail” warrant for truancy and was located after some effort. While at her home in the county area numerous similar “tags” matching those she vandalized throughout the city were located. She was arrested for the outstanding warrant and charges were filed for the open cases of vandalism throughout the city. Preliminary estimates believe she is responsible for approximately 100 taggings throughout the city at a total cost to the city of nearly $24,000. Again, because she is a juvenile her name cannot be released but she is 17 years old.

The Whittier Police Department SET team continues to actively pursue graffiti vandals throughout the city in an effort to make Whittier a cleaner more appealing community. It is believed that of all vandals caught and prosecuted, 80% usually will stop after their first conviction. The Whittier PD SET is committed to pursuing the chronic offenders.
Usually, the costs of cleanup are passed on to the convicted juvenile and their parents. Stiffer penalties are being explored through the court which could mean seeking civil judgments against the parents against their assets up to $25,000 as allowed by law. To date the City of Whittier has been awarded nearly $105,000 in restitution by the juvenile and adult courts as law enforcement and the courts crack down on offenders. Typically restitution is an order of the court imposed on the offender by probation.


The City of Whittier offers a reward program targeted at such vandals of $500 dollars. Any citizen who witnesses such vandalism in progress is encouraged to call the Whittier Police. Citizens making those calls resulting in the direct arrest of vandals are entitled to that $500 reward usually within 24 hours of the arrest.

Search for Shooting Victims Unfruitful

After receiving several calls of shots fired on December 12th at 10:20pm in the area of Whittier Blvd. and Gunn Ave., Whittier Police Officers responded to investigate. Additional information indicated two vehicles were driving in the area at high speed. All involved vehicles were gone when Officers arrived but according to witnesses, two vehicles were involved in a chase. They stopped in the south alley of Whittier Blvd., west of Gunn Ave. and the occupant(s) of both vehicles got out and started to fight. At one point, subjects from both vehicles produced guns and fired at each other. The occupants then got back into the vehicles and raced away but not before colliding with each other. Neither vehicle or any of the occupants were located and no one has turned up at any hospitals with gunshots wounds, thus no victims have been identified.

Robbery Foiled by Observant Employee

While working at Carl's Jr. (13157 Telegraph Rd.) on 12/10/08 at nearly midnight, the manager saw a suspicious vehicle casing the location and feared that a robbery was about to take place. The manager took the money from the register and took it into the office where she locked herself inside. The manager’s hunch was right; as soon as she locked herself in, the passenger of the vehicle, who was now at the drive through window, climbed through the opened window and went back to the office, knocked on the door and demanded entry. The manager kept quiet as she called 911. The suspect was wearing a face mask, bandanna, rubber gloves and was carrying a handgun. Realizing he wasn’t going to get anything, he ran out the front door and got in the car and the vehicle took off in a northbound direction. The vehicle was described as a dark Honda. Both suspects were described a males and both were wearing face masks.

Sobriety (DUI) Checkpoint

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: December 8, 2008
Contact: Traffic Sergeant Dan Lowe
Subject: Sobriety (DUI) Checkpoint
When: Friday, December 19, 2008
Location: Whittier Blvd. & Mills Ave.

Whittier, CA. – On Friday, December 19, 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 Mills Ave. 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

Whittier Officer Struck By Motorist

A Whittier Police Officer remains in stable condition after being stuck by a vehicle this evening. The collision occurred while the Officer was patrolling the 5-mile-long Greenway Trail. The Greenway Trail is a newly developed cycling and walking path that replaced a stretch of railroad that spanned the city. As part of the Police Department's enforcement efforts along the trail, two Officers patrol the trail on a regular basis atop Honda motorcycles.

At 6:08pm, the two officers were traveling westbound on the trail approaching Painter Avenue. As the trail crosses Painter Avenue, it is controlled by a traffic signal and crosswalk. While crossing on the motorcycle, vehicles had come to a complete stop at a red light on Painter Avenue with the exception of the number two southbound lane. As the Officer approached, a vehicle traveling at approximately 30 miles per hour emerged and struck the Officer sending him skyward. The officer came to rest and his partner immediately called for medical assistance while rendering first-aid.

As Paramedics arrived on-scene, they administered first-aid prior to transporting him to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital where the he remains in stable condition. While the Officer complained of pain in his shoulder and upper legs, x-rays revealed no fractures. The Officer will most likely remain at the hospital overnight as a precautionary measure.

A traffic report was taken at the scene and the collision remains under investigation.

Residential Burglary Suspect In Custody

On December 3, 2008 at 1:20 pm, a resident in the 10800 block of E. Rose Drive entered their house and interrupted a burglary in progress.  The suspect fled on foot and was chased by a neighbor for a short period of time.  The suspect was lost in the area of Palm Park and the Greenway Trail.  Officers arrived within minutes and surrounded the area.  Using air support and ground searches, officers observed the suspect jump over fences and into several back yards until he was apprehended.  Fidel Fierro, 34 years old, of Whittier was arrested for burglary.

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Jorge Cuevas-Mares Drug Trafficking Organization Taken Down

Since March 2007, the Whittier Police Department in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration and over 16 state and local law enforcement agencies, have been investigating the Jorge Cuevas-Mares Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO). While the initial investigation was initiated by the Whittier Police Department’s Narcotics Division, the investigation quickly evolved to a national scale. The Cuevas DTO facilitated narcotics shipments from Mexico to various cities throughout the United States to include: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Detroit, Indianapolis, Indiana, Philadelphia, and Dodge City. To date, this investigation has resulted in the seizure of approximately 300 kilograms of cocaine, 160 pounds of methamphetamine and the seizure of narcotics proceeds in excess of $3,000,000 USC.

On December 1, 2008, at 6:00am, the Whittier Police Department, DEA, and the Orange County Regional Narcotics Suppression Program executed federal search warrants on three locations associated with the Southern California members of the Cuevas DTO. As a result, both Jennifer Sendis and Nicolas Sendis were taken into federal custody. Simultaneously, San Francisco FBI executed six search warrants in northern California and arrested five(5) additional suspects. As a result of this multi-agency effort, assets in excess of $700,000 were seized.

Aforementioned, to date, the investigation resulted in the seizure of over 300 kilograms of cocaine, 160 pounds of methamphetamine, narcotics proceeds in excess of $3,000,000 USC and the arrests of 32 defendants. The DEA is also actively prosecuting the seizure of additional homes and… vehicles directly affiliated with the Cuevas DTO. Agents believe the Cuevas DTO was responsible for transporting ton quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine each year from the Los Angeles Area. The arrests and seizure of narcotics significantly impacts the organization’s ability to purchase and distribute narcotics throughout the local area and the United States.

Shooting

Santa Fe Springs - on November 30, 2008 at 2 a.m., officers responded to a report of shots fired at the Santa Fe Bar at 10910 Orr and Day Road.  The shooting occurred to the rear of the bar and a 17 year old male was struck.  He was transported to the hospital and is listed in fair condition.  The investigations is ongoing.

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Road Closure - Fatal Traffic Accident Investigation

Santa Fe Springs - 6:30am - - Sorenson Avenue south of Washington Boulevard is closed in both directions due to a fatal traffic collision investigation.  Expected opening time is 12pm.

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Armed Suspects Arrested after Pursuit

From WDL:

WHITTIER - Three men believed to have ties to various area street gangs were arrested with a handgun after a brief car chase Saturday, authorities said.

Gilbert Gonzalez, 25, of Whittier, Daniel Gonzalez, 28, of La Puente and Edgar Archila, 20, of Bellflower were booked on suspicion of felony possession of a firearm and misdemeanor evading, Whittier police Sgt. Jim Uhl said.

The incident began about 9:15 a.m. after someone reported a suspicious vehicle with a possible armed person inside in the area of the "five points" intersection, where Whittier and Washington boulevards meet, Uhl said.

An officer tried to pull over a car matching the description but it sped away, starting a chase that lasted less than a minute before the suspects gave up, the sergeant said.

A handgun was found inside the car, he added.

"They all appear to all have some type of gang affiliation," Uhl said.

According to court records, Daniel Gonzalez and Gilbert Gonzalez are being held in lieu of $35,00 bail. Archila is being held without bail.

Rain Impact

Santa Fe Springs - Rain caused minor street flooding throughout the evening and early morning hours.  Traffic signals were out at Valley View and Firestone.  Lights were turned on ‘flash’ and stop signs were deployed.  No collisions were reported.

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Car Theft Suspects In Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On November 25, 2008 at 5am officers responded to a traffic collision in the area of Shoemaker and Florence.  Witnesses reported that the driver and a passenger both ran from the vehicle.  Officers arrived quickly and were able to locate and detain both suspects as they fled.  The vehicle was stolen from Whittier on the previous night.  Both suspects were taken into custody for auto theft.  A sixteen year old male from South Gate and Marissa Castro (10-2-62) from Whittier were arrested.

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Chronic Tagger in Custody

On Thursday, November 20th, Officers Mike Rosario and Tim Roberts from the Whittier Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team apprehended a chronic tagger who recently moved to Upland. The juvenile, whose name cannot be disclosed, was recently arrested in August by Whittier Police for graffiti. The Special Enforcement Team follows up on all taggers when they’re arrested and match them to other “tags” in the city. The Special Enforcement Team, known as SET, followed up on this youth on related “taggings” in the city and followed him to Upland. The juvenile was arrested on 65 other incidents in Whittier over the last year resulting in over $17,400 damage. Most of the damage was to city property, however three other private victims were identified. The juvenile sprayed, etched, marked, and painted on area locations ranging in size from 1 square foot to over 180 square feet. Taggers typically graffiti for the “rush of it” while not getting caught. The juvenile was cited into Los Padrinos Juvenile Court for Felony Vandalism. To date the City of Whittier has been awarded nearly $84,000 in restitution by the juvenile and adult courts as law enforcement and the courts crack down on offenders. Typically restitution is an order of the court imposed on the offender by probation.

The City of Whittier offers a reward program targeted at such vandals of $500 dollars. Any citizen who witnesses such vandalism in progress is encouraged to call the Whittier Police. Citizens making those calls resulting in the direct arrest of vandals are entitled to that $500 reward usually within 24 hours of the arrest.

Shots Fired at Steve's BBQ

On November 23rd, the Whittier Police Department received a call stating a single shot was fired inside Steve’s BBQ at 2:30am. Upon arrival, Officers spoke with the restaurants owner, who said a patron was handling a gun and it discharged into the ground. As officers were speaking with the owner, the suspect (AR-Jesus Hernandez, D/B-06/16/79 who lives in La Habra) came walking out of the business and was subsequently detained. The weapon, a .38 revolver, was still in his possession while the round he discharged was lodged in the floor. No one was injured and Hernandez was charged with discharging a firearm in a grossly negligent manner and possession of a firearm.

Shots Fired

On November 23rd at 12:40am, Whittier Police Officers responded to a possible “shots fired” call at 12819 Broadway. The residents at that location were having a party and Officers found two spent casings to the front of the house. As Officers investigated a possible shooting, a 20-year-old Hispanic victim with 3 stab wounds to the back, was carried from the rear of the house to the front. This subject was intoxicated and uncooperative and no one at the scene was willing to assist with the investigation. An Officer later responded to Beverly Hospital with the victim where he remained in stable condition with non-life threatening lacerations.

Annual Christmas Toy Drive

This year the Whittier Police Department will again partner with the Salvation Army Whittier Corps for the annual toy drive.

The police department will continue to collect donated toys at various locations throughout the city. However, the Salvation Army will coordinate family sign-ups and distribution of toys.

Please refer all inquiries to Nadine of the Salvation Army @ (562)698-8348 ext. 201. Sign ups for eligible families are currently underway.

The last date for toy donations is December 14, 2008. If you have any questions please contact Sergeant Michael J. Przybyl at (562) 945-8277.

Vehicle Pursuit - Assault on Officers with a Deadly Weapon

On  November 15, 2008 at 4 a.m., officers were northbound Painter at Helen when they noticed a vehicle ahead of them driving in an erratic manner. When they attempted to stop it, the vehicle failed to yield and ultimately a pursuit ensued.  The pursuit terminated at the dead end of Painter north of Beverly.  The driver put the vehicle into reverse, rammed the police unit and continued accelerating until it had pushed the police unit 186 feet.  Officers were able to maneuver their vehicle so that they could not be pushed any further.  The suspects surrendered to police at that time.  Two male suspects, one 16 and the other 13, from Whittier, were arrested for auto theft.

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WHITTIER POLICE ENFORCING SEAT BELTS DURING HOLIDAYS

Whittier, Calif. – The Whittier Police Department, in an effort to help bring everyone home safe for the holidays, will be aggressively enforcing the state’s seat belt and child safety seat laws during a Click It or Ticket mobilization, taking place November 17-30. The campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help reduce deaths and injuries on California’s roadways.  California currently has a seat belt use rate at 95.7 percent.

“The Click It or Ticket campaign has shown that Californians have gotten the message that seat belts work,” said Police Chief David Singer.  “But hundreds still are dying every year because they didn’t buckle up. Our officers will not accept excuses or give warnings.  It really is 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. 

“While we are very happy with actually surpassing 95 percent usage, that still means that more than a million people are in real danger in the event of a crash,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).  “It takes just two seconds to reduce your chances of dying in a crash by half.”

Teens and nighttime car occupants lag behind others as far as buckling up is concerned.  Officer will be concentrating even more on ensuring they are properly restrained. More than 280 law enforcement agencies statewide will be participating in this year’s Click It or Ticket mobilization.

Funding for officer overtime to support California’s Click It or Ticket campaign was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Weapon Recovered And Two In Custody After Short Pursuit

Whittier : After receiving calls from witnesses about a possible shooting near Frontier High School, Whittier officers located a vehicle matching witness descriptions leaving the scene.

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, and a short pursuit ensued. During the pursuit officers observed the suspect throw a .22 caliber rifle out the window, which was recovered. The suspect vehicle was involved in a collision at the intersection of Florence and Orr and Day, in the city of Santa Fe Springs. There were no injuries as a result of the collision.

Two suspects were taken into custody:

James Wall, 19 years old, Huntington Beach, CA

The second subject was a juvenile male, from Norwalk, CA.

Officers attempted to locate a victim at the original crime scene, but were unable. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with further information about this crime, please call the Whittier Investigative Bureau at 562-945-8264.

Whittier PD Seeks Robbery Suspects

On November 4th at 12:42pm, a robbery took place at the Von’s Distribution Credit Union located at 13100 Firestone Blvd. Two male Hispanics, originally described as blacks, in their 40’s, entered the location and demanded money. No weapons were seen however, employees and customers fled the credit union while the suspects took cash. They fled in a silver mid sized Chrysler, dropped the vehicle off further down Firestone, got into another car (description unknown) and left the area. Whittier PD Forensics was called to the scene to print the getaway car (it was reported stolen) and processed the crime scene as well.

Prop 8 Protesters Turn Violent

On November 3rd at 9:15pm approximately 100 “No” and “Yes” protesters converged on the corners of Painter Ave. and Whittier Blvd. while several officers monitored the activity. Just after 9:00pm, Carlos Gallegos (6/7/51 of Hacienda Heights) got upset at an opposing protester, grabbed her by the arm and physically moved her out of his way. Other protesters claimed that Gallegos was swinging wildly at them and the victim made a citizens arrest. Gallegos was taken into custody and transported to WPD for booking.

Whittier PD Cracks Down on Local Gang

On August 21st, 2008 Anthony De La Riva (21) was murdered in East Whittier. While De La Riva sat in the driver’s seat of his car with his 6-month pregnant girlfriend and one year old daughter in the back seat, an unknown male Hispanic approached the driver’s side of his vehicle and fatally shot him several times. His girlfriend and baby daughter were unhurt. Witnesses say they saw a subject, who they describe as a male, Hispanic, 5’ 10”, shaved head or very short hair leave the location in a white, late 90’s model, mid-sized vehicle.

After numerous hours of interviews and following leads since this incident, the Whittier PD investigative division now believes that all this information now points to possible members of a gang from Pico Rivera known as “Pico Viejo.”

As a result today on Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 0600 hours, a series of 19 parole and probation searches were conducted by Whittier PD in Pico Rivera targeting “Pico Viejo.” Over 90 law enforcement officers assisted in this effort including teams from Culver City, La Habra, LA IMPACT, a large contingent from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and 34 officers from Whittier PD. Also playing an important role were 11 agents from California State Parole, four Officers from Los Angeles County Probation and eight representatives from the Department of Children and Family Services (MART) team. These searches were conducted throughout the cities of Pico Rivera, Whittier, Santa Fe Springs, Montebello, and Alhambra.

Consequently, six individuals were arrested in this sweep for parole and probation violations as well as open charges. Included in these arrests, seven guns were seized as a result of parole and probation violations. The Whittier Police Department is obviously interested in these individuals arrested today in relationship to De La Riva’s murder.

We are also asking the public for any further assistance in solving this crime by calling our Whittier Investigative Bureau at 562-945-8264.

Beware! This Halloween - Don’t Let Your Good Time Turn Into a Nightmare

Whittier, CA—Halloween is a much-loved fall tradition that is enjoyed by people of all ages. But irresponsible celebrating can quickly spoil a fun evening. That is why state and local law enforcement will be out in full force this Halloween cracking down on drunk drivers with an aggressive Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. enforcement blitz.

“Halloween should be a time for scary costumes, trick or treating with the kids and good family fun,” said Officer Jensen. “But unfortunately, Halloween has also become a very dangerous and deadly night of the year due to impaired driving.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 44 percent of all highway fatalities across the nation on Halloween night (6 pm Oct. 31 to 5:59 am Nov. 1) involved a driver or a motorcycle rider with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is illegal in every state.

Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest problems. In 2006,in California 4,195 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. There were 1,597 people who were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

Suspect Arrested After Exposing Himself

On October 28th at 7:46am, a Whittier High School student walked past a male suspect who was masturbating while seated in his vehicle to the front of 7038 Pickering Aveune. She continued walking to school where WHS security staff was notified. As a result, the School Resource Officer was dispatched and located the suspect who was arrested. The arrestee was identified as Joseph Ochoa, 30 years old, of Pico Rivera.

Assault Suspect in Custody

Santa Fe Springs - On October 26th at 8:20pm, Whittier Police Officers began responding to 9700 Jersey Avenue regarding a 911 hang up call. The connection with the cell phone was lost but dispatchers overheard a woman screaming in the background. The connection was re-established and it was determined that it was a possible family disturbance at the condo.

After arriving the victim said the male suspect, who resides in the condo complex with the victim’s mother, had washed her car earlier. She said that she had agreed to pay him for his services and at 8:20pm, he came to her door demanding money for the car wash. At this time, she told him she didn’t have the money, but would pay him later. He became irate and started screaming at her while banging and kicking on the front door. After he realized he couldn’t get in through the front door and front slider, he made his way around to the back of the condo and threw open the garage door. He made his way to the back door, located inside the garage, and forced his way into the condo. Once inside, the suspect grabbed the victim around the neck and began to strangle her. He told her that he was “going to strike the fear of God in her” and was eventually interrupted by the victim’s roommate who scared him off. The victim suffered minor redness to her neck.

While checking the area, Officers found the suspect in front of 9715 Alburtis. A field show up was conducted and identified Sabino Muniz (4-16-71) of Santa Fe Springs as the suspect. Muniz was taken into custody for assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, and terrorist threats.

"Hot Prowl" Burglary

On October 26th at 9:30pm, Whittier Police Officers responded to 7202 Washington Avenue where a female victim had just encountered a burglar in her home. While home alone, the female victim stepped out of the bathroom and confronted a male subject in her hallway. The suspect immediately fled from the home and responding units checked the area, but the suspect was not located.

Officers Assist With Birth of Child

On October 26th at 6:00am, an expectant mother was en route to Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital after beginning labor. Suddenly, the birth became imminent and the driver pulled over on Lambert Road, west of Santa Gertrudes. Three Whittier Police Officers responded and, along with the Fire Department, assisted in the delivery of a baby boy. The newborn is in excellent condition.

Cat Burglar In Custody

On October 20, 2008 at 1:38am, a resident was awakened by the suspect, who was walking inside the residence in the 11800 block of Grande Vista.  The suspect gained entry through an unlocked door.  When the resident confronted the suspect, the suspect fled on foot.  Officers responded and were able to locate the burglary suspect hiding in the area of North and South Circle.  Matthew Anderson, 36, of Hacienda Heights was taken into custody without incident. 

Residents are reminded to lock all access points into residences at night and when away from home.

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Explosion Heard

The Department received numerous 911 calls at 10pm regarding an explosion that was heard in the Michigan Park area. Officers checked the area with the assistance of ground units and a police helicopter, but were unable to pinpoint the location of the explosion and no damage was found. A witness said that they saw a model rocket launch and then explode in mid-air.
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Suspicious Activity

Santa Fe Springs - On October 18, 2008, at approximately 12:43pm, a 14 year old female was walking in the area of Dunning Street and Pioneer Boulevard when she was approached by a vehicle. The driver, described only as an approximate 50 year old Hispanic male, driving what was described both as either a red sports car, or 1990’s model red truck with a blue tarp in the back, motioned for the juvenile to come over to the car. The juvenile, fearing for her safety, ran to a friend’s residence in the area and the vehicle drove away. She was obviously frightened by the incident, but was not physically assaulted or injured. The driver of the vehicle was unknown to the juvenile. No lewd comments were directed at her and the driver made no effort to physically assault her or place her into the car.

The Whittier Police Department is investigating. Persons having any additional information are urged to call the Police Services Center at 562 409-1850.
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Holiday Crack Down on Drunk Driving

HALLOWEEN PLANNER

CONTACT: Officer Richard Jensen, 562-945-8256, rjensen@cityofwhittier.org

Whittier Police Department, 7315 Painter Ave, Whittier, CA 90602

Beware! This Halloween
Don’t Let Your Good Time Turn Into a Nightmare
Drunk Driving Will Not Be Tolerated


[Whittier, CA]—Halloween is a much-loved fall tradition that is enjoyed by people of all ages. But irresponsible celebrating can quickly spoil a fun evening. That is why state and local law enforcement will be out in full force this Halloween cracking down on drunk drivers with an aggressive Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. enforcement blitz.

“Halloween should be a time for scary costumes, trick or treating with the kids and good family fun,” said Officer Jensen. “But unfortunately, Halloween has also become a very dangerous and deadly night of the year due to impaired driving.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 44 percent of all highway fatalities across the nation on Halloween night (6 pm Oct. 31 to 5:59 am Nov. 1) involved a driver or a motorcycle rider with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is illegal in every state.

Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest problems. In 2006,in California 4,195 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. There were 1,597 people who were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

For a safer Halloween weekend The Whittier Police Department recommends these simple tips:

Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys;
If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement;

“Real-life Halloween nightmares are simple to avoid if you make smart decisions. Never drive drunk. Designate your sober driver in advance. No exceptions. No excuses. Remember, Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest..”

For more information, please visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.

October Neighborhood Watch Newsletter ONLINE

Don't miss the October issue of the Whittier Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Newsletter; your source for crime prevention information. You may download the newsletter by clicking here.

Hit and Run Suspect in Custody

On Wednesday morning at 9:50am, a female driver ran a red light while driving westbound on Florence Avenue while a Norwalk metro bus entered the intersection from southbound Orr & Day Road. After the broad side collision, the female sprinted away from the vehicle and hid in the back lot of a nearby strip mall. She was quickly captured and ultimately identified as the driver before being arrested for the felony offense. About 20 passengers were on board the bus and two complained of pain and refused treatment at the time. Mayra Escobar, 18, of Bell Gardens was arrested for the crime.

Auto Burglary Suspects Arrested

On October 6th at 2:45am, a Whittier resident called to report suspects tampering with her neighbor’s vehicle. When officers arrived, a vehicle was driving out of the area. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle and a brief pursuit ensued. Officers lost the vehicle, but found it abandoned a short time later and set up a containment with the help of the Sheriff's helicopter. One suspect was located within the containment almost immediately and a second was located approximately 15 minutes later. Officers conducted a follow-up investigation and determined there were two victims of thefts from vehicles on Tedemory and a third victim on Ocean View. Based on the amount of property recovered from the suspects’ vehicle, it is likely there will be additional victims. If you should discover you are a victim of auto burglary, please contact the Whittier Police Department at 562.945.8250.

Suspects Richard George (06-16-90) and Christopher Fernandez (12-26-89), both residing in Whittier County, were arrested.

Hit and Run Suspects in Custody

On October 1st, a Whittier Police Officer, assigned to Santa Fe Springs, was dispatched to the area of Heritage Park where a witness had chased a hit and run vehicle and was detaining one of the suspects. The Officer took the passenger into custody and started looking for the driver who was located a short time later and taken into custody after he was found hiding between two electric boxes and shrubbery. The victim was able to positively identify the driver who was charged with DUI and felony hit and run. The passenger was arrested for drunk in public. Driver: Male Hispanic resident of Bell Gardens. Pass: Fulno, Ruben 35, resident of Bell Gardens.

Burglary Suspects Arrested

On October 1st at 6:00pm, three male suspects forced their way into a residence through a window in the 13100 block of Foxley Drive. They then assaulted the victim, a 17 year-old Hispanic male, who received minor injuries. The suspects fled in a black SUV, which was being driven by another suspect. As the SUV was leaving the scene, the suspects saw a police car pulling onto Foxley. The suspects then jumped out of the vehicle and fled on foot while the driver (AR-Judith Matute, D/B-09/09/86, resides in Whittier) was arrested from the vehicle. One of the passengers (AR-Silvano Delgadilolo, D/B-12/21/88, resides in Whittier), was located nearby and arrested.

Robbery

As a 17-year old, Whittier resident was was walking on Milton Ave yesterday at 4:00pm, two suspects drove up to him. The passenger exited and demanded his cell phone and ipod. When the victim hesitated, suspect #1 punched him in the head multiple times. The victim released the property and the suspects drove southbound in the west alley of Milton to Hadley Street. Suspect#1 was described as a male Hispanic 17 yrs., 5’11", 140 pounds with black spikey hair, black T Shirt, blue shorts, and tall white socks. Suspect#2 was described as a male Hispanic 17 (Driver) with no further details. The suspect vehicle was described as a late 90’s Hyundai 2 door that had been spray painted blue and white.

While patrolling the area sometime later, a Whittier Police Corporal saw the suspect vehicle in the Market Place parking lot and arrested suspect#2 for possession of stolen property as he was in possession of the victim’s ipod. Suspect #1 was not in the vehicle.

Police Services Officer Assaulted

On September 27th at 9:40 pm, a Santa Fe Springs Police Services Officer was assigned to a wedding reception at the Clarke Estate when he was approached by a drunk male who started getting very aggressive. At one point the subject, Sperry (6-6-60) of Whittier, told the PSO “you should watch your back, I am going to throw you through a table.” Sperry continued his belligerence and kept telling the PSO to allow him talk on the radio. He also threatened physical harm against the PSO. After Sperry said this, he leaned forward and jabbed the PSO in the chest (checking to see if he was wearing a vest or not). With this, the PSO felt he might become involved in a fight and called for Code 3 back up. Once Sperry saw the PSO call for assistance, he backed down and walked away. Officers arrived and detained Sperry until he was taken into custody. Sperry was arrested for battery and public drunkenness.

Hit & Run Leads to Pursuit

On September 28th at 7:30pm, Whittier Police Officers patrolling Santa Fe Springs, received a call of a possible DUI in progress in the area of Telegraph and Shoemaker. As dispatchers received updates, the suspect vehicle had driven on sidewalks and had hit a car in the parking lot at Wal-Mart. Minutes later, Officers located the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Mills Avenue and Mulberry Drive and attempted a traffic stop resulting in a vehicle pursuit. The pursuit continued about a mile and a half until the suspect nearly collided with a car stopped at Mills and Lambert. The suspect lost control, collided with the curb, skidded up onto the dirt rail-road easement on the Northeast corner of the intersection and then back out onto the roadway. At this point, due to the reckless driving, pursuing Officers decided to cancel the pursuit however, the suspect ended up making a Southbound turn onto Valley View which is a cul-de-sac. Officers took that opportunity to fall in behind the suspect once again and she exited the vehicle just south of her residence. A very short foot pursuit took place and the suspect was ultimately captured.

Gloria Martinez (1-27-52) of Whittier, was transported to Whittier Hospital due to a head laceration. Doctors confirmed she had no other injuries and she received a few stitches for the cut however, she was admitted to the hospital overnight for observation. Martinez was cited out for evasion, DUI, and Hit and Run.

Former Reserve Officer Reports Burglary In Progress

On 09/17/08 at 9:14am, a former Whittier Police Department Reserve Officer
reported an in-progress burglary in the area of 14450 E. Carnell St. He provided a good description of the suspects and their vehicle as it left the area. Moments later, a Whittier Police Officer located the suspect vehicle on Gunn Ave approaching Lambert. When back up units arrived, they conducted a felony stop on Mulberry Street. Ultimately, 3 suspects were arrested and identified as Fernando Villalba, 21, of Los Angeles, Benigno Madriles, 28, of Huntington Park and Jose Lopez-Monter, 28, of Los Angeles. Jewelry suspected of being taken from the residence was recovered and returned to the homeowner.

Juvenile Vandal In Custody

While working patrol on September 16th, a Whittier Police Officer was dispatched to 14880 Whittier Blvd regarding a vandalism in progress at 9:11pm. Witnisses reported a subject was up on a billboard tagging. Upon arrival, the witness said the suspect was now hiding on top of a nearby building. Eventually, the suspect was ordered down and taken into custody for vandalism; he was identified as a 14-year-old male from Whittier.

Sobriety (DUI) Checkpoint

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: September 15, 2008
Contact: Traffic Sergeant Dan Lowe
Subject: Sobriety (DUI) Checkpoint
When: Friday, September 19, 2008
Location: Whittier Blvd. and Philadelphia St.

Whittier, CA. – On Friday, September 19, 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 Philadelphia St. 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

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.