Detectives Release Video of Burglar in China Town NR10060PV

Los Angeles.  Los Angeles police detectives released a photograph and video of a man who is suspected in a day-time burglary of a Los Angeles China Town restaurant, the Empress Pavilion.

"It appears this man had inside knowledge of the restaurant," said Lt. Paul Vernon, who is the commanding officer of the Central Detective Division.  "You can see him walking past employees just as the lunch hour rush is beginning."

Investigators believe the man pried his way into the restaurant’s back door around 11:40 AM, December 15, 2009, then made his way to a business office. "He helped himself to over $20,000 in cash from a desk drawer," Lt. Vernon said.

The video released shows the man walking through a hallway and into a storage area, all the while talking on a cell phone.  

The man is described as Hispanic with a goatee along the lower ridge of his chin and jaw.  He has a stocky build.  His hair is short and dark, and he is 25 to 30 years old.  He is wearing a black, zippered hoodie over a gray polo shirt, with a white T-shirt underneath.

"None of the employees recognized the man," Lt. Vernon added.  "Nevertheless, it still seems like he may have had some inside information to know where the money was kept."

Any who recognizes this man is urged to Detective Mike Mazzacano, Central Burglary Unit, at 213-972-1231.  Tipsters can also call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may contact Crimestoppers by texting the 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.  Tipsters may remain anonymous.

The video clip is available at Central Police Station, 251 East 6th Street Los Angeles, though it does not show the man removing property.  A still photo is available by email from Media Relations Section. To view surveillance video, or to interview Lt. Vernon, please call 213-972-1203.