Narcotic Suspect Shoots at Officers

Los Angeles: A narcotic suspect was taken into custody after firing at officers.

On Wednesday, April 16, 2008, at around 6:30 PM, Newton Area Narcotics Enforcement Detail units were preparing to serve a search warrant in the 300 block of east 36th Street. The primary suspect was observed in the vicinity engaged in narcotics activity. Detective Thomas Penson, 14 years, 8 months with the Department, established an observation position to monitor the residence while seated in his vehicle in plainclothes.

Shortly thereafter another suspect, later identified as Ricardo Guerra, 18, approached the Detective Penson’s vehicle and pointed a semiautomatic handgun. An officer involved shooting occurred as Detective Penson and Guerra exchanged gunfire. Guerra ran away and a perimeter was immediately established by responding units.

At around 9:00 PM, Guerra was located after an extensive canine search.

Guerra’s handgun was not found

Evidence including several impacts on Detective Penson’s vehicle clearly established Guerra had fired upon the detective. Neither Detective Penson nor Guerra were injured.

The search warrant was not served.

Guerra was arrested and booked for attempt murder on a Police Officer.

Force Investigation Division personnel are investigating the Officer Involved Shooting and the crime against the officer.