Los Angeles area law enforcement officials have announced the formation of a task force to address a series of high-profile smash-and-grab robberies targeting high-end shopping centers. The task force, consisting of officers from various regions, will focus on apprehending groups of robbers responsible for the brazen break-ins that have unnerved business owners and police since July 3.
One of the notable robberies took place at the Nordstrom store in the Topanga Mall, Canoga Park, on August 12. Approximately 30 to 50 individuals, all between the ages of 18 and 25, stormed into the store and made off with around $300,000 worth of merchandise.
There have been at least three other similar robberies targeting luxury stores, including one at the Ksubi clothing store in the Fairfax District on August 15.
Mayor Karen Bass, accompanied by leaders from the LAPD and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, expressed their dissatisfaction with these incidents, deeming them “unacceptable.” Bass emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of residents and shoppers in Los Angeles.
Deputy Chief Kris Pitcher, overseeing the LAPD detective units, revealed that the string of robberies began in July, involving groups of four to 15 suspected robbers. In the Nordstrom Mall incident, one individual even assaulted a security guard with bear spray.
The task force, headquartered in the San Fernando Valley, will operate around the clock, staffed by at least 22 officers who will have access to a wide range of law enforcement resources. Pitcher mentioned the utilization of cell tower data, cyber investigations, and various databases to assist the investigations. Informants will also be employed.
Pitcher further stated that the task force will target both the robbers and those buying the stolen items, as it is believed that the groups have established buyers. Glendale Police Department made an arrest prior to the task force announcement, detaining one suspect involved in the mob robbery at a Yves Saint Laurent store at the Americana at Brand on August 8. The group made off with approximately $400,000 worth of handbags.
Despite the high-end store robberies, overall robberies in Los Angeles have decreased significantly compared to the same period in 2022, with a recorded 13.3% decrease. This translates to a substantial reduction in street-level robberies in the city.
Pitcher acknowledged that this trend requires swift action and resolution. The authorities remain committed to addressing these issues promptly.
[Source: Daily News](https://www.dailynews.com/2023/08/17/100000-in-handbags-stolen-in-mob-robbery-at-south-coast-plaza/)
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
