Hotel Slippers Lead To Theft Suspect's Arrest In Manhattan Beach

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA – A theft suspect has been arrested in Manhattan Beach thanks to a defining characteristic: hotel slippers. On April 1, a Manhattan Beach patrol officer was dispatched to thefts from cars in the 3200 block of Oak Avenue, which occurred overnight, according to a Manhattan Beach Police Department press release. When the officer talked to the victims, they found several items had been stolen from unlocked vehicles, but one victim said she had video surveillance of the suspect committing the crime.

When the victim and officer reviewed the tape, they saw an Asian adult male suspect wearing slippers, the press release said. He attempted to open the front door of the victim's house, but it was locked. He then walked to the victim's unlocked car and stole some miscellaneous items. The suspect continued walking down the street stealing property from other unlocked vehicles, police said.

Due to the suspect wearing slippers in the video, officers thought to check a local hotel near the crime scene to see if the suspect was a guest there. During their investigation, they found he was staying at the hotel, and set up surveillance. They saw the suspect leaving the hotel and initiated a traffic stop – he was then taken into custody, and several stolen items were recovered, according to the press release.

The suspect was booked at the Manhattan Beach Police Department jail for attempted residential burglary, theft from motor a vehicle and possession of stolen property, the press release said. MBPD suggests locking cars and homes, as several property crimes that occur in Manhattan Beach could be prevented if cars and homes are secured.

Please call (310) 545-4566 to report any suspicious activity or 911 for any emergencies.

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