2nd Addition to Most Wanted List Announced

Los Angeles: With the March 2 capture of the LAPD’s second Top-10 Most Wanted Gang Member, Police Chief William Bratton and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa today announced the name of the next local gang member to be added to the list.

Arash Semerome Safaie, 32, is a member of the Hardtimes criminal street gang. Arrest warrants for murder and attempted murder were issued for Safaie after he was implicated in the September 28, 2003, shooting death of 17-year-old Anna Vasquez. The murder occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m., during a party at a Newton Area residence in the 100 block of East 57th Street. Safaei is wanted for the attempted murder of two other victims shot at the same time.

The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous. He is White, 5’8", 220 pounds and has brown hair and eyes.

Members of the community are encouraged to call their local police station or the LAPD toll-free number with information about local gang activity. The City Council has authorized up to a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of any of the Top-10 Most Wanted Gang Members. The LAPD’s toll-free number is 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

Persons with information about Arash Safaie may also contact the Newton Area gang unit at 323-846-6566.