Police describe technology‑assisted arrests, 44 DUI arrests so far this year; urge residents to lock valuables

In a city manager / police report, Hermosa Beach Police described a recent investigation that used surveillance video, automated license‑plate reader data and drone footage to identify and arrest a suspect alleged to have committed multiple vehicle burglaries across the city and nearby jurisdictions.

Case overview and enforcement tools Police said two early‑2025 vehicle break‑ins (smashed windows, thefts of electronics and other items) were linked by video to a suspect whose vehicle had been recorded by license‑plate readers. Detectives used surveillance that included third‑party video, the city’s automated license‑plate readers and drone footage to locate and identify a person staying in Downey; the suspect was arrested by Downey police on a warrant and transferred to Hermosa custody. The department said the case included charges such as burglary, theft with priors and felony vehicle burglary; prosecutors will review the case for filing.

DUI enforcement Chief LeBaron also reported ongoing DUI enforcement under a Department of Transportation grant; officers have made 44 DUI arrests in the city since January 1, with eight additional arrests since the last council meeting. The chief said the arrests represent prevention of incidents that could have resulted in fatal collisions.

Public reminders Police urged residents not to leave valuables in vehicles and highlighted that technology — from neighborhood surveillance to license‑plate readers — is increasingly assisting detection and arrests. Council members thanked the department for the investigative work and the DUI enforcement efforts.