On 13 February, officers from the Los Angeles Port Police Crime Unit apprehended three individuals believed to be responsible for the theft of several bronze plaques across the Harbor Area and greater Los Angeles. The suspects were detained during a traffic stop in Southwest Los Angeles.
The stolen items from the Port of Los Angeles encompass significant memorials such as the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial and the International Warehouse and Longshore Union “Bloody Thursday” Memorial on Harbor Boulevard in San Pedro, as well as the Japanese Fishing Village Memorial situated on Terminal Island.
“The heartless theft of these plaques was an insult to the memories of families who built this region through the fishing industry, who moved goods as part of the ILWU, and who protected our country during the war as Merchant Marine sailors,” stated Tim McOsker, Council Member of Port of Los Angeles.
McOsker added, “I was told that when the suspects were arrested today, they also had stolen bronze cemetery markers in their possession. This criminal act brazenly disrespected and violated our community with no bounds. I’m grateful to the Port of Los Angeles, the Port Police, and their partners for their hard work in finding the suspects responsible who put their own selfish interests over our community.”
Los Angeles Port Police Chief Tom Gazsi highlighted the diligent efforts of the Port Police and detectives, who meticulously reviewed evidence and witness testimonies, and pursued various leads, culminating in the apprehension of the three individuals.
