Three Suspects Arrested in Connection with 2022 Train Theft of Yamaha Instruments NR25068jl

Los Angeles:  On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division – Cargo Theft Unit, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Port Police and Union Pacific Police Department, arrested three individuals in connection with a significant cargo theft case dating back to 2022.

David Palmer, 47, of Long Beach, along with Nathan Munoz, 28, and Karla Torres, 28, both of Indio, were taken into custody during a joint operation. The arrests stem from a September 2022 incident involving the theft of Yamaha musical instruments from Union Pacific trains. The stolen property, valued at approximately $213,497.95, was subsequently sold on eBay.

Following a detailed investigation, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed multiple felony charges on March 28, 2025, including violations of Penal Code 487h – Grand Theft Cargo and Penal Code 496(a) – Receiving Stolen Property. Felony arrest warrants were issued, and the suspects were subsequently arrested and booked at the LAPD’s Metropolitan Detention Center.

This case highlights the ongoing collaborative efforts among law enforcement agencies to combat cargo theft and protect the integrity of commercial transport operations. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests may be forthcoming.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Commercial Crimes Division at 213-486-5920 between 6:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.