Los Angeles:
Detectives have dubbed two men wearing masks and dark clothing the
Duffel Bag Bandits after they hit the same Sprint Nextel Store in
Panorama City two times since November 21, 2012, getting away with
nearly $52,000 worth of iPhones and tablets.
“It’s clear this is an inside job,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding
officer of the Mission Detective Division. “The burglar wearing the
khaki mask has the alarm code and the keys to the safe.”
The duo hit first on November 21, breaking through the roof and shimming
down a rope. This is the burglary depicted in the released video.
Store management was able to account for the only two keys to the safe
where high-end phones and tablets are stored.
“We suspect that someone with prior access to the keys copied them in
anticipation of committing this crime,” Lt. Vernon explained. “The
suspects were familiar with the security systems too, which is also why
they kept their faces covered.”
Detectives believe it was the same burglars who struck the store a
second time, early this morning, November 26, 2012. The burglars
followed the same MO, breaking through the roof and filling a duffel bag
with phones. However, this time, a security guard confronted the pair
as they made their getaway. The two suspects escaped but they left
behind the duffel bag full of phones and tablets.
In the November 21st burglary, the burglars made off with 59 iPhones and 14 tablets.
“This was a well-planned operation with inside information,” Lt. Vernon
added. “The day before Thanksgiving, this store would have plenty of
inventory to make for a big pay off, and it was. But, as with any
inside job, there will be others who will know who’s behind it.”
The store is located at 8500 Van Nuys Boulevard in Panorama City.
Detectives are asking anyone with information on this crime to call
Detective William Cooper, Mission Burglary Unit, at 818-838-9866.
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.
