LAPD seeks help in ID'ing 10, 20 suspects in series of flash robberies

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating a series of "flash robberies" at local retail stores involving ten to 20 suspects, and seeking the public's help in identifying the individuals.

The series of thefts occurred throughout Boyle Heights and South Los Angeles beginning on March 3. According to police, the suspects enter retail stores during the evening hours, wearing hooded sweatshirts and face coverings.

"In each incident, the suspects have been observed fleeing on bicycles. The suspects have used force and displayed a lack of regard for the safety of witnesses and victims," the LAPD said in a statement.

One of the stores targeted by the suspects, located in the 3200 Block of South Central Avenue near South Los Angeles, was hit five times.

Some of the suspects wanted by LAPD in connection to a series of retail burglaries in the LA area (Photos courtesy LAPD).

Police described the suspects as men and boys between 5 and 6 feet tall. They appear to be between the ages of 15 to 25 years old, according to police.

Earlier in the week, police initially speculated the suspects were LAUSD students, but officials later backtracked Wednesday, saying there are no signs they are related to the district.

The department released surveillance photos of some of the suspects online, and the department's Organized Retail Crime Taskforce are seeking public assistance.

Police shared photos of the suspects – all of whom believed to be 18 or older:

Anyone with information about the organized retail thefts is urged to contact ORC@lapd.online. Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877-527-3247. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.