The Los Angeles Police Department's Commercial Crimes Division is currently under the spotlight after their Cargo Theft Unit made high-profile arrests last week. On March 19, 2024, detectives apprehended three individuals suspected of being entangled in a large-scale tech theft. The suspects, identified as 47-year-old Vardan Vardanyan, 36-year-old Vagarshak Vardanyan, and 34-year-old Samvel Pilovan, were found in possession of a staggering $6.9 million worth of Bitcoin mining computers.
According to an LAPD press release, the three men are now facing charges under 496 (A) PC: Receiving Stolen Property. The suspects were booked into the local 77th Jail, with the haul of 608 Bitcoin Mining Computers recovered as part of the police operation. The LAPD's success in this case marks a significant win for the department amidst the ongoing battle against high-tech crime.
The LAPD urges anyone who may possess additional insights into this crime or similar activities to come forward. Tips can be relayed to the Commercial Crimes Division at (213) 486-5920 or to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Information can be submitted anonymously, and citizens also have the option of using the "P3 Tips" mobile application, selecting the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program for these purposes.
