Full Notification

             
                                                    
Culver City Police Department Arrests Suspect in Connection with Threats Against TikTok Headquarters
 

The Culver City Police Department (CCPD) has arrested a suspect connected to multiple online threats targeting the TikTok Culver City headquarters. The arrest underscores the department’s unwavering commitment to thoroughly investigating threats and prioritizing the safety of our community and local businesses.

Employees reported receiving a series of online threats across various social media platforms from a suspect identified as thirty-three-year-old Joseph Mayuyo, a resident of Hawthorne. On Friday, October 3^rd, representatives received an additional online threat via a social media platform in which Mayuyo threatened TikTok’s headquarters. Out of an abundance of caution, security evacuated the location.

The case was assigned to CCPD investigators. In collaboration with the CCPD Crime Impact Team (CIT), Special Enforcement Team (SET), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT), an investigation was conducted at Mayuyo’s residence. During the investigation, Mayuyo made additional threatening statements online, including a declaration that he would not be taken alive if officers attempted to arrest him.

Detectives swiftly obtained arrest and search warrants. At approximately 10:10 p.m., CCPD’s Emergency Response Team initiated contact with Mayuyo, while crisis negotiators engaged him in dialogue. After over 90 minutes of negotiation, Mayuyo voluntarily exited his residence and was safely taken into custody by the arrest team without further incident.

Mayuyo was booked into the Culver City Police Department Jail for California Penal Code 422, Criminal Threats. Detectives executed a search warrant at his residence, recovering items of evidentiary value.

“This incident demonstrates our department’s strong commitment to ensuring the safety of our community and local businesses,” said Chief Jason Sims. “We take all threats seriously and investigate them thoroughly. Thanks to the coordinated and swift efforts of our officers, detectives, and partnership with the business, this suspect was taken into custody peacefully, preventing any potential harm.”
 
The Culver City Police Department thanks the TikTok security team for their quick action, collaboration, and professionalism throughout this case.

For media inquiries, please contact Culver City Police Department Public Information Officer Jennifer Atenza at (310) 253-6120 or email [email protected].