Robbery Suspect Captured on Video NR18255dm

Van Nuys: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Van Nuys Division are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect who committed a takeover business robbery.

On August 30, 2018, around 7:30 a.m., a male suspect entered a dentist office located near Van Nuys Boulevard and Sherman Way. The office was closed, but the suspect entered through an unlocked door. The suspect donned a lab coat, a surgical mask, protective eyewear and latex gloves and began to remove property. The office manager entered the location through the front door, at which time he was confronted by the suspect. The office manager was forced to the rear office where the suspect removed his personal property. The office manager remained in the office while the suspect continued to remove property. The dentist then entered the business through the front door and went to the dental examination room. The suspect armed himself with a sharp tool, entered the dental examination room, confronted the dentist and assaulted him. During the assault, additional employees entered the business. They heard a struggle and entered the dental examination room where they observed the suspect assaulting the dentist. The suspect fled the location on foot.

The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, 27-33-years-old, with short dark hair. He stands 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall and has a medium build. He was last seen wearing protective eyewear, a surgical mask, latex gloves, dark scrub shirt, white lab coat, blue jeans and brown boots.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene. The dentist sustained minor contusions from the sharp tool and refused treatment.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Van Nuys Robbery Detective Cheun at (818) 374-0081. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be Directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an onlinetip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.