November 17, 2024 – Lakewood Sheriff’s Station officials report that on Thursday a Lakewood Deputy patrolling the area of Paramount Blvd. and South Street, located a white Kia Sportage that was reported stolen in Lakewood the day before. The driver of the stolen vehicle spotted the deputy and parked the vehicle before a traffic stop could be conducted. The driver then walked away from the stolen vehicle and attempted to hide in nearby businesses.
The deputy requested backup, set up a perimeter, and requested assistance from LASD Aero. The suspect and a passenger were located and detained. During the investigation the deputy confirmed the vehicle was stolen and noticed the ignition and steering wheel column were damaged. The driver of the vehicle (Lakewood resident) was arrested for grand theft auto (GTA) and remains in custody pending court appearance on Monday morning. The passenger was briefly detained and released from the scene without charges.
Lakewood deputies are working hard to keep our community safe…