A rash of smash-and-grab thefts has left local businesses in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles on edge. Earlier yesterday, thieves targeted two establishments, Undefeated and Oakberry Açai Bowl, located in the 3800 block of Sunset Boulevard. According to KTLA, surveillance video captured the criminals, who left havoc in their wake, taking nothing more than snacks and retail merchandise from one store.
Undefeated, a high-end sneaker store, appeared to be their intended mark, but owing to metal gates put in place after prior incidents, the burglars failed in their attempt to access the store. Employee Leo Velasquez explained to KTLA, "They just happened to break into the wrong door, just a maintenance door. A year ago, they broke in and sledgehammered through it, and this time, they were out of luck."
While Undefeated's security measures have proved effective, neighboring Oakberry Açai Bowl was not as fortunate. Maria Novae, its supervisor, believes the thieves mistakenly thought they were breaking into the back of Undefeated. After realizing their error, they returned an hour later and this time targeted Oakberry Açai Bowl.
Upon breaking into Oakberry Açai Bowl, the thieves ransacked the store, making off with petty loot due to the fact that the establishment does not take cash, only credit cards and Apple Pay. The burglars further attempted to break into a nearby gelato shop, but were thwarted once again by a metal barrier.
The Los Angeles Police Department is actively seeking information regarding the break-ins, encouraging anyone who may recognize the suspects from the surveillance video to come forward. Anonymous tips can be made through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online at L.A. Crime Stoppers, ensuring that the public can play a pivotal role in apprehending the culprits behind this wave of smash-and-grab crimes.
