Feds help in 2nd arrest in medical marijuana clinic murder
PANORAMA CITY—After a months long investigation, both suspects have been arrested in the March 17th shooting of 25-year-old Alex Moran in front of a Panorama City medical marijuana clinic. In a LAPD press release, Lt. Paul Vernon explained how the FBI Fugitive Task Force were able to locate 22-year-old Santiago Gutierrez.
“The investigators were following a lead that might point them to Gutierrez,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, head of detectives for LAPD’s Mission Police Station. “Turns out that lead was better than expected.”
That tip led them to the residence of 32-year-old Jesus Herrera, who lived in a trailer in a mobile home community in Van Nuys. During their questioning of Herrera, investigators heard a noise inside a room in the trailer. Gutierrez subsequently revealed himself and turned himself in without struggle.
Gutierrez will join 22-year-old Raul Benitez, who was also allegedly involved in the shooting of Moran, and was arrested in April. Both were booked on murder charges, while Herrera was also arrested and charged with accessory for harboring Gutierrez.
After the arrest, Lt. Vernon had nothing but praise for the FBI.
“Gotta say, the FBI Fugitive Task Force does great work!” said Lt. Vernon.
Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Ryan Verna, Mission Homicide Unit, at (818) 838-9976. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.
Read More:
Studio City Patch: Murder Suspect Arrested in Van Nuys
CrimeVoice: One arrested, one wanted in Marijuana Clinic murder