Introduction to the Burglary Bust
Luxury items and guns were seized as LAPD officers served search and arrest warrants last week — nabbing at least 8 alleged thieves suspected of burglarizing dozens of homes across Southern California in recent months.
During the searches detectives found illegal firearms, stolen designer bags, including Guccis, and electronic devices used to scope-out potential targets and neuter security systems during the burglaries, multiple law enforcement sources told NBC LA.
Details of the Arrests and Searches
The LAPD confirmed the arrests and searches last week but declined to share details, opting to withhold specifics until a press conference with Mayor Karen Bass set for Monday morning.
These arrests, made last Wednesday morning, follow other large law enforcement operations aimed at teams of burglars, or ‘crews,’ suspected of home break-ins, including the recent arrests of 2 adults and 2 teens suspected in the burglary at the Los Feliz home of Brad Pitt and other celebrity break-ins.
Charges and Expectations
The adults have been charged with burglarizing homes in LA and Orange Counties, and authorities told NBC LA numerous additional charges are expected to be filed.
Earlier this month a surveillance detail from the LA IMPACT task force surveilled, chased, and arrested 2 men allegedly observed burglarizing a home in Woodland Hills. Those men have been charged with residential burglary.
Recent Home Break-ins and Their Impact
The spike in recent home break-ins, in particular in the West San Fernando Valley, drew attention from area residents following the murders of American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, who police said were shot to death when they walked-in on a burglary in progress.
Days after their bodies were found a homeowner nearby shot and wounded a prowler armed with a crowbar, who had smashed into him home around 5:30 a.m. The LAPD said the wounded person turned out to be a 14-year-old teen who was detained on suspicion of burglary.
Crime Data and Trends
LAPD crime data has shown an overall reduction in the number of burglaries since January, 2025, when compared with the same time period in 2024, although it is unclear whether a reduction in residential or commercial burglaries within that data was responsible for the decline.
Conclusion
The recent arrests and seizures are a significant step forward in addressing the surge in home break-ins across Southern California. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the use of surveillance details have proven effective in apprehending suspects and recovering stolen goods. As the community continues to grapple with the issue of burglary, it is essential to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
FAQs
Q: How many alleged thieves were arrested in the recent burglary bust?
A: At least 8 alleged thieves were arrested in the recent burglary bust.
Q: What luxury items were seized during the searches?
A: Stolen designer bags, including Guccis, were seized during the searches.
Q: Have the adults been charged with any crimes?
A: Yes, the adults have been charged with burglarizing homes in LA and Orange Counties.
Q: What is the current trend in burglary cases in the area?
A: According to LAPD crime data, there has been an overall reduction in the number of burglaries since January, 2025, compared to the same time period in 2024.
