Several Hundred Dollars in Cash and Most of the Stolen Property Were Recovered
Two individuals have been apprehended and charged in connection with two counts each of burglary from a vehicle and grand theft, following a series of incidents in Santa Monica.
According to authorities, the events unfolded on April 24, around midday. At approximately 12:24 p.m., a dark-colored Nissan Altima, occupied by three individuals, pulled into the Chevron located at 1344 Santa Monica Blvd. As the vehicle came to a stop beside another car at the gas pumps, one of the suspects allegedly seized the victim’s purse from the front seat.
Shortly thereafter, at approximately 12:30 p.m., the same Altima made a stop at the Sinclair gas station situated at 1944 Pico Blvd. The rear passenger of the vehicle reportedly opened the door of another vehicle at the pumps, snatched the victim’s purse, and swiftly fled the scene alongside their accomplices.
Approximately 30 minutes later, the suspects allegedly targeted a vehicle parked at the Shell station, located at 1866 Lincoln Boulevard. They purportedly shattered the window of the vehicle and made off with valuables including a laptop, iPad, and other belongings.
With the assistance of the Hawthorne Police Department, law enforcement officers were able to track down and apprehend the suspects. Subsequently, several hundred dollars in cash and most of the stolen property were recovered.
On April 26th, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office officially filed felony burglary and grand theft charges (487a PC and 459 PC) against the following individuals:
- Raul Santino Lopez of Richmond, CA (DOB: 12/27/2003)
- Agustin Jesus Vega of Richmond, CA (DOB: 02/23/2003)
Despite their involvement in the recent incidents, neither of the suspects has a significant arrest history in California.
Authorities urge anyone with pertinent information regarding these incidents or the individuals involved to reach out to Detective Tavera at Hector.Tavera@santamonica.gov or contact the Watch Commander 24 hours a day at 310-458-8427.
