Grinch Steals Packages From Torrance Homes

TORRANCE, CA – A man from Torrance is facing possible criminal charges Monday for allegedly stealing packages from a Torrance home – he was then linked to similar thefts after authorities got a tip from a victim, police said.

Detectives were conducting covert surveillance Thursday after getting a tip from a victim who had a package stolen in late October, according to Torrance police Sgt. Ronald Harris.

"The victim ... provided officers with a possible vehicle to follow," according to Harris. Police say the Torrance Grinch is Justin Dabu, 35, who was allegedly seen by investigators "casing residential areas in his vehicle."

With detectives watching, Dabu allegedly stole a package from a home in the 3400 block of 227th Street, Harris said.

"Investigators arrested him and conducted a probation search of his residence where additional stolen property was recovered," Harris said. "Numerous cases were solved at the conclusion of the investigation, to include the one which initially led investigators to the arrest."

Dabu was booked on suspicion of petty theft, possession of stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, being an unlicensed driver and violating his probation, Harris said.

He was being held without bail and was due to make a court appearance Monday in Torrance, according to sheriff's inmate records.

City News Service and Patch staffer Emily Holland contributed to this post; Image via Patch staffer Renee Schiavone