CALIFORNIA—On September 25, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced that the Burglary Robbery Task Force of the Major Crimes Bureau is investigating a group of gang members suspected of robbing T-Mobile stores in Los Angeles County. On September 14, BRTF detectives surveilled a store in Cudahy, resulting in the arrest of three suspects.  Jalen Williams, 20, and Kalen Riley, 20. Authorities have not released the third suspect’s name because he is a juvenile.

The suspects participated in the armed robbery of two T-Mobile stores in Cudahy and Los Angeles. Authorities arrested Williams, Riley, and the unnamed juvenile as they left the Cudahy store. During the arrest, investigators found new tablets, cell phones, dollar bills, and smartwatches. The items are valued at $13,000. Investigators from the MCB searched a 2013 Dodge Journey finding cell phones suspected of being stolen in other store robberies. They also found a handgun, gloves, and ski masks, believed to be used in the robberies.

Williams and Riley were booked for robbery, a violation of section 211 of the California Penal Code. Both men are being held on $3,200,000 bail. The case has been referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Their court appearance is scheduled for October 1 at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. The unnamed juvenile suspect was booked for robbery at the Los Angeles County Juvenile Hall, and his court date has not yet been set.

MCB detectives specialize in investigating the activities of gangs and organized crews that commit robberies and burglaries of residences. These investigators support local law enforcement, including the sheriff’s department, and assist state and federal law enforcement. The LASD recommends residents protect their homes and businesses and stay alert for unfamiliar people or vehicles nearby. If a life-threatening emergency occurs, call 911; for a non-life-threatening emergency, call (1-877-275-5273). Residents can also email concerns to the MCB investigators at BRTF@LASD.org or call (562)-946-7270.