Update:
This case was solved through community partnership with the Sheriff's Department and would have likely gone unsolved without citizen participation.
Thanks to a citizen tip, detectives were able to identify John Batson, of La Mirada, as the person involved in this robbery. He is currently in custody in the Orange County Jail System for an unrelated matter. The case will be presented to the Los Angele County District Attorney's Office for criminal filing consideration.
Previous Message:
****Armed & Dangerous****
Suspect: Male Adult
Weapon: Handgun
Norwalk Station Detective Bureau is requesting public assistance in identifying the armed robbery suspect depicted in the photos. On March 5, 2014, this suspect displayed a handgun during a robbery of a tobacco shop in unincorporated East Whittier. He is also a person of interest in a vandalism of a Sheriff’s Department vehicle at a local shopping center. This incident occurred on February 27, 2014 after the suspect committed a theft at one of the stores. Upon exiting, he came across an unoccupied, parked, Sheriff’s vehicle and slashed a tire.
If the suspect depicted in the photos is spotted in a public place do not approach. Contact local law enforcement immediately by dialing 911 and refer to this NIXLE message.
Anyone with information leading to the identity or whereabouts of the depicted individual is urged to contact Norwalk Station Detective Jaquez at (562) 863-8711. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477); by texting the letters TIPLA plus the crime tip to CRIMES (274637); or by visiting:
http://lacrimestoppers.org
Norwalk Sheriff’s Station polices the City of Norwalk, the City of La Mirada, and unincorporated communities of South Whittier and East Whittier.
