REDONDO BEACH, CA – In a swift resolution to a harrowing crime, two men from New York have been apprehended in connection with a violent home invasion and robbery in Redondo Beach, where residents were bound with zip ties for an extended period. The arrests have sent ripples through the South Bay community, highlighting a significant and trending piece of Los Angeles news.
The Alarming Incident Unfolds
The alarming incident unfolded early Sunday morning on the 1900 block of Mathews Avenue in Redondo Beach. Around 5:55 a.m., Redondo Beach Police Department officers received a 911 call reporting an individual pointing a firearm at another person inside a vehicle. The caller disconnected before providing a precise location, but quick action by departmental resources allowed officers to trace the call to the specific residence.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that the initial report had escalated into a full-blown home invasion robbery. Two residents of the home had been victimized, forcibly restrained with zip ties by the intruders and held captive for what authorities described as an “extended period of time” before the suspects fled on foot.
Swift Apprehension by Redondo Beach Police
Fortunately, the suspects’ escape was short-lived. Redondo Beach Police Department Lieutenant Vince Dileva confirmed that officers gave chase and were able to safely take both individuals into custody without further incident. This rapid apprehension prevented any further threat to the community. The Redondo Beach Police Department’s quick response and effective tracing of the initial call were crucial in the successful arrests.
Suspects Identified and Charged
The two men arrested have been identified as 31-year-old Jesus Velez of Rochester, New York, and 21-year-old Draven Luna of Queens, New York. Both suspects were booked at the Redondo Beach jail on a litany of serious charges, including suspicion of robbery, burglary, and kidnapping. Bail for each suspect was set at $100,000.
This incident adds to a broader conversation about property crime in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, prompting many to follow current crime news closely. The involvement of individuals from New York in a Redondo Beach home invasion has particularly drawn attention.
Victims’ Ordeal and Community Reassurance
While the victims’ names have been withheld for their privacy, authorities confirmed that both individuals suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the home invasion. One of the victims required medical attention and was transported to a local hospital, where they were listed in stable condition.
Despite the severity of the crime, police have moved to reassure the community. Lieutenant Dileva stated that at this stage of the investigation, detectives do not believe there are any additional outstanding suspects, and there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the community. This announcement aims to ease concerns among Redondo Beach residents following the shocking event.
Prior Record and Legal Proceedings Ahead
Further investigation revealed that one of the suspects, Jesus Velez, has a prior criminal history. In 2015, Velez pleaded guilty to weapons and drug charges in Rochester, New York, underscoring a pattern of criminal behavior.
The case will now be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, which will determine the formal charges and proceed with legal action. The judicial process will unfold in the coming weeks and months, as Velez and Luna face the severe implications of their alleged actions.
This high-profile arrest serves as a potent reminder of the vigilance required in communities and the dedicated efforts of law enforcement to maintain safety and address criminal activity, even when originating from out-of-state. The successful apprehension of the suspects is a crucial development in this significant piece of local news.
