Robbery Suspect Caught on Video

Los Angeles:  Los Angeles Police Department Hollenbeck Division Robbery detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the arrest of a suspect wanted for committing two armed robberies in the El Sereno area of Los Angeles.

On Sunday, September 8, 2013, around 10:05 a.m., a suspect armed with a handgun ran inside a cell phone store located in the 4800 block of Valley Boulevard, jumped over the counter and removed money from the cash register.  The suspect directed the employee to the rear room, where he also took money from the employee.  The suspect took an undisclosed amount of money from the cash register and the employee then left the location on foot.

On Thursday, September 5, 2013, around 12:55 p.m., the same suspect ran inside a cell phone store located in the 4600 block of Huntington Drive, holding a firearm. The Suspect jumped over the counter, removed the money from the cash register and directed the employee to the rear room.  The suspect took the employee’s money and ran out.

The suspect is described as a male Hispanic between 30 to 40-years-old, who stands 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs between 180 and 220 pounds, with numerous tattoos on both arms.  The Suspect has a tattoo on his right shoulder of a Japanese Demon with horns and a large “LA” on his right elbow.  Detectives remind the public that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.

A local business surveillance camera captured the suspect’s image, minutes prior to the robbery. Additional video footage also captured the same suspect committing the second robbery.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Hollenbeck Division Robbery Detective Silva at 323-342-8986 or Detective Barajas at 323-342-8991.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should 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 keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "web tips" and follow the prompts.