In a recent crackdown on a series of ATM thefts, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) announced the arrest of three men accused of forcibly removing ATMs secured to their vehicle with a large chain. Over several months, the LBPD's Burglary Detail, in coordination with Computer Crimes, Auto Theft Details, and the Real Time Crime Center, tracked down the suspects after investigating incidents where stand-alone ATMs from businesses were stolen or attempted to be stolen. In a detailed operation, detectives identified and apprehended the suspects who were linked to grand theft incidents on Paramount and Long Beach Boulevards, as detailed in a press release by the LBPD.
Detectives pinpointed activities relating to ATM thefts that took place on July 14 and 15, with the latter incident also involving a pedestrian being struck by the suspects' vehicle, inflicting life-threatening injuries. Despite the gravity of the situation, the suspects fled the scene without rendering aid. Using a large chain secured to a stolen SUV, suspects had approached businesses, with the intent to uproot ATMs. Upon their arrest on Aug. 21, three individuals: Luis Torres, Richard Moran, and Clarence Hardiman, were booked on multiple charges, including grand theft, felony vandalism, and possession of burglary tools, as reported by the LBPD.
Luis Torres, a Lynwood local, Richard Moran, who is currently without a home in Compton, and Clarence Hardiman, also a Compton resident, all face conspiracy to commit a felony, with Hardiman additionally charged with felony hit and run causing injury. Authorities have held them without bail, as per the LBPD. The LBPD's successful operation led to the recovery of not only a large chain but also a stolen car and motorcycle linked to the crimes.
The Long Beach Police urge anyone with additional insights into these ATM thefts to come forward, providing several secure and anonymous avenues for tip submission. They encourage contacting the Burglary Detail directly or reaching out through "LA Crime Stoppers." Full details and contact information are available through their official announcement.
