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2020

Sheriff Announces arrest in Compton Ambush 1024 683 SIB Staff

Sheriff Announces arrest in Compton Ambush

Sheriff Villanueva Announces Arrest of Suspect in Compton Deputy Ambush

Sheriff Alex Villanueva held a press conference today, Wednesday, September 30, 2020, to announce the arrest of the suspect who deliberately attempted to kill two deputies in an ambush-style shooting, while they sat in their patrol car. 

Sheriff Villanueva noted the cowardly act was followed with bystanders celebrating and cheering the despicable act.  He relayed how he saw the worst in humanity when a crowd made its way to the hospital and chanted for the deputies to die while they fought for their lives.  In juxtaposition, he saw the best of humanity when the entire Sheriff’s Department worked together to bring justice to the deputies.  The outpouring of support from the community, the nation, both presidential candidates, people from all walks of life, including children, was a source of support, not only for the injured deputies, but for all law enforcement personnel.

Homicide Bureau unit commander, Captain Kent Wegener, gave a summary of the ambush and events which led to the arrest of the suspect.  The shooting occurred Saturday evening, September 12, 2020, north of the Metro Blue Line Station, located at 101 East Palmer Street, in Compton, as two deputies sat in a marked patrol car. The suspect surreptitiously approached the passenger side of the patrol car and fired multiple rounds through the open window.  Both deputies suffered gunshot wounds to their heads and extremities. The suspect fled the scene in a black sedan, and a monetary reward was offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.

Through review of video and witness statements, investigators determined the armed suspect drove from the scene of the attack in a black Mercedes Benz.  In the following hours, investigators learned that on September 1, 2020 -eleven days prior to the attempted murder of the deputies- a carjacking occurred on Bradfield Avenue, in Compton.  The suspect shot the carjacking victim in the leg with a high-powered rifle and stole a black Mercedes Benz. The suspect was a male Black adult.  The carjacking case was investigated and an arrest warrant was obtained for Deonte Lee Murray, 36, of Compton.

On Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at approximately 11:30 A.M., units from the Major Crimes Bureau – Surveillance Apprehension Team located the suspect and attempted to stop him in a vehicle.  The suspect fled in a 2006 Toyota Solara and a vehicle pursuit was initiated.  During the pursuit, the suspect threw a pistol from his car, which was recovered and held as evidence.  The pursuit lasted until the suspect abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot near the 3100 block of Carlin Avenue in Lynwood. 

Around 9:50 P.M., the suspect was located, hiding in the bushes; he was detained and arrested for the carjacking and assault with a deadly weapon warrant.  The stolen Mercedes Benz was recovered a short distance from the containment and impounded as evidence.

In the days following, a forensic firearms report was published by the crime laboratory, which compared ballistic evidence from the scene of the ambush to the pistol discarded by the suspect during the pursuit.  It was determined through ballistic comparison that the pistol recovered was the same gun used to shoot the deputies.  The gun in evidence was a .40 caliber, 80% non-serialized pistol, loaded with eight rounds, five rounds short of its 12-round capacity. The number of missing rounds coincides with the five rounds fired at deputies during the ambush attack.  Murray has a criminal history to include multiple felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

Dozens of video clips were collected, and witnesses are still being identified and interviewed.  As a part of the interviews, photographic lineups may be conducted, involving the suspect’s image.  In consideration of the ongoing investigation, and to avoid any compromise of the case, photographs of the suspect are not yet being released to the public.  Investigators believe Murray acted alone in the attempted murder of the deputies and are not looking for any other suspects at this time.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey announced that, earlier this morning, her office charged Murray with two felony counts of Willful, Deliberate and Premeditated Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer.  Murray also faces charges of Attempted Murder, Carjacking, Robbery, and Assault in relation to the carjacking.  If convicted as charged, he faces life in state prison.  His bail was set at $6,155,000.   

Press Conference: Sheriff Villanueva to Provide Update on Compton Ambush Shooting Investigation

Sheriff Alex Villanueva held a press conference on Wednesday, September 30, 2020, to announce the arrest of the suspect who deliberately attempted to kill two deputies in an ambush-style shooting, while they sat in their patrol car. Sheriff Villanueva noted the cowardly act was followed with bystanders celebrating and cheering the despicable act. He relayed how he saw the worst in humanity when a crowd made its way to the hospital and chanted for the deputies to die while they fought for their lives. In juxtaposition, he saw the best of humanity when the entire Sheriff’s Department worked together to bring justice to the deputies. The outpouring of support from the community, the nation, both presidential candidates, people from all walks of life, including children, was a source of support, not only for the injured deputies, but for all law enforcement personnel.Homicide Bureau unit commander, Captain Kent Wegener, gave a summary of the ambush and events which led to the arrest of the suspect. The shooting occurred Saturday evening, September 12, 2020, north of the Metro Blue Line Station, located at 101 East Palmer Street, in Compton, as two deputies sat in a marked patrol car. The suspect surreptitiously approached the passenger side of the patrol car and fired multiple rounds through the open window. Both deputies suffered gunshot wounds to their heads and extremities. The suspect fled the scene in a black sedan, and a monetary reward was offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.Through review of video and witness statements, investigators determined the armed suspect drove from the scene of the attack in a black Mercedes Benz. In the following hours, investigators learned that on September 1, 2020 -eleven days prior to the attempted murder of the deputies- a carjacking occurred on Bradfield Avenue, in Compton. The suspect shot the carjacking victim in the leg with a high-powered rifle and stole a black Mercedes Benz. The suspect was a male Black adult. The carjacking case was investigated and an arrest warrant was obtained for Deonte Lee Murray, 36, of Compton.On Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at approximately 11:30 A.M., units from the Major Crimes Bureau – Surveillance Apprehension Team located the suspect and attempted to stop him in a vehicle. The suspect fled in a 2006 Toyota Solara and a vehicle pursuit was initiated. During the pursuit, the suspect threw a pistol from his car, which was recovered and held as evidence. The pursuit lasted until the suspect abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot near the 3100 block of Carlin Avenue in Lynwood. Around 9:50 P.M., the suspect was located, hiding in the bushes; he was detained and arrested for the carjacking and assault with a deadly weapon warrant. The stolen Mercedes Benz was recovered a short distance from the containment and impounded as evidence.In the days following, a forensic firearms report was published by the crime laboratory, which compared ballistic evidence from the scene of the ambush to the pistol discarded by the suspect during the pursuit. It was determined through ballistic comparison that the pistol recovered was the same gun used to shoot the deputies. The gun in evidence was a .40 caliber, 80% non-serialized pistol, loaded with eight rounds, five rounds short of its 12-round capacity. The number of missing rounds coincides with the five rounds fired at deputies during the ambush attack. Murray has a criminal history to include multiple felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. Dozens of video clips were collected, and witnesses are still being identified and interviewed. As a part of the interviews, photographic lineups may be conducted, involving the suspect’s image. In consideration of the ongoing investigation, and to avoid any compromise of the case, photographs of the suspect are not yet being released to the public. Investigators believe Murray acted alone in the attempted murder of the deputies and are not looking for any other suspects at this time.Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey announced that, earlier this morning, her office charged Murray with two felony counts of Willful, Deliberate and Premeditated Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer. Murray also faces charges of Attempted Murder, Carjacking, Robbery, and Assault in relation to the carjacking. If convicted as charged, he faces life in state prison. His bail was set at $6,155,000.

Posted by Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Updated Info – Deputy-Involved Shooting in South Los Angeles 774 435 SIB Staff

Updated Info – Deputy-Involved Shooting in South Los Angeles

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva Provides Update on the Dijon Kizzee Investigation

Sheriff Alex Villanueva held a press conference today, Thursday, September 17, 2020, to announce the latest developments surrounding the death of Dijon Kizzee.

Sheriff Villanueva gave a perspective of the community of where the shooting occurred and showed a series of PowerPoint slides depicting a one-mile radius where Suspect Dijon Kizzee was shot. A total of 12 homicides, 163 aggravated assaults, and 115 offenses with weapons have occurred since January of 2020. Sheriff Villanueva added that although it appears to be a high crime area, most of the residents are law-abiding citizens. The Sheriff’s Department is trying to protect the community. The Sheriff further stated most youth programs in the community had been eliminated due to budget cuts, and that has an impact when it comes to crime.  

The Captain of Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau, Kent Wegener, gave a detailed briefing of the shooting. On August 31, 2020, at 3:14 p.m., deputies attempted to detain Suspect Kizzee for a traffic violation, but he refused to stop and fled on his bicycle. He fell off the bicycle, abandoned it, and ran from deputies on Budlong Avenue. Deputies returned to their patrol and began checking the area for Kizzee.

When the deputies located Suspect Kizzee on 109th Place, west of Budlong Ave., the passenger deputy exited the patrol vehicle and attempted to detain him. Suspect Kizzee briefly raised his hands; he had a green towel in one hand and a black and red jacket in the other hand, as the deputy approached him. Suspect Kizzee lowered his hands, then struggled with the deputy before punching the deputy in the face. During the struggle, the handgun Suspect Kizzee was carrying fell to the ground. Seeing the handgun fall, Deputies drew their pistols as Suspect Kizzee stopped, bent over, reached back, and picked up the pistol. Deputies fired and struck him several times, causing the gun to fall again. Paramedics responded, and Suspect Kizzee was pronounced dead at the scene.                    

At the time the deputy-involved shooting occurred, Suspect Kizzee was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his status as a convicted felon. The handgun he had was a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol. 

Protocols were followed, and the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau responded to the scene. Representatives from the Internal Affairs Bureau, the Inspector General’s Office, and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Justice System Integrity Division, also responded. Witnesses were interviewed, and their testimony was recorded. Several videos were obtained, and some of those videos were shared by users on social media. An autopsy was performed on Wednesday, September 2, 2020, and the report has not yet been completed.

During the investigation, it was discovered the pistol in Suspect Kizzee’s possession at the time of the shooting was reported stolen during a residential burglary in Las Vegas, Nevada, back in February of 2017. When it was recovered at the scene, it had 15 live rounds.

 The cellular phone of Suspect Kizzee was forensically reviewed, and videos were discovered, which show him in possession of the same handgun.

During the news conference, several videos of the shooting incident were shown.

From the beginning of the investigation, Sheriff Villanueva assured a thorough, transparent, and objective investigation, no matter how long it would take. Once the investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office to determine if the force used by the deputies violated any criminal laws.

Pico Rivera Cancer Survivor Gets Backpack and Special Celebrity Visit 800 600 SIB Staff

Pico Rivera Cancer Survivor Gets Backpack and Special Celebrity Visit

Pico Rivera Cancer Survivor Gets Backpack and Special Celebrity Visit

Matthew “Matu” Ignacio is just 11 years old and eager to get back into the swing of things, now that he’s surviving cancer.  At age six, he was diagnosed with brain cancer and had two tumors removed.  Now, with medication and monitoring, Matu can get back to the good stuff of childhood.

Part of growing up is going to school.  Assistant Sheriff Gross and deputy personnel from the Vital Intervention Directional Alternatives youth program, known as VIDA, came to Matu’s house and presented him and his two older brothers with backpacks and school supplies.

Matu has a connection with the VIDA deputies; they mentored him and have been in his life over the past few years, through all the ups and downs.  Matu also regularly speaks to at-risk kids participating in the program and offers words of perspective about uncertain tomorrows.  Life is precious and not guaranteed, which is why we must cherish each minute.  Even in Matu’s short time on earth, he has a great understanding of this concept, considering the circumstances he faced.

In an exciting moment at the event, Matu was appointed as an honorary Sheriff’s Explorer and presented with their uniform shoulder patches.  His face beamed with happiness and pride as he accepted the gift.

Actor Cody Walker also attended this special occasion and offered his support and encouragement as Matu continues his journey to improved health.

LASD Sheriff's Department Logo
RESPONSE TO THE COC MOTION CALLING FOR SHERIFF VILLANUEVA’S RESIGNATION 800 170 SIB Staff

RESPONSE TO THE COC MOTION CALLING FOR SHERIFF VILLANUEVA’S RESIGNATION

RESPONSE TO THE COC MOTION CALLING FOR SHERIFF ALEX VILLANUEVA’S RESIGNATION

September 17, 2020

The Sheriff’s Department received word that several members of the Civilian Oversight Commission are calling for the resignation of the sheriff, who is an elected public servant.  The fact this motion is even being considered, particularly when two members of our department are recovering from a life-threatening ambush, is morally repugnant and emblematic of the political animosity of the politically-appointed commission.

It is becoming painfully obvious this commission is acting in retaliation against the sheriff for his efforts in investigating potential criminal conduct from county officials and for challenging the legality of subpoenaing the sheriff himself versus the LASD.  The sheriff will remain focused on serving the residents of Los Angeles County as he leads the department in investigating the ambush, overseeing the response to the Bobcat Fire evacuations, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic’s impact to the jail system. 

Emotional Falcon family speaking to press
LASD announces Reward in La Puente Shooting 900 742 SIB Staff

LASD announces Reward in La Puente Shooting

Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives to Announce $20,000 Reward in La Puente Shooting Death of Ten-Year-Old Boy

During a press conference at the Homicide Bureau offices, investigators and family members made a public plea for information about the murder Enrique Sebastian Falcon, a ten-year-old victim shot to death in front of his family.

At 9:15 P.M. on Sunday, May 17, 2020, the little boy known by his middle name, was a passenger in the back seat of a car, travelling through La Puente with his mother and her boyfriend.  As they drove southbound on Hacienda Boulevard, a black sedan pulled alongside their vehicle and the boyfriend alerted the occupants to turn on their headlights.  Both vehicles continued southbound on Hacienda Boulevard.  As the two vehicles approached the intersection with Amar Road, a male inside the other vehicle fired one round from a handgun at Sebastian’s vehicle.  Sebastian was struck one time on the right side of his torso.

Sebastian’s mother called 9-1-1, and deputies assigned to Industry Sheriff’s Station responded to their location.  Deputies administered life-saving measures to the little one while they drove him with lights and sirens in a patrol vehicle to the nearest hospital.  Despite their efforts to save his life, Sebastian succumbed to his injuries and died at the hospital later that night.

The suspect vehicle fled the area in an unknown direction.  The suspect was described as a male Hispanic, bald, between 20 and 25 years of age.

Homicide detectives announced a cash reward for $20,000.00 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s) responsible for taking Sebastian’s life.  The reward was secured by the city of La Puente, and the Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis’ Office.

Detectives and Sebastian’s family spoke at the event and asked for the public’s assistance to bring the perpetrators of this senseless crime to justice.  Sebastian’s mother, Adriana, held one of her son’s favorite toys as she faced media.  She said they missed him and asked for justice. 

If you have information about the suspect, suspect’s vehicle or this investigation, please contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. 

Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives Announce $20,000 Reward in La Puente Shooting Death of Ten-Year-Old Boy

During a press conference at the Homicide Bureau offices, investigators and family members made a public plea for information about the murder Enrique Sebastian Falcon, a ten-year-old victim shot to death in front of his family.At 9:15 P.M. on Sunday, May 17, 2020, the little boy known by his middle name, was a passenger in the back seat of a car, travelling through La Puente with his mother and her boyfriend. As they drove southbound on Hacienda Boulevard, a black sedan pulled alongside their vehicle and the boyfriend alerted the occupants to turn on their headlights. Both vehicles continued southbound on Hacienda Boulevard. As the two vehicles approached the intersection with Amar Road, a male inside the other vehicle fired one round from a handgun at Sebastian’s vehicle. To read more and learn about the reward offer, click: https://sheriff33.lasd.org/lasd-announces-reward-in-la-puente-shooting/

Posted by Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on Tuesday, September 15, 2020
Ambush Shooting of 2 lasd Deputies in Compton 791 1024 SIB Staff

Ambush Shooting of 2 lasd Deputies in Compton

$100K REWARD OFFER in Manhunt for Suspect in Ambush Shooting of 2 LA Sheriff’s Deputies inCompton

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide investigators are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting of two LASD deputies. The incident was reported Saturday, September 12, 2020, at approximately 6:58 p.m., at the MLK Transit Center in Compton.

A lone gunman ambushed two of our deputies. The suspect approached the vehicle from behind and fired several rounds from his firearm at the deputies, striking them. The deputies sustained critical injuries.

The suspect is described as a male Black 28-30 years-old, wearing dark clothing.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has authorized a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

There is no additional information available at this time. 

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org 

Press Conference: Sheriff Villanueva Discusses Ambush Shooting of Two Deputies in Compton

Sheriff Villanueva preliminarily discusses the circumstances surrounding an incident in which two deputies were ambushed and shot while seated inside of their patrol vehicle. The incident occurred today, around 7:00 P.M., at the Compton Blue Line Pax. Both deputies were transported to a local hospital in critical condition and are currently undergoing surgery. At least one suspect fled the scene and is still outstanding.

Posted by Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on Saturday, September 12, 2020
WAS THE CEO GIVEN A $1.5M GOLDEN HANDSHAKE 680 380 SIB Staff

WAS THE CEO GIVEN A $1.5M GOLDEN HANDSHAKE

WAS THE CEO GIVEN A $1.5M GOLDEN HANDSHAKE?
August 27, 2020

On August 26, 2020, I became aware of a demand letter written on behalf of County of Los Angeles CEO, Sachi Hamai, by her attorney Skip Miller (who also represents the Board of Supervisors in multiple ongoing matters). The anonymous letter outlined a proposed settlement in the amount of $1.5 million to be paid to Sachi Hamai upon her departure as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The reason for the settlement was described as “combat pay” resulting from a valid and legitimate policy disagreement during a department head conference call with more than 40 other people listening. As described, this act constituted the appearance of a possible “gift of public funds.” This, compounded with the optics of corruption created from the process allegedly occurring behind closed doors and outside of the public eye, compelled me to immediately forward the information to the appropriate oversight entities.


Every taxpayer in Los Angeles County should be infuriated upon hearing the CEO is getting $1.5M handed to her and demand the following questions be answered:


• How is it not a conflict of interest for County contract attorney Skip Miller to have represented both the CEO and the Board in the same transaction?
•Was an initial complaint ever filed by the CEO putting the Board on notice of this alleged “hostile work environment?” Were the proper channels followed for reporting and investigation? What was the outcome of the investigation?
•Was an actual “Claim for Damages” ever filled by the CEO?
•Was an actual lawsuit ever filed by the CEO?
•Over the last 30 years, how many $1.5M+ settlements were awarded by the Board, based on an unproven allegation and zero litigation or Court action?
•Some would describe this as a backdoor way to give someone a “golden handshake” after they leave their position. Has this ever happened for other similar allegations? What proof exists to justify $1.5M?
•In addition to the $1.5M, the CEO has also demanded to receive full-time security for the next few years; how much will this cost taxpayers and what does that entail?


This news comes during a time when the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and other County Departments are facing major budget cuts that will result in huge layoffs.


I have vocally opposed the CEO’s actions because she has underfunded our budget, defunded our Department, and is presently recommending the layoff of 745 public safety employees. Yet I am rejecting the CEO’s plan, as I know there are other options which do not result in layoffs. As Sheriff, I was elected to fight for what is right, not for what is politically favorable.


Our Department is currently dealing with managing a catastrophic budget reduction and may face future layoffs. This is being done while dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, fires throughout LA County, an increased murder rate, and on-going civil unrest.


Settling CEO Hamai’s allegations without a legitimate inquiry, bypassing standard procedure, gives the appearance of an illegal gift of public funds. A possible gift for someone who last year earned $684,704 in salary and benefits. A possible gift for someone whose early retirement is occurring far before the optimal retirement age.


The County should have allowed CEO Hamai’s case to run its course in a court of law, in order for the public to have learned about the facts of the case, just like they have in the past and will continue to do so in the future.


This appears to be a gross mismanagement of tax payer dollars during a pandemic where millions of Southern Californians are struggling to pay their rent, keep their healthcare insurance, maintain a job, and more importantly survive the COVID-19 pandemic. We should be working together to find ways to better serve the citizens of Los Angeles County and not allowing cuts to law enforcement that will damage the service and security to the citizens for years to come.


Sheriff Alex Villanueva


Sheriff Announces Permanent Ban on ICE Transfers 680 380 SIB Staff

Sheriff Announces Permanent Ban on ICE Transfers

Sheriff Announces Permanent Ban on ICE Transfers

There is no greater threat to public safety than a million undocumented immigrants who are afraid to report crime, out of fear of deportation and having their families torn apart. As the Sheriff of Los Angeles County, I am responsible for everyone’s public safety, regardless of immigration status. I will not allow an entire segment of the population to be afraid to report crimes to law enforcement and be forced, again, back into the shadows.

On April 24, 2020, I placed a moratorium on transfers of qualified inmates from the nation’s largest jail system to ICE during the COVID-19 pandemic. After learning of the pending litigation regarding the conditions in the Adelanto/ICE detention facility and allegations of similar conditions at other ICE facilities, the moratorium will now be permanent and we will no longer transfer individuals to the custody of ICE based solely on a civil immigration detainer. In so doing, we have created a bright line between federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement in the most populous County in the nation.

This permanent ban was preceded by my categorical rejection of the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP) grant that essentially sold our undocumented inmate data base information for federal funds. This morally indefensible program netted $122 million dollars for Los Angeles County from 2005 to 2018, at the expense of our immigrant community.

We will encourage ICE to use the constitutionally sound judicial warrant system, used by all other law enforcement agencies in the nation, to effect legal transfers from Los Angeles County to federal custody. The Sheriff’s Department will also continue its work with the District Attorney’s Office by providing the required assurances requested by ICE to ensure that those who have fled to other countries to avoid prosecution will return and stand trial. Violent criminals who prey on our law-abiding communities should be held fully accountable.

LA County Sheriff Zero Tolerance Policy On Deputy Cliques 1024 683 SIB Staff

LA County Sheriff Zero Tolerance Policy On Deputy Cliques

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva Announces A Zero Tolerance Policy On Deputy Cliques/Subgroups Engaging In Misconduct

On August 13, 2020, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva announces 26 department employees will receive letters of intent to suspend or terminate as a result of their involvement in a fight between deputies that occurred in September of 2018 at Kennedy Hall in East Los Angeles.  Following that incident, allegations arose about a deputy clique within the Department at the East Los Angeles patrol station of a subgroup known as the “Bandidos.”  

Sheriff Villanueva re-emphasized his zero-tolerance stance on this very important issue for both the Department and the community.  For the first time in the Department’s history and at the direction of Sheriff Alex Villanueva, LASD has implemented a policy that addresses misconduct by cliques and subgroups, allowing the Department to take administrative action against employees who engage in this type of behavior.  

LASD Chief Matthew Burson, who oversees Professional Standards Division, announced the Department’s newly enacted deputy clique policy that holds deputies to a higher standard as it relates to misconduct by deputy cliques and/or subgroups.  Chief Burson explained that if a deputy violated department policy the corrective actions will range from suspensions to termination of employment.

Finally, Commander April Tardy, who oversees LASD’s Central Patrol Division, outlined the administrative investigation process and how these numerous investigations are also reviewed by outside agencies including the District Attorney’s Office and the Office of Inspector General.

Sheriff Villanueva said, “After 20 months in office, we have taken the legal and procedural steps necessary to ensure that we are holding our employees accountable to the rule of law, as I will not tolerate any group of employees who mistreats any member of the community or another member of the Department.”

If you have concerns regarding the above, share your voice.  You may contact your Board of Supervisors at the below:
 County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors

Hilda L. Solis
Supervisor, First District
Phone: (213) 974-4111
[email protected]

Mark Ridley-Thomas
Supervisor, Second District
Phone: (213) 974-2222
[email protected]

Sheila Kuehl
Supervisor, Third District
Phone: (213) 974-3333
[email protected]

Janice Hahn
Supervisor, Fourth District
Phone: (213) 974-4444
[email protected]

Kathryn Barger – CHAIR
Supervisor, Fifth District
Phone: (213) 974-5555
[email protected]

Not sure who is your Supervisor?  Click Link to Find Out: http://bos.lacounty.gov/About-Us/Board-of-Supervisors

Sheriff discusses Developments Andres Guardado Investigation 1024 683 SIB Staff

Sheriff discusses Developments Andres Guardado Investigation

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Commander Chris Marks Provides Update on the Andres Guardado Investigation

Sheriff Alex Villanueva held a press conference today, Wednesday, August 12, 2020, to announce the latest developments surrounding the death of Andres Guardado. He offered the Guardado family his condolences, and, as a father, he sympathized with the family’s pain.  From the beginning of the investigation, Sheriff Villanueva assured the Guardado family and the public a thorough, transparent, and objective investigation, no matter how long it would take.

After Sheriff Villanueva made opening remarks, Detective Division Commander Chris Marks, who oversees Homicide Bureau, began a detailed briefing surrounding the shooting incident involving Andres Guardado.  He separated the briefing into three areas: a review and update of the criminal investigation of the deputy-involved shooting; information of a parallel investigation regarding a gang-related shooting that occurred on June 7, 2020, at the same location; and a review of reported incidents at the 420 W. Redondo Beach Blvd, Unincorporated Gardena. Commander Marks specified that the second and third incident briefings were not linked to the Guardado investigation, but they were provided to allow a better understanding of the overall investigation. 

Update regarding the Deputy-Involved Shooting of Andres Guardado
Commander Marks provided an update on the deputy-involved shooting involving Suspect Andres Guardado.  On Thursday, June 18, 2020, at approximately 5:52 P.M., two Sheriff’s Deputies assigned to Compton Station observed Mr. Andres Guardado, standing in front of 420 West Redondo Beach Blvd, in the unincorporated area of Gardena, Los Angeles County.


Suspect Guardado was seen speaking to occupants in a white Lexus sedan parked in front of the driveway at the location. Guardado reportedly looked toward the Deputies who were approaching in a marked patrol car.  At some point, Guardado was seen in possession of a handgun and ran southbound down the driveway of the business at the location. The two deputies went in foot pursuit and caught up to Suspect Guardado at the rear of the business, and a deputy-involved shooting occurred. Video surveillance footage from across the street of Suspect Guardado running from deputies was shown at the news conference. 


Guardado was struck five times in the upper torso and was pronounced deceased at the scene. It has been reported that Guardado was employed or acting as a security guard at the location; however, to this date, no person interviewed has admitted to hiring Guardado as a security guard.  In addition, he was not yet 21 years old, which would have made him unable to be legally employed as an armed security guard. 


The firearm recovered from the scene was submitted for forensic testing. Preliminary reports show Suspect Guardado’s DNA was obtained from the pistol’s trigger, trigger guard, and magazine.  

No video of the Deputy involved shooting has been located.  Cameras had been at the location.  However, they were seized as evidence and a forensic review was conducted.  No video of the deputy-involved shooting was found on the cameras.  


Assault with a Deadly Weapon Incident – June 7th, 2020.
Commander Marks continued with the news conference providing additional information regarding an assault with a deadly weapon call for service at the same location.
  
On June 7, 2020, Deputies responded to the same location regarding a gunshot victim. A search warrant was served that day, and investigators observed numerous bottles of Nitrous Oxide Gas, commonly referred to as “NOZ.” They also found a significant amount of methamphetamine and a shotgun. A DVR connected to security cameras was seized during the warrant service.

Review of the DVR and the videos showed people lined up on the driveway holding large metal/plastic bottles, possibly waiting to be filled with “NOZ”. After the shooting, numerous people can be seen running from the location, some still holding these gas bottles. Investigators are trying to identify the people from the videos and are asking anyone with information to contact the Sheriff’s Department.

Photographs of the “NOZ” tanks and surveillance video obtained from the DVR were shown during the news conference.

Because the DVR connected to the cameras was removed, there was no video of the Guardado shooting recorded.   


Additional Information regarding the location
Commander Marks finished the news briefing with information surrounding numerous incidents related to the location at 420 West Redondo Beach Blvd, in the unincorporated area of Gardena, that have been documented over the past years. Since January 1, 2015, there were 23 calls for service. Calls include 10 Disturbance calls, 2 Burglary calls, 2 Battery calls, and 2 Vandalism calls. In addition, a gang-related murder occurred on November 2, 2018. 
 

Both the deputy-involved shooting and the assault with a deadly weapon investigations are ongoing, and the Sheriff’s Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying individuals who might have information. 

Videos and photographs used during the conference can be accessed here: https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=%21AgN3WeZCes%2DIHfI&id=744A9D7D66C0F5EA%2116985&cid=744A9D7D66C0F5EA