Wedding Crasher Arrested in Theft of $60,000 in Gifts
Introduction to the Incident
Two men have been arrested in the theft of a wedding gift box containing about $60,000 in cash and checks from a banquet hall reception in Glendale, authorities said Saturday.
The theft was reported at 12:50 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 31 at the Renaissance Banquet Hall, 1236 S. Central Ave., according to Sgt. Jose Barajas of the Glendale Police Department.
“Witnesses reported that shortly after midnight, a male suspect entered the banquet hall, grabbed the gift box and fled through an exit,” Barajas said. “Surveillance footage shows the suspect entering the passenger seat of a newer black Mercedes SUV, which then fled the area.”
Investigation and Arrest
Over the past week, detectives used video surveillance and department resources to identify the primary suspect in the theft as Armean Shirehjini, according to a police statement.
Detectives arrested Shirehjini, who allegedly was in possession of a handgun, and Andranik Avetisyan at Shirehjini’s Sherman Oaks home on Friday. Avetisyan was identified as the getaway driver the night of the theft, police said.
“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,” according to the police statement. “In addition, several firearms and various narcotics were seized from both residences.”
Details of the Theft
Footage from the wedding appeared to capture a man approach an area off the dance floor, lean over, pick something up and leave the wedding hall, KTLA reported.
One of the bride’s girlfriends noticed and immediately told the couple that the man snatched the box of gifts from family and friends, the TV report said. “At that point, the music stopped; Everyone was aware of the situation,” Nadeen Farahat said.
“It was a wonderful party until the incident took place,” Groom George Farahat told the station. “As is tradition in our culture, most people give cash or checks as gifts for the newlyweds, so there was a box containing all the envelopes, the cards and the money from family and friends (who) were invited.”
Call for Information
Detectives ask anyone with information about the case to contact Glendale police at 818-548-3127.
Originally Published: September 6, 2025 at 10:06 AM PDT
Conclusion
The theft of a wedding gift box containing about $60,000 in cash and checks from a banquet hall reception in Glendale has resulted in the arrest of two men. The incident highlights the importance of security measures at events where large amounts of cash and valuables are present. The recovery of the stolen items and the arrest of the suspects bring relief to the newlyweds and their families.
FAQs
Q: What was the value of the stolen gifts?
A: The stolen gifts were valued at about $60,000 in cash and checks.
Q: Where did the theft occur?
A: The theft occurred at the Renaissance Banquet Hall in Glendale.
Q: How were the suspects identified?
A: The suspects were identified using video surveillance and department resources.
Q: What additional items were seized from the suspects’ residences?
A: Several firearms and various narcotics were seized from both residences.
Q: How can people provide information about the case?
A: People can contact Glendale police at 818-548-3127 to provide information about the case.
