Multi-agency Investigation Leads to the Arrest of a Suspect Wanted for Human Trafficking, Kidnapping, Burglary, and Pimping NR10474SF

October 1, 2010

Los Angeles. After rescuing a kidnap victim, LAPD Detectives conducted a follow up investigation that led to the arrest of a man wanted for human trafficking, kidnap, burglary, and pimping.

On September 28, 2010, detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Detective Support and Vice Division (DSVD) investigated a kidnapping that took place in mid September, 2010.  During the early stages in the investigation, the detectives located and rescued the kidnapped victim, a minor female.

As the investigation continued, detectives identified 34-year-old Leroy Bragg,a resident of Hawthorne as the suspect wanted for the kidnapping. Now knowing the identity of the suspect, the detectives were led to the city of Hawthorne where members of the Hawthorne Police Department joined the LAPD in their search for Bragg. During the search, the suspect was seen and he immediately began running away from the pursuing officers. Bragg was found hiding in a backyard and was arrested by the Hawthorne Police Department.

On September 30, 2010, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed various criminal charges on Suspect Leroy Bragg including human trafficking, burglary, and pimping. Additional charges are expected to be filed.    

The Los Angeles Police Department believes there may be additional victims and is asking for the public’s help to provide information regarding this, or other crimes involving Leroy Bragg. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Hector Sanchez, DSVD at 213-486-0957. During non-business hours or weekends, calls may be directedto 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800)-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most key pads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD."  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "web tips" and follow the prompts.

Leroy Bragg