Congressman’s Office Burglarized

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who was caught on surveillance video burglarizing Congressman Xavier Becerra’s office in Rampart Area.

On August 22, 2007, the suspect entered the building and signed in at the lobby desk to go to the 7th floor, but used the stairs to go back down to the 5th floor. The suspect pried the front door to Congressman Becerra’s office to gain entry and put several items into his backpack. He also tried to break into other offices on the 6th floor, but was unsuccessful.

The suspect took a laptop computer and video and digital cameras from Congressman Becerra’s office. The laptop computer did not contain any sensitive information. Investigators believed the congressman’s office was not targeted, and that it was a random burglary.

The suspect was caught on surveillance video. He was described as a Black man, 45 to 50 years of age. He stands about 5 feet 9 inches and weighs 180 to 200 pounds. He has a noticeable dark needle mark scar on his right hand.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detectives Bill Longacre or Dan Scultz, Commercial Crimes Division, at 213-485-2524. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).

A copy of the surveillance video is available at Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.