West Hills. Los Angeles detectives have released video of a man who committed an armed robbery at a Game Stop store, taking over $1000 in cash and video games, March 25, 2018, just after 5PM. He could also be related to a post office robbery where a reward has been offered.
“The video shows his premeditation,” explained Det. Fernando Avila, robbery investigator at the Topanga Police Station. “First, he backs his silver KIA compact car into a parking space near the store. He sports a trimmed moustache and beard, hence the nickname, Shaggy, with glasses and a cap.”
The robber spent 13 minutes in the Game Stop, first collecting merchandise, then approaching the checkout counter. “With another clerk and a customer with a child wandering the story, the robber pulls a revolver from his waistband,” Det. Avila added. “The scared clerk cooperated and no one else in the store was the wiser, nor injured.”
The suspect appeared to be White or Middle Eastern, tall, with a slender build. He resembles a suspect who recently robbed a post office in the West Valley area. The Postal Inspector has issued a $50,000 reward on the arrest and conviction of that suspect. “If he is the same man, that’s a real incentive,” Det. Avila added.
The value of the video games and accessories exceeded the cash the robber got from the register. Detectives surmise the merchandise might be for personal use or re-sold online. Some videogame stores re-buy new and used games, which puts such businesses in the position of buying back their own stolen merchandise.
The license plates on the silver KIA have been removed. “Despite his disguise, we think someone who knows this robber will be able to put his general appearance and the car together to come up with a name.
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call Det. Fernando Avila, Topanga Detective Division, at (818) 756-3520. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.
Det. Avila is available for interviews at Topanga Police Station until 4 PM. Video is available at the police station by shooting off the screen.
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