Deputies Arrest Alleged Serial Church Burglar In LA
INDUSTRY (CBSLA.com) — Police Friday announced the arrest of a 36-year-old man who allegedly burglarized a church and Buddhist temple in Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights areas.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Carlos Montiel, of Hacienda Heights, is accused of committing the burglaries during the day when the houses of worship were open to the public.
"He went into I want to say an office area that's not even directly open to the public, but he was able to get inside and pry open the cash boxes," said Det. Charell Heard of the L.A. County Sheriff's Department.
A preliminary investigation revealed he burglarized the Buddhist temple at least twice, and stole about $30,000 from locked donation boxes over the last year.
On Thursday, deputies released surveillance photos of Montiel in an effort to identify and locate him through the public's help.
Following a news conference, anonymous community members identified the suspect.
A search warrant served at Montiel's home and vehicle revealed evidence related to the crimes.
He was taken into custody without incident.