The search was continuing Wednesday for a “flash mob” of suspects who robbed an Yves Saint Laurent store at the Americana at Brand mall in Glendale, police said.
The crime occurred about 4:50 p.m. Tuesday, when “at least 30 suspects flooded the store,” Glendale Police Department Sgt. Victor Jackson said in a statement Wednesday afternoon.
“The suspects stole clothing and other merchandise before fleeing on foot and leaving the location in numerous vehicles,” Jackson said, “While still under investigation, the estimated loss is approximately $300,000.”
Rick Caruso, owner of mall, is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects who committed the crime, Jackson said.
“These `flash mob’ burglaries involve a large, coordinated group of individuals simultaneously rushing into the store, overwhelming staff, and taking it over,” Jackson said. “The suspects grab as much merchandise as possible before fleeing in multiple vehicles.”
The crime was captured on video that was widely circulated.
“As the leaders of the City of Glendale, we are deeply concerned about the incident that occurred yesterday at the Yves Saint Laurent store in our community,” said Glendale Mayor Dan Brotman.
“Yesterday, a brazen group of individuals orchestrated a coordinated attack on the Yves Saint Laurent store at the Americana at Brand. This calculated criminal act not only resulted in the theft of valuable merchandise but also posed a threat to the safety and well-being of our community.”
Anyone with information on the case was urged to call police at 818-548-4911. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers a 800-222-TIPS, or use the website www.lacrimestoppers.org.