Video Catches Smoking Bandit in the Act

 
Los Angeles: On Wednesday, April 9, 2003, at 2:50 a.m., Los Angeles Police Department, Hollywood Area officers responded to a "Robbery Just Occurred" radio call at the 7-11 convenience store located at 6660 Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. Preliminary investigation revealed that a male, Black, bald or shaved head, dark eyes, 5’10" 6’00", 150lbs 180lbs, 35 to 40 years-old, entered the location and forced his way behind the counter while simultaneously reaching for a weapon. The suspect removed several cartons Marlboro Cigarettes from the shelves then again forced his way past the store clerk and out of the store.
On Monday, April 14, 2003 at approximately 3:55 hours, Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood officers responded to a another "Robbery that Just Occurred" radio call at a separate 7-11 convenience store located at 7600 Sunset Boulevard. Preliminary investigation revealed that a male Black, fitting the description of the suspect in the April 19th robbery, entered the location posing as a customer. After forcing his way past the clerk, the suspect removed several cartons of Marlboro cigarettes from the shelves then again pushed his way past the store clerk and out of the store.
Detectives believe that the same suspect is responsible for both robberies.
These incidents were caught on surveillance video and copies of the tapes are available for the press at the Media Relations Office.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Hollywood Robbery Detectives at 213-485- 4336. On weekends and during off-hours, contact the 24 hour-toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Grace Brady, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.