In what marks a brazen twist on robbery, suspects in Westminster, California, have adopted the guise of federal immigration agents, preying on the unsuspecting to seize their valuables and money. The Westminster Police Department has issued a press release, warning the public of these impostors following at least two confirmed incidents. According to the press release, the first robbery took place near Newland Street and Westminster Boulevard on June 15, around 12:30 p.m., with the more recent occurrence on June 19, around 4:30 p.m., in a parking lot on Magnolia Street, as reported by KTLA.
On both occasions, the victims, who were alone at the time, were approached by two Hispanic male suspects driving a blue SUV, commanding attention and compliance by posing as ICE agents, and threatening deportation. The suspects claimed their authority with counterfeit badges and the visible threat of a handgun. They promptly demanded and, took cash from their victims before making their escape. "After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash from the victim, the suspects fled eastbound on Westminster Blvd," Westminster Police Department stated, as per KTLA.
The suspects, thought to be between 25 and 30 years old, distinguish themselves with specific attire believed to be part of their ploy to appear credible. The one posing as the badge-carrying agent wore a white long-sleeve dress shirt and dark pants, while his accomplice donned a light blue long-sleeve shirt and a gray tactical vest emblazoned with the word "Security." Descriptions of the suspects and further details on the incidents were shared by the City of Westminster.
With these thefts falling under the violations of California Penal Code 211 for robbery, and 538d for impersonating a police officer, authorities are diligently pursuing leads. They urge witnesses or those with any relevant information to assist in the capture of these perpetrators by contacting Detective Sam Gradilla at 714-548-3778 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online at www.occrimestoppers.org.
