Serial Robber Asks Victims To Help Move Furniture, Then Robs Them

LOS ANGELES, CA — Authorities are warning San Fernando Valley residents to be on the lookout for a man asks people for help moving furniture and then robs them at gunpoint when the agree to help.

He is suspected of robbing at least 17 people — mostly in the areas of Van Nuys, Arleta, Pacoima and Panorama City. Detectives first began investigating the series of robberies in May 2018, and the most recent robbery is believed to have happened Feb. 8 in the 6800 block of Firmament Avenue in Van Nuys, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

The suspect, driving a truck or SUV, allegedly approached pedestrians and asked for help moving furniture, the LAPD reported. Once a victim got into his car, he allegedly robbed them of their cash at gunpoint. He has been seen driving multiple trucks and SUVs, including a Ford F- 150 and Expedition, Chevrolet Silverado and Suburban, Dodge Ram and GMC Yukon, police said.

The suspect is likely between 40 and 55 years old, , according to police. He is described as Hispanic, with black hair and brown eyes, between 5 feet, 5 inches tall and 5 feet, 9 inches tall, weighing between 200 and 250 pounds, police reported.

Authorities circulated a composite sketch and footage of the suspect and encouraged anyone with information about the case to contact Detectives Teresa Alonzo or Daniel Jaramillo at 213-486-6840. Those wishing to report anonymously can call 800-222-TIPS.

City News Service contributed to this report.