Suspects ID'd In Burglary, Grand Theft Incident In Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Three men and a woman have been charged with burglary and grand theft after they were arrested with stolen mail and catalytic converters, Laguna Beach police said Thursday.

San Bernardino residents Felix Rodriguez, 31, Karina Esquivel, 38, Edgar Antonio Guzman, 35, and Moses Rodriguez, 27, were arrested Sunday, police said.

A fifth suspect was arrested according to a LBPD news release, but their identity was not disclosed, nor was it known if they faced charges.

Officers were called on Sunday, Oct. 29 and 3:41 a.m. to the 100 block of Mountain Street in Laguna Beach in response to a vehicle burglary.

Upon arriving, officers found the suspect vehicle with five suspects inside near Canyon Acres Drive and Laguna Canyon Road. A felony traffic stop was placed on the vehicle, authorities said.

The investigation that followed revealed multiple items of contraband, including stolen mail and catalytic converters inside the vehicle.

The five suspects were taken into custody for vehicle burglary, possession of a controlled substance, violation of parole, vandalism, possession of burglary tools and conspiracy.

“This was an outstanding team effort by our dispatchers and patrol team resulting in the arrest of five suspects trying to victimize our residents.” LBPD Chief Jeff Calvert said. “We appreciate our vigilant community who immediately notified us of the initial crime.”

Residents with information about the incident were asked to call 949-497-0701.