Two individuals were swiftly apprehended for theft, thanks to a Palmdale Code Enforcement officer and the rapid response of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD). The arrests demonstrate the City’s strong commitment to combat crime and prioritize the safety of residents — particularly with crimes that might otherwise not result in arrests in other communities.
In the early hours of March 20, a robbery at Dick’s Sporting Goods was reported. The suspects, in a blatant act of criminality, were witnessed fleeing the scene with stolen merchandise on foot, heading eastbound on Rancho Vista Blvd.
“The City will not tolerate such flagrant disregard for the law — even for property crimes,” said Mayor Austin Bishop. “Palmdale stands firm in our resolve to ensure the security of our community. I am proud of the swift action taken by our Code Enforcement officers and the Sheriff’s Department, as well as their consistent dedication to keeping criminals off our streets. Palmdale is open for business and closed to criminals.”
Shortly after the theft was reported to 911, a Palmdale Code Enforcement officer spotted the suspects behind a bus stop at the intersection of 10th St. West and West Ave. O-4, boarding a bus toward Lancaster. The Code Enforcement officer coordinated immediate backup, providing precise details of the suspects’ location to the Sheriff’s department.
Continuing to provide real-time updates, the officer kept tabs on the suspects’ bus, guiding the responding unit directly to their exact whereabouts. Within minutes of the officer’s call, LASD patrol units intercepted the bus and conducted a traffic stop, resulting in the arrests of the suspects on charges of theft. Dick’s Sporting Goods estimated the stolen items to be valued at approximately $600-$700.
One of the apprehended suspects attempted to deceive authorities with a falsified identity. Upon further investigation, deputies uncovered a staggering $250,000 no-bail warrant for her arrest. She was promptly taken into custody and sent to the county jail.
“We will not allow the safety of our residents to be compromised,” said Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa. “Falsified identity and retail theft are no joke, and we are proud to report that this criminal is off the streets and paying for their crimes.”
Palmdale urges all residents and businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we will uphold the values of integrity, safety and justice that define our beloved community. For more information, visit CityofPalmdaleCA.gov/PS or call 661/267-5436.