Grand Theft Suspect Arrest

On August 12, 2021 at about 5:35 AM, Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) Officers were dispatched to investigate an active burglary involving a vehicle that was parked in the secured parking lot at 1833 Lincoln Blvd, Rainbow Carpet Cleaners.

When officers arrived on scene, they could hear a grinding noise coming from under a white ford pickup truck. They observed a male subject, later identified as Alexander Torres, a 28-year-old male from Los Angeles, holding a flashlight. Torres made eye contact with a police officer and attempted to flee, however was immediately taken into custody without incident.

SMPD Officers confirmed Torres was attempting to steal the catalytic converter from the pickup truck. Officers recovered a reciprocating saw, metal blades and the flashlight Torres was holding.

Torres was booked at the Santa Monica Jail for 487 PC – Grand Theft. Officers also learned that Torres was on formal probation for Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Anyone with additional information pertaining to this incident or individual is encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Division 310-458-8451 or Santa Monica Department Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.