Fire Captain Arrested for Attempting to Buy Heroin NR11531cj

UPDATE                  

The original release contained the incorrect name of the arrested person.  The correct name is Matthew Phillipsen.

Los Angeles: LAPD Narcotics officers arrested an LAFD fire captain after he attempted to purchase heroin during a sting operation.

On Wednesday, November 9, 2011 around 12:10 p.m., Captain Matthew Phillipsen was arrested in the area of Avenue 61 and Figueroa Street during a sting operation conducted by Northeast Area Narcotics Unit.  Phillipsen was apprehended while attempting to purchase seven balloons of simulated heroin from undercover officers.

Phillipsen was arrested for 11350 H&S, (intent to possess heroin), and booked at Metro Detention Center and placed on $10,000 bail.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to call during non-business hours or on weekends to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.