Introduction to the Incident
Two men accused of stealing a wedding gift box from a couple at their banquet hall celebration in Glendale were charged Tuesday with second-degree burglary and other crimes.
Details of the Theft
The box containing $60,000 in cash and checks, gifts from the newlyweds’ wedding guests, was stolen Aug. 31 at the Renaissance Banquet Hall on Central Avenue. Security camera video showed a man dressed in black walking around inside the venue, appearing to order drinks and entering a restroom before taking off with the box as guests celebrated on a dance floor.
Video from inside the wedding venue showed guests dancing on a nearby dance floor as the man appeared to fold and unfold a servers’ tray stand against a wall. Video showed the man pick up the gift box with both hands from a platform next to the wedding party table at the front of the room and bolt for the exit.
Reaction from the Bride
"It’s such a vulnerable moment for us," said bride Nadeem Farahat. "There’s someone in this hall, watching our guests, watching us, taking advantage of the situation. When he saw his opportunity, he went for it and darted out the back."
Investigation and Arrest
Police said the man took his time, waiting for about an hour before making his move. Security camera video from an alley showed the bald man dressed in black get into the passenger seat of a newer-model Mercedes Benz SUV that left the area.
Detectives used the video to help identify the primary suspect in the theft as Shirehjini, according to a statement released by the police department. Shirehjini, who allegedly was in possession of a handgun, and Avetisyan were arrested Friday at Shirehjini’s home. Avetisyan was identified as the getaway driver the night of the theft, police said.
Charges and Evidence
Armean Shirehjini, 41, of Sherman Oaks, and Andranik Avetisyan, 37, of Los Angeles, are each charged with one count of second-degree burglary, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Shirehjini is also charged with one count of possession of a controlled substance while armed with a working firearm. Avetisyan is also charged with a misdemeanor count of child endangerment.
"Detectives executed search warrants at both suspects’ residences and recovered a large amount of cash and dozens of checks made out to the victims from the wedding,” the department’s statement said. "In addition, several firearms and various narcotics were seized from both residences."
Conclusion
The theft of a wedding gift box containing $60,000 in Glendale has led to the arrest and charging of two men, highlighting the importance of vigilance during public events and the effectiveness of security cameras in aiding investigations.
FAQs
- Q: What was stolen from the wedding celebration?
A: A wedding gift box containing $60,000 in cash and checks. - Q: Where did the theft occur?
A: At the Renaissance Banquet Hall on Central Avenue in Glendale. - Q: Who are the suspects in the case?
A: Armean Shirehjini and Andranik Avetisyan. - Q: What charges do the suspects face?
A: Second-degree burglary, with additional charges for Shirehjini including possession of a controlled substance while armed, and for Avetisyan, a misdemeanor count of child endangerment.
