Flash-Mob Style Robbery at Westfield Topanga Mall
Around 5:15 p.m. Friday, two stores in the Westfield Topanga Mall were hit by 12 suspects who ran in and stole more than $90,000 worth of merchandise in under a few minutes, the Los Angeles Police Department announced.
Details of the Robbery
The suspects, wearing masks and hoodies, were caught on video grabbing and running away with stolen designer handbags and clothes. The stores that were targeted were not specified in the initial report, but authorities later confirmed that Nordstrom was one of the affected stores.
Investigation and Arrests
The LAPD’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force identified the suspects and vehicles believed to be connected to the crime. Around 9:40 p.m. Friday, LAPD Southwest area officers located and detained a vehicle with five occupants, who were alleged to be involved in the smash-and-grab.
Three adults and two juveniles in the vehicle were booked on robbery charges. The adults were identified as Los Angeles men ages 18 and 22 and a Los Angeles woman age 19.
Additional Arrest
About two hours later, officers from the Huntington Beach Police Department located and detained a vehicle with a female driver. Officers found allegedly stolen items in the vehicle. A 26-year-old Los Angeles resident was arrested on suspicion of felony possession of stolen property. She was being held without bail.
Case Remains Under Investigation
The case remained under investigation Sunday. Anyone with information regarding the incident was asked to call Commercial Crimes Division, Organized Retail Crime Section, Detectives at 818- 374-9437 or ORClapd.online, and 877-527-3247 during non-business hours. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org
Conclusion
The flash-mob style robbery at Westfield Topanga Mall highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to combat organized retail crime. The arrests made in this case demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.
FAQs
Q: How many suspects were involved in the robbery?
A: 12 suspects were involved in the robbery.
Q: How much merchandise was stolen?
A: More than $90,000 worth of merchandise was stolen.
Q: Which stores were targeted?
A: Two stores in the Westfield Topanga Mall were targeted, but the specific stores were not initially disclosed. Later, authorities confirmed that Nordstrom was one of the affected stores.
Q: How many arrests were made?
A: Six people were arrested in connection with the robbery: three adults and two juveniles, and one additional adult arrested on suspicion of felony possession of stolen property.
Q: How can I report information about the robbery?
A: Anyone with information regarding the incident can call Commercial Crimes Division, Organized Retail Crime Section, Detectives at 818- 374-9437 or ORClapd.online, and 877-527-3247 during non-business hours. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org
