A 31-year-old LAPD officer, Alan Carrillo, is facing serious charges that could land him behind bars for nearly a decade. Carrillo stands accused of stealing personal items and tampering with evidence during traffic and pedestrian stops, undermining public trust and law enforcement integrity.
Uncovered Pattern of Misconduct
The charges stem from an extensive investigation into misconduct by the LAPD’s Mission Area Gang Enforcement Detail. Investigators discovered a pattern of officers “intentionally failing to properly document traffic stops or activate body-worn cameras.”
Carrillo, who joined the force in 2018, is alleged to have stolen various personal items, including metal brass knuckles and knives, from individuals during stops on April 19 and June 15, 2023. He is also accused of inconsistently documenting the property in his reports, raising concerns about stolen items unaccounted for.
District Attorney’s Condemnation
District Attorney George Gascón expressed outrage over Carrillo’s alleged actions, stating, “The public’s trust and the integrity of law enforcement are undermined when officers tamper with evidence and steal items from the public.” Gascón emphasized that law enforcement officers have a sworn duty to uphold justice and protect communities, and any breach of that trust is unacceptable.
Recent Similar Incident
Carrillo’s charges come on the heels of a separate incident involving a 39-year-old Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy, Jessica Lynn. Lynn is accused of pocketing cash from an individual during a traffic stop, raising further concerns about misconduct within law enforcement ranks.
Carrillo’s Status and Potential Sentencing
Carrillo was arrested and relieved of his police powers while an administrative leave investigation is underway. His bail has been set at 0,000, and an arraignment hearing is pending. If convicted, he could face up to seven years and six months in prison.
Ongoing Investigation
The LAPD’s Complaint Investigation Division, Internal Affairs Division, and Professional Standards Bureau are collaboratively investigating this case. Their findings are expected to shed further light on the extent of the alleged misconduct and the broader implications for trust in law enforcement.
