GPS Tracking Device Leads Police To Alleged Robbery Suspect In Rancho Palos Verdes
RANCHO PALOS VERDES (CBSLA.com) — Authorities used a GPS tracking device to nab an alleged robbery suspect in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Officials said on Friday, about 11:20 a.m., a woman was robbed at gunpoint by a masked intruder inside her bedroom in a home in the 32000 block of Pacifica Drive.
The suspect demanded money and jewelry and then ordered the woman to lie on the floor. He then ordered the woman into her bedroom closet.
Fearing for her life, she called 911 but the suspect was able to get away before sheriffs arrived.
The LA County Sheriff's Department said they got a call from the victim's daughter about three hours after the robbery stating that the suspect took an iPhone during the crime. The iPhone has GPS tracking technology.
Sheriff's deputies said they traced the phone to a residence in the 1500 block of 257th Street in Harbor City.
After obtaining a search warrant, officials reportedly recovered the stolen phone and a handgun from the suspect's bedroom.
The suspect, 41 year-old Juan Carlos Marroquin, was arrested at the location. He has been charged with robbery and was booked at the Lomita Sheriff's Station.
Marroquin is being held in lieu of $150,000 bail.
Deputies later learned the suspect worked for the victim as a pool cleaner about four months ago.
The Sheriff's Department reminds residents to use caution when hiring workers who have access to your property. They say to get references, recommendations, and check business licenses.
