Fire Captain Arrested for Attempting to Buy Heroin NR11531cj

November 11, 2011

UPDATE                  

The original release contained the incorrect name of the arrested person.  The correct name is Matthew Phillipsen.

Los Angeles: LAPD Narcotics officers arrested an LAFD fire captain after he attempted to purchase heroin during a sting operation.

On Wednesday, November 9, 2011 around 12:10 p.m., Captain Matthew Phillipsen was arrested in the area of Avenue 61 and Figueroa Street during a sting operation conducted by Northeast Area Narcotics Unit.  Phillipsen was apprehended while attempting to purchase seven balloons of simulated heroin from undercover officers.

Phillipsen was arrested for 11350 H&S, (intent to possess heroin), and booked at Metro Detention Center and placed on $10,000 bail.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to call during non-business hours or on weekends to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).   Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.