Detective’s Seek the Public’s Help – UPDATE

 
Los Angeles: Northeast Area Detective’s are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying individuals responsible for a series of robberies occurring in the Eagle Rock and Highland Park communities.
Since October 2003, there have been about fifteen reported robberies. The suspects have been described as male Hispanics, approximately 18 to 24 years of age. The suspects are armed with a gun and have been known to approach the victims from behind as they are walking. A partial license plate number of 3JN— was seen. The suspects generally target elderly females during the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. and have targeted young females between the ages of 16-18 during nighttime hours.
Detectives encourage the community to use caution when walking to and from businesses. To the extent possible, elderly people should travel in groups or pairs. Purses should be held firmly, covering the clasp with the hand. The purse should not be carried by the strap or loosely over the shoulder. However, should a suspect attempt to grab at a purse, people are encouraged to immediately release the purse. Victims should obtain a good physical description of the suspects, a license plate number and description of the vehicle used in the crime, as well as the direction traveled.
Anyone with information related to these crimes should call Northeast Detective’s at, 213-847-4263. On weekends and during off-hours, please call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
This news advisory was prepared by Public Information Officer Adriana N. Sanchez, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.

UPDATE:

On November 21, 2003, at about 11:30 a.m., another robbery occurred in the Northeast Area. A witness obtained a license plate number, which assisted the investigating detectives in locating the suspects. On November 21, 2003, at about 4:30 p.m. the suspects were arrested and booked for robbery. Additional charges are pending.

Suspect-1: Rocco, Anthony male, Hispanic, 18 years of age
Suspect-2: Penaloza, Ramiro male, Hispanic, 22 years of age